Orphan Medical Receives Corporate Award from NORD

Minneapolis, MN - May 22, 2001

Orphan Medical received the National Organization of Rare Disorders (NORD) Corporate Leadership Award at the NORD 2001 Tribute banquet in Washington, D.C. The award was presented for Orphan Medical's development of Xyrem® (sodium oxybate) oral solution as a treatment for narcolepsy, particularly the symptom of cataplexy, a disabling symptom that can significantly impair a patient's quality of life.

Abbey Meyers, NORD President said, "The saga of Xyrem's development has been extraordinary, and Orphan Medical has faced obstacles that would have caused other companies to drop the product and move on. This award recognizes the Company's persistence, and its absolute commitment to the narcolepsy community."

"We are honored to receive this award from NORD which has done so much to improve the lives of patients with rare diseases," said John Bullion, Chief Executive Officer of Orphan Medical. "NORD's recognition reinforces our dedication to patients with uncommon diseases."

In October of 2000, Orphan Medical submitted a New Drug Application requesting approval of Xyrem® as a treatment in narcolepsy, particularly the symptom of cataplexy and to improve the symptoms of excessive daytime sleepiness. Narcolepsy is a chronic neurological disorder affecting an estimated 100,000 to 125,000 Americans, whose main symptoms are excessive daytime sleepiness and cataplexy.

Following an extension to its original Priority Review timeline, the status of Xyrem® will be on the agenda of a FDA Advisory Committee meeting June 6th. As defined by the FDA, Advisory Committees are established to help the agency make sound decisions based on good science in its review of regulated products. Advisory committees consist of individuals who are recognized as experts in their field from many different sectors including medical professionals, scientists and researchers, industry leaders, and consumer representatives and patient representatives.

The Peripheral and Central Nervous System Drugs Advisory Committee will provide advice and recommendations to the FDA regarding the safety, efficacy and risk management of Xyrem®. The FDA is expected to make a decision on Xyrem® by early July. If approved, Orphan plans to begin marketing the drug by early fall of this year.

For information about Orphan Medical, visit the company website at www.orphan.com.

For information about the National Organization for Rare Disorders, visit their website at www.rarediseases.org.