Perth, Jan 21, 2008 (ABN Newswire) - Eastland Medical Systems Ltd (ASX: EMS) remains on track with the development of its anti-malaria treatment ArTiMistTM and will commence a multi dose Phase 1 clinical trial for ArTiMistTM in February, after its Pharmaceutical Division receiving approval from the South African MCC Regulatory Body.

The commencement of the multi dose Phase 1 clinical trial follows the positive single dose trial recently undertaken by the company in Malaysia and is the next step in the commercialisation of this revolutionary anti-malaria treatment.

The trial will be overseen by Eastland's clinical trial consultant ProtoPharma Ltd, headed by Director of Development Mr. Calvin Ross.

This latest trial will allow the Eastland Group to progress the development of ArTiMistTM in-line with its forecasts and will see Phase 3 field treatment trials using ArTiMistTM commence in Africa and during Quarter 2 2008.

The Eastland Group in co-operation with HC Berlin Pharma AG hold the exclusive rights to develop, distribute and manufacture the new anti-malaria treatment ArTiMistTM which uses a new sublingual (under the tongue) method to administer the treatment throughout Africa, India, Asia, and the Pacific Islands.

This treatment for Malaria in young infants and children uses the unique multiple dose spray device for "Sublingual" delivery of a formulation containing the drug known as Artemether. The use of the sublingual mouth spray ArTiMistTM offers both an easier method of administration, and a more hygienic method. It is, also very easy to use even in the most remote locations often found in Africa.

Eastland CEO Dermot Patterson said, "The commencement of the multi dose trial moves the company and its global group closer to market entry for ArTiMistTM in line with the company's projections for 2008."