Ms. Aimee Lenar reports

BAUSCH HEALTH'S GASTROENTEROLOGY BUSINESS, SALIX PHARMACEUTICALS, LAUNCHES FRESH "I WISH I KNEW" CAMPAIGN TO EDUCATE PEOPLE ABOUT XIFAXAN (RIFAXIMIN) FOR ADULTS AT RISK OF OVERT HEPATIC ENCEPHALOPATHY RECURRENCE

Bausch Health Companies Inc. and its gastroenterology business Salix Pharmaceuticals have begun a new direct-to-consumer "I wish I knew" campaign for Xifaxan (rifaximin), the first and only medicine Food and Drug Administration approved for the reduction in risk of overt hepatic encephalopathy recurrence in adults. Designed to raise awareness about OHE and the role of Xifaxan, "I wish I knew" seeks to educate and empower patients and caregivers to take pro-active steps in managing their liver disease.

In patients with cirrhosis, overt hepatic encephalopathy is one of the key complications that is associated with worsening outcomes, morbidity and mortality. In cirrhosis, a damaged liver does not function normally, leading to toxins from the gut entering the bloodstream and travelling to the brain, which can cause damage, some of which may be irreversible. These OHE episodes may present as alterations in consciousness, cognition and behaviour. Up to 80 per cent of patients with cirrhosis will eventually develop some form of HE.

Salix remains steadfast in its mission to educate, empower and provide solutions for individuals at risk for recurrence of OHE. The new 60-second "I wish I knew" spot tells the story of a woman with a history of OHE, who reflects on her experience with symptoms of disorientation and confusion. She "wasn't herself" during this time, but, over the course of her treatment with Xifaxan, she experienced a reduction in risk of her OHE episodes.

"We want people to know that the risk of recurring OHE episodes can be managed despite the complex nature of the condition," said Aimee Lenar, executive vice-president of U.S. pharma at Bausch Health. "Salix aims to spread knowledge about the progression of chronic liver disease to cirrhosis and overt hepatic encephalopathy. Our hope is for a future where fewer patients and loved ones wish they knew cirrhosis could affect their brain, and more patients can access the care they need sooner."

Salix is dedicated to amplifying patient voices and bringing authentic experiences to the forefront of the OHE community. In addition to continuing efforts with patient advocacy organizations including Global Liver Institute and American Liver Foundation, Salix also recently unveiled three patient stories. These testimonials feature real, lived experiences with OHE and Xifaxan, offering diverse perspectives about managing the condition and providing hope for others battling OHE.

About Bausch Health Companies Inc.

Bausch Health is a global, diversified pharmaceutical company enriching lives through its relentless drive to deliver better health care outcomes. It develops, manufactures and markets a range of products primarily in gastroenterology, hepatology, neurology, dermatology, dentistry, aesthetics, international pharmaceuticals and eye health, through its controlling interest in Bausch + Lomb Corp. Its ambition is to be a globally integrated health care company, trusted and valued by patients, HCPs, employees and investors. Its gastroenterology business, Salix Pharmaceuticals, is one of the largest specialty pharmaceutical businesses in the world, and has licensed, developed and marketed innovative products for the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases for more than 30 years.