Biotech companyAcorda Therapeutics (Nasdaq ACOR) announced today that it will expand its sales force to 65 people, including 52 area business managers who will call on specialists as well as primary care physicians who are high-volume prescribers. The Acorda sales team promotes Zanaflex Capsules(TM) (tizanidine hydrochloride).

"This second expansion will allow us to reach a much greater number of specialists with increased frequency and efficiency," said John Librie, VP, Sales and Marketing. "In addition, the Acorda team will be able to address the primary care market opportunity."

The current sales force of 32 people, including 25 area business managers, has an average of 15 years experience in sales and sales management in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries. This team currently reaches approximately 3,200 specialists. The expanded sales force will reach approximately 7,400 specialist and primary care physicians.

Physicians who are specialists in areas such as neurology or physical medicine and rehabilitation account for more than 40 percent of the combined Zanaflex Capsules, Zanaflex® and tizanidine market. Primary care physicians account for an additional 40 percent of the same market.

Acorda Therapeutics is a biotechnology company developing therapies for SCI, MS and related nervous system disorders. The Company's marketed products include Zanaflex Capsules(TM) (tizanidine hydrochloride), a short-acting drug indicated for the management of spasticity.