RALEIGH … Axcan Pharma and Saule Holdings have dismissed without prejudice their two lawsuits against Salix Pharmaceuticals (Nasdaq:SLXP) related to Axcan’s attempted hostile takeover of Salix.

Salix, which develops and markets prescription drugs to treat gastrointestinal diseases, two weeks ago successfully fended off Axcan’s $10.50-per-share tender offer to acquire the company. More than 90 percent of Salix’ stockholders voted to retain the company’s current board and reject the offer, which company officials said repeatedly was inadequate.

Salix Pharmaceuticals: www.salix.com