Targacept to Present at the Cowen and Company 33rd Annual Health Care Conference

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. -- (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Targacept, Inc. (NASDAQ: TRGT), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing novel NNR Therapeutics (TM), today announced that Dr. Stephen A. Hill, President and Chief Executive Officer, is scheduled to present at the Cowen and Company 33^rd Annual Health Care Conference at The Boston Marriott Copley Place in Boston, Massachusetts on Tuesday, March 5, 2013 at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time.

The presentation will be webcast and accessible from the Investor Relations page of Targacept’s website, www.targacept.com. To ensure a timely connection to the webcast, it is recommended that users register at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start time. An archived version of the webcast will be available for replay on the Investor Calendar section of the Investor Relations page of Targacept’s website for at least two weeks following the event.

About Targacept

Targacept is developing a diverse pipeline of innovative NNR Therapeutics(TM) for difficult-to-treat diseases and disorders of the nervous system. NNR Therapeutics selectively modulate the activity of specific neuronal nicotinic receptors, unique proteins that regulate vital biological functions that are impaired in various disease states. Targacept’s clinical pipeline includes multiple Phase 2 product candidates, all representing first-in-class opportunities. Targacept leverages its scientific leadership and diverse pipeline to attract significant collaborations with global pharmaceutical companies. For more information, please visit www.targacept.com.

TARGACEPT

Building Health, Restoring Independence^®