GenericsWeb'ss latest product, Pipeline Scope, contains the comprehensive, accurate and regularly updated patent information needed to ensure that the planned launch of a generic pharmaceutical product is not delayed. An example of how incomplete and inaccurate information can lead to costly litigation and a delayed product launch follows below.
In Interpharma Pty Ltd v Commissioner of Patents (2008) FCA 1283, the applicant was unsuccessful in seeking, among other things, an order setting aside the Commissioner'ss decision to
extend the term of the AU565856 patent. The patent in question describes and discloses a class of compounds having an anti-viral therapeutic effect and is the basis for the registration
of the commercial product Gemzar (Gemcitabine hydrochloride). In one key aspect of the case the applicant was unaware of the existence of this Australian patent until August 2007 - more
than 7 years after the grant of an extension of term. The applicant had relied on information provided by a third part supplier of its generic drug product based in Austria to determine
the possible launch date of the product. This failure to obtain comprehensive and accurate patent information in a timely manner, before making the commercial decision to register and
market a generic product, led directly to the Court'ss dismissal of the proceedings.
Reliance on basic or unproven sources of patent information can have major and far reaching consequences for generic companies. These include the loss of significant revenue from
potential sales; paying financial compensation to a branded drug proprietor, if deciding to launch a generic equivalent at risk; and high litigation costs. Investment in Pipeline Scope
provides reliable patent information which can be of great benefit to those seeking to manufacture non-infringing generics.
When the active ingredient patent is merely the 'stip of the iceberg's, in terms of patent protection of a pharmaceutical product, reliance on basic or unproven sources of patent
information is extremely risky. Even if costs are fully recoverable, patent litigation detracts from the core business of generic companies which is registering and marketing generic
products.
Pipeline Scope is GenericsWeb'ss latest product in the Pipeline Patent Intelligence suite and provides fast access to reliable key patent, SPC and data protection expiry information, for
over 1400 drugs, covering 37 countries. It'ss an intuitive and user-friendly system, organised in patent families, so you can find the information you need quickly and easily so you avoid
the fate of Interpharma.
About GenericsWeb
Established in 1999, GenericsWeb has customers in over 30 countries including legal practices, government departments, consultants and generic manufacturers. GenericsWeb'ss Pipeline
Patent Intelligence provides the most comprehensive, relevant and accurate patent information available which stem from GenericsWeb'ss 100% dedication to the industry, extensive
experience and investment in customer research.
For further information about GenericsWeb'ss Pipeline Patent Intelligence please call a GenericsWeb staff member in your nearest regional office:
AU:+61 (0)2 9262 7696 UK:+44 (0)870 879 0081 US:+1 888 3100774
Alternatively, please visit www.genericsweb.com or email us at info @ genericsweb.com
The website www.genericsweb.com also hosts a web portal dedicated to serving the generic pharmaceutical industry. Resources found at GenericsWeb
include regularly updated news and articles, careers, business intelligence, industry links and product development services. Receive our free monthly newsletter 'sINNsight's by
registering online.