Today, I’m going to break down some major developments in the pharma patent world and what they mean for your IP strategy.
The FTC’s Crackdown on “Junk” Patents: What You Must Do
The FTC is on a mission to clean up what they call “junk” drug patents listed in the FDA’s Orange Book. They’ve got eight major drugmakers in their crosshairs, including Novo Nordisk and GSK. These companies are accused of listing bogus patents to block generics. This isn’t just a minor scuffle—there are over 300 patents under scrutiny. The FTC is not backing down, and neither are the drugmakers.
What to do about it: Be very careful about what patents you list. If you’re listing patents just to delay competition, you’re painting a target on your back. Make sure every patent you file is defensible and adds real value.
USPTO and FDA Report: Quality Over Quantity
The USPTO and FDA have just published a report on drug patents and exclusivity. They looked at 25 top-grossing drugs and found that the number of patents doesn’t always predict how long a drug stays exclusive on the market. Simply counting patents isn’t enough.
How to react: Focus on the quality and scope of your patents. Don’t just aim for numbers. Each patent should provide real, defensible value. This means more thorough research and stronger claims.
Forbes on Patents: The Two Big Problems
A recent Forbes article highlighted two major issues with the patent system. One, it’s subjective. Patent approval is based on the judgment of a few individuals. Two, it’s one-size-fits-all. Every patent gets the same 20-year monopoly, regardless of its true innovation.
Where to Focus: Aim for strong, innovative patents. Avoid trivial, incremental patents. The stronger and more innovative your patent, the harder it is for anyone to challenge it. This not only protects your product but also enhances your reputation.
How to Stay Ahead in the Rapidly Changing Pharma IP Landscape
So, how do you stay ahead in this fast-paced environment? Here are some key steps:
- Be Strategic About Patents: Only list patents that are defensible and add value. Weak patents can lead to costly legal battles and damage your reputation.
- Focus on Innovation: Ensure your patents are strong and innovative. This makes them harder to challenge and more valuable in the long run.
- Stay Informed: Keep up with changes in the regulatory landscape. Be ready to adapt your strategy as needed.
- Defend Your Innovation: Be prepared to defend your patents vigorously. A strong defense can deter challenges and protect your market position.
The Value of Incremental Patents: Don’t Dismiss Them
While the FTC and others are cracking down on what they call “junk” patents, it’s important not to throw the baby out with the bathwater. Incremental patents, often criticized as being minor or trivial, play a crucial role in the pharmaceutical industry.
Here’s why you should pay attention to them.
Incremental Patents Drive Revenue
A small change in a drug’s formulation or delivery method can lead to significant improvements in patient outcomes. This, in turn, can drive hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue. For instance, a slight modification in an inhaler’s design can make it easier for patients to use, increasing adherence and boosting sales.
Protecting Your Investment
Pharma companies invest billions in research and development. Incremental patents help protect these investments by extending the product lifecycle. They prevent competitors from copying slight but significant innovations that enhance the product’s efficacy or safety.
Balancing Innovation and Protection
It’s a balancing act. While you don’t want to clog the Orange Book with patents that are indefensible, you also don’t want to miss out on protecting valuable innovations. Incremental patents, when used wisely, strike this balance. They protect improvements that may seem small but are critical to maintaining a competitive edge.
Develop a robust IP strategy that includes both groundbreaking and incremental patents. Each patent should have a clear, defensible purpose and add to the overall value of your product portfolio.
The Future of Pharma Patents
The world of pharma IP is fast-paced and ever-changing. Staying ahead requires being smart, strategic, and ready to pivot when necessary. With over a decade of experience in IP strategy, I’ve seen firsthand how quickly things can change. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and always be ready to defend your innovation.
In conclusion, the recent developments in the pharma patent world highlight the importance of having a robust, defensible IP strategy. By focusing on quality over quantity, staying informed, and being ready to defend your innovation, you can stay ahead in this competitive landscape.
I’m Seth Cronin, and with over 10 years in the IP field, I’ve helped companies navigate these complex waters. If you need expert advice on your IP strategy, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Stay smart, stay strategic, and keep innovating.
P.S. Get my free IP Strategy Playbook