New Patent Office ruling on extensions hits drugmakers

Article Abstract:

The US Patent Office has ruled that drugmakers can use one of two patent extensions, but can not use both consecutively. The office had ruled earlier that extensions of 3 years allowed by the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade and 5-year extensions for reviewing delays that were allowed under the Waxman-Hatch Act could be combined to protect patents for 25 years. The reversal reduces that to 23 years. Drug companies, such as Merck & Co, which could lose 19 months of protection for its Mecavor, may fight the rule in court.

Intellectual property, United States. Patent and Trademark Office, Patent extensions

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Pharmacists should not tell patients to switch drugs

Article Abstract:

The American Medical Assn criticized the drug firm practice of paying pharmacists who encourage pharmaceutical changes to their patients. Drug companies offer incentives to physicians but there are no plans for criticism and standards regarding their behavior. Pharmacists are paid consulting fees for these changes and certain physicians believe that this practice undermines the patient-physician relationship.

Pharmacies and Drug Stores, Pharmacists, Economic policy

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No more price restrictions on drugs created with NIH help

Article Abstract:

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has scrapped its reasonable pricing clause, which required companies developing drugs and other products in cooperation with government researchers to give those products reasonable prices. NIH director Harold Varmus said that the clause has kept private industry from collaborating with Public Health Service researchers.

Scientific Research and Development Services, Medical Instruments and Supplies, Medical Instruments & Equipment, Medical Equipment and Supplies Manufacturing, National R&D Programs, Product development, Research, Medical equipment, United States. National Institutes of Health, Medical equipment and supplies industry, Medical equipment industry, Technology transfer

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