Indian pharma researchers discuss findings in a bustling lab, ensuring affordable drug access.
NEW DELHI – AbbVie Inc. has seen its attempt to secure a secondary patent for its Hepatitis C drug, Maviret, thwarted by the Indian Patent Office. The office has denied the pharmaceutical giant’s application, a decision that is expected to maintain access to more affordable treatment options for patients in India.
The refusal comes after AbbVie failed to actively contest oppositions filed against its patent plea and ultimately chose to abandon the application. This move by the Indian Patent Office prevents AbbVie from potentially extending its market exclusivity for the drug by an additional five years.
The denial is a significant development in the ongoing global debate surrounding drug pricing and intellectual property rights, particularly in emerging markets where access to essential medicines is a critical concern. By rejecting the secondary patent, India upholds a stance that prioritizes public health and affordable healthcare access over extended patent monopolies for multinational pharmaceutical companies.
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