How does lipitor increase duration?

How does Lipitor extend the life of patents?

Lipitor's original patent on atorvastatin was set to expire in 2010. Companies holding rights to the product filed for additional patents on specific crystal forms, salt forms, and formulations. These later patents pushed the effective exclusivity period well beyond 2010.

Why are companies still pursuing new patents on Lipitor-like compounds?

Companies continue to file patents on improved formulations, fixed-dose combinations, and new therapeutic uses. They also seek patents on methods of use and polymorphic forms that can delay generic competition.

What happens when a patent expires?

When the main patent expires, generics usually enter the market and sales drop sharply. For Lipitor, the primary compound patent ended in 2010, but secondary patents on crystal forms and formulations still blocked some generic launches until around 2016.

Can generics enter before patent expiry?

Yes. Paragraph IV challenges against the secondary patents on crystal forms and formulations allowed generics to launch in 2011 despite ongoing patent disputes. Some companies settled, some litigated, and the timing of launches varied by country.

Difference between the compound patent and formulation patents

The compound patent covers the active ingredient itself. Secondary patents cover the particular crystal form that was chosen for the commercial product, chosen salt forms, or particular packaging that prevents degradation. These secondary patents are narrower and usually have later filing dates.

When does the last Lipitor patent expire?

The last reported major patent covering Lipitor is dated to 2030 in some jurisdictions. Some small technical patents on specific packaging or method-of-use claims may still be active.

Who makes Lipitor today?

Pfizer no longer owns the primary marketing rights. Current owners include Ranbaxy (now Sun Pharma) in some markets and generic producers across Europe and Asia.