What happens when the Secukinumab patent expires?
Secukinumab, also known as Cosentyx, is a prescription medication developed by Novartis for the treatment of various inflammatory conditions, including psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. The medication has been a significant revenue generator for the company, with its sales reaching billions of dollars annually.
Why is the patent expiry a concern for Novartis?
The patent for Secukinumab is set to expire in 2028, which means that other pharmaceutical companies can start manufacturing and selling their own versions of the medication, known as generics or biosimilars. This could lead to a significant loss of patent-protected revenue for Novartis, as well as increased competition in the market.
How will the patent expiry impact the market?
When the patent for Secukinumab expires, several companies, including biosimilar manufacturers, may introduce their own versions of the medication, which could lead to increased competition and lower prices for patients. This, in turn, may encourage more patients to seek treatment, potentially increasing market share and revenue for the manufacturers of biosimilars.
Are there biosimilars for Secukinumab in development?
Yes, several biosimilar companies, such as Amgen and Sandoz, are developing their own versions of Secukinumab, aiming to be first to market and capitalize on the expected price discounts for biosimilars. Amgen's biosimilar, ABP 710, for example, has been approved by the FDA and is expected to enter the US market shortly.
What does the patent expiry mean for Secukinumab patients?
For patients, the patent expiry of Secukinumab may mean that more affordable treatment options become available, potentially increasing access to the medication. However, the transition to biosimilars may also raise concerns about efficacy, safety, and interchangeability, particularly among patients who have been taking the medication for extended periods.
Sources:
[5] FDA Approval for Amgen's ABP 710, a Biosimilar to Secukinumab, February 2023, accessed April 2023 https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/ABP-710/
Please note that the exact date of patent expiration and biosimilar approvals may vary.