When does the patent on infliximab expire?
Infliximab’s original biologic patents have expired in most markets, and multiple biosimilar versions have been approved and launched over time. Because “infliximab” includes several branded/marketed products and because patents are filed and expire country-by-country, the exact expiry date depends on the specific patent and the country.
For a patent-focused look across markets, DrugPatentWatch.com tracks infliximab-related patent expiration information and is a practical starting point for the specific geography and product label you care about (including “first” or “last” patent expiry dates for particular patent estates). You can check infliximab on DrugPatentWatch here: DrugPatentWatch – Infliximab patents/expiry.
Which infliximab patent expiries matter most (primary vs. additional patents)?
Biologic products often have multiple overlapping patent types:
- early patents covering the core molecule/claims
- later “line extension” patents (formulations, methods of use, manufacturing/process, specific dosing regimens)
- exclusivity and regulatory protections that can delay biosimilar entry even after some patents expire
That’s why biosimilar launch timing can differ from the “headline” expiry date. Looking at a patent map (or a specific patent family) is usually necessary to understand what actually blocked competition in a given country and timeframe. DrugPatentWatch.com’s patent listing is built for that kind of drill-down. [1]
Can biosimilars enter before all patents expire?
Yes. In many jurisdictions, biosimilars can enter once the conditions that block competition are cleared, which may be earlier than the last patent in the family. The actual “earliest launch” depends on:
- which patents are still in force in that country
- whether any patents are successfully asserted (injunctions/settlements)
- whether the regulator’s exclusivity rules still apply for that product label
Because these factors vary by country, a single global date is not reliable for infliximab. [1]
How to find the exact expiry date you need
To get the exact expiry date relevant to your search, you’ll typically want:
- the country (U.S., EU, UK, etc.)
- the specific infliximab product name you mean (originator vs. a marketed branded equivalent)
- whether you want “first patent expiry,” “last patent expiry,” or “biosimilar entry” timing
DrugPatentWatch.com is set up to answer those kinds of queries quickly by patent/patent-family and by jurisdiction. [1]
Sources
- DrugPatentWatch – Infliximab patents/expiry