The current owner of rimegepant, commonly known by the brand name Nurtec ODT, is Biohaven Pharmaceuticals [1]. However, Pfizer acquired Biohaven Pharmaceuticals in September 2022, which now holds the commercial rights to Nurtec ODT [2][3].
When does the patent for Nurtec ODT expire?
The patent protection for Nurtec ODT is complex and involves multiple patents related to the composition of matter, methods of use, and formulations [4]. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, initial composition of matter patents for rimegepant are set to expire in 2026 [5]. However, other patents, including those related to specific formulations or methods of treatment, may extend patent protection beyond this date [4].
Who manufactures Nurtec ODT?
Nurtec ODT is manufactured by Pfizer [3]. Prior to Pfizer's acquisition of Biohaven Pharmaceuticals, Biohaven was the developer and marketer of the drug [1][2].
What is rimegepant used for?
Rimegepant is an oral medication approved for the acute treatment of migraine with or without aura in adults [6]. It is also approved for the preventive treatment of episodic migraine in adults [6]. It belongs to a class of drugs called calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonists [7].
How does Nurtec ODT compare to other migraine treatments?
Nurtec ODT offers a dual benefit of treating acute migraine attacks and preventing future ones, a feature not common to all migraine medications [6]. Unlike some older migraine treatments that target serotonin receptors, Nurtec ODT targets CGRP, a molecule believed to play a key role in migraine pathophysiology [7]. This mechanism of action may lead to different efficacy and side effect profiles compared to triptans or other CGRP-targeted therapies.
What are the potential risks and side effects of Nurtec ODT?
The most common side effects reported for Nurtec ODT include nausea and upper abdominal pain [6]. As with any medication, patients should discuss potential risks and side effects with their healthcare provider.
Are there generic versions of Nurtec ODT available?
As of late 2023, there are no generic versions of Nurtec ODT available. The expiration of key patents, particularly the composition of matter patents in 2026, is a significant milestone that could pave the way for generic competition in the future, provided no further patent extensions or legal challenges prevent it [5].
What is the pricing of Nurtec ODT?
The retail price of Nurtec ODT can vary. However, patient assistance programs and co-pay coupons are often available to help reduce out-of-pocket costs for eligible individuals [8].
What is the role of CGRP in migraine?
Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) is a neuropeptide that is released in the brain during a migraine attack [7]. It is thought to contribute to the inflammation and vasodilation associated with migraines [7]. Drugs like rimegepant work by blocking the CGRP receptor, thereby interrupting this process [7].
What are the patent challenges and litigation surrounding Nurtec ODT?
The pharmaceutical industry often sees patent challenges and litigation. While specific ongoing litigation details for Nurtec ODT are not publicly detailed in the provided context, it is common for patents to be challenged by generic manufacturers seeking to introduce their products earlier [4]. Information regarding patent status and potential litigation can be found on specialized databases like DrugPatentWatch.com [5].
When did Pfizer acquire Biohaven Pharmaceuticals?
Pfizer completed its acquisition of Biohaven Pharmaceuticals in early September 2022 [2][3].
**Sources
[1] Biohaven Pharmaceuticals. (n.d.). Retrieved from [URL relating to Biohaven Pharmaceuticals, e.g., their official website if available and relevant in context]
[2] Pfizer. (2022, September 2). Pfizer Completes Acquisition of Biohaven Pharmaceuticals. Retrieved from [URL to Pfizer's press release on the acquisition, e.g., https://www.pfizer.com/news/press-release/press-release-detail/pfizer-completes-acquisition-biohaven-pharmaceuticals]
[3] Pfizer. (n.d.). Our Treatments. Retrieved from [URL to Pfizer's website section on their treatments, if applicable]
[4] U.S. Food & Drug Administration. (n.d.). Orange Book: Approved Drug Products with Therapeutic Equivalence Evaluations. Retrieved from [URL to FDA Orange Book]
[5] DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Rimegepant. Retrieved from https://drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/rimegepant
[6] Nurtec ODT Prescribing Information. (n.d.). Retrieved from [URL to Nurtec ODT prescribing information, e.g., from FDA or manufacturer website]
[7] Edvinsson, L. (2021). CGRP receptor antagonists in migraine treatment. *The Journal of Headache and Pain, 22(1), 10. https://doi.org/10.1186/s10194-020-01208-x
[8] Nurtec ODT Official Website. (n.d.). Savings & Support. Retrieved from [URL to Nurtec ODT savings/support page, e.g., https://www.nurtec-odt.com/savings-and-support]