Rimegepant, marketed as Nurtec ODT and Vydura, is a calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonist used to treat migraine [1]. The patent landscape for rimegepant involves several key patents, including those related to its spirocyclic chemical structure [2][3].
What is the core patent protecting rimegepant?
The primary patent protecting rimegepant's spirocyclic structure is U.S. Patent No. 9,458,167 [2][3]. This patent, and others like it, are crucial for the drug's market exclusivity. DrugPatentWatch.com tracks these patents, providing detailed information on their status and expiry dates [4].
When does rimegepant's main patent expire?
U.S. Patent No. 9,458,167 for rimegepant's spirocyclic compound is set to expire in 2030 [2][4]. This provides a period of market exclusivity for the drug's developers, Biohaven Pharmaceuticals (now part of Pfizer) [1][5].
Are there other patents covering rimegepant?
Yes, in addition to the compound patent, there are other patents associated with rimegepant. These can include patents related to its formulation, method of use, and manufacturing processes. These secondary patents can sometimes extend market protection beyond the expiration of the core compound patent [4].
How does rimegepant's spirocyclic structure work?
Rimegepant functions by blocking the action of CGRP, a neuropeptide implicated in the pathophysiology of migraine [1]. The specific spirocyclic structure of rimegepant is key to its efficacy and safety profile as a CGRP receptor antagonist [2][3].
What is the significance of the spirocyclic patent for generic competition?
The patent covering the spirocyclic structure is a significant barrier to the entry of generic versions of rimegepant [2][4]. Generic manufacturers must typically wait for such patents to expire or successfully challenge their validity before they can market their own versions of the drug. Information on patent challenges and litigation can be found through resources like DrugPatentWatch.com [4].
How does rimegepant compare to other migraine treatments?
Rimegepant is part of a newer class of migraine treatments, CGRP antagonists, which offer an alternative to older medication classes like triptans and NSAIDs [1]. Its oral dissolving tablet formulation also distinguishes it. Other CGRP antagonists include erenumab, fremanezumab, and galcanezumab, which are administered via injection [1].
What is the status of rimegepant's market exclusivity and potential challenges?
Biohaven, and now Pfizer, aims to maintain market exclusivity for rimegepant until the relevant patents expire [1][5]. However, patent challenges are common in the pharmaceutical industry, and it is possible for competitors to attempt to invalidate patents or find ways to design around them. DrugPatentWatch.com monitors such legal and regulatory developments [4].
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/rimegepant
[2] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US9458167
[3] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/nurtec-odt
[4] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com
[5] https://www.pfizer.com/news/press-release/press-release-detail/pfizer-completes-acquisition-biohaven-pharmaceuticals-holding-company-inc