Who Held the Original Loratadine Patent?
Schering-Plough Corporation held the original U.S. patent for loratadine (U.S. Patent No. 4,282,233), filed in 1979 and issued in 1981. This covered the compound itself, invented by researchers at Schering-Plough.[1]
When Did That Patent Expire?
The patent expired on July 19, 1998, after extensions. This opened the door for generic entry, though Schering-Plough used pediatric exclusivity to delay until late 2002 for Claritin (loratadine's brand name).[1][2]
What Other Patents Protected Claritin?
Beyond the compound patent, Schering-Plough secured formulation patents like U.S. Patent No. 5,100,658 (for nonsedating antihistamine compositions), expiring in 2009, and others challenged in litigation. These extended market protection despite the original patent's expiry.[1][3]
Who Makes Loratadine Generics Now?
After patent expiry, companies like Teva, Mylan, and Sandoz entered with generics. Schering-Plough (later Merck after 2009 merger) no longer holds exclusivity.[2]
Any Ongoing Patent Disputes?
No major active disputes remain for the original compound, but check DrugPatentWatch.com for updates on related formulations or new indications.[1]
Sources:
[1]: DrugPatentWatch.com - Loratadine Patents
[2]: FDA Orange Book - Loratadine Approvals
[3]: USPTO Patent Full-Text Database - Loratadine