See the DrugPatentWatch profile for flurbiprofen

Flurbiprofen Patent Protection in Europe: A Comprehensive Analysis

Flurbiprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), has been widely used to treat pain, inflammation, and fever. As a pharmaceutical compound, flurbiprofen is protected by patents in various regions, including Europe. In this article, we will delve into the patent protection status of flurbiprofen in Europe and explore the implications for pharmaceutical companies and patients.

What is Flurbiprofen?

Flurbiprofen is a propionic acid derivative that has been used to treat various conditions, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and menstrual cramps. Its mechanism of action involves the inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, which are responsible for the production of prostaglandins, mediators of inflammation.

Patent Protection in Europe

In Europe, patent protection for pharmaceutical compounds is granted by the European Patent Office (EPO). The EPO grants patents for up to 20 years from the date of filing, provided that the patent application meets certain criteria, including novelty, inventiveness, and industrial applicability.

Flurbiprofen Patent Landscape in Europe

According to DrugPatentWatch.com, a leading online database of pharmaceutical patents, flurbiprofen has been patented in several European countries, including Germany, France, and the United Kingdom. The patents cover various aspects of flurbiprofen, including its composition, formulation, and use.

Key Patents in Europe

Some of the key patents for flurbiprofen in Europe include:

* EP 0 136 514 B1: This patent, granted in 1984, covers the use of flurbiprofen for the treatment of pain, inflammation, and fever.
* EP 0 243 511 B1: This patent, granted in 1987, covers the formulation of flurbiprofen in a sustained-release dosage form.
* EP 1 044 956 B1: This patent, granted in 2002, covers the use of flurbiprofen in combination with other medications for the treatment of osteoarthritis.

Patent Expiration and Generic Entry

The patent expiration dates for flurbiprofen in Europe vary by country. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, the patent expiration dates for flurbiprofen in several European countries are:

* Germany: 2008
* France: 2009
* United Kingdom: 2010

The expiration of these patents has led to the entry of generic versions of flurbiprofen in the European market, which has increased competition and reduced prices.

Impact on Pharmaceutical Companies

The patent protection status of flurbiprofen in Europe has significant implications for pharmaceutical companies. Companies that have invested in the development and marketing of flurbiprofen products may face competition from generic manufacturers once the patents expire. However, companies can also benefit from the entry of generic competition, which can increase market share and reduce prices.

Impact on Patients

The patent protection status of flurbiprofen in Europe also has implications for patients. The entry of generic versions of flurbiprofen has increased competition and reduced prices, making the medication more affordable for patients. However, patients should be aware that generic medications may not be identical to the brand-name medication in terms of quality, safety, and efficacy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, flurbiprofen has been patented in several European countries, including Germany, France, and the United Kingdom. The patent expiration dates for flurbiprofen in Europe vary by country, and the entry of generic versions of the medication has increased competition and reduced prices. Pharmaceutical companies and patients should be aware of the patent protection status of flurbiprofen in Europe and its implications for the market.

Key Takeaways

* Flurbiprofen has been patented in several European countries, including Germany, France, and the United Kingdom.
* The patent expiration dates for flurbiprofen in Europe vary by country.
* The entry of generic versions of flurbiprofen has increased competition and reduced prices.
* Pharmaceutical companies and patients should be aware of the patent protection status of flurbiprofen in Europe and its implications for the market.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Q: What is flurbiprofen?
A: Flurbiprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat pain, inflammation, and fever.
2. Q: What is the patent protection status of flurbiprofen in Europe?
A: Flurbiprofen has been patented in several European countries, including Germany, France, and the United Kingdom.
3. Q: What are the patent expiration dates for flurbiprofen in Europe?
A: The patent expiration dates for flurbiprofen in several European countries are:
* Germany: 2008
* France: 2009
* United Kingdom: 2010
4. Q: What is the impact of generic entry on the market?
A: The entry of generic versions of flurbiprofen has increased competition and reduced prices.
5. Q: What should patients be aware of when switching to a generic version of flurbiprofen?
A: Patients should be aware that generic medications may not be identical to the brand-name medication in terms of quality, safety, and efficacy.

Sources

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Flurbiprofen. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/medicine/flurbiprofen>
2. European Patent Office. (n.d.). Patent Search. Retrieved from <https://patentscope.wipo.int/search/en/>
3. World Health Organization. (2019). Flurbiprofen. Retrieved from <https://www.who.int/medicines/areas/qualitysafety/5.4flurbiprofen.pdf>