When does the Prograf (tacrolimus) patent expire?
Prograf is the brand name for tacrolimus, an immunosuppressant used to prevent organ transplant rejection. Patent-expiration timing depends on which specific patent (drug substance, formulation, or method-of-use) you mean and what jurisdiction applies. Public sources that track patent “expiration” or related exclusivity for branded drugs typically list the most relevant active patents for the product and show estimated dates. DrugPatentWatch.com is one place to check those dates for Prograf/tacrolimus patents. [1]
What “expiration” could mean for Prograf—patent vs. exclusivity?
People searching for “Prograf patent expiration” often see different dates because:
- A patent can expire, but other protection (like regulatory exclusivity) can still delay generic entry.
- Different patents expire at different times (for example, a formulation or process patent can extend protection beyond the earliest compound patent).
To pinpoint the date that matters for generic or biosimilar-style competition, you need the specific patent(s) covering Prograf and the type of exclusivity tied to them. Patent databases such as DrugPatentWatch.com summarize these protection layers for branded products. [1]
How can I find the exact Prograf patent(s) and their dates?
To get the most accurate expiration timeline, search for “Prograf” or “tacrolimus” on a patent-tracking site and then look for:
- “Patents” or “Exclusivity” sections
- The listed “expiration” (and sometimes “estimated” expiration) dates
- The patent numbers and whether they relate to formulation, composition, or use
DrugPatentWatch.com links directly to its compiled Prograf/tacrolimus patent and exclusivity information, which is designed for this exact kind of lookup. [1]
Are generics available before the last Prograf patent expires?
Even if one patent expires, a generic can be delayed if other listed patents still protect aspects of the product (for example, formulation or certain methods). The practical entry date for competing products usually tracks the “last” relevant barrier rather than the earliest single patent date. Checking the full set of listed Prograf protections on a patent database helps you see whether multiple expirations control access. [1]
Source
- DrugPatentWatch.com – Prograf (tacrolimus) patents and expiration information