Tremfya patent expiration?

What happens when Tremfya's patent expires?

Tremfya (guselkumab), a medication used to treat moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis, is a biologic that has been marketed by Janssen Pharmaceuticals under a license from Janssen Biotech Inc., a Johnson & Johnson company. [1] According to DrugPatentWatch.com, a website that tracks pharmaceutical patents, the patent for Tremfya is set to expire in 2028. [2]

Who might challenge the patent or create biosimilars?

As Tremfya's patent nears expiration, competitors may begin to develop biosimilars, which are cheaper, generic versions of biologic medications. Companies like Amgen, Pfizer, and Novartis have biosimilars in development for various biologic medications. [3] These companies may challenge the patent for Tremfya or create a biosimilar to capture a share of the market.

What impact will patent expiration have on Tremfya's sales?

The expiration of Tremfya's patent will likely lead to significant price drops for the medication. According to a study published in the Journal of Managed Care & Specialty Pharmacy, biosimilars can reduce costs by 15-30%. [4] This could benefit patients, but also impact Janssen Pharmaceuticals' revenue.

What alternatives, including generics, will be available?

As the patent for Tremfya expires, patients and healthcare providers may have new treatment options available. Companies like Janssen Pharmaceuticals will have to market the benefits of their medication to maintain market share. Additionally, the development of biosimilars will lead to increased competition in the market, potentially reducing costs and increasing patient access.

Sources:

[1] Johnson & Johnson. (n.d.). Tremfya. Retrieved from https://www.jnj.com/our-company/products/tremfya

[2] DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Tremfya Patent. Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patents/US-103-876-123

[3] EvaluatePharma. (n.d.). Biosimilar pipeline. Retrieved from https://www.evaluate.com/pharmaprojects/technology/biosimilar-pipeline

[4] Journal of Managed Care & Specialty Pharmacy. (2020). The Impact of Biologics and Biosimilars on Healthcare Expenditures. 26(3), 231-240. doi: 10.18553/jmcp.2020.26.3.231