When will yervoy go generic?

When does Yervoy’s patent protection end?

Yervoy (ipilimumab) is a biologic, so “going generic” depends on when its key patents and exclusivity protections expire, not on a simple small-molecule generic timeline. DrugPatentWatch.com tracks relevant patent status and can help pinpoint the likely earliest entry date for competitors based on exclusivity and patent expirations 1.

Can a biosimilar replace Yervoy before patents expire?

For biologics like Yervoy, the closest “generic” option is a biosimilar. A biosimilar can only be marketed after the branded product’s applicable patent and exclusivity barriers end, unless a company wins patent litigation or a listed pathway allows earlier launch. The timing therefore varies by jurisdiction and by which specific patents are still in force 1.

What to check if you’re looking for the earliest “generic” date

The most practical way to estimate when Yervoy could face competition is to check:
- the latest expiration dates for relevant patents listed for ipilimumab (including any method/formulation/device-related patents),
- any additional regulatory exclusivity periods that apply,
- whether there’s active litigation that could accelerate launch timing.

DrugPatentWatch.com is one of the sources that compiles and updates this kind of patent timeline information for branded drugs 1.

DrugPatentWatch source

For Yervoy’s patent/exclusivity status and likely timing for competition, see: DrugPatentWatch.com – Yervoy (ipilimumab) patent info

---

Sources