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Health Law Highlights

US Challenges ‘Bogus’ Patents on Ozempic and Other Drugs in Effort to Spur Competition

Summary of article from AP News, by Matthew Perrone:

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is challenging patents on 20 brand-name drugs, including Ozempic, as part of the Biden administration’s efforts to target pharmaceutical industry practices that inflate prices. The FTC alleges that patents filed by companies such as Novo Nordisk, GlaxoSmithKline, and AstraZeneca are inaccurate or misleading. These patents, often used to prevent competition from cheaper generic medicines, are being scrutinized as they contribute to high prescription drug costs. This move follows a similar action in September when regulators challenged over 100 patents held by drug manufacturers. The companies have 30 days to withdraw or update their patent listings, or certify their legitimacy under penalty of perjury.