Generics
Mylan launches generics and reaches settlement over metformin
Generics giant Mylan has launched generic versions of fenofibrate capsules, cidofovir injection and levalbuterol. The company has also resolved patent litigation with Shionogi and Andrx related to metformin.
Why choose generic medicines initiative launched in Australia
The Australian Generic Medicines Industry Association (GMiA) and the Pharmacy Guild of Australia announced on 22 March 2013 the launch of a joint initiative: Why choose generic medicines?
Use of generic medicines in Ireland
Ireland’s Department of Health and Children intends to introduce a system of reference pricing and generics substitution in Ireland, which will greatly increase the utilization of generics and generate significant cost savings, whilst at the same time, increasing the accessibility and affordability of essential medicines. Authors Dunne et al. discuss Ireland’s history with the use of generic medicines [1].
Changes in risperidone use in Austria after introduction of generics
Currently, many governments have introduced austerity reforms to control pharmaceutical expenditure. In Austria, efforts have been made to both increase the use and lower the prices of generics. The problem is that antidepressants are not like other drugs, such as cholesterol-reducing medicines, where switching from originators to generics is not seen as a problem. For antidepressants the patient’s treatment is often tailored to meet their specific needs and there is resistance to switch products in stable patients.
Actavis confirms generic Alzheimer’s patch patent challenge
US generics maker Actavis (formerly Watson) confirmed on 8 March 2013 that it had filed with FDA an amendment to its abbreviated new drug application (ANDA) for rivastigmine transdermal system to include the 13.3 mg/24 hr dosage strength. Actavis’ product is a generic version of Novartis’ Exelon Patch, which is used to treat people with mild to moderate dementia associated with Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease.
Use of venlafaxine in Austria after introduction of generics
Trying to reduce expenditure on medicine is a major driving force for reforms by many governments. This includes Austria, where measures have been introduced to lower generics prices and enhance their use. However, the situation for newer antidepressants and atypical antipsychotic medicines (AAPs) is different to proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) (anti-reflux), statins (cholesterol-reducing), and renin-angiotensin inhibitor (blood-pressure reducing) drugs. For antidepressants therapy, it is more often tailored to meet the patient’s needs and there is resistance to switch products in stable patients.
India may move away from compulsory licensing
The Indian Government, in a move that goes away from recent decisions, has suggested that the prices of patented pharmaceutical drugs be controlled by linking them to the country’s per capita income rather than by issuing compulsory licences.
Mylan to acquire Strides Arcolab’s injectable generics business
Generics giant Mylan announced on 27 February 2013 that it has signed an agreement to acquire generic injectables maker Agila Specialties (Agila) from Strides Arcolab for US$1.6 billion in cash.
Patients’ knowledge and perceptions about generics in Australia
Most Australians know about generics but are not sure if they prefer brand-name or generic drugs, according to a survey carried out by Australian researchers and published in December 2012 in the Journal of Pharmacy Practice and Research [1].
UN urges WTO to keep cheap drug deal for poor countries
Two United Nations (UNs) agencies are urging the extension of an exemption for least-developed countries on patent protection to ensure that HIV/AIDS and other lifesaving drugs remain affordable for the poor.
