>>Pfizer Wins Viagra Patent, Moves to Block Competition<<
This is very interesting and significant.
I couldn't find the PFE patent after a quick search. Anyone else?
Interestingly, I did find another use patent in the field, this time by Lilly/Icos:
United States Patent 6,451,807
Emmick , et al. September 17, 2002
Methods of treating sexual dysfunction in an individual suffering from a retinal disease, class 1 congestive heart failure, or myocardial infarction using a PDE5 inhibitor
Abstract
The present invention relates to highly selective phosphodiesterase (PDE) enzyme inhibitors and to their use in methods of treating sexual dysfunction in individuals suffering from a retinal disease, class 1 congestive heart failure, or myocardial infarction.
A broad use patent like the one that PFE claims would have a huge effect. Essentially all "me-too" drugs would be blocked, including ones that might be substantially better.
From a public policy perspective, this situation cries out for compulsory licensing at a reasonable royalty.
Peter |
