Lilly fighting generic competition

Published: 2010-09-07

Eli Lilly and Co. is seeking a temporary block on sales of generic versions of its drug atomoxetine (Strattera) while it appeals against a ruling that declared a key patent invalid.

The attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder drug is mostly prescribed in the US; nevertheless world sales last year reached Euros 475 million and Lilly’s shares have dropped because of the anticipated reduction in earnings. The patent had been set to expire in 2017. At least seven generic drug-makers have tentative approvals from the FDA to sell the drug.
The case is typical of many, as originator companies seek to preserve and extend patents while generics companies try to overcome them.