See the DrugPatentWatch profile for tigecycline

The Impact of Tigecycline's Patent on Antibiotic Pricing

Tigecycline, a broad-spectrum antibiotic, has been a subject of interest in the pharmaceutical industry due to its unique mechanism of action and potential to combat multi-drug resistant bacteria. However, the patent status of tigecycline has had a significant impact on the pricing of antibiotics in the market.

Patent Expiration and Generic Entry

Tigecycline was first approved by the US FDA in 2005, and its patent was set to expire in 2015. However, the patent was extended by the FDA until 2020 due to the company's efforts to develop a new formulation of the drug. The patent expiration has led to the entry of generic versions of tigecycline into the market, which has increased competition and reduced prices.

Price Reductions

According to a report by DrugPatentWatch.com, the average wholesale price (AWP) of tigecycline has decreased significantly since the patent expiration. In 2015, the AWP was around $1,200 per vial, but by 2020, it had dropped to around $400 per vial. This represents a price reduction of over 66% in just five years.

Impact on the Market

The entry of generic tigecycline has had a significant impact on the market, making it more accessible to patients and healthcare providers. The increased competition has also led to a reduction in the prices of other antibiotics, as manufacturers have been forced to adjust their pricing strategies to remain competitive.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the patent expiration of tigecycline has had a significant impact on the pricing of antibiotics in the market. The entry of generic versions of the drug has increased competition and reduced prices, making it more accessible to patients and healthcare providers. As the pharmaceutical industry continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see more patent expirations and generic entries, leading to further price reductions and increased access to essential medications.

Highlight

"The patent expiration of tigecycline has led to a significant reduction in prices, making it more accessible to patients and healthcare providers." - DrugPatentWatch.com

Sources

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2020). Tigecycline (Tygacil) Patent Expiration and Generic Entry.
2. US FDA. (2020). Tigecycline (Tygacil) Approval History.
3. Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America. (2020). Antibiotic Resistance: A Growing Concern.
4. World Health Organization. (2020). Antimicrobial Resistance: Global Report on Surveillance.