Another firm in patent war, appeals to HC

Merck Sharp and Dohme (MSD) has approached the Delhi high court against Mumbai-based Glenmark Pharmaceuticals alleging patent violation of its anti-diabetes drug Januvia and Janumet.

Merck Sharp and Dohme (MSD) has approached the Delhi High Court against Mumbai-based Glenmark Pharmaceuticals alleging patent violation of its anti-diabetes drug Januvia and Janumet.

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The development comes a day after the landmark judgment by Supreme Court rejecting patent protection for Novartis AG’s anti-cancer drug Glivec.

“We are disappointed in Glenmark’s decision to introduce products that directly infringe upon our intellectual property. We believe our patents for Januvia and Janumet are valid and enforceable and will vigorously defend them,” said MSD spokesperson.

“Strong intellectual property protection is essential for growing India’s innovative capacity and economic growth. As an innovative pharmaceutical company, protection of our intellectual property is vital to ensuring that we continue to assume the tremendous monetary risks associated with the discovery of innovative medicines,” MSD added.

With Glenmark launching its generic version, the price of the drug will fall by 25-30%.

“Glenmark is a responsible company and has launched the products after due diligence and research,” the company said.