Patent Abuse: How Drug Companies Inflate Prices by Patenting Inhaler Cap!

In the pharmaceutical industry, it’s standard practice for generic versions of a drug to be released once the original patent expires, leading to competitive pricing as manufacturers compete to offer the lowest cost, and the original patent holder loses their exclusive rights. However, in the U.S., this process is often disrupted. A recent FTC investigation revealed that many drug manufacturers exploit the system by patenting minor modifications—such as an inhaler cap—to extend their monopoly over a drug, effectively blocking generics from entering the market. This practice has contributed to the stark price differences seen between the U.S. and other regions, with a drug that costs $7 in the EU being priced as high as $500 in the U.S. It’s unclear if similar tactics are prevalent in Canada, but the impact on American consumers is undeniable.

https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/2024/07/01/teva-patent-pharma-generic-inhaler

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