GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) has taken legal action against Pfizer, filing a lawsuit in the US alleging patent infringement over GSK’s respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine. GSK claims that Pfizer’s RSV vaccine, Abrysvo, violates four of GSK’s patents related to the antigen used in its own vaccine.
The complaint was filed in federal court in Delaware, accusing Pfizer of knowingly utilizing GSK’s inventions without permission. Interestingly, both vaccines were approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in May for use in adults aged 60 and above.
RSV is a prevalent respiratory infection that can cause severe symptoms in older adults and children alike. In response to Pfizer’s alleged patent infringement, GSK is demanding a jury trial, seeking monetary damages, including lost profits and royalties resulting from Pfizer’s actions.
Moreover, GSK is requesting a judge to prevent Pfizer from manufacturing and selling Abrysvo in the US specifically for adults aged 60 and older. However, GSK has made it clear that it does not intend to restrict the use of Abrysvo for preventing RSV in infants, as there is a separate vaccine specifically designed for newborns.
Meanwhile, the FDA is expected to reach a final decision on the RSV vaccine for infants in August, which will provide further insight into the overall implications of the legal proceedings.
GSK’s bold move demonstrates its commitment to defending its intellectual property and ensuring fair competition within the pharmaceutical industry. As the case unfolds, the industry and consumers alike will be closely following the outcome, as it has the potential to shape future developments in RSV vaccine technology.
As always, the Courier Standard Enterprise will keep readers updated on this significant legal battle and its potential impact on the healthcare landscape.
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