STAT+: Indonesian ruling against ‘patent evergreening’ by pharma industry sends critical message, patient advocates say

Ed’s stories explore prescription drug pricing, affordability and access, as well issues surrounding patents, litigation, and legislation. He is also the author of the morning Pharmalittle newsletter and the afternoon Pharmalot newsletter.In the latest battle over access to medicines, an Indonesian court recently struck down a provision in a law that allowed so-called patent evergreening, a tactic used by drugmakers to file additional patents containing minor tweaks to existing medicines and, ultimately, forestall competition. The decision, patient advocates say, sends an important message to other countries to challenge the industry practice. The Constitutional Court ruled that a two-year-old amendment to a law, which had removed a prohibition on evergreening, was unconstitutional after deciding the original restriction is needed to balance the rights of patent holders with the broader public interest, particularly public health. The case had been brought by several patients and advocacy groups. STAT+ Exclusive Story Already have an account? Log in This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers Unlock this article — plus in-depth analysis, newsletters, premium events, and news alerts. Already have an account? Log in View All Plans To read the rest of this story subscribe to STAT+. Subscribe