FTC Takes on Drugmakers for Inaccurate Patent Listings

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has challenged over 100 patents held by manufacturers of brand-name asthma inhalers, epinephrine autoinjectors, and other drug products, claiming that they were improperly listed in the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) Orange Book. The FTC has sent notice letters to 10 companies, including AbbVie, AstraZeneca, and Glaxo-Smith Kline, disputing the accuracy or relevance of the listed patents. The FTC argues that wrongfully listed patents can drive up drug prices and undermine fair competition. The FDA has been notified and may require the manufacturers to remove the listings or certify their compliance with regulations. The FTC's action aims to protect Americans from illegal business tactics that increase the cost of drugs and drug products.