Effective patent life in pharmaceuticals is often just 10-15 years, not 20, due to lengthy approval processes. Secondary patents and regulatory exclusivities extend monopolies, delaying generics and keeping prices high.
180-day exclusivity under the Hatch-Waxman Act incentivizes generic drug companies to challenge patents, but delays in commercialization can block competition for years. Here's how it works-and why it needs fixing.
Brand manufacturers produce their own generic versions to maintain market control when patents expire. These authorized generics are identical to the brand drug but sold under a different label, offering familiarity without the premium price.
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