Alexion Pharmaceuticals announced that the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has issued U.S. Patents No. 9,732,149; 9,718,880; and 9,725,504, which are directed to the composition of matter of eculizumab (Soliris), pharmaceutical formulations of eculizumab, and methods of treating paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) with eculizumab, respectively, and which will expire in 2027.
“Alexion is the leader in complement biology and has invested decades of ground-breaking research and development in Soliris. We continue to strengthen our patent portfolio around this unique complement inhibitor,” said Ludwig Hantson, Chief Executive Officer of Alexion. “These new patents work in concert with other patents and regulatory exclusivities to protect Soliris in all indications.”
The new composition of matter patent is directed to the full-length amino acid sequence of eculizumab and covers molecules that contain the same sequence. The new formulation patent is directed to pharmaceutical compositions that contain eculizumab, independent of their intended use. The new method of use patent is directed to treating PNH with eculizumab, and supplements other patents that are directed to treating atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) and other complement-mediated diseases with eculizumab.
Alexion is pursuing corresponding patent applications in other regions and countries, including Europe and Japan. In addition, Alexion is pursuing patent applications for pending additional indications of Soliris, such as for the treatment of refractory generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG).
Filed Under: Drug Discovery
