Very interesting observations, Alex and Lu. Astute, even.
There has been at least on generic for Copaxone for years. Ironic since Teva's other mission is generics for all the other best selling drugs.
All the drug companies are working on the oral DMDs. When they come out they will be really expensive to the consumer. They are probably still ten years out. When that happens they may let go of the hold on the injectables. Of course Insurance Companies may not give you the choice for the oral drugs if they are more expensive.
The drug companies will make money on those who can afford the new drugs and those who can only afford the injectables.
MS is the perfect disease for the Pharmaceutical industry. The patients need the drugs and live a long time.
Alex
2014 thats terrible!! by then some us well it shouldnt b that way they got us over a barrel!! thanks!!! noww i know- tick
Funny how the best, and most informative articles these days about the MS drugs seem to be coming from the financial pages. That should tell us all something about the importance of these drugs......
L
I just found this article that I had read a couple of weeks ago. http://www.marketwatch.com/story/israel-stocks-ease-teva-sues-mylan-over-copaxone-2009-10-18
Sounds like Teva is fighting the generic form. Here's another one.
http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/1001676.html
Unfortunately for all of us on Copaxone, the patent does not expire until 2014. Teva Pharmaceuticals has exclusive rights until then at least. There is always other ways for them to get this patent extended, protecting their profits in Copaxone sales.
Google generic copaxone if you want to learn more!
be well,
Lulu
Peptimmune is part of Novartis. They have something for MS in clinical trials it looks like it is aimed at secondary progressive. It is in the beginning of clinical trials.
Alex