Pfizer wins Norvasc patent challenge from Mylan

Pharmaceutical behemoth Pfizer says that a federal court in the Western District of Pennsylvania (Pittsburgh) has upheld its US patent covering the active ingredient in Norvasc (amlodipine), the world's most-prescribed branded medicine for treating hypertension. The patent had been challenged by USA-based generic manufacturer Mylan Laboratories.

Judge Terrence McVerry ruled that the patent (US Patent no 4,879,303) covering amlodipine besylate is valid, enforceable and would be infringed by Mylan's product. The decision, which is subject to appeal, prohibits Mylan from launching a generic version of amlodipine until September 2007.

For its part, Mylan says it disagrees with the court's decision and will immediately appeal the ruling. It also said that it is maintaining its 2007 earnings per diluted share guidance of $1.50-$1.55, noting that generic amlodipine had not been factored into its 2007 expectations.