A patent for dapagliflozin, a leading diabetes medication, has been revoked, potentially paving the way for cheaper generic versions to be reimbursed in Poland.
On February 17, a significant decision was made by the Polish Patent Office to revoke the patent held by AstraZeneca for dapagliflozin, which is marketed under the name Forxiga. This patent was crucial as it granted AstraZeneca additional protection for their drug, preventing generic competitors from entering the market. With the patent invalidated, the associated supplementary protection certificate (SPC) is also rendered ineffective, thereby opening the door for generic versions of the drug to be produced and distributed.
The implications of this decision are noteworthy for the healthcare landscape in Poland. The market is now poised to see the introduction of two generic versions of dapagliflozin: Daforbis by Viatris and Diaflix by Polpharma. The availability of these generics raises crucial questions around pricing and reimbursement policies in Poland, as the government faces pressure to ensure that effective diabetes treatments are accessible to patients at reasonable costs. The potential for lower-priced alternatives could significantly alleviate the financial burden on the healthcare system and improve patient access to necessary medications.
Justyna Rechnio, head of the patent team at Polpharma, emphasized the state's responsibility to provide patients with effective therapies at rational prices. This situation highlights a pivotal shift in the pharmaceutical market in Poland that may lead to more favorable conditions for patients suffering from diabetes, as the competition from generics could drive prices down and enhance choices for treatment. The anticipated changes in reimbursement policies will be closely monitored by stakeholders across the healthcare sector.
