by Jennifer M. Smith, Esq.

Lyrica
On June 20, 2012, the FDA informed Pfizer, Inc. of its decision to approve Lyrica for a new indication of neuropathic pain, or nerve pain, secondary to spinal cord injury. This condition is seen in workers’ compensation claims and the new approval may increase the allocation of prescription amounts in Medicare Set Asides for cases involving neuropathic pain.

OxyContin

The maker of OxyContin is trying to extend its patent, which was set to expire next year, according to a recent article in the Wall Street Journal. Purdue Pharma LP argues that it spent $100 million dollars to reformulate OxyContin to make it abuse-deterrent and this reformulated version should extend the patent for both the reformulated and the original versions of the drug. The reformulated version, introduced in 2010, has patent protection until 2025. Purdue Pharma argues that no generic forms of OxyContin should be approved that are not formulated to prevent abuse. Manufacturers of generic drugs argue that Purdue Pharma is just trying to protect its exclusive market share. Ultimately the issue will be decided by the courts; lawsuits are currently pending.