8-KOther Events

BIOGEN INC. 8-K Report, Corporate Update (Sep 15, 2009)

Filed September 15, 2009For Securities:BIIB

Summary

Biogen Idec Inc. announced on September 15, 2009, the issuance of a significant U.S. patent, #7,588,755. This patent specifically covers the use of beta interferon for immunomodulation or treating conditions such as viral diseases, cancers, or tumors. Crucially for investors, this patent explicitly includes the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS) with Biogen Idec's flagship product, AVONEX® (Interferon beta-1a), which is a recombinant beta interferon. The patent is set to expire in September 2026, providing a substantial period of market exclusivity and protection for AVONEX® in its indicated uses, particularly for MS patients. This development is positive for the company as it reinforces the intellectual property protection around a key revenue-generating product.

Key Highlights

  • 1Biogen Idec has been granted U.S. Patent #7,588,755.
  • 2The patent covers the use of beta interferon for immunomodulation.
  • 3It also covers the treatment of viral conditions, cancers, or tumors with beta interferon.
  • 4A key aspect of the patent is its coverage for treating multiple sclerosis (MS) with AVONEX®.
  • 5AVONEX® is Biogen Idec's brand of recombinant beta interferon.
  • 6The patent is valid until September 2026, providing long-term protection.
  • 7This patent strengthens the intellectual property surrounding AVONEX®.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary significance is that it provides robust intellectual property protection for the use of beta interferon, including Biogen Idec's product AVONEX®, in treating multiple sclerosis and other conditions like viral diseases and cancers. This patent extends until September 2026, reinforcing market exclusivity for a key product.

This patent specifically covers the use of AVONEX® (Interferon beta-1a) for treating multiple sclerosis. This strengthens the legal protection for AVONEX® and its role in MS therapy, ensuring that the company can continue to market and sell the drug for this indication with reduced risk of direct patent infringement from competitors using beta interferon in a similar manner.

The patent is set to expire in September 2026. This provides investors with a long-term outlook for AVONEX®'s market exclusivity in its protected uses, suggesting continued revenue streams from this product for many years to come.

Yes, in addition to multiple sclerosis, the patent also covers the use of beta interferon for broader applications such as general immunomodulation, treating viral conditions, viral diseases, cancers, or tumors.