News Snippet: Novartis sues Cipla for infringement of patents covering “Onbrez”

In the latest update, Novartis has sued Cipla for infringing its patents on “Onbrez” (Indacaterol) after Cipla launched its generic version for Indacaterol in October claiming “urgent unmet need” for the drug in India.

Earlier, as we have reported here, Cipla approached Govt. of India to exercise its statutory powers to revoke the five patents covering Indacaterol granted to Novartis, which is yet to be decided.

Novartis requested the high court to permanently restrain Cipla from manufacturing Indacaterol in any form and selling it in India. It also sought damages for infringing the five Indian patents covering Onbrez. In reply, Cipla contended that “Onbrez” sold by Novartis is too expensive and is not easily available to the public. Delhi High Court has reserved its verdict on January 9 after hearing detailed arguments by both parties.