3 ms·
Makes you wonder if removing the patent system would have similar benefits.
by bushbaba 5y ago
Makes you wonder if removing the patent system would have similar benefits.
- TaylorAlexander 5y agoI sure think so! https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=30512363 https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=30512363
- heavyset_go 5y agoI can think of several patented medicines that are not being pursued commercially in the US despite their approval in other countries and proven efficacy. I can think of one that's sat on by a company that already produces a similar medication. Companies will sit on new medications until right before/after the similar, but older, medications they own/license are off patent, that way they always have another patented medication waiting in the wings for when they're done squeezing every cent they can out of their old ones.
- Talanes 5y agoIt would be nice if patents were "use it or lose it" like trademarks.
- refurb 5y agoAs someone who has worked in the industry, this hasn't been my observation at all. There is never "one" patent for a drug and candidates tend to be patented quite early, so the clock starts ticking. A company may be lucky to get several more patents, but it's not guaranteed. Plus, there is nothing stopping another company from making a similar drug and beating you to market - there were over 6 -statin drugs in the market at one point.
- namibj 5y agoBeware of trade secrets. That said, patents should probably at least get mandatory FRAND.