US appeals upholds over Ampyra patents

AUS district court decision that opened the door for generic competition to Acorda Therapeutics’ Ampyra (dalfampridine) 10mg extended-release tablets by invalidating four patents shielding the treatment for multiple sclerosis has been upheld by a US Court of Appeals. The 2-1 split decision, with a dissenting opinion from Judge Pauline Newman, favours abbreviated new drug application (ANDA) filers Hikma, Mylan and Teva. “We are reviewing the decision and will consider future options, including the possibility of a further appeal,” Ron Cohen, Acorda’s president and chief executive officer, said in response to the decision.