Patent extensions

Supplemental appropriations bill is being eyed as vehicle for legislative proposals that could alternatively improve and hamper brand-name pharmaceutical industry profitability. A measure to provide patent restoration for "pipeline" drugs - notably Schering's Claritin - has been expanded to include animal drugs, food additives and medical devices. Sen. Gregg (R-N.H.) is seeking an extension for a Columbia University patent on which many biotech companies pay royalties (1"The Pink Sheet" May 22, p. 27). A vote on the bill is expected the week of June 26