Pfizer Sets Inflectra Launch Date; J&J Plans To Fight Back

Pfizer commits to “late November” launch for its biosimilar version of infliximab, partnered with Celltrion, which will be the second biosimilar to reach the US market. Remicade innovator Janssen considers it an “at risk” launch and will continue patent litigation, as well as commercial tactics to protect its market.

Janssen Pharmaceuticals Inc. is responding to Pfizer Inc.’s announcement that it will launch Inflectra next month with a promise to turn to contracting and pricing to maintain market share for Remicade.

Pfizer announced Oct. 17 that it will begin shipping its biosimilar of Janssen’s tumor necrosis factor inhibitor in “late November.”...