The Ecstacy of Gold: Patent Expirations for Trastuzumab, Bevacizumab, Rituximab, and Cetuximab

Abstract

Objective: Fully humanized monoclonal antibodies have revolutionized the treatment of many solid tumors, including ovarian, lung, colorectal, and breast cancer. Among the most widely used monoclonal antibodies in clinical oncology are cetuximab, trastuzumab, rituximab, and bevacizumab.

Methods: This is a review article focusing on the drug patents for cetuximab, trastuzumab, rituximab, and bevacizumab.

Results: These four monoclonal antibodies are used in both first and second line treatment regimens for multiple common malignancies. With recent patent expirations, pharmaceutical companies involved in biosimilar manufacture are looking to establish ownership over these financial monopolies.

Conclusion: This article will review these four notable monoclonal antibodies, their role in clinical oncology, and the drug patents that are nearing expiration. There are currently only two biosimilars approved in the United States: the trastuzumab biosimilar trastuzumab-dkst (Ogivri) and the bevacizumab biosimilar bevacizumab-awwb (Mvasi). In Europe, SB3, a trastuzumab biosimilar, is approved for use as well as two rituzimab biosimilars, truxima and rixathon.

Keywords: Monoclonal antibodies; bevacizumab; cetuximab; clinical oncology; rituximab; trastuzumab..