Teva keeps battling Natco over generic of blockbuster Copaxone

Teva Pharmaceutical Industries ($TEVA) is trying to throw up yet another hurdle to a generic version of its blockbuster multiple sclerosis drug from India's Natco Pharmaceuticals. The Israeli drugmaker told The Hindu BusinessLine that it will appeal a New Delhi High Court decision on Friday that dismissed its patent suit against Natco. Teva had sought an injunction in India, saying Natco was violating a patent on its manufacturing process, but the New Delhi court declined to intercede, saying it didn't have jurisdiction. Natco is working with U.S. generics maker Mylan ($MYL) on a copy of Copaxone and is hoping for a quick FDA approval and a fast launch of the $4-billion-a-year seller. Teva's patent falls off in May in the U.S., and it has been bracing for a big hit to sales. In January, Teva got FDA approval for a longer-acting formulation of Copaxone that it hopes doctors will move their patients to instead of putting them on generics. Story | More