GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) has reached a global patent settlement with Pfizer, ending a lengthy legal battle over a breakthrough lung disease vaccine. The settlement allows Pfizer to have a worldwide license to certain GSK patents related to its respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine, Abrysvo. In return, GSK will receive a royalty on sales of Abrysvo. The agreement brings to a close a dispute that began in 2023 when GSK launched a lawsuit against Pfizer, alleging that Abrysvo infringed on the patent rights of its own RSV vaccine, Arexvy.
Despite the settlement, GSK remains confident that its Arexvy vaccine will generate £3 billion in peak annual sales. The company, led by CEO Dame Emma Walmsley, is one of the UK’s largest pharmaceutical groups, with a market capitalization of £59 billion. The RSV vaccine market is a highly competitive and rapidly growing space, with both GSK and Pfizer vying for dominance.
RSV is a common and highly contagious virus that affects people of all ages, particularly older adults and young children. It is a leading cause of respiratory illness, resulting in significant healthcare costs and economic burden. The development of effective vaccines against RSV has been a major focus for pharmaceutical companies in recent years.
The settlement between GSK and Pfizer is seen as a positive development for both companies, allowing them to focus on developing and marketing their respective vaccines without the distraction of ongoing litigation. GSK’s confidence in the sales potential of Arexvy remains unchanged, and the company is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for RSV vaccines. With the patent settlement in place, GSK and Pfizer can now concentrate on bringing their vaccines to market, benefiting patients and healthcare systems around the world. The agreement is also expected to increase competition in the RSV vaccine market, driving innovation and potentially leading to better outcomes for patients.