Novartis cannot block generic version of Entresto, judge rules

A federal judge rejected Novartis' NOVN request for a preliminary injunction to stop MSN Pharmaceuticals from selling a generic version of the blockbuster heart medication Entresto.

In a decision on Tuesday, U.S. District Judge Evelyn Padin in Newark, New Jersey also reversed her prior ruling that Novartis would likely succeed on its claim of trade dress infringement against the defendant

MSN proposed selling a generic version of Entresto under the name Novadoz, which blends the names of Novartis and its Sandoz generics unit.

Padin also said Novartis' exclusivity over Entresto may not continue indefinitely, and that "denial of injunctive relief and the availability of a generic alternative to a life-savings medication is in the public interest."

Novartis and its lawyers did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Wednesday. The judge said its patent-related exclusivity expires today, July 16.