Barr and Bayer sign agreements for launch of generic Yasmin and Yaz oral contraceptives

Interesting move on the part of Bayer to license a generic brand ahead of patent expiration. This goes to show where the demand is coming from for less expensive generic branded drugs. It somewhat shows if you can’t beat them, join them. BD

Under terms of these agreements, Bayer will supply Barr with the generic products for launch prior to the expiration of the patents protecting these products and Barr will have sole responsibility to market, sell and distribute the products in the U.S. under the Barr Laboratories label.

"We are very pleased to have reached these licensing agreements with Bayer that permit Barr to launch our authorized generic versions of Yasmin and Yaz to patients years before the patents protecting these products are due to expire," said Bruce L. Downey, Barr's Chairman and CEO. "Although Bayer will continue to appeal the March 3, 2008 decision by U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey that found the Yasmin patent invalid, these agreements ensure that we will be able to continue selling our generic versions of Yasmin and Yaz regardless of the outcome of that appeal."