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Last Updated: April 11, 2025

Upjohn Company Profile


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Summary for Upjohn
International Patents:33
US Patents:3
Tradenames:12
Ingredients:9
NDAs:13

Drugs and US Patents for Upjohn

ApplicantTradenameGeneric NameDosageNDAApproval DateTETypeRLDRSPatent No.Patent ExpirationProductSubstanceDelist Req.Exclusivity Expiration
Upjohn CELEBREX celecoxib CAPSULE;ORAL 020998-003 Aug 29, 2002 AB RX Yes Yes ⤷  Try for Free ⤷  Try for Free
Upjohn DETROL tolterodine tartrate TABLET;ORAL 020771-001 Mar 25, 1998 AB RX Yes No ⤷  Try for Free ⤷  Try for Free
Upjohn LYRICA pregabalin SOLUTION;ORAL 022488-001 Jan 4, 2010 AA RX Yes Yes ⤷  Try for Free ⤷  Try for Free
Upjohn RELPAX eletriptan hydrobromide TABLET;ORAL 021016-002 Dec 26, 2002 AB RX Yes Yes ⤷  Try for Free ⤷  Try for Free
Upjohn XANAX alprazolam TABLET;ORAL 018276-001 Approved Prior to Jan 1, 1982 AB RX Yes No ⤷  Try for Free ⤷  Try for Free
Upjohn XANAX alprazolam TABLET;ORAL 018276-003 Approved Prior to Jan 1, 1982 AB RX Yes Yes ⤷  Try for Free ⤷  Try for Free
Upjohn XANAX XR alprazolam TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE;ORAL 021434-001 Jan 17, 2003 AB RX Yes No ⤷  Try for Free ⤷  Try for Free
>Applicant>Tradename>Generic Name>Dosage>NDA>Approval Date>TE>Type>RLD>RS>Patent No.>Patent Expiration>Product>Substance>Delist Req.>Exclusivity Expiration
Showing 1 to 7 of 7 entries

Expired US Patents for Upjohn

ApplicantTradenameGeneric NameDosageNDAApproval DatePatent No.Patent Expiration
Upjohn CELEBREX celecoxib CAPSULE;ORAL 020998-003 Aug 29, 2002 5,972,986*PED ⤷  Try for Free
Upjohn DETROL LA tolterodine tartrate CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE;ORAL 021228-001 Dec 22, 2000 6,630,162*PED ⤷  Try for Free
Upjohn EFFEXOR XR venlafaxine hydrochloride CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE;ORAL 020699-001 Oct 20, 1997 4,535,186*PED ⤷  Try for Free
Upjohn INSPRA eplerenone TABLET;ORAL 021437-003 Sep 27, 2002 4,559,332*PED ⤷  Try for Free
Upjohn LYRICA pregabalin CAPSULE;ORAL 021446-008 Dec 30, 2004 5,563,175 ⤷  Try for Free
Upjohn XALATAN latanoprost SOLUTION/DROPS;OPHTHALMIC 020597-001 Jun 5, 1996 5,422,368 ⤷  Try for Free
Upjohn XANAX alprazolam TABLET;ORAL 018276-001 Approved Prior to Jan 1, 1982 3,987,052 ⤷  Try for Free
>Applicant>Tradename>Generic Name>Dosage>NDA>Approval Date>Patent No.>Patent Expiration
Showing 1 to 7 of 7 entries
Paragraph IV (Patent) Challenges for UPJOHN drugs
Drugname Dosage Strength Tradename Submissiondate
➤ Subscribe Capsules 25 mg, 50 mg, 75 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg, 200 mg, 225 mg and 300 mg ➤ Subscribe 2008-12-30
➤ Subscribe Extended-release Tablets 330 mg ➤ Subscribe 2018-01-29
➤ Subscribe Extended-release Tablets 330 mg ➤ Subscribe 2018-01-29
➤ Subscribe Tablets 25 mg and 50 mg ➤ Subscribe 2006-09-27
➤ Subscribe Extended-release Capsules 2 mg and 4 mg ➤ Subscribe 2007-07-30
➤ Subscribe Capsules 50 mg ➤ Subscribe 2008-03-21
➤ Subscribe Oral Solution 20 mg/mL ➤ Subscribe 2010-05-19
➤ Subscribe Extended-release Tablets 82.5 mg and 165 mg ➤ Subscribe 2018-02-02
➤ Subscribe Extended-release Tablets 82.5 mg and 165 mg ➤ Subscribe 2018-02-02
➤ Subscribe Tablets 20 mg and 40 mg ➤ Subscribe 2010-03-29
➤ Subscribe Extended-release Tablets 37.5 mg, 75 mg and 150 mg ➤ Subscribe 2007-05-03

International Patents for Upjohn Drugs

CountryPatent NumberEstimated Expiration
Costa Rica 9950 ⤷  Try for Free
Eurasian Patent Organization 200800931 ⤷  Try for Free
Netherlands 2000281 ⤷  Try for Free
Norway 20081816 ⤷  Try for Free
Peru 20070693 ⤷  Try for Free
South Africa 200803115 ⤷  Try for Free
Spain 2449231 ⤷  Try for Free
>Country>Patent Number>Estimated Expiration
Showing 1 to 7 of 7 entries

Supplementary Protection Certificates for Upjohn Drugs

Patent NumberSupplementary Protection CertificateSPC CountrySPC ExpirationSPC Description
0731795 10075033 Germany ⤷  Try for Free PRODUCT NAME: CELECOXIB; NAT. REGISTRATION NO/DATE: 48802.00.00 20000518; FIRST REGISTRATION: SE 14838 19991203
0720599 122014000088 Germany ⤷  Try for Free PRODUCT NAME: EZETIMIB ODER PHARMAZEUTISCH ANNEHMBARE SALZE DAVON IN KOMBINATION MIT ATORVASTATIN ODER PHARMAZEUTISCH ANNEHMBARE SALZE DAVON, INSBESONDERE ATORVASTATIN ALS ATORVASTATINCALCIUMTRIHYDRAT; NAT. REGISTRATION NO/DATE: 90223.00.00 20141113; FIRST REGISTRATION: FRANKREICH CIS: 6 928 917 6 20140912
3461484 2021C/515 Belgium ⤷  Try for Free PRODUCT NAME: ROCLANDA - LATANOPROST / NETARSUDIL; AUTHORISATION NUMBER AND DATE: EU/1/20/1502 20210108
1003503 30/2006 Austria ⤷  Try for Free PRODUCT NAME: AMLODIPIN ODER EIN PHARMAZEUTISCH ANNEHMBARES SAEUREADDITIONSALZ DESSELBEN IN KOMBINATION MIT ATORVASTATIN ODER EINEM PHARMAZEUTISCH ANNEHMBAREN SALZ DESSELBEN; NAT. REGISTRATION NO/DATE: 1-26271, 1-26273 20060330; FIRST REGISTRATION: FR 369300.9;369301.5; 369302.1;369303.8;369304.4;369305.0; 20050707
0364417 61/1997 Austria ⤷  Try for Free PRODUCT NAME: LATANOPROST UND SEINE THERAPEUTISCH AKTIVEN UND PHYSIOLOGISCH ANNEHMBAREN DERIVATE; NAT. REGISTRATION NO/DATE: 1-22019 19970627; FIRST REGISTRATION: SE 12716 19960718
0247633 62/1997 Austria ⤷  Try for Free PRODUCT NAME: ATORVASTATIN CALCIUM; NAT. REGISTRATION NO/DATE: 1-21926, 1-21927, 1-21928 19970411; FIRST REGISTRATION: GB PL 00018/0240 - PL 00018/0242 19961107
0364417 SPC/GB97/014 United Kingdom ⤷  Try for Free PRODUCT NAME: LATANOPROST (I.E. 13,14-DIHYDRO-17-PHENYL-18,19,20-TRINOR-PGF-ALPHA-ISOPROPYLESTER); NAT. REGISTRATION NO/DATE: 00032/0220 19961216; FIRST REGISTRATION: SE 12716 19960718; SPC EXTENSION AUTHORISATION: PL00057/1057-008 20101216
>Patent Number>Supplementary Protection Certificate>SPC Country>SPC Expiration>SPC Description
Showing 1 to 7 of 7 entries
Similar Applicant Names
Applicants may be listed under multiple names.
Here is a list of applicants with similar names.

Pharmaceutical Competitive Landscape Analysis: Upjohn – Market Position, Strengths & Strategic Insights

In the ever-evolving pharmaceutical industry, understanding the competitive landscape is crucial for success. This article delves into the market position, strengths, and strategic insights of Upjohn, a key player in the pharmaceutical sector. We'll explore how Upjohn has navigated the complex world of drug development, manufacturing, and distribution, and examine its role in the broader context of the global pharmaceutical market.

The Evolution of Upjohn

From Humble Beginnings to Industry Giant

The Upjohn Company, founded in 1886 by Dr. William E. Upjohn in Hastings, Michigan, has a rich history of pharmaceutical innovation[1]. What began as a small operation focused on producing easily digestible pills soon grew into a major force in the industry. Upjohn's journey from a local business to a global pharmaceutical powerhouse is a testament to its commitment to scientific advancement and patient care.

Breakthrough Innovations

One of Upjohn's most significant contributions to the pharmaceutical world was its development of a process for large-scale cortisone production in 1952[1]. This breakthrough, achieved by biochemists Dury Peterson and Herb Murray, revolutionized the treatment of various inflammatory conditions. The company's innovative spirit didn't stop there. Upjohn, in collaboration with Schering, went on to develop prednisone, a more potent steroid, through bacterial fermentation[1].

Upjohn's Market Position

A Portfolio of Iconic Brands

Upjohn's market position has been bolstered by its portfolio of well-known pharmaceutical products. Before its acquisition by Pfizer, Upjohn was renowned for drugs such as:

  • Xanax (anxiety treatment)
  • Halcion (insomnia medication)
  • Motrin (pain reliever)
  • Lincocin (antibiotic)
  • Rogaine (hair loss treatment)[1]

These products not only generated significant revenue but also established Upjohn as a trusted name in pharmaceuticals.

Global Reach and Market Penetration

As part of Pfizer, Upjohn expanded its global footprint, serving more than 100 markets worldwide[3]. This extensive reach allowed the company to tap into diverse markets, including emerging economies with growing healthcare needs.

"We are creating a new champion for global health—one poised to bring world-class medicines to patients across a wide range of therapeutic areas." - Dr. Albert Bourla, Pfizer CEO[2]

Strengths and Competitive Advantages

Research and Development Prowess

Upjohn's strength in R&D has been a cornerstone of its success. The company's development of the Upjohn dihydroxylation in 1976 is a prime example of its contributions to chemical research[1]. This commitment to scientific innovation has allowed Upjohn to stay at the forefront of drug discovery and development.

Manufacturing Excellence

With a network of nine dedicated manufacturing sites, Upjohn has established a reputation for quality and reliability in drug production[3]. This manufacturing capability ensures a steady supply of medicines to markets around the world, a critical factor in maintaining market share and customer trust.

Diverse Product Portfolio

Upjohn's portfolio spans multiple therapeutic areas, including:

  • Cardiovascular
  • Pain management
  • Psychiatry
  • Urology[3]

This diversification helps mitigate risks associated with market fluctuations in any single therapeutic area.

Strategic Insights

Leveraging Established Brands

Upjohn's strategy has involved capitalizing on its portfolio of established medicines. By focusing on well-known brands with proven track records, the company has been able to maintain a strong market presence even as patents expire.

Emerging Market Focus

A key aspect of Upjohn's strategy has been its emphasis on emerging markets. The company has positioned itself to take advantage of growing healthcare needs in developing countries, where established medicines can play a crucial role in improving public health.

Adaptation to Changing Market Dynamics

The pharmaceutical industry is constantly evolving, with new challenges arising from regulatory changes, patent expirations, and emerging competitors. Upjohn has demonstrated adaptability in the face of these changes, as evidenced by its merger with Mylan to form Viatris in 2020[2].

The Mylan Merger: A New Chapter

Creating a Global Pharmaceutical Powerhouse

The merger of Upjohn with Mylan in 2020 marked a significant shift in the company's trajectory. This strategic move created Viatris, a new entity with enhanced capabilities and a broader global reach[6].

Synergies and Expanded Capabilities

The combination of Upjohn's established brands and Mylan's diverse portfolio of generic and complex medicines has created a company with:

  • Increased scale
  • Expanded geographic presence
  • Diversified product offerings
  • Enhanced R&D capabilities[7]

Financial Implications

The merger was expected to create a company with significant financial strength. While specific figures were not provided in the search results, the combined entity was positioned to leverage the financial resources of both Upjohn and Mylan to drive growth and innovation.

Challenges and Future Outlook

Patent Expirations and Generic Competition

Like many pharmaceutical companies, Upjohn has faced challenges related to patent expirations on key products. The company's strategy of focusing on established medicines helps mitigate this risk, but continued innovation will be crucial for long-term success.

Regulatory Environment

The pharmaceutical industry operates in a highly regulated environment. Upjohn's future success will depend on its ability to navigate complex regulatory landscapes across different markets.

Healthcare Reform

Potential changes in healthcare policies, particularly in the United States, could impact Upjohn's business model. The company will need to remain agile and responsive to policy shifts that affect drug pricing and market access[8].

Competitive Analysis

Market Share and Positioning

While specific market share data for Upjohn was not provided in the search results, its merger with Mylan to form Viatris created a company with a significant presence in the global pharmaceutical market. The combined entity's diverse portfolio and global reach position it as a major competitor in the industry.

Key Competitors

Upjohn, now part of Viatris, competes with other major pharmaceutical companies in various therapeutic areas. While specific competitor information was not detailed in the search results, it's likely that the company faces competition from both large pharmaceutical corporations and generic drug manufacturers.

Differentiation Strategy

Upjohn's differentiation strategy appears to focus on:

  1. Leveraging established brand recognition
  2. Expanding in emerging markets
  3. Maintaining a diverse product portfolio
  4. Emphasizing manufacturing quality and reliability

Innovation and Future Growth

Research and Development Focus

While Upjohn's historical strength has been in established medicines, continued investment in R&D will be crucial for future growth. The company's experience in areas such as steroid development and chemical research provides a foundation for ongoing innovation.

Potential Growth Areas

Based on industry trends, potential areas for future growth could include:

  • Biosimilars
  • Complex generics
  • Treatments for chronic diseases in emerging markets
  • Digital health solutions

The Role of Upjohn in Global Health

Access to Medicines

Upjohn's focus on established medicines plays a crucial role in global health by providing access to proven treatments in markets where newer, more expensive drugs may be less accessible.

Public Health Impact

The company's portfolio of cardiovascular, pain management, and psychiatric medications addresses some of the most prevalent health issues worldwide. By ensuring the availability of these medicines, Upjohn contributes significantly to public health efforts globally.

Key Takeaways

  • Upjohn has a rich history of pharmaceutical innovation, including breakthroughs in cortisone production and the development of prednisone.
  • The company's strength lies in its portfolio of established, iconic brands and its global manufacturing capabilities.
  • Upjohn's merger with Mylan to form Viatris has created a new global pharmaceutical powerhouse with expanded capabilities and market reach.
  • The company faces challenges related to patent expirations and regulatory changes but is well-positioned to leverage its strengths in established markets and expand in emerging economies.
  • Continued innovation and adaptation to changing market dynamics will be crucial for Upjohn's future success as part of Viatris.

FAQs

  1. What are some of Upjohn's most well-known pharmaceutical products? Upjohn is known for products such as Xanax, Halcion, Motrin, Lincocin, and Rogaine.

  2. How has Upjohn contributed to pharmaceutical research? Upjohn developed a process for large-scale cortisone production in 1952 and contributed to the development of prednisone. The company also developed the Upjohn dihydroxylation, a significant contribution to chemical research.

  3. What was the strategic rationale behind the merger of Upjohn and Mylan? The merger aimed to create a company with increased scale, expanded geographic presence, a diversified product portfolio, and enhanced R&D capabilities.

  4. How does Upjohn's focus on established medicines impact global health? By ensuring the availability of proven treatments, particularly in emerging markets, Upjohn plays a crucial role in addressing prevalent health issues worldwide and improving access to essential medicines.

  5. What are the main challenges facing Upjohn in the current pharmaceutical landscape? Key challenges include patent expirations, generic competition, navigating complex regulatory environments, and adapting to potential healthcare policy changes.

Sources cited: [1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Upjohn [2] https://www.pfizer.com/news/press-release/press-release-detail/mylan_and_upjohn_a_division_of_pfizer_to_combine_creating_a_new_champion_for_global_health_uniquely_positioned_to_fulfill_the_world_s_need_for_medicine [3] https://abudhabi2019.fip.org/sponsor-pfizer-upjohn/ [6] https://www.pfizer.com/files/investors/financial_reports/annual_reports/2019/our-bold-moves/transform-our-go-to-market-model/combining-upjohn-and-mylan-to-create-a-new-champion-for-global-health/index.html [7] https://investor.viatris.com/static-files/e12db82c-73b8-488b-a081-3e1d746ebd31 [8] https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1993-04-12-fi-22033-story.html

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Drugs may be covered by multiple patents or regulatory protections. All trademarks and applicant names are the property of their respective owners or licensors. Although great care is taken in the proper and correct provision of this service, thinkBiotech LLC does not accept any responsibility for possible consequences of errors or omissions in the provided data. The data presented herein is for information purposes only. There is no warranty that the data contained herein is error free. thinkBiotech performs no independent verification of facts as provided by public sources nor are attempts made to provide legal or investing advice. Any reliance on data provided herein is done solely at the discretion of the user. Users of this service are advised to seek professional advice and independent confirmation before considering acting on any of the provided information. thinkBiotech LLC reserves the right to amend, extend or withdraw any part or all of the offered service without notice.