Voltarol Retard

Arthrotec tablets contain the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug diclofenac and the prostaglandin misoprostol. The combination of the two active ingredients makes Arthrotec suitable in patients predisposed to gastrointestinal ulceration. Dulco-lax (bisacodyl) tablets act as a stimulant laxative. Voltarol Retard tablets contain the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug diclofenac. All... 

The example of Voltarol Retard, cited in the preceding section, is one of a company which has developed an innovative drag, acting to protect its franchise in that product when patent expiry draws near. Every proprietary product eventually loses its patent exclusivity (usually 20 years after the patent was applied for or granted) and it is then open to any other manufacturer to manufacture and sell the same drag, perhaps under its own brand name. It is, of course, necessary to obtain a license to manufacture and market the... 

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