"The Appeal Court's decision supports AstraZeneca's view that the generic industry uses AstraZeneca's patented technology. We are convinced that many more companies market this product and we are currently pursuing further actions in Germany," says Dr. Martin Nicklasson, Executive Vice President GI Franchise.

The substance patent for omeprazole began expiring in the first countries in 1999.

In most countries, AstraZeneca has been granted Patent Term Extensions or Supplementary Protection Certificates (SPCs). This extended coverage for the substance expires in the USA in 2001, in most European countries in 2002-2004, and in Japan in 2004. The product is also protected by patents directed to formulations, uses, intermediates and processes.