The US Patent & Trademark Office is all set to confirm the patentability of the claims of Pfizer's '893 basic patent for Lipitor. The drug major Pfizer has recently received a communication from the US Patent & Trademark Office to this effect.

Earlier, the Patent Office had conducted a re-examination of the '893 patent in response to a request by a law firm that represented the generic company Ranbaxy Laboratories Limited.

The patent, which expires in March 2010 (including paediatric exclusivity), was previously the subject of litigation against Ranbaxy, in which Pfizer prevailed in both the trial and appeal courts.

Pfizer noted that it is pleased with the decision, which affirms the company's position that the patent was properly granted.