Dolutegravir sodium; lamivudine - Generic Drug Details

What are the generic sources for dolutegravir sodium; lamivudine and what is the scope of patent protection?

Dolutegravir sodium; lamivudine is the generic ingredient in one branded drug marketed by Viiv Hlthcare and is included in one NDA. There are three patents protecting this compound. Additional information is available in the individual branded drug profile pages.

Dolutegravir sodium; lamivudine has three hundred and one patent family members in forty-nine countries.

One supplier is listed for this compound.

Summary for dolutegravir sodium; lamivudine

International Patents:	301
US Patents:	3
Tradenames:	1
Applicants:	1
NDAs:	1
Finished Product Suppliers / Packagers:	1
Patent Litigation and PTAB cases:	See patent lawsuits and PTAB cases for dolutegravir sodium; lamivudine
DailyMed Link:	dolutegravir sodium; lamivudine at DailyMed

DrugPatentWatch^® Estimated Loss of Exclusivity (LOE) Date for dolutegravir sodium; lamivudine

Dosage:

TABLET;ORAL

^*The generic entry opportunity date is the latter of the last compound-claiming patent and the last regulatory exclusivity protection. Many factors can influence early or later generic entry. This date is provided as a rough estimate of generic entry potential and should not be used as an independent source.

Pharmacology for dolutegravir sodium; lamivudine

Drug Class	Hepatitis B Virus Nucleoside Analog Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor Human Immunodeficiency Virus Integrase Strand Transfer Inhibitor Human Immunodeficiency Virus Nucleoside Analog Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor
Mechanism of Action	HIV Integrase Inhibitors Multidrug and Toxin Extrusion Transporter 1 Inhibitors Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors Organic Cation Transporter 2 Inhibitors

Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical (ATC) Classes for dolutegravir sodium; lamivudine

J05AF	Nucleoside and nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitors
J05A	DIRECT ACTING ANTIVIRALS
J05	ANTIVIRALS FOR SYSTEMIC USE
J	Antiinfectives for systemic use

J05AJ	Integrase inhibitors
J05A	DIRECT ACTING ANTIVIRALS
J05	ANTIVIRALS FOR SYSTEMIC USE
J	Antiinfectives for systemic use

Paragraph IV (Patent) Challenges for DOLUTEGRAVIR SODIUM; LAMIVUDINE

Tradename	Dosage	Ingredient	Strength	NDA	ANDAs Submitted	Submissiondate
DOVATO	Tablets	dolutegravir sodium; lamivudine	50 mg/300 mg	211994	1	2019-07-30

US Patents and Regulatory Information for dolutegravir sodium; lamivudine

Applicant	Tradename	Generic Name	Dosage	NDA	Approval Date	TE	Type	RLD	RS	Patent No.	Patent Expiration	Product	Substance	Delist Req.	Exclusivity Expiration
Viiv Hlthcare	DOVATO	dolutegravir sodium; lamivudine	TABLET;ORAL	211994-001	Apr 8, 2019		RX	Yes	Yes
Viiv Hlthcare	DOVATO	dolutegravir sodium; lamivudine	TABLET;ORAL	211994-001	Apr 8, 2019		RX	Yes	Yes			Y
Viiv Hlthcare	DOVATO	dolutegravir sodium; lamivudine	TABLET;ORAL	211994-001	Apr 8, 2019		RX	Yes	Yes					Y
Viiv Hlthcare	DOVATO	dolutegravir sodium; lamivudine	TABLET;ORAL	211994-001	Apr 8, 2019		RX	Yes	Yes					Y

International Patents for dolutegravir sodium; lamivudine

Country	Patent Number	Title	Estimated Expiration
New Zealand	627826
Hungary	S1800042
South Korea	20170078868
Cyprus	1121040

Supplementary Protection Certificates for dolutegravir sodium; lamivudine

Patent Number	Supplementary Protection Certificate	SPC Country	SPC Expiration	SPC Description
2465580	PA2021512	Lithuania		PRODUCT NAME: KABOTEGRAVIRAS; REGISTRATION NO/DATE: EU/1/20/1481 20201217
1874117	1490036-9	Sweden		PRODUCT NAME: DOLUTEGRAVIR ELLER ETT FARMACEUTISKT ACCEPTABELT SALT ELLER SOLVAT DAERAV, INKLUSIVE DOLUTEGRAVIRNATRIUM; REG. NO/DATE: EU/1/13/892 20140116
1874117	SPC/GB14/041	United Kingdom		PRODUCT NAME: DOLUTEGRAVIR OR A PHARMACEUTICALLY ACCEPTABLE SALT OR SOLVATE THEREOF, INCLUDING DOLUTEGRAVIR SODIUM; REGISTERED: UK EU/1/13/892/001-006 20140121
3494972	LUC00346	Luxembourg		PRODUCT NAME: DOLUTEGRAVIR OU UN SEL PHARMACEUTIQUEMENT ACCEPTABLE, Y COMPRIS LE DOLUTEGRAVIR SODIQUE, ET LAMIVUDINE; AUTHORISATION NUMBER AND DATE: EU/1/19/1370 20190703

Market Dynamics and Financial Trajectory for the Pharmaceutical Drugs: Dolutegravir Sodium and Lamivudine

Last updated: July 29, 2025

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Introduction

The pharmaceutical landscape for antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) has experienced robust evolution attributable to advances in HIV treatment protocols and growing global demand. Among key players are Dolutegravir Sodium and Lamivudine, pivotal components in the modern antiretroviral therapy (ART) arsenal. Understanding their market dynamics and financial trajectories necessitates an analysis of factors including patent statuses, treatment paradigms, regulatory approvals, competitive landscape, and socioeconomic drivers.

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Market Overview

Global HIV/AIDS Treatment Market

The global HIV/AIDS treatment market was valued at approximately USD 25 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3-5% through 2030, driven by increased testing, diagnosis, and expanded ART coverage [1]. Key regions include North America, Europe, Africa, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America, with Africa bearing more than two-thirds of the global HIV burden.

Role of Dolutegravir Sodium and Lamivudine

Dolutegravir (DTG), an integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI), offers high efficacy, fewer side effects, and high genetic barrier to resistance. As a first-line agent, it is often combined with Lamivudine (3TC), a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI), forming fixed-dose combinations (FDCs). Their combined administration embodies a standard of care per WHO guidelines and numerous national protocols.

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Market Dynamics

1. Patent Expirations and Generics Entrants

Dolutegravir’s patent was initially held by ViiV Healthcare but faced expiry in key markets such as the US and Europe in 2022-2023 [2], paving the way for a surge in generic versions. The entrance of generics has intensified price competition, reducing treatment costs and expanding accessibility, especially in resource-constrained settings.

Lamivudine's patent expired in multiple jurisdictions years prior, with numerous generic manufacturers globally producing cost-effective versions. This extensive patent expiry and generic proliferation have significantly contributed to price erosion and broad market penetration.

2. Regional Expansion and Access

Sub-Saharan Africa remains the largest market for these drugs, driven by government procurement programs and international funding via PEPFAR and the Global Fund. The affordability of generics has been pivotal in scaling up ART access in these regions.

In contrast, high-income countries primarily utilize branded formulations due to established healthcare infrastructure, regulatory barriers, and preference for established brands. However, fierce competition drives downward pricing and patent challenges.

3. Regulatory and Policy Environment

WHO approval and inclusion in the Essential Medicines List (EML) bolstered demand, especially for generics, by enabling subsidies and procurement. National regulatory authorities and patent litigations influence market entry strategies and timelines, creating a dynamic regulatory landscape.

Recent shifts favoring INSTI-based regimens, including dolutegravir, have translated into regulatory fast-tracking, positive formulary decisions, and expanded insurance reimbursement.

4. Competitive Landscape

Major pharmaceutical companies—ViiV Healthcare, Mylan, Cipla, Macleods, and others—compete for market share. The emergence of fixed-dose combinations (e.g., Triumeq) has simplified regimens, improved adherence, and increased demand.

Innovative formulations, such as long-acting injectables combining dolutegravir with other agents, are on the horizon, representing potential disruptors and growth vectors.

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Financial Trajectory

Revenue Trends and Forecasts

The revenue for dolutegravir-based products experienced exponential growth post-2018, with peak revenues reaching over USD 4 billion globally in 2022 [3]. The revenue trend reflects increased adoption, geographic expansion, and product launches.

Post-patent expiry, generic versions contributed to a price decline of approximately 30-50%, leading to a market that balances volume-driven sales with reduced per-unit prices.

Lamivudine, with mature market status, continues to generate consistent revenues, especially in low-income markets. The ongoing demand sustains a steady revenue stream despite stiff generic competition and price compression.

Investment and R&D Impact

Pharmaceutical companies continue to invest in formulation enhancements, fixed-dose combination development, and novel delivery modalities (e.g., long-acting injectables). These innovations aim to extend market life cycles and command premium pricing.

Furthermore, pipeline expansion into pediatric and co-infection treatments (e.g., hepatitis B) could diversify revenue sources.

Pricing and Reimbursement Policies

Pricing strategies are heavily influenced by negotiations with government agencies and insurance payers. Countries adopting price control measures and generics have seen significant reductions in drug expenditure, impacting profit margins but broadening patient access.

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Market Challenges

• Patent Litigation and Exclusivity Risks: Legal disputes may delay generic entry or impact pricing strategies.
• Resistance Development: Viral resistance, especially in cases of suboptimal adherence, could diminish drug efficacy and market size.
• Pricing Pressures: Increased competition lowers margins, particularly in emerging markets where price sensitivity is high.
• Supply Chain Disruptions: Manufacturing issues, regulatory delays, and geopolitical factors pose risks to consistent drug availability.

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Opportunities and Future Outlook

• Emergence of Long-Acting Formulations: Injectable depots of dolutegravir and lamivudine scheduled for approval could revolutionize treatment adherence dynamics and open new market segments.
• Integration into Multipurpose Regimens: Combining ARVs with prophylactic agents, such as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), enhances commercial and public health relevance.
• Expanding Access in Low-Income Markets: Cost reduction from generics and international aid programs will continue to drive volume growth in underserved regions.

The overall financial trajectory indicates a mature market transitioning to volume-driven growth, with promising innovation-driven segments poised to extend revenue streams.

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Key Takeaways

• The patent expiry of Dolutegravir has prompted a proliferation of generics, significantly reducing prices and improving access in emerging markets.
• The combination of dolutegravir and lamivudine remains the cornerstone of first-line ART, ensuring sustained demand.
• Investment in innovative formulations and fixed-dose combinations fortifies companies' market positions.
• Regulatory approvals, patent litigations, and pricing policies remain key variables influencing financial outcomes.
• Long-acting formulations and expanding geographic access are promising avenues for future revenue growth.

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FAQs

Q1: How has patent expiration impacted the market for Dolutegravir and Lamivudine?
Patent expiry has introduced multiple generic manufacturers, leading to decreased prices and increased global access, especially in resource-limited settings. However, it has also intensified market competition and pressured profit margins for originators.

Q2: What are the primary drivers of growth for these drugs?
Key drivers include expanded HIV treatment coverage, evolving treatment guidelines favoring INSTIs, regional health initiatives, and innovations such as fixed-dose combinations and long-acting injectables.

Q3: What risks could threaten the financial trajectory of these drugs?
Patent litigations, resistance development, regulatory challenges, and price pressures could impact revenues. Supply chain disruptions pose additional risks.

Q4: How does geographic variation influence market dynamics?
Emerging markets favor generic versions due to cost sensitivity and donor funding, while high-income countries favor branded formulations with established reimbursement pathways.

Q5: What future innovations could shape the market?
Long-acting injectable formulations, multipurpose combination therapies, and formulations targeting pediatric and co-infected populations are poised to reshape demand and revenue potential.

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References

[1] Market Research Future, "Global HIV/AIDS Treatment Market," 2022.
[2] ViiV Healthcare, "Patent Status and Market Launches," 2023.
[3] IQVIA, "Pharmaceutical Market Reports," 2022.