Last Updated: September 24, 2026

IMBRUVICA Drug Patent Profile


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When do Imbruvica patents expire, and when can generic versions of Imbruvica launch?

Imbruvica is a drug marketed by Pharmacyclics Llc and is included in three NDAs. There are fifty-seven patents protecting this drug and four Paragraph IV challenges.

The generic ingredient in IMBRUVICA is ibrutinib. There is one drug master file entry for this compound. One supplier is listed for this compound. Additional details are available on the ibrutinib profile page.

DrugPatentWatch® Generic Entry Outlook for Imbruvica

Imbruvica was eligible for patent challenges on November 13, 2017.

By analyzing the patents and regulatory protections it appears that the earliest date for generic entry will be April 30, 2034. This may change due to patent challenges or generic licensing.

There have been twenty-one patent litigation cases involving the patents protecting this drug, indicating strong interest in generic launch. Recent data indicate that 63% of patent challenges are decided in favor of the generic patent challenger and that 54% of successful patent challengers promptly launch generic drugs.

There are six tentative approvals for the generic drug (ibrutinib), which indicates the potential for near-term generic launch.

Indicators of Generic Entry

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DrugPatentWatch® Estimated Loss of Exclusivity (LOE) Date for IMBRUVICA
Generic Entry Dates for IMBRUVICA*:
Constraining patent/regulatory exclusivity:
NDA:
Dosage:

CAPSULE;ORAL

Generic Entry Dates for IMBRUVICA*:
Constraining patent/regulatory exclusivity:
NDA:
Dosage:

SUSPENSION;ORAL

Generic Entry Dates for IMBRUVICA*:
Constraining patent/regulatory exclusivity:
NDA:
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.

Recent Clinical Trials for IMBRUVICA

Identify potential brand extensions & 505(b)(2) entrants

SponsorPhase
Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, AustraliaPhase 2
Oncternal Therapeutics, IncPhase 3
Academic and Community Cancer Research UnitedPhase 2

See all IMBRUVICA clinical trials

Pharmacology for IMBRUVICA
Drug ClassKinase Inhibitor
Mechanism of ActionProtein Kinase Inhibitors
Paragraph IV (Patent) Challenges for IMBRUVICA
Tradename Dosage Ingredient Strength NDA ANDAs Submitted Submissiondate
IMBRUVICA Capsules ibrutinib 70 mg 205552 1 2018-12-14
IMBRUVICA Tablets ibrutinib 280 mg and 420 mg 210563 1 2018-12-14
IMBRUVICA Tablets ibrutinib 560 mg 210563 1 2018-11-05
IMBRUVICA Capsules ibrutinib 140 mg 205552 8 2017-11-13

US Patents and Regulatory Information for IMBRUVICA

IMBRUVICA is protected by eighty-eight US patents and five FDA Regulatory Exclusivities.

Based on analysis by DrugPatentWatch, the earliest date for a generic version of IMBRUVICA is ⤷  Start Trial.

This potential generic entry date is based on patent ⤷  Start Trial.

Generics may enter earlier, or later, based on new patent filings, patent extensions, patent invalidation, early generic licensing, generic entry preferences, and other factors.

Applicant Tradename Generic Name Dosage NDA Approval Date TE Type RLD RS Patent No. Patent Expiration Product Substance Delist Req. Exclusivity Expiration
Pharmacyclics Llc IMBRUVICA ibrutinib CAPSULE;ORAL 205552-001 Nov 13, 2013 RX Yes Yes ⤷  Start Trial ⤷  Start Trial Y ⤷  Start Trial
Pharmacyclics Llc IMBRUVICA ibrutinib TABLET;ORAL 210563-004 Feb 16, 2018 DISCN Yes No ⤷  Start Trial ⤷  Start Trial Y ⤷  Start Trial
Pharmacyclics Llc IMBRUVICA ibrutinib TABLET;ORAL 210563-003 Feb 16, 2018 RX Yes Yes ⤷  Start Trial ⤷  Start Trial Y ⤷  Start Trial
Pharmacyclics Llc IMBRUVICA ibrutinib SUSPENSION;ORAL 217003-001 Aug 24, 2022 RX Yes Yes ⤷  Start Trial ⤷  Start Trial ⤷  Start Trial
Pharmacyclics Llc IMBRUVICA ibrutinib TABLET;ORAL 210563-003 Feb 16, 2018 RX Yes Yes ⤷  Start Trial ⤷  Start Trial Y ⤷  Start Trial
>Applicant >Tradename >Generic Name >Dosage >NDA >Approval Date >TE >Type >RLD >RS >Patent No. >Patent Expiration >Product >Substance >Delist Req. >Exclusivity Expiration

EU/EMA Drug Approvals for IMBRUVICA

Company Drugname Inn Product Number / Indication Status Generic Biosimilar Orphan Marketing Authorisation Marketing Refusal
Janssen-Cilag International NV Imbruvica ibrutinib EMEA/H/C/003791IMBRUVICA as a single agent is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory mantle cell lymphoma (MCL).IMBRUVICA as a single agent or in combination with rituximab or obinutuzumab or venetoclax is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with previously untreated chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) (see section 5.1).IMBRUVICA as a single agent or in combination with bendamustine and rituximab (BR) is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with CLL who have received at least one prior therapy.IMBRUVICA as a single agent is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with Waldenström’s macroglobulinaemia (WM) who have received at least one prior therapy, or in first line treatment for patients unsuitable for chemo immunotherapy. IMBRUVICA in combination with rituximab is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with WM. Authorised no no no 2014-10-21
>Company >Drugname >Inn >Product Number / Indication >Status >Generic >Biosimilar >Orphan >Marketing Authorisation >Marketing Refusal

International Patents for IMBRUVICA

When does loss-of-exclusivity occur for IMBRUVICA?

Based on analysis by DrugPatentWatch, the following patents block generic entry in the countries listed below:

Argentina

Patent: 2844
Patent: FORMAS CRISTALINAS DE UN INHIBIDOR DE TIROSINA QUINASA DE BRUTON
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 3832
Patent: FORMULACIONES FARMACÉUTICAS DE UN INHIBIDOR DE TIROSINA QUINASA DE BRUTON
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 8108
Patent: FORMAS CRISTALINAS DE UN INHIBIDOR DE TIROSINA QUINASA DE BRUTON
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Australia

Patent: 13271918
Patent: Crystalline forms of a bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitor
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 16226279
Patent: Pharmaceutical formulations of Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibtor
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 16250445
Patent: Crystalline forms of a Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitor
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 18211201
Patent: Crystalline forms of a Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitor
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 18211216
Patent: Crystalline forms of a Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitor
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 19287282
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 20239751
Patent: Crystalline forms of a Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitor
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 21240244
Patent: Pharmaceutical formulations of Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitor
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 23200435
Patent: Crystalline forms of a Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitor
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 23202671
Patent: Pharmaceutical formulations of Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitor
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 24287122
Patent: Formulations/compositions comprising ibrutinib
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 25205154
Patent: Crystalline forms of a Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitor
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Brazil

Patent: 2014030424
Patent: formas cristalinas de um inibidor de quinase de tirosina de bruton
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 2017018931
Patent: formulações farmacêuticas de um inibidor de tirosina quinase de bruton
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 2020024481
Patent: formulações/composições compreendendo ibrutinib
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Canada

Patent: 75986
Patent: FORMES CRISTALLINES D'UN INHIBITEUR DE TYROSINE KINASE DE BRUTON (CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF A BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 76695
Patent: FORMULATIONS PHARMACEUTIQUES D'INHIBITEUR DE LA TYROSINE KINASE DE BRUTON (PHARMACEUTICAL FORMULATIONS OF A BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 91994
Patent: FORMULATION PHARMACEUTIQUE POUR ADMINISTRATION ORALE COMPRENANT DE L'IBRUTINIB (PHARMACEUTICAL FORMULATION FOR ORAL ADMINISTRATION COMPRISING IBRUTINIB)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 15208
Patent: FORMES CRISTALLINES D'UN INHIBITEUR DE TYROSINE KINASE DE BRUTON (CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF A BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 00146
Patent: FORMULATIONS/COMPOSITIONS COMPRENANT DE L'IBRUTINIB (FORMULATIONS/COMPOSITIONS COMPRISING IBRUTINIB)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 77990
Patent: FORMULATIONS PHARMACEUTIQUES D'INHIBITEUR DE LA TYROSINE KINASE DE BRUTON (PHARMACEUTICAL FORMULATIONS OF A BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 77995
Patent: FORMULATIONS PHARMACEUTIQUES D'INHIBITEUR DE LA TYROSINE KINASE DE BRUTON (PHARMACEUTICAL FORMULATIONS OF A BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 18491
Patent: FORMES CRISTALLINES D'UN INHIBITEUR DE TYROSINE KINASE DE BRUTON (CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF A BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Chile

Patent: 14003306
Patent: Preparacion farmaceutica oral que comprende un inhibidor de tirosina quinasa de bruton y forma cristalina a del mismo.
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 17000371
Patent: Formas cristalinas de un inhibidor de tirosina quinasa de bruton
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 17003496
Patent: Formas cristalinas de un inhibidor de tirosina quinasa de bruton.
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

China

Patent: 4736178
Patent: Crystalline forms of a Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitor
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 7427498
Patent: 布鲁顿氏酪氨酸激酶抑制剂的医药配方 (PHARMACEUTICAL FORMULATIONS OF BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBTOR)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 0354132
Patent: 布鲁顿酪氨酸激酶抑制剂的晶形 (CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF A BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 2292117
Patent: 包含依鲁替尼的配制品/组合物 (FORMULATIONS/COMPOSITIONS COMPRISING IBRUTINIB)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 8512397
Patent: 包含依鲁替尼的配制品/组合物 (Formulations/compositions comprising ibrutinib)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Colombia

Patent: 40408
Patent: Formas cristalinas de un inhibidor de tirosina quinasa de bruton
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Costa Rica

Patent: 140558
Patent: FORMAS CRISTALINAS DE UN INHIBIDOR DE TIROSINA QUINASA DE BRUTON
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Croatia

Patent: 0260603
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Denmark

Patent: 54859
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Dominican Republic

Patent: 014000274
Patent: FORMAS CRISTALINAS DE UN INHIBIDOR DE TIROSINA QUINASA DE BRUTON
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 017000152
Patent: FORMAS CRISTALINAS DE UN INHIBIDOR DE TIROSINA QUINASA DE BRUTON
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 022000096
Patent: FORMAS CRISTALINAS DE UN INHIBIDOR DE TIROSINA QUINASA DE BRUTON
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Ecuador

Patent: 14033163
Patent: FORMAS CRISTALINAS DE UN INHIBIDOR DE TIROSINA QUINASA DE BRUTON
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 19015794
Patent: FORMAS CRISTALINAS DE UN INHIBIDOR DE TIROSINA QUINASA DE BRUTON
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Eurasian Patent Organization

Patent: 1492082
Patent: КРИСТАЛЛИЧЕСКИЕ ФОРМЫ ИНГИБИТОРА ТИРОЗИНКИНАЗЫ БРУТОНА
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 2190045
Patent: СОСТАВЫ/КОМПОЗИЦИИ, СОДЕРЖАЩИЕ ИБРУТИНИБ
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

European Patent Office

Patent: 54859
Patent: FORMES CRISTALLINES D'UN INHIBITEUR DE TYROSINE KINASE DE BRUTON (CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF A BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 65084
Patent: FORMULATIONS PHARMACEUTIQUES D'INHIBITEUR DE LA TYROSINE KINASE DE BRUTON (PHARMACEUTICAL FORMULATIONS OF BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBTOR)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 06824
Patent: FORMULATIONS/COMPOSITIONS COMPRENANT DE L'IBRUTINIB (FORMULATIONS/COMPOSITIONS COMPRISING IBRUTINIB)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 29054
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Finland

Patent: 54859
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Guatemala

Patent: 1400281
Patent: FORMAS CRISTALINAS DE UN INHIBIDOR DE TIROSINA QUINASA DE BRUTON
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Hong Kong

Patent: 08803
Patent: 布魯頓酪氨酸激酶抑制劑的晶形 (CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF A BRUTONS TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 49015
Patent: 布魯頓氏酪氨酸激酶抑制劑的醫藥配方 (PHARMACEUTICAL FORMULATIONS OF BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBTOR)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Israel

Patent: 5894
Patent: צורות גבישיות של מעכב ברוטון טירוסין קינאז (Crystalline forms of a bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitor)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 3995
Patent: פורמולציות רוקחיות של מעכב ברוטון טירוסין קינאז (Pharmaceutical formulations of bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitor)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 2367
Patent: צורות גבישיות של מעכב ברוטון טירוסין קינאז (Crystalline forms of a bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitor)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 3284
Patent: פורמולציות רוקחיות של מעכב ברוטון טירוסין קינאז (Pharmaceutical formulations of bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitor)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 5394
Patent: צורות גבישיות של מעכב ברוטון טירוסין קינאז (Crystalline forms of a bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitor)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Japan

Patent: 36071
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 37086
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 49076
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 95078
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 53261
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 15518885
Patent: ブルトン型チロシンキナーゼ阻害剤の結晶形態
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 18012710
Patent: ブルトン型チロシンキナーゼ阻害剤の結晶形態 (CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF A BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 18048182
Patent: ブルトン型チロシンキナーゼ阻害剤の結晶形態 (CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 18507200
Patent: ブルトン型チロシンキナーゼ阻害剤の薬学的製剤
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 19203008
Patent: ブルトン型チロシンキナーゼ阻害剤の結晶形態 (CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 20015744
Patent: ブルトン型チロシンキナーゼ阻害剤の結晶形態 (CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF BRUTON TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 21183617
Patent: ブルトン型チロシンキナーゼ阻害剤の結晶形態 (CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 21193095
Patent: ブルトン型チロシンキナーゼ阻害剤の結晶形態 (CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF BRUTON TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 21527097
Patent: イブルチニブを含む配合物/組成物
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 22141701
Patent: ブルトン型チロシンキナーゼ阻害剤の薬学的製剤
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 23162162
Patent: ブルトン型チロシンキナーゼ阻害剤の結晶形態 (CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF BRUTON TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 24023262
Patent: イブルチニブを含む配合物/組成物 (FORMULATIONS/COMPOSITIONS COMPRISING IBRUTINIB)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 25176017
Patent: ブルトン型チロシンキナーゼ阻害剤の結晶形態
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 25186225
Patent: ブルトン型チロシンキナーゼ阻害剤の結晶形態
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Jordan

Patent: 54
Patent: أشكال كريستالين لمثبط أنزيم كيناز تيروسين بروتون (CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF A BRUTON’S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 0200222
Patent: أشكال كريستالين لمثبط أنزيم كيناز تيروسين بروتون (CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF A BRUTON’S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Lithuania

Patent: 54859
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Malaysia

Patent: 7999
Patent: CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF A BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 4911
Patent: CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF A BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Mexico

Patent: 8290
Patent: FORMAS CRISTALINAS DE UN INHIBIDOR DE TIROSINA QUINASA DE BRUTON. (CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF A BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR.)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 7669
Patent: FORMAS CRISTALINAS DE UN INHIBIDOR DE TIROSINA QUINASA DE BRUTON. (CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF A BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 14014848
Patent: FORMAS CRISTALINAS DE UN INHIBIDOR DE TIROSINA QUINASA DE BRUTON. (CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF A BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR.)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 17011270
Patent: COMPOSICIONES FARMACEUTICAS DE UN INHIBIDOR DE TIROSINA CINASA DE BRUTON. (PHARMACEUTICAL FORMULATIONS OF BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBTOR.)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 20013684
Patent: FORMULACIONES/COMPOSICIONES QUE COMPRENDEN IBRUTINIB. (FORMULATIONS/COMPOSITIONS COMPRISING IBRUTINIB.)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 21012478
Patent: FORMAS CRISTALINAS DE UN INHIBIDOR DE TIROSINA QUINASA DE BRUTON. (CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF A BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR.)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 21015368
Patent: COMPOSICIONES FARMACEUTICAS DE UN INHIBIDOR DE TIROSINA CINASA DE BRUTON. (PHARMACEUTICAL FORMULATIONS OF BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBTOR.)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 21015370
Patent: COMPOSICIONES FARMACEUTICAS DE UN INHIBIDOR DE TIROSINA CINASA DE BRUTON. (PHARMACEUTICAL FORMULATIONS OF BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBTOR.)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 21015405
Patent: COMPOSICIONES FARMACEUTICAS DE UN INHIBIDOR DE TIROSINA CINASA DE BRUTON. (PHARMACEUTICAL FORMULATIONS OF BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBTOR.)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 21015408
Patent: COMPOSICIONES FARMACEUTICAS DE UN INHIBIDOR DE TIROSINA CINASA DE BRUTON. (PHARMACEUTICAL FORMULATIONS OF BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBTOR.)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 25015454
Patent: FORMULACIONES/COMPOSICIONES QUE COMPRENDEN IBRUTINIB (FORMULATIONS/COMPOSITIONS COMPRISING IBRUTINIB)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Morocco

Patent: 711
Patent: Formes cristallines d'un inhibiteur de tyrosine kinase de bruton
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 643
Patent: FORMULATIONS PHARMACEUTIQUES D'INHIBITEUR DE LA TYROSINE KINASE DE BRUTON
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 654
Patent: Formes cristallines d'un inhibiteur de tyrosine kinase de bruton
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 874
Patent: FORMULATIONS/COMPOSITIONS COMPRENANT DE L'IBRUTINIB
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

New Zealand

Patent: 2548
Patent: Crystalline forms of a bruton’s tyrosine kinase inhibitor
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 3828
Patent: Crystalline forms of a bruton’s tyrosine kinase inhibitor
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 1932
Patent: Crystalline forms of a bruton’s tyrosine kinase inhibitor
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 4446
Patent: Pharmaceutical formulations of bruton’s tyrosine kinase inhibtor
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 7725
Patent: Crystalline forms of a bruton’s tyrosine kinase inhibitor
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Peru

Patent: 150174
Patent: FORMAS CRISTALINAS DE UN INHIBIDOR DE TIROSINA QUINASA DE BRUTON
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 190390
Patent: FORMAS CRISTALINAS DE UN INHIBIDOR DE TIROSINA QUINASA DE BRUTON
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 241581
Patent: FORMAS CRISTALINAS DE UN INHIBIDOR DE TIROSINA QUINASA DE BRUTON
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Philippines

Patent: 014502681
Patent: CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF A BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 020500028
Patent: CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF A BRUTON`S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 021552282
Patent: CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF A BRUTON`S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Poland

Patent: 54859
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Portugal

Patent: 54859
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Russian Federation

Patent: 17133990
Patent: ФАРМАЦЕВТИЧЕСКИЕ ЛЕКАРСТВЕННЫЕ ФОРМЫ ИНГИБИТОРА ТИРОЗИНКИНАЗЫ БРУТОНА
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Singapore

Patent: 202101389T
Patent: CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF A BRUTON’S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 202102078V
Patent: PHARMACEUTICAL FORMULATIONS OF A BRUTON’S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 201408067Y
Patent: CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF A BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 201707122Q
Patent: PHARMACEUTICAL FORMULATIONS OF BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBTOR
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 202012165W
Patent: FORMULATIONS/COMPOSITIONS COMPRISING IBRUTINIB
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Slovenia

Patent: 54859
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

South Africa

Patent: 1907661
Patent: PHARMACEUTICAL FORMULATIONS OF A BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 2105174
Patent: CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF A BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 2105175
Patent: CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF A BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 2303227
Patent: CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF A BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 2502152
Patent: CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF A BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

South Korea

Patent: 2844084
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 150015021
Patent: CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF A BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 170091785
Patent: 브루톤 타이로신 키나아제 저해제의 결정 형태 (CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF A BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 170122220
Patent: 브루톤 타이로신 키나제 저해제의 약제학적 제제
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 190040370
Patent: 브루톤 타이로신 키나아제 저해제의 결정 형태 (CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF A BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 200017549
Patent: 브루톤 타이로신 키나아제 저해제의 결정 형태 (CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF A BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 210021348
Patent: 이브루티닙을 포함하는 제형/조성물
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 210033067
Patent: 브루톤 타이로신 키나아제 저해제의 결정 형태 (CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF A BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 220093389
Patent: 브루톤 타이로신 키나아제 저해제의 결정 형태 (CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF A BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 230170108
Patent: 브루톤 타이로신 키나아제 저해제의 결정 형태 (CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF A BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 250125432
Patent: 이브루티닙을 포함하는 제형/조성물 (/Formulations/compositions comprising ibrutinib)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 250151610
Patent: 브루톤 타이로신 키나아제 저해제의 결정 형태 (CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF A BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Spain

Patent: 69541
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Taiwan

Patent: 1402122
Patent: Crystalline forms of a Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitor
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 1636023
Patent: Pharmaceutical formulations of a BRUTON'S tyrosine kinase inhibitor
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 1811334
Patent: Crystalline forms of a bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitor
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 1902483
Patent: Pharmaceutical formulations of a BRUTON'S tyrosine kinase inhibitor
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 1906612
Patent: Crystalline forms of a Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitor
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 2211924
Patent: Pharmaceutical formulations of a BRUTON'S tyrosine kinase inhibitor
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 2315634
Patent: Pharmaceutical formulations of a BRUTON'S tyrosine kinase inhibitor
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 32912
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 53041
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 62963
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 62964
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 33027
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 10588
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Tunisia

Patent: 14000492
Patent: CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF A BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Ukraine

Patent: 4421
Patent: КРИСТАЛІЧНА ФОРМА ІНГІБІТОРУ ТИРОЗИНКІНАЗИ БРУТОНА (CRYSTALLINE FORMS OF A BRUTON'S TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR)
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 6959
Patent: ФАРМАЦЕВТИЧНА КОМПОЗИЦІЯ, ЩО МІСТИТЬ ІНГІБІТОР ТИРОЗИНКІНАЗИ БРУТОНА
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Uruguay

Patent: 848
Patent: FORMAS CRISTALINAS DE UN INHIBIDOR DE TIROSINA QUINASA DE BRUTON
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Patent: 740
Patent: FORMAS CRISTALINAS DE UN INHIBIDOR DE TIROSINA QUINASA DE BRUTON
Estimated Expiration: ⤷  Start Trial

Generics may enter earlier, or later, based on new patent filings, patent extensions, patent invalidation, early generic licensing, generic entry preferences, and other factors.

See the table below for additional patents covering IMBRUVICA around the world.

Country Patent Number Title Estimated Expiration
Australia 2011261185 ⤷  Start Trial
Australia 2015275321 ⤷  Start Trial
Australia 2018204179 ⤷  Start Trial
Australia 2020202752 ⤷  Start Trial
Australia 2022201741 ⤷  Start Trial
>Country >Patent Number >Title >Estimated Expiration

Supplementary Protection Certificates for IMBRUVICA

Patent Number Supplementary Protection Certificate SPC Country SPC Expiration SPC Description
2201840 C300728 Netherlands ⤷  Start Trial PRODUCT NAME: IBRUTINIB OF EEN FARMACEUTISCH AANVAARDBAAR ZOUT ERVAN; REGISTRATION NO/DATE: EU/1/14/945 20141021
2201840 CA 2015 00021 Denmark ⤷  Start Trial PRODUCT NAME: IBRUTINIB ELLER ET FARMACEUTISK ACCEPTABELT SALT DERAF; REG. NO/DATE: EU/1/14/945 20141021
2201840 PA2015017 Lithuania ⤷  Start Trial PRODUCT NAME: IBRUTINIBUM; REGISTRATION NO/DATE: EU/1/14/945 20141021
2201840 C20150014 00145 Estonia ⤷  Start Trial PRODUCT NAME: IBRUTINIIB;REG NO/DATE: EU/1/14/945 23.10.2014
2201840 15C0029 France ⤷  Start Trial PRODUCT NAME: IBRUTINIB OU UN SEL PHARMACEUTIQUEMENT ACCEPTABLE DE CELUI-CI; REGISTRATION NO/DATE: EU/1/14/945 20141023
>Patent Number >Supplementary Protection Certificate >SPC Country >SPC Expiration >SPC Description

IMBRUVICA Market Dynamics, Financial Trajectory, Patent Exclusivity, and Competitive Outlook

Last updated: September 17, 2026

IMBRUVICA, the ibrutinib-based BTK inhibitor marketed by AbbVie and Johnson & Johnson, remains a major hematology product despite declining sales. Its commercial peak reflected broad use across chronic lymphocytic leukemia, small lymphocytic lymphoma, mantle cell lymphoma, Waldenström macroglobulinemia, and marginal zone lymphoma. Revenue pressure now comes from second-generation BTK inhibitors, indication withdrawals, treatment sequencing changes, and future generic exposure.

AbbVie’s reported IMBRUVICA revenue declined from approximately $4.9 billion in 2022 to about $4.4 billion in 2023. Johnson & Johnson reported approximately $1.1 billion in 2023 sales outside AbbVie’s principal commercial territory. Combined global sales were therefore approximately $5.5 billion in 2023, down from roughly $6.1 billion in 2022 based on company disclosures. [1,2]

What is IMBRUVICA and which company owns it?

IMBRUVICA is the brand name for ibrutinib, an orally administered covalent Bruton’s tyrosine kinase inhibitor. It binds irreversibly to BTK and suppresses B-cell receptor signaling.

Item Detail
Active ingredient Ibrutinib
Brand IMBRUVICA
Original developer Pharmacyclics
Current commercial partners AbbVie and Johnson & Johnson
Primary indication areas CLL, SLL, WM, selected B-cell malignancies
Drug class Covalent BTK inhibitor
FDA first approval November 2013
Dosage forms Capsules and tablets
Regulatory type New molecular entity under the 505(b)(1) pathway
Biosimilar exposure None; ibrutinib is a small molecule
Main competitive threats Calquence, Brukinsa, Jaypirca, Venclexta-based regimens

AbbVie acquired Pharmacyclics in 2015 for approximately $21 billion. The acquisition gave AbbVie control of Pharmacyclics’ ibrutinib rights and substantially increased its exposure to hematology revenue. Johnson & Johnson retained commercialization rights through the earlier Pharmacyclics-Janssen collaboration. [3]

How has IMBRUVICA revenue changed over time?

IMBRUVICA moved from rapid launch growth to maturity and decline. The product’s commercial expansion was driven by label additions, movement into earlier lines of therapy, and high-duration treatment in CLL and SLL.

Year AbbVie reported sales Johnson & Johnson reported sales Approximate combined sales
2019 About $4.0 billion About $1.3 billion About $5.3 billion
2020 About $4.1 billion About $1.3 billion About $5.4 billion
2021 About $4.5 billion About $1.4 billion About $5.9 billion
2022 About $4.9 billion About $1.3 billion About $6.2 billion
2023 About $4.4 billion About $1.1 billion About $5.5 billion

Figures are rounded from AbbVie and Johnson & Johnson annual reports and reflect different geographic reporting conventions. [1,2]

Why did IMBRUVICA sales peak?

The product benefited from several commercial factors:

  1. Early approval in high-value B-cell malignancies.
  2. Long treatment duration in CLL and SLL.
  3. Broad physician familiarity with the first major BTK inhibitor.
  4. Limited competition during the initial growth period.
  5. Expansion into both treatment-naive and relapsed or refractory populations.

Revenue growth slowed as the market shifted toward time-limited regimens, combination therapy, and second-generation BTK inhibitors with more favorable cardiac safety profiles.

Why are IMBRUVICA sales declining?

The leading factors are competitive substitution and loss of clinical positioning.

Calquence, marketed by AstraZeneca, and Brukinsa, marketed by BeiGene, increasingly compete for CLL and other B-cell malignancies. Both products are positioned as more selective BTK inhibitors, with clinical and commercial messaging focused on lower rates of atrial fibrillation and other cardiovascular toxicities compared with first-generation ibrutinib.

Venclexta-based fixed-duration regimens also reduce the need for indefinite BTK treatment in some patients. Jaypirca, Eli Lilly’s pirtobrutinib, targets patients whose disease has progressed after covalent BTK inhibitor therapy and can capture later-line patients previously associated with IMBRUVICA.

What is the FDA regulatory status of IMBRUVICA?

IMBRUVICA retains FDA-approved uses in several hematologic malignancies, but its indication profile is narrower than during its peak.

The FDA approved ibrutinib in 2013 for mantle cell lymphoma after at least one prior therapy. The FDA later granted approvals in CLL, SLL, Waldenström macroglobulinemia, and marginal zone lymphoma. [4]

In 2023, AbbVie and Janssen voluntarily withdrew the U.S. mantle cell lymphoma indication after a required confirmatory study failed to establish the expected benefit-risk profile in the relevant treatment setting. The companies also withdrew the marginal zone lymphoma indication in the United States. [5]

The remaining commercial base is concentrated in:

  • CLL
  • SLL
  • Waldenström macroglobulinemia
  • Certain chronic graft-versus-host disease uses in adults and pediatric patients aged one year and older after failure of one or more systemic therapies

CLL and SLL remain the principal revenue drivers. The label changes reduce addressable volume and weaken the product’s ability to offset competitor share losses through new indications.

What patents protect IMBRUVICA?

IMBRUVICA’s patent estate includes composition-of-matter, crystalline form, formulation, and method-of-use protection. The U.S. Orange Book has listed multiple patents associated with ibrutinib products, including U.S. Patent No. 8,008,309 and later patents covering drug forms and uses. [6]

Patent category Commercial purpose Risk profile
Composition of matter Protects ibrutinib chemical entity Strongest historical protection
Solid-state or crystalline form Protects specific active pharmaceutical ingredient form Can delay generic launch if valid and infringed
Formulation Protects tablet or capsule composition and delivery Usually narrower than composition protection
Method of use Protects treatment of specific malignancies or patient populations Vulnerable to label carve-outs and use-based litigation
Manufacturing process Protects selected preparation routes or intermediates Can create technical barriers but may not block all generic manufacture

Core compound protection is generally associated with expiration in the second half of the 2020s, while later patents may extend protection for selected formulations, forms, or uses into the early 2030s. Patent-term adjustment, pediatric exclusivity, terminal disclaimers, and the specific Orange Book listing determine the practical launch date for each generic applicant.

When does IMBRUVICA lose exclusivity?

The commercial exclusivity analysis has several dates rather than one universal expiration date.

Exclusivity category Expected significance
FDA orphan exclusivity Relevant only to the indication and approval period covered by the orphan designation
New chemical entity exclusivity Expired after the initial approval period
Core patent protection Primarily late 2020s
Later formulation and use patents May extend selected protection into the early 2030s
Pediatric exclusivity Can add six months to qualifying patent or regulatory exclusivity periods
Generic entry Depends on ANDA approvals, Paragraph IV litigation, settlements, and patent outcomes

The first meaningful U.S. generic-entry risk is likely to focus on the surviving core and formulation claims rather than on biosimilar competition. Any launch before the final listed-patent date would require a successful Paragraph IV challenge, a settlement allowing an earlier launch, or a court finding that the asserted patents are invalid, unenforceable, or not infringed.

What is the Orange Book status of IMBRUVICA?

IMBRUVICA is an Orange Book-listed small-molecule drug. The Orange Book identifies patents that the NDA holder represents as covering the drug substance, drug product, or approved method of use. Generic applicants must address relevant listed patents through Paragraph I, II, III, or IV certifications.

A Paragraph IV certification alleges that a listed patent is invalid, unenforceable, or not infringed. If the NDA holder files a patent-infringement action within the statutory period, FDA approval of the ANDA may be stayed for up to 30 months, subject to court and regulatory developments. [7]

The commercial importance of Orange Book patents is highest for:

  • ibrutinib active-ingredient protection;
  • tablet and capsule formulations;
  • dosage regimens;
  • treatment methods that remain on the FDA label;
  • patents that can support a 30-month stay after a Paragraph IV filing.

Method-of-use patents can be less effective than compound patents because generic applicants may use a “skinny label” that omits a patented indication. That approach does not eliminate all infringement risk, particularly where the remaining label and prescribing practices materially overlap with a patented use.

Which companies are challenging IMBRUVICA?

The primary competitive challengers are not biosimilar manufacturers. They are branded hematology companies with alternative BTK or B-cell treatment products.

Competitor Company Mechanism or class Commercial position
Calquence AstraZeneca Second-generation covalent BTK inhibitor Direct CLL competitor with safety differentiation
Brukinsa BeiGene Second-generation covalent BTK inhibitor Rapid share gains in CLL and other B-cell malignancies
Jaypirca Eli Lilly Noncovalent BTK inhibitor Later-line treatment after covalent BTK exposure
Venclexta AbbVie and Roche BCL-2 inhibitor Competes through fixed-duration and combination regimens
Rituxan and biosimilars Roche and multiple manufacturers Anti-CD20 antibody Used in combination and alternative treatment regimens

Brukinsa and Calquence present the largest direct substitution risk in earlier-line BTK treatment. Jaypirca is more complementary and captures patients who progress after IMBRUVICA, Calquence, or Brukinsa.

How strong is the IMBRUVICA patent estate?

The estate is commercially strong in the near term but weaker than it was during the product’s growth phase.

Its strengths include:

  • a historically important composition-of-matter position;
  • multiple dosage-form and formulation patents;
  • a large installed patient base;
  • substantial clinical data supporting continued use;
  • switching friction in patients who are stable on therapy;
  • regulatory and manufacturing experience concentrated among a small number of potential entrants.

Its weaknesses include:

  • increasing competition from newer BTK inhibitors;
  • narrowing U.S. indications;
  • likely generic attention as core patents approach expiration;
  • potential label carve-outs for method-of-use claims;
  • declining treatment duration as fixed-duration regimens expand;
  • cardiovascular safety concerns associated with first-generation BTK inhibition.

Patent protection can delay generic erosion, but it cannot fully protect market share from branded therapeutic substitution. IMBRUVICA’s most immediate commercial threat is therefore product-level competition, not generic entry.

What patent litigation and Paragraph IV risks affect IMBRUVICA?

The principal litigation risk is expected to arise when ANDA applicants challenge Orange Book-listed patents covering ibrutinib and its approved formulations. The timing and impact depend on several factors:

  1. The number of ANDA filers.
  2. Whether the first filer receives 180-day generic exclusivity.
  3. The patents selected for Paragraph IV challenges.
  4. Whether AbbVie or Janssen brings infringement actions.
  5. Whether courts uphold the asserted claims.
  6. Whether the parties settle and establish an authorized or licensed launch date.

An authorized generic could materially change the erosion curve. AbbVie or Janssen could use an authorized generic, licensing agreement, or settlement to capture part of the post-entry market while controlling the timing of broader generic competition.

No biosimilar litigation framework applies because ibrutinib is a chemically synthesized small molecule rather than a biologic. Generic applicants will proceed through ANDAs, not abbreviated biologics license applications.

What generic launch scenarios exist for IMBRUVICA?

Scenario 1: Delayed entry after core patent expiry

A court upholds key patents or no early settlement occurs. Generic launch begins after the last enforceable core patent or listed formulation patent expires. Price erosion is gradual at first but accelerates as multiple manufacturers enter.

Scenario 2: Settlement-based early launch

AbbVie, Janssen, and generic applicants agree to a licensed entry date before all listed patents expire. The settlement may include an authorized generic or restrictions on launch timing and dosage forms.

Scenario 3: Successful Paragraph IV challenge

A court invalidates or finds noninfringement of the patents asserted against a first filer. Entry can occur substantially earlier than the nominal expiration date and may produce rapid price compression.

Scenario 4: Limited skinny-label entry

Generic manufacturers omit patented uses while launching for nonpatented indications. This can create regulatory entry without immediate full substitution across all approved uses.

How does IMBRUVICA compare with Calquence and Brukinsa?

Factor IMBRUVICA Calquence Brukinsa
Generation First-generation covalent BTK inhibitor Second-generation covalent BTK inhibitor Second-generation covalent BTK inhibitor
Market entry Earliest broad commercial launch Later entrant Later entrant
Main strength Extensive clinical history and physician familiarity Safety and selectivity positioning Efficacy, selectivity, and aggressive commercial expansion
Main weakness Cardiovascular toxicity and aging patent estate Competitive pressure and dosing considerations Limited historical exposure relative to IMBRUVICA
Generic risk Late-2020s and later Later than IMBRUVICA Later than IMBRUVICA
Share outlook Declining Growth or stabilization Growth potential

IMBRUVICA has the largest cumulative installed base but no longer has the same competitive insulation. The product’s remaining value depends on durable use in patients who respond well, physician comfort with its clinical record, and the pace at which newer agents replace it at treatment initiation.

What is IMBRUVICA’s revenue exposure for AbbVie and Johnson & Johnson?

IMBRUVICA is more material to AbbVie’s hematology portfolio than to Johnson & Johnson’s overall pharmaceutical business. For AbbVie, the product remains a multibillion-dollar contributor but is increasingly offset by growth from Skyrizi, Rinvoq, and newer immunology products.

For Johnson & Johnson, IMBRUVICA represents a smaller share of pharmaceutical revenue. The company’s oncology exposure is diversified across Darzalex, Erleada, Carvykti, and other products. As a result, IMBRUVICA’s decline has less impact on Johnson & Johnson’s consolidated financial profile than on AbbVie’s hematology trajectory.

The key financial issue is not an immediate revenue collapse. It is the transition from a high-margin growth product to a mature cash-generating asset that faces branded substitution before broad generic entry.

What licensing deals affect IMBRUVICA?

Pharmacyclics entered into a collaboration with Janssen before AbbVie acquired Pharmacyclics. The arrangement gave Janssen rights to participate in development and commercialization while Pharmacyclics, later controlled by AbbVie, retained the principal economic relationship for its territories.

The collaboration reduced development and commercialization risk and helped create a global sales infrastructure. It also means that reported revenue is divided between the partners, complicating direct comparisons between AbbVie and Johnson & Johnson annual-report figures.

Future licensing activity could involve:

  • regional generic rights;
  • authorized-generic supply;
  • settlements with ANDA filers;
  • combination development with other hematology agents;
  • post-expiry commercialization arrangements.

What is the outlook for IMBRUVICA through 2030?

IMBRUVICA is likely to follow a declining but still substantial revenue path.

Period Expected market dynamic
2024-2025 Continued branded erosion from Calquence and Brukinsa; stable use in existing CLL and WM patients
2026-2027 Increased Paragraph IV activity and preparation for generic entry
2028-2029 Greater risk of price erosion and share loss if core patents are not sustained
2030 and later Potential multi-generic competition, depending on formulation and method patents

The product’s durable value lies in its established patient base, treatment familiarity, and continued use in selected hematologic malignancies. Its principal risk is that new patients increasingly start on newer BTK inhibitors or fixed-duration regimens, reducing the replenishment of the IMBRUVICA population.

Key Takeaways

  • IMBRUVICA generated approximately $5.5 billion in combined AbbVie and Johnson & Johnson sales in 2023.
  • Revenue peaked before declining under pressure from Calquence, Brukinsa, Jaypirca, and fixed-duration Venclexta-based treatment.
  • U.S. mantle cell lymphoma and marginal zone lymphoma indications were withdrawn in 2023.
  • The remaining core franchise is concentrated in CLL, SLL, Waldenström macroglobulinemia, and chronic graft-versus-host disease.
  • IMBRUVICA has Orange Book-listed patents covering the active ingredient, formulations, and methods of use.
  • Generic risk is expected to intensify in the late 2020s, with later patents potentially affecting specific formulations or indications.
  • No biosimilar pathway applies because ibrutinib is a small molecule.
  • Branded competition is a more immediate threat than generic entry.
  • AbbVie has greater financial exposure to IMBRUVICA than Johnson & Johnson.
  • The product is transitioning from a growth asset to a mature hematology franchise with declining but material cash flow.

FAQs

Is IMBRUVICA still a blockbuster drug?

Yes. IMBRUVICA remains a multibillion-dollar product, although its sales are declining from peak levels and its market share is under pressure from newer BTK inhibitors.

Does IMBRUVICA have biosimilar competition?

No. Ibrutinib is a chemically synthesized small molecule, so future competitors will enter through the ANDA generic-drug pathway rather than the biosimilar pathway.

Which drug is replacing IMBRUVICA?

Calquence and Brukinsa are the principal direct substitutes in covalent BTK inhibitor treatment. Venclexta-based fixed-duration regimens compete in selected CLL settings, while Jaypirca is used mainly after resistance or intolerance to covalent BTK inhibitors.

Can a generic ibrutinib launch before all IMBRUVICA patents expire?

Yes. A generic could launch through a successful Paragraph IV challenge, a patent settlement, a license, or a court ruling that removes the relevant blocking patent. A skinny-label launch could also target nonpatented uses.

What is the largest long-term risk to IMBRUVICA revenue?

The largest long-term risk is cumulative branded substitution. New patients may begin treatment with Calquence, Brukinsa, or fixed-duration regimens before generic ibrutinib arrives, reducing the population available for IMBRUVICA retention and replacement.

References

  1. AbbVie Inc. (2024). 2023 annual report.
  2. Johnson & Johnson. (2024). 2023 annual report.
  3. AbbVie Inc. (2015). AbbVie completes acquisition of Pharmacyclics.
  4. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2024). IMBRUVICA (ibrutinib) prescribing information.
  5. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2023). Withdrawal of approval of indications for IMBRUVICA.
  6. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2024). Approved drug products with therapeutic equivalence evaluations: Orange Book.
  7. U.S. Code, 21 U.S.C. § 355(j). (2024). Abbreviated applications for new drugs.

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