Federal Circuit hears appeal over Acadia's Nuplazid formulation patent
ACAD•The Federal Circuit heard Acadia Pharmaceuticals’ appeal challenging a decision upholding its Nuplazid 34 mg capsule formulation patent. Acadia expects a ruling in the first half of 2027; if upheld, the patent is expected to protect the formulation until February 2038, versus October 2030 if overturned.
1. Patent appeal
The U.S. Federal Circuit heard oral arguments in Acadia Pharmaceuticals’ appeal over patent protection for the Nuplazid 34 mg capsule formulation. The appeal challenges a Delaware federal court’s May 2025 decision upholding U.S. Patent No. 11,452,721. Acadia expects a ruling in the first half of 2027, though the court has no set deadline.
2. Potential protection dates
If upheld, the formulation patent is expected to protect the capsule until February 2038. If overturned, protection is expected through October 2030 under the previously upheld pimavanserin composition-of-matter patent and associated pediatric exclusivity.
