Study Reveals Increase in Patents for Prescription Drugs Since 1990

<p>The cost of healthcare in the United States remains a significant concern for many Americans, with prescription drug prices often highlighted as a major issue. A study published in JAMA on September 28, 2026, indicates that the exploitation of the US patent system contributes to these high costs.</p><p>The study found that the number of patents on small-molecule drugs has more than tripled since 1990, increasing from an average of 2.1 patents per drug approved in 1990 to 6.9 for those approved in 2019. This growth is primarily attributed to an increase in "nonprimary" patents, which are not related to a drug's active ingredient but rather cover minor modifications to non-active ingredients, usage updates, or the design of delivery devices like auto-injectors.</p><p>These additional patents can create a "patent thicket," which can delay the introduction of affordable generic alternatives, thereby maintaining higher drug prices without significant clinical advancements.</p>