Pacira BioSciences Files EXPAREL® Patent Infringement Lawsuits Against The WhiteOak Group and Qilu Pharmaceutical

Core Viewpoint - Pacira BioSciences, Inc. has filed a patent infringement lawsuit against The WhiteOak Group, Inc. and Qilu Pharmaceutical (Hainan) Co., Ltd. regarding EXPAREL, aiming to protect its intellectual property rights and prevent the sale of generic versions of its product [1][2]. Company Overview - Pacira BioSciences is focused on delivering innovative, non-opioid pain therapies, with three commercial-stage products: EXPAREL, ZILRETTA, and iovera° [5]. - EXPAREL is a long-acting local analgesic approved for various postsurgical pain management applications, significantly reducing opioid consumption by up to 78% [6]. Legal Action - The lawsuit seeks an injunction to halt the manufacture, use, and sale of generic products linked to the ANDAs filed with the FDA, triggering a 30-month stay on final FDA approval [2]. - Pacira's EXPAREL is protected by 21 patents, with expiration dates ranging from January 22, 2041, to July 2, 2044 [3][4]. Patent Strength - The company expresses confidence in the strength of its patent portfolio and plans to vigorously defend its intellectual property rights against the generic manufacturers [4].