Number: RL31066
Title: HIV/AIDS, Patents and the TRIPS Agreement: Issues and Options
Authors: John R. Thomas, Resources, Science, and Industry Division 
Abstract: This report considers the current dispute between the research-based pharmaceutical industry, on the one hand, and certain foreign governments, patient advocacy groups and generic manufacturers, on the other, regarding patented HIV/AIDS pharmaceuticals. After introducing fundamentals of patent protection for pharmaceuticals domestically and abroad, this report discusses medications used in treating HIV/AIDS. It then describes contemporary international controversies regarding patents on HIV/AIDS drugs and the potential consequences of these disputes for entrepreneurial drug companies. The report closes with a discussion of legislative issues and options.
Pages: 24
Date: Updated July 27, 2001