Crestor patent challenged by generic companies

Generic manufacturers have challenged the AstraZeneca "314" patent for Crestor (rosuvastatin) and are appealing a decision that upheld the patent in the lower courts. The appeal is based on inequitable conduct. AstraZeneca and its partner Shionogi are seeking to maintain the patent until 2016. Commentators believe the appeal will be unsuccessful. Crestor was worth $5.7 billion to AstraZeneca in 2010.