Allergan’s Bold Patent Move Could Transform Pharma Landscape

Intellectual property challenges may become far more creative and complex going forward

A technician works in a lab at Allergan's R&D and production site Sept. 27 in Pringy, France. Jean-Pierre Clatot/AFP/Getty Images

Pharmaceutical giant Allergan struck a bold and unusual deal to protect its patents on a lucrative eye drug in September.

If successful, the maneuver could have far-reaching ramifications and disrupt the established pharmaceutical industry order.