Phathom Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ:PHAT) announced on June 6, 2025, that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved the company's Citizen Petition filed on December 11, 2024, and communicated the Agency's intention to correct the Orange Book to recognize the proper 10 years of New Chemical Entity exclusivity for VOQUEZNA® (vonoprazan) tablets, extending through May 3, 2032.
Regulatory Milestone Strengthens Market Position
The FDA's decision to grant full New Chemical Entity exclusivity represents a significant regulatory milestone for Phathom's flagship product. This 10-year exclusivity period provides substantial market protection against generic competition, allowing the company to maintain its competitive advantage in the gastrointestinal therapeutics market through 2032.
VOQUEZNA's Clinical Applications
VOQUEZNA (vonoprazan) is a first-in-class potassium-competitive acid blocker (PCAB) currently marketed in the United States for multiple gastrointestinal indications. The drug is approved for the relief of heartburn associated with Non-Erosive GERD in adults, the healing and maintenance of healing of Erosive GERD in adults and relief of associated heartburn.
Additionally, Phathom markets combination therapies including VOQUEZNA® TRIPLE PAK® (vonoprazan tablets, amoxicillin capsules, clarithromycin tablets) and VOQUEZNA® DUAL PAK® (vonoprazan tablets, amoxicillin capsules) for the treatment of H. pylori infection in adults.
Company Focus and Strategic Position
Phathom Pharmaceuticals is a biopharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of novel treatments for gastrointestinal diseases. The company has in-licensed the exclusive rights to vonoprazan, positioning itself as a specialized player in the gastroenterology therapeutic space.
Commercial Considerations and Risk Factors
The company acknowledges several factors that could impact the successful commercialization of VOQUEZNA products, including coverage and reimbursement levels from governmental authorities and health insurers, as well as market acceptance by healthcare providers. Phathom also faces potential risks related to unexpected adverse side effects or inadequate efficacy of vonoprazan that may limit development, regulatory approval, or commercialization.
The company's ability to maintain intellectual property protection, including patent term extensions and non-patent regulatory exclusivity for vonoprazan, remains crucial for its competitive position. Phathom may face competition earlier than expected if it loses or fails to obtain patent protection or non-patent regulatory exclusivity for VOQUEZNA tablets.
