Patent Battle Threatens Your Go-To Pain Patch Supply
Published Date: 4/14/2026
Notice
Summary
J.A.R. Laboratories is asking the U.S. International Trade Commission to investigate certain over-the-counter lidocaine patches that might be breaking their patent rules. If the investigation finds problems, some patches could be blocked from being sold or imported into the U.S., which could shake up the market and affect prices. This investigation started in April 2026 and could lead to important changes for companies and customers alike.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
Named Companies Could Face Orders
The complaint names specific manufacturers and importers (for example, Perrigo, Hisamitsu, Reckitt Benckiser, Chattem, and others) as respondents. If the investigation finds infringement, those named companies could face limited exclusion orders and cease and desist orders that stop them from importing or selling the accused lidocaine patches in the U.S.
Some Lidocaine Patches Could Be Blocked
An investigation was opened into over-the-counter topical lidocaine patches for possible patent infringement. If the Commission finds infringement it could issue a limited exclusion order or cease and desist orders that block certain patches from being imported or sold in the U.S., which could shake up the market and affect prices.
Respondents Have 20 Days To Respond
The complaint was filed March 10, 2026, supplemented March 23 and March 30, 2026, and the Commission instituted the investigation on April 9, 2026. Named respondents must submit responses within 20 days after service of the complaint and notice, and failing to file a timely response may be treated as a waiver and could lead to findings and orders against them.
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Key Dates
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