Exclusivity & Patents Updated January 14, 2026

What is Pediatric Exclusivity?

Pediatric exclusivity adds 6 months to existing patents and exclusivity for completing FDA-requested pediatric studies. Learn about eligibility and value.

Definition

Pediatric Exclusivity is an additional 6-month period added to all existing patents and exclusivity for a drug when sponsors complete FDA-requested pediatric studies. It rewards companies for studying drugs in children.

How Pediatric Exclusivity Works

FDA issues a Written Request specifying pediatric studies needed. If sponsors complete the studies and submit data, 6 months is added to all existing patents and exclusivity for that drug.

Key Features

  • Extends existing protection by 6 months
  • Requires completing FDA Written Request
  • Applies to all patents and exclusivity for the drug
  • Studies must be submitted before patent/exclusivity expiry
  • Independent incentive from pediatric drug requirements

Pediatric Exclusivity Value

Drug Revenue6-Month Value
$1 billion/year~$500 million
$5 billion/year~$2.5 billion
$10 billion/year~$5 billion

Why BD Teams Track Pediatric Exclusivity

For business development professionals, pediatric exclusivity has substantial value:

  • Deal Implication: Pending pediatric studies can add significant value if completed before patent expiry
  • Due Diligence Focus: Verify Written Request status and timeline for pediatric study completion
  • Opportunity Signal: Companies may seek partners to fund or conduct required pediatric studies

Frequently Asked Questions

What is pediatric exclusivity?

Pediatric exclusivity is an additional 6 months added to existing patents and exclusivity for completing FDA-requested pediatric studies.

How is pediatric exclusivity earned?

FDA issues a Written Request for pediatric studies; if sponsor completes studies and submits required data, 6 months is added to existing protection.

What is pediatric exclusivity worth?

For blockbuster drugs, 6 additional months of market protection can be worth hundreds of millions to billions of dollars.

Does pediatric exclusivity apply to all drugs?

Only drugs with existing patent or exclusivity coverage can benefit; the 6 months extends whatever protection exists.

How is pediatric exclusivity different from rare pediatric disease PRV?

Pediatric exclusivity extends existing protection; Rare Pediatric Disease designation can earn a transferable Priority Review Voucher.

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