Bristol Myers Squibb And Ono Pharmaceutical Sue Amgen (AMGN) To Block Opdivo Biosimilar
Bristol Myers Squibb (BMY) and Ono Pharmaceutical sued Amgen (AMGN) to block its biosimilar version of Opdivo, alleging patent infringement. Opdivo generated $5.9B in U.S. sales last year. Amgen aims to be among the first Opdivo biosimilars, with FDA approval sought.
How this was made

The 30-second read
Why it matters
The case could set precedent for future biosimilar challenges, influencing market expectations for similar drugs.
Market read
Legal action may affect stock prices of BMY and AMGN and signal broader competitive pressures in oncology.
What to watch
Amgen's pending Keytruda biosimilar and broader pipeline could offset any setback from Opdivo litigation.
Background
Patent litigation is a common strategy for pharma firms to protect high‑margin biologics.
Ticker impact
Bristol Myers Squibb filed a lawsuit to block Amgen's Opdivo biosimilar, protecting its $5.9B revenue stream.
Modest downside risk until case outcome; possible rally if court blocks biosimilar.
Legal action could preserve market share, but uncertainty around court ruling creates volatility.
Amgen seeks FDA approval for an Opdivo biosimilar and is sued by BMY and Ono, risking a sales block.
Potential short‑term dip pending litigation outcome; long‑term upside if biosimilar clears.
Court injunction could halt sales, but Amgen's broader pipeline may mitigate impact.
Market effects
Could delay biosimilar entry, affecting oncology drug competition and pricing dynamics.
U.S. biotech and pharma stocks may see heightened volatility.
Highlights ongoing patent battles in the global cancer‑therapy market.
Counterpoint
The lawsuit may be a stalling tactic; Amgen could still launch the biosimilar if court denies injunction.
Key entities
- CompanyBristol Myers Squibb
US‑listed pharma with Opdivo revenue of $5.9B.
- CompanyAmgen
US‑listed biotech developing Opdivo biosimilar.
- CompanyOno Pharmaceutical
Japanese pharma co‑plaintiff.



