The Ministry of Health and Social Protection announced on March 25 the publication of Resolution No. 453 of 2026, which declares reasons of public interest to subject certain patents for direct-acting antivirals used in the treatment of hepatitis C to compulsory licensing.
This measure aims to address the need to expand access to essential treatments for hepatitis C and respond effectively to an increase in diagnosed cases in Colombia. The resolution specifically covers patents related to the medications sofosbuvir + velpatasvir and sofosbuvir + velpatasvir + voxilaprevir.
According to the Ministry, this step is intended “to guarantee the expansion of access to these essential treatments and effectively address the increase in diagnosed cases in the country.” The resolution also states that Gilead Sciences Inc. and Gilead Pharmasset L.L.C., as holders of these patents, will be notified about this decision.
The declaration highlights a focus on public health needs by facilitating broader availability of important antiviral medications. Compulsory licensing can allow other manufacturers or suppliers access under specific conditions set by authorities.
For more details, interested parties are directed to consult the accompanying official document released by the Ministry.
