Reform passes House with pros, cons for pharma

The House Energy and Commerce Committee attached a provision for 12 years of biologic drug exclusivity to broader healthcare reform legislation. That's despite calls from President Obama for seven years of protection and Rep. Henry Waxman's five-year plan. The longer term of exclusivity can also be extended for a variety of reasons, including dosage changes, delivery-method improvements, and so on. Branded drugmakers should be cheered by the protections, though they're already drawing fire from generics makers and some healthcare reform advocates. Report