Biotech Industry Braces for Challenge of "Generics" SEATTLE, WA (KPLU) - The local biotech industry is worried Congress soon may allow generic competitors for its specialized medications.

Imagine you're a politician who wants to overhaul the U.S. health care system - you might think, saving money on prescriptions is a good start. Biotech drugs, for diseases such as cancer, can be hugely expensive. Several proposals in Congress, as part of the health-care debate, would allow generic versions of biotech drugs. These are called "bio-similars" and not covered by the law that enables standard generic drugs. Congressman Jay Inslee (D-Bainbridge Island), whose district has a number of biotech companies, wants to allow bio-similars only with strong restrictions. He says protecting intellectual property rights is a key to motivating investment in young companies.

Rep. Inslee supports a measure that would force generic versions to wait at least 12 years after a new drug is launched - and then to jump through the hurdle of clinical trials. It's an approach supported by the drug industry. Biotech companies are highlighting their local economic value as the debate heats up in Congress.

(To hear Keith Seinfeld's full report, click "play" above.) © Copyright 2009, KPLU