Abbott's patent application for a heat-stable version of Kaletra (lopinavir/ritonavir) was rejected by Indian authorities after being opposed by companies, including Cipla, Matrix Laboratories and Okasa.
In its December 30 order, the Mumbai patent office rejected the application, noting that the HIV drug lacked novelty and the steps involved in making Kaletra "do not constitute an invention."
Abbott spokesman Scott Stoffel remarked that the heat-stable version of Kaletra "solves specific convenience limitations of Abbott's earlier version, which required refrigeration and had to be taken with food."
He added that the company "is reviewing this decision and determining its next steps," which may include challenging the verdict in the Intellectual Property Appellate Board.
The drug, which is also known as Aluvia, generated global revenue of nearly $1.4 billion in 2009.