Genentech Sues Amgen Over Neupogen

Genentech Inc. said it sued Amgen Inc. in federal court, accusing its rival of infringing on its patents by manufacturing and selling its Neupogen product. Amgen’s Neupogen boosts white blood cell production in patients undergoing chemotherapy. South San Francisco-based Genentech, which is developing a competing drug, is seeking unspecified damages and an injunction ordering Amgen from further patent infringement. Amgen’s sales of Neupogen rose 12% in the last quarter and are cited as a main reason for the continued strength of the Thousand Oaks.-based company’s stock, which rose 75 cents to close at $59.875 on Nasdaq. Genentech shares gained 25 cents to close at $53.875 on NYSE. Amgen executives were not available for comment.