Biotech Terms - Science Terms - Biotechnology Industry Terms

Biotech Terms - Science Terms - Biotechnology Industry Terms: "5. How Long Does it Take to Get a Patent? Getting a patent is the best way to protect your IP. The length of time from filing at patent to getting approval varies depending on where the application is filed. In the US, the process generally takes about 2 1/2 years. The processing time depends on whether or not the examiner rejects the claim based on prior patents, and whether the new patent application has to undergo amendments. Of course, the overall time required to get a patent also depends upon the time required for research and development, prior to filing, and, in the case of new drugs, clinical studies, all of which can take 10+ years."