The Hague’s decision effectively halts the distribution of Keytruda SC in Belgium, Denmark, France, Ireland, Italy, Sweden, Switzerland, and the Netherlands. This development builds on a preliminary injunction granted last year that blocked the drug’s launch in Germany. Beyond the European theater, the dispute has moved to the United States, where Halozyme is pursuing further patent infringement litigation in New Jersey federal courts.

Merck maintains its innocence, characterizing the patent in question as globally invalid and the infringement claims as baseless. A company spokesperson confirmed they are currently evaluating legal options, asserting confidence that the firm will ultimately prevail. Despite the mounting regional restrictions, patients continue to have access to the intravenous formulation of the medication, which remains unaffected by the current court order.