In Re Relafen Antitrust Litigation

MEMORANDUM AND ORDER

YOUNG, Chief Judge.

I. INTRODUCTION

This case presents a consolidated action against Smithkline Beecham Corporation and Glaxosmithkline P.L.C. (collectively “Smithkline”) for various violations of the antitrust laws with respect to its patent for the chemical compound known as nabume-tone, which it sells commercially as “Relafen.” Smithkline moves to dismiss all claims against it as barred by the applicable statute of limitations, and the plaintiffs, pursuant to the doctrine of collateral es-toppel, move to preclude Smithkline from “re-litigating” issues they claim were…