U.S. Supreme Court reviewing AZT patent challenge.

Barr Laboratories, Inc., Pomona, New York, said that it is pleased with what the company believes is a positive development in its challenge of the Burroughs Wellcome Co.'s patents on zidovudine (AZT).

In March 1995, Barr filed a petition asking the Supreme Court to consider its patent challenge, and the Supreme Court asked the U.S. Justice Department to render its opinion on the case.

"This action by the Supreme Court suggests that the Court is giving our case extended consideration," said Bruce L. Downey, Barr's Chairman, President and CEO. "We believe that this can only be a positive development."

The company petitioned the Court to consider whether …