Abstract: Gilead Sciences, Inc. has achieved leapfrog development with multiple operating methods such as patent applications and acquisitions, and its patent operating strategy has become the focus of attention in the industry. This article analyzes the annual trends, technical fields, geographical distribution, and patent layout of the patent applications of Gilead’s antiviral drugs, conducts an in-depth interpretation of the patents and technical information of key drugs, such as Emtricitabine and Epclusa. And then, this article summarizes and refines the characteristics of Gilead's patent strategy. The results show that Gilead’s patent operation is characterized by its: continuity to focus on R&D and innovation, and implementation of a global layout strategy for intellectual property protection; guarantee of the freedom to operate (FTO) of technology through the establishment of monopoly patent barriers; the flexible disposal of intellectual property assets to achieve the maximum value of patents. Based on these observations, the research institutions and companies of pharmaceuticals industry in China should master core technologies, and build a composite patent protection network in geographical and technical fields; formulate patent strategies in a variety of ways when core technologies have been patented, such as development or imitation at the right time, and apply for peripheral patents such as derivative structures or new uses, and designing technology circumvention solutions.

Key words: Gilead, Patent Strategy, Antiviral Drug