United States Patent 10,821,072 B2: A Comprehensive Analysis
Overview of the Patent
The United States Patent 10,821,072 B2, titled "Needle Assisted Jet Injection Administration of Testosterone Compositions," was granted to Antares Pharma, Inc. on November 3, 2020. This patent revolves around a novel method and apparatus for the administration of testosterone compositions using needle-assisted jet injection technology.
Inventors and Assignees
The inventors listed for this patent include Paul K. Wotton, Kaushik J. Dave, John W. Hayes, Peter L. Sadowski, Hermanus L. Jooste, and Jonathan Jaffe. The assignee is Antares Pharma, Inc., based in Ewing, New Jersey[1].
Field of Classification
The patent falls under several classifications within the International Patent Classification (IPC) system, including A61M 5/425, A61M 5/002, A61M 5/2033, among others. These classifications indicate that the patent pertains to medical devices, specifically those related to injection and infusion techniques[1].
Background and Motivation
The background section of the patent highlights the need for efficient and minimally invasive methods for administering testosterone. Traditional methods, such as intramuscular injections, can be painful and may not provide consistent drug delivery. The inventors aimed to address these issues by developing a needle-assisted jet injection system that can deliver testosterone compositions more effectively and with less discomfort[1].
Detailed Description of the Invention
The patent describes a system that uses a jet injector to administer testosterone compositions through the skin without the need for a traditional needle. The system includes a housing, a reservoir for the testosterone composition, and a nozzle through which the composition is ejected at high pressure. This method ensures rapid and consistent delivery of the drug, reducing the risk of needle stick injuries and improving patient compliance[1].
Claims of the Patent
The patent includes multiple claims that define the scope of the invention. These claims cover various aspects of the system, including the design of the jet injector, the method of administering the testosterone composition, and the specific components of the apparatus. For instance, Claim 1 describes the overall system, while subsequent claims detail specific features such as the nozzle design and the pressure mechanism[1].
Patent Scope and Breadth
The scope of the patent is defined by its claims, which are critical in determining the boundaries of the invention. According to research, narrower claims at publication are associated with a higher probability of grant and a shorter examination process. The claims in this patent are specific enough to ensure clarity and validity but broad enough to cover various embodiments of the invention[3].
Examination Process
The examination process for this patent would have involved a thorough review by the USPTO to ensure that the claims are novel, non-obvious, and meet the requirements for patentability. The process likely included feedback and revisions to narrow the scope of the claims, as is common in patent examinations to ensure clarity and validity[3].
Prior Art and References Cited
The patent references a significant number of prior art documents, including U.S. patents and other publications. These references indicate the state of the art in the field of injection and infusion techniques at the time of the invention. The inventors have built upon existing knowledge to create a novel and innovative solution[1].
Impact on the Industry
The invention described in this patent has the potential to significantly impact the pharmaceutical and medical device industries. By providing a more efficient and patient-friendly method for administering testosterone, this technology can improve treatment outcomes and patient compliance. It also opens up new avenues for the development of similar jet injection systems for other medications.
Competitive Landscape
The patent landscape in the field of medical devices and drug delivery systems is highly competitive. Companies like Antares Pharma are continually innovating to stay ahead. This patent positions Antares Pharma as a leader in the development of advanced drug delivery technologies, potentially giving them a competitive edge in the market.
Future Developments and Applications
The technology described in this patent can be adapted for various other applications beyond testosterone administration. Future developments may include the use of this jet injection system for other medications, such as vaccines or insulin, which could further expand its impact on healthcare.
Key Takeaways
- Innovative Technology: The patent introduces a novel needle-assisted jet injection system for administering testosterone compositions.
- Improved Patient Compliance: The system offers a more comfortable and efficient method of drug delivery.
- Competitive Advantage: The patent positions Antares Pharma as a leader in advanced drug delivery technologies.
- Broad Applications: The technology has potential uses beyond testosterone administration, including other medications and vaccines.
FAQs
Q: What is the main innovation described in US Patent 10,821,072 B2?
A: The main innovation is a needle-assisted jet injection system for administering testosterone compositions.
Q: Who are the inventors of this patent?
A: The inventors include Paul K. Wotton, Kaushik J. Dave, John W. Hayes, Peter L. Sadowski, Hermanus L. Jooste, and Jonathan Jaffe.
Q: What are the potential benefits of this technology?
A: The technology offers improved patient compliance due to reduced discomfort and more efficient drug delivery.
Q: Can this technology be used for other medications?
A: Yes, the jet injection system has potential applications for other medications, such as vaccines or insulin.
Q: How does the examination process affect the scope of patent claims?
A: The examination process typically narrows the scope of patent claims to ensure clarity and validity, which can result in a higher probability of grant and a shorter examination process[3].
Cited Sources:
- United States Patent and Trademark Office. US 10,821,072 B2: Needle Assisted Jet Injection Administration of Testosterone Compositions. November 3, 2020.
- USA.gov. U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Retrieved December 19, 2024.
- SSRN. Patent Claims and Patent Scope. September 29, 2016.
- USPTO. Search for patents. October 18, 2018.
- Unified Patents. US-5569236-A - Fluid Delivery Apparatus. Retrieved December 19, 2024.
