Detailed Analysis of the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 10,918,649
Introduction
United States Patent 10,918,649, titled "System for providing birth control," is a significant development in the field of reproductive health, particularly in the realm of contraceptive methods. This patent, assigned to The Population Council, Inc., describes a vaginal system designed to prevent pregnancy using a combination of segesterone acetate and ethinyl estradiol.
Patent Overview
Inventors and Assignee
The patent was invented by George William Creasy II and Ruth Beverly Merkatz, and it is assigned to The Population Council, Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to improving health and well-being, especially in the areas of reproductive health and population studies[2].
Patent Issuance and Expiration
The patent was issued on December 24, 2020, and it is set to expire on June 21, 2039[2].
Scope of the Patent
Vaginal System Composition
The patented system consists of a vaginal ring that contains segesterone acetate and ethinyl estradiol. These hormones are released over a period of time to prevent pregnancy. The ring is designed for use in thirteen 28-day cycles, making it a convenient and long-term contraceptive solution[1][2].
Compatibility with Male Condoms
An important aspect of this patent is the compatibility of the vaginal system with male condoms made of natural rubber latex, polyisoprene, or polyurethane. This ensures that users can employ additional contraceptive measures when the vaginal ring is removed or expelled from the vagina for specified periods during the product-use cycles[2].
Claims of the Patent
Method of Providing Birth Control
The patent includes claims related to the method of providing birth control using the vaginal system. Key claims include:
- The use of segesterone acetate and ethinyl estradiol in a vaginal ring.
- The configuration of the ring for thirteen 28-day product-use cycles.
- The compatibility of the ring with various types of male condoms.
- The employment of secondary contraception when the vaginal ring is removed or expelled from the vagina for specified amounts of time[1][2].
Manufacturing and Materials
The patent also details the manufacturing process and materials used in the creation of the vaginal ring. This includes the use of elastomers, such as silicone, and the process of curing and shaping the ring to ensure its durability and effectiveness[1].
Patent Landscape
Related Patents
Several related patents have been issued to The Population Council, Inc., all of which pertain to similar vaginal systems for birth control. These include:
- Patent 10,632,066: Issued on April 28, 2020, with similar claims regarding the vaginal system and its compatibility with male condoms.
- Patent 10,765,628: Issued on September 8, 2020, with identical claims to Patent 10,918,649.
- Patent 10,780,047: Issued on September 22, 2020, also with similar claims[2].
Exclusivity and Generic Availability
As of the current date, there is no therapeutically equivalent generic version of the Annovera vaginal ring available in the United States. This means that The Population Council, Inc. retains exclusive marketing rights for this product until the patent expires[2].
Patent Expiration Dates
The patent is set to expire on June 21, 2039, which is consistent with the typical 20-year patent term from the date of filing. This expiration date aligns with other related patents issued to The Population Council, Inc.[2].
Impact on Reproductive Health
Convenience and Efficacy
The patented vaginal system offers a convenient and effective method of birth control. The long-term use cycle and compatibility with male condoms make it a versatile option for individuals seeking reliable contraception.
Accessibility
The availability of this patented system can improve access to birth control, especially in regions where other forms of contraception may be less accessible or less acceptable.
Key Takeaways
- Composition: The vaginal ring contains segesterone acetate and ethinyl estradiol.
- Compatibility: Compatible with male condoms made of natural rubber latex, polyisoprene, or polyurethane.
- Usage Cycle: Designed for thirteen 28-day product-use cycles.
- Patent Expiration: Set to expire on June 21, 2039.
- Exclusivity: No generic version available as of the current date.
- Impact: Offers a convenient and effective method of birth control, improving accessibility to reproductive health solutions.
FAQs
What is the composition of the vaginal ring described in Patent 10,918,649?
The vaginal ring is composed of segesterone acetate and ethinyl estradiol.
Is the vaginal ring compatible with male condoms?
Yes, the vaginal ring is compatible with male condoms made of natural rubber latex, polyisoprene, or polyurethane.
How long is the usage cycle for the vaginal ring?
The vaginal ring is designed for use in thirteen 28-day cycles.
When is the patent set to expire?
The patent is set to expire on June 21, 2039.
Is a generic version of the Annovera vaginal ring available?
No, there is currently no therapeutically equivalent generic version of the Annovera vaginal ring available in the United States.
Sources
- US10918649B2 - System for providing birth control - Google Patents
- Generic Annovera Availability - Drugs.com
- Patent Claims and Patent Scope - Hoover Institution
- Novel organopolysiloxane elastomer and use therefor - Google Patents
- Pharmaceutical drugs covered by patent 10,918,649 - Drug Patent Watch
