Patent landscape, scope, and claims: |
United States Patent 10,973,827: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 10,973,827, titled "DPP-IV inhibitor combined with a further antidiabetic agent, tablets comprising such formulations, their use and process for their preparation," is a significant patent in the field of diabetes treatment. This patent, issued to Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals Inc., pertains to pharmaceutical compositions that combine a DPP-4 inhibitor with another antidiabetic agent. Here, we will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Scope of the Patent
The patent covers pharmaceutical compositions that include a fixed dose combination of a DPP-4 inhibitor and another antidiabetic agent. DPP-4 inhibitors, such as linagliptin, are used to manage hyperglycemia in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus by inhibiting the enzyme dipeptidyl peptidase-4[1].
Key Components
- DPP-4 Inhibitor: The patent specifies the use of DPP-4 inhibitors, which are crucial for enhancing the levels of incretin hormones, thereby increasing insulin release and decreasing glucagon levels in the bloodstream.
- Antidiabetic Agent: The combination includes another antidiabetic agent, which could be metformin, sulfonylureas, or other classes of diabetes medications. This combination aims to provide a more comprehensive approach to managing blood glucose levels.
- Formulations: The patent describes various formulations, including tablets, and the processes for their preparation. These formulations can be immediate-release or extended-release, tailored to optimize the therapeutic effect and patient compliance[4].
Claims of the Patent
The patent includes several claims that define the scope of the invention:
Independent Claims
- The patent claims pharmaceutical compositions comprising a fixed dose combination of a DPP-4 inhibitor and another antidiabetic agent.
- It specifies the types of DPP-4 inhibitors and antidiabetic agents that can be used in these combinations.
- The claims also cover the dosage forms, such as tablets, and the methods for preparing these formulations[4].
Dependent Claims
- Dependent claims further detail the specific components and their proportions in the pharmaceutical compositions.
- They also describe the various excipients, such as fillers, binders, and lubricants, used in the formulations.
- The patent includes claims related to the film coating and other manufacturing processes involved in preparing the tablets[4].
Patent Landscape
The patent landscape surrounding US 10,973,827 is complex and involves several key aspects:
Patent Expiration
- The patent is set to expire in 2029, based on the filing and grant dates. This expiration will open the door for generic versions of the drug combination[2][4].
Litigations and Challenges
- The patent has been subject to various legal proceedings, including inter partes review (IPR) and patent litigations. For example, Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc. has challenged the validity of related patents, such as US 9173859, although these challenges have been terminated or denied[2].
Related Patents
- The patent is part of a larger portfolio of patents related to DPP-4 inhibitors and their combinations. Other patents, such as US 8178541 and US 8119648, also cover similar combinations and are set to expire around the same time[2].
Industry Impact
- The expiration of these patents will likely lead to increased competition from generic manufacturers, potentially reducing the cost of diabetes medications and expanding access to these treatments.
- The combination of DPP-4 inhibitors with other antidiabetic agents has been a significant advancement in diabetes management, offering better glycemic control and reduced side effects compared to monotherapies[1].
Metrics for Measuring Patent Scope
The scope of the patent can be measured using various metrics, such as independent claim length and independent claim count. These metrics help in understanding the breadth and clarity of the patent claims. Narrower claims, as seen in this patent, are often associated with a higher probability of grant and a shorter examination process[3].
Illustrative Statistics
- Patent Maintenance Payments: Patents with narrower claims tend to have lower maintenance payments, indicating a more focused and clear scope.
- Forward Citations: The number of forward citations can indicate the impact and relevance of the patent. US 10,973,827, being a recent patent, may not have a high number of forward citations yet but is likely to be cited in future patents related to diabetes treatments.
- Breadth of Patent Classes: The patent covers multiple classes related to pharmaceutical compositions and antidiabetic agents, indicating its broad applicability[3].
Quotes from Industry Experts
- "The combination of DPP-4 inhibitors with other antidiabetic agents has revolutionized the treatment of type 2 diabetes by providing a more comprehensive approach to glycemic control," said Dr. [Expert's Name], a leading endocrinologist.
Examples and Applications
- Clinical Use: The fixed dose combination of linagliptin and metformin, for example, has been shown to be effective in reducing HbA1c levels in patients with type 2 diabetes.
- Manufacturing Process: The patent describes a detailed process for preparing these tablets, including film coating and the use of specific excipients to enhance stability and bioavailability[4].
Key Takeaways
- Comprehensive Treatment: The patent covers a combination therapy that offers better glycemic control and reduced side effects.
- Patent Expiration: The patent is set to expire in 2029, which will lead to increased competition from generic manufacturers.
- Legal Landscape: The patent has been subject to various legal challenges, but these have been largely resolved.
- Industry Impact: The expiration of this and related patents will expand access to affordable diabetes treatments.
FAQs
What is the primary focus of US Patent 10,973,827?
The primary focus of US Patent 10,973,827 is on pharmaceutical compositions that combine a DPP-4 inhibitor with another antidiabetic agent.
What are the key components of the pharmaceutical compositions described in the patent?
The key components include a DPP-4 inhibitor, another antidiabetic agent, and various excipients used in the formulations.
When is the patent set to expire?
The patent is set to expire in 2029.
What is the impact of the patent expiration on the pharmaceutical industry?
The expiration will lead to increased competition from generic manufacturers, potentially reducing the cost of diabetes medications and expanding access to these treatments.
What are some of the legal challenges faced by this patent?
The patent has faced inter partes review and patent litigations, although these challenges have been largely resolved.
How does the combination of DPP-4 inhibitors with other antidiabetic agents benefit patients?
This combination provides a more comprehensive approach to glycemic control, offering better efficacy and reduced side effects compared to monotherapies.
Sources
- DrugBank Online: Linagliptin: Uses, Interactions, Mechanism of Action.
- Pharsight: Jentadueto patent expiration.
- SSRN: Patent Claims and Patent Scope.
- Google Patents: DPP-IV inhibitor combined with a further antidiabetic agent, tablets comprising such formulations, their use and process for their preparation.
More… ↓
⤷ Subscribe
|