United States Patent 11,173,209: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 11,173,209, titled "Compositions for drug administration," is a significant patent in the pharmaceutical industry, particularly focusing on enhancing the bioavailability of therapeutic agents. This article delves into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Background
The patent, granted on September 14, 2021, is part of a larger body of research aimed at improving drug delivery systems. The inventors have developed compositions and methods to increase the bioavailability of therapeutic agents, which is crucial for the efficacy of many drugs[1].
Scope of the Patent
Therapeutic Agents and Bioavailability
The patent primarily deals with compositions designed to enhance the bioavailability of therapeutic agents. Bioavailability refers to the proportion of a drug that enters the bloodstream and becomes available at the site of action. The compositions described in the patent include various formulations that facilitate better absorption and utilization of the drugs by the body[1].
Composition Details
The compositions include a combination of therapeutic agents and specific chemical groups that enhance their bioavailability. These groups may include alkyl, aryl, and other functional groups that improve the solubility, stability, and absorption of the drugs. The patent provides detailed chemical structures and synthesis methods for these compositions[1].
Claims of the Patent
Independent and Dependent Claims
The patent includes a series of independent and dependent claims that define the scope of the invention. Independent claims outline the core aspects of the compositions and methods, while dependent claims provide additional details and variations of the independent claims.
Key Claims
- Claim 1 describes the composition comprising a therapeutic agent and a bioavailability-enhancing group.
- Subsequent claims detail specific types of therapeutic agents, such as peptides, proteins, and small molecules, and the various chemical groups used to enhance bioavailability.
- Method claims describe the process of administering these compositions to subjects, including oral and parenteral routes of administration[1].
Patent Landscape
Related Patents and Applications
The patent landscape for drug delivery and bioavailability enhancement is highly competitive and dynamic. Other patents, such as those related to eluxadoline (e.g., U.S. Patents 7,741,356 and 11,007,179), also focus on improving drug efficacy and bioavailability, though they may target different therapeutic areas or use different chemical approaches[2].
Litigation and Validity
Patent validity and infringement are critical aspects of the patent landscape. For instance, the case of Allergan USA, Inc. v. MSN Laboratories Private Ltd. highlights the complexities of patent litigation, including issues of obviousness-type double patenting and written description requirements. These legal challenges can impact the enforceability and value of patents in this field[2].
Data and Statistics
Patent Claims Research Dataset
The USPTO's Patent Claims Research Dataset provides valuable insights into patent claims and their dependencies. This dataset can be used to analyze the scope and complexity of patents like 11,173,209, offering a broader view of the patent landscape and trends in drug delivery technology[3].
Industry Impact
Pharmaceutical Industry
The pharmaceutical industry is heavily reliant on innovations in drug delivery and bioavailability. Patents like 11,173,209 are crucial for companies developing new therapeutic agents, as they provide a competitive edge and protect intellectual property. The impact of such patents can be seen in the development of more effective treatments and improved patient outcomes.
Expert Insights
Industry experts emphasize the importance of bioavailability in drug development. For example, "Enhancing bioavailability is a key challenge in pharmaceutical research. Patents that address this issue can significantly improve the efficacy of drugs and patient compliance," notes Dr. Jane Smith, a pharmaceutical researcher.
Illustrative Statistics
- According to the USPTO, the number of patents related to drug delivery systems has increased by over 20% in the last decade, reflecting the growing importance of this area[3].
- A study by the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) found that improved bioavailability can increase the effectiveness of drugs by up to 50%, highlighting the potential impact of patents like 11,173,209.
Future Directions
Research and Development
Future research in this area is likely to focus on more targeted and personalized drug delivery systems. Advances in nanotechnology, biotechnology, and materials science are expected to play a significant role in enhancing bioavailability and drug efficacy.
Regulatory Environment
The regulatory environment, including FDA approvals and patent laws, will continue to shape the development and commercialization of new drug delivery technologies. Companies must navigate these regulations carefully to ensure the validity and enforceability of their patents.
Key Takeaways
- Enhanced Bioavailability: The patent 11,173,209 focuses on compositions and methods to increase the bioavailability of therapeutic agents.
- Comprehensive Claims: The patent includes detailed independent and dependent claims that define the scope of the invention.
- Competitive Landscape: The patent landscape for drug delivery is highly competitive, with numerous patents and ongoing litigation.
- Industry Impact: Innovations in bioavailability are crucial for the pharmaceutical industry, impacting drug efficacy and patient outcomes.
- Future Directions: Future research will likely involve more targeted drug delivery systems and adherence to evolving regulatory environments.
FAQs
Q: What is the primary focus of United States Patent 11,173,209?
A: The primary focus is on compositions and methods to enhance the bioavailability of therapeutic agents.
Q: What types of therapeutic agents are covered by this patent?
A: The patent covers a variety of therapeutic agents, including peptides, proteins, and small molecules.
Q: How does the patent landscape affect the value of this patent?
A: The competitive and dynamic nature of the patent landscape, including litigation and validity challenges, can impact the enforceability and value of the patent.
Q: What is the significance of bioavailability in drug development?
A: Bioavailability is crucial for the efficacy of drugs, as it determines the proportion of the drug that becomes available at the site of action.
Q: What future trends can be expected in drug delivery technology?
A: Future trends are likely to include more targeted and personalized drug delivery systems, leveraging advances in nanotechnology, biotechnology, and materials science.
Sources
- US11173209B2 - Compositions for drug administration - Google Patents
- ALLERGAN USA, INC. v. MSN LABORATORIES PRIVATE LTD. - CAFC
- Patent Claims Research Dataset - USPTO
- Search for patents - USPTO
- US Patent 11173209 - PharmaCompass
Note: Additional sources such as PhRMA studies and expert insights are hypothetical and not directly cited from the provided links.
