United States Patent 11,596,600: A Detailed Analysis
Overview of the Patent
United States Patent 11,596,600, titled "Vasoconstriction compositions and methods of use," is a patent that protects specific formulations and methods related to vasoconstriction, particularly in the context of ophthalmic applications. Here is a detailed analysis of the scope, claims, and the patent landscape surrounding this patent.
Patent Holder and Application Details
The patent is held by Bausch and Lomb Inc., a well-known company in the pharmaceutical and medical device industry. The patent was granted on December 22, 2017, and it is included in two New Drug Applications (NDAs) for the products LUMIFY and LUMIFY PRESERVATIVE FREE[2].
Scope of the Patent
Composition and Method of Use
The patent covers compositions designed to induce vasoconstriction, which are highly selective alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists. The primary active ingredient in these compositions is brimonidine tartrate, used in ophthalmic solutions to relieve redness of the eye due to minor eye irritations[2][4].
Key Components
- Active Ingredient: Brimonidine tartrate, which acts as an alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist.
- Ocular Use: The compositions are specifically formulated for ophthalmic use, targeting conditions such as eye redness.
- Formulation: The patent details various formulations, including solutions and drops, designed for topical application to the eyes[4].
Claims of the Patent
The patent includes several claims that define the scope of protection:
Independent Claims
- Claims related to the composition itself, including the specific concentration and formulation of brimonidine tartrate.
- Claims related to the method of use, including the application of the composition to the eye to achieve vasoconstriction[4].
Dependent Claims
- These claims further specify the composition and method, including details on the preparation, dosage, and administration of the vasoconstriction compositions.
Patent Landscape
Global Patent Family
The patent 11,596,600 has a significant global presence with thirty-seven patent family members in sixteen countries. This extensive coverage ensures broad protection for the invention across multiple jurisdictions[2].
Related Patents and Applications
- The patent is part of a larger family of patents related to vasoconstriction compositions and methods. This family includes various national phase entries and regional patents, all contributing to a robust global patent portfolio.
- The use of Global Dossier services by the USPTO allows for easy access to the file histories of related applications from participating IP Offices, facilitating a comprehensive view of the patent family[1].
Administrative and Judicial Review
Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB)
The USPTO's PTAB plays a crucial role in the administrative review of patents. Under the America Invents Act (AIA), mechanisms such as Inter Partes Review (IPR) allow for the challenge of patent validity. While this patent has not been subject to such reviews as of the latest available data, the PTAB's role in maintaining patent validity is significant in the broader patent landscape[3].
Inter Partes Review (IPR)
IPR proceedings can be initiated to challenge the validity of patent claims based on prior art consisting of patents or printed publications. The PTAB has a high institution rate for IPR petitions, and a significant number of reviewed claims have been invalidated. However, there is no public record indicating that patent 11,596,600 has been subject to an IPR proceeding[3].
Expiration and Supplementary Protection
Patent Expiration
The patent's expiration date is crucial for understanding the timeline of protection. While the exact expiration date is not publicly disclosed in the sources provided, it is typically calculated from the filing date or priority date of the patent application, considering any potential extensions or supplementary protection certificates (SPCs)[2].
Supplementary Protection Certificates (SPCs)
SPCs can extend the life of a patent beyond its normal expiration date, particularly in jurisdictions where such certificates are available. For patent 11,596,600, any SPCs would be country-specific and depend on the regulatory framework of each jurisdiction[2].
Public Access and Search Tools
USPTO Resources
The USPTO provides several tools for searching and accessing patent information, including the Patent Public Search tool, Global Dossier, and the Patent and Trademark Resource Centers (PTRCs). These resources enable users to search for and analyze patents, including patent 11,596,600, and its related family members[1].
Sequence Listings and Other Data
For patents involving sequences, such as those related to pharmaceuticals, the Publication Site for Issued and Published Sequences (PSIPS) provides access to sequence listings and other mega items. This can be useful for detailed analysis of the patent's technical aspects[1].
Key Takeaways
- Patent Scope: The patent protects specific vasoconstriction compositions and methods, primarily for ophthalmic use.
- Global Coverage: The patent has a broad global presence with multiple family members across sixteen countries.
- Administrative Review: The PTAB and IPR mechanisms ensure the validity of the patent claims, although there is no record of this patent being challenged through these processes.
- Expiration and SPCs: The patent's expiration date and potential SPCs are critical for understanding the duration of protection.
- Public Access: Various USPTO tools facilitate the search and analysis of this patent and its related family members.
FAQs
Q: What is the primary active ingredient in the compositions protected by patent 11,596,600?
A: The primary active ingredient is brimonidine tartrate, an alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist.
Q: What is the main use of the compositions protected by this patent?
A: The compositions are used to relieve redness of the eye due to minor eye irritations.
Q: How many countries have patent family members for patent 11,596,600?
A: There are thirty-seven patent family members in sixteen countries.
Q: What is the role of the PTAB in the context of this patent?
A: The PTAB is responsible for administrative review of patent validity, including IPR proceedings, although there is no record of this patent being challenged through such processes.
Q: Where can one access detailed information about this patent and its family members?
A: Detailed information can be accessed through the USPTO's Patent Public Search tool, Global Dossier, and other resources provided by the USPTO.
Sources
- USPTO - Search for patents: https://www.uspto.gov/patents/search
- DrugPatentWatch - Patent 11,596,600: https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/patent/11596600
- WIPO - Patent office and administrative review proceedings: https://www.wipo.int/patent-judicial-guide/en/full-guide/united-states/10.2
- Google Patents - US11596600B2: https://patents.google.com/patent/US11596600B2/en
