Detailed Analysis of the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 3,549,770
Introduction
United States Patent 3,549,770, titled "Therapeutic Administration of Effective Amounts of Dimethyl Sulfoxide to Human and Animal Subjects," was patented on December 22, 1970. This patent is significant for its exploration of the therapeutic uses of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), a compound known for its penetrating properties through skin and other membranes.
Background and Prior Art
Before delving into the specifics of this patent, it is essential to understand the context and prior art. DMSO had already been recognized for its ability to penetrate skin and other tissues, as highlighted in various earlier patents and research[1][4].
Scope of the Patent
The patent focuses on the therapeutic administration of DMSO to both human and animal subjects. Here are the key aspects of its scope:
Therapeutic Uses
The patent outlines the use of DMSO for treating a variety of conditions, including pain, inflammation, and other symptoms. It emphasizes the effectiveness of DMSO in penetrating the skin and delivering therapeutic agents directly to the affected areas[4].
Formulations and Administration
The patent describes various formulations of DMSO, including its use in undiluted form, as well as in combination with other substances such as propylene glycol and water. It also details different methods of administration, including topical application in the form of lotions, creams, gels, and ointments[1][4].
Penetration and Absorption
A critical aspect of this patent is the discussion on how DMSO penetrates the skin and other membranes. It explains that DMSO can rapidly saturate the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the skin, and then continue to penetrate deeper into the underlying tissue and into the circulatory system[1].
Claims of the Patent
The claims of the patent are centered around the therapeutic administration of DMSO and its formulations. Here are some key claims:
Claim 1: Therapeutic Administration
The patent claims the therapeutic administration of effective amounts of DMSO to human and animal subjects for treating various conditions, including pain and inflammation[4].
Claim 2: Formulations
It claims the use of DMSO in various formulations, such as solutions, suspensions, and emulsions, often combined with other pharmaceutical agents to enhance penetration and efficacy[4].
Claim 3: Topical Application
The patent includes claims for the topical application of DMSO in different forms, such as creams, gels, ointments, and lotions, to facilitate skin penetration and delivery of therapeutic agents[1][4].
Patent Landscape Analysis
To understand the broader context and impact of this patent, a patent landscape analysis is necessary.
Geographical Spread
The geographical spread of patents related to DMSO and its therapeutic uses is primarily focused in the United States and Europe, with significant contributions from pharmaceutical and biomedical research institutions in these regions[3].
Saturation of Patent Space
The patent space related to DMSO and its therapeutic applications is moderately saturated. There are numerous patents and ongoing research in this area, indicating a high level of interest and innovation. However, there are still opportunities for new entrants to contribute novel formulations and applications[3].
Competitors and New Entrants
Key players in this patent space include pharmaceutical companies and research institutions that have been actively developing and patenting various DMSO-based formulations. New entrants can identify niche areas, such as specific therapeutic applications or novel delivery mechanisms, to carve out their own space in this market[3].
Time-Slicing and Trends
Over time, there has been a shift from basic research on DMSO's properties to more specialized applications, including targeted drug delivery systems and combination therapies. This trend indicates a maturing technology area with ongoing innovation focused on optimizing existing technologies[3].
Strategic Insights
A comprehensive patent landscape analysis provides several strategic insights:
Identifying Niche Areas
New entrants can identify underappreciated niche areas within the DMSO therapeutic space, such as specific disease treatments or novel delivery mechanisms, to differentiate themselves from existing competitors[3].
Geographical Filing Strategies
Understanding the geographical spread of IP in this technology area can help companies make informed decisions about where to file patents to maximize protection and minimize costs[3].
Assessing Saturation and Competition
Determining the saturation level of the patent space helps companies assess the potential rewards and risks of entering this market. It also guides decisions on whether to continue research and development in this area or to pivot to newer, less saturated technology spaces[3].
Key Takeaways
- Therapeutic Uses: The patent highlights the therapeutic administration of DMSO for treating various conditions, including pain and inflammation.
- Formulations and Administration: It details various formulations and methods of administration, including topical applications.
- Penetration and Absorption: DMSO's ability to penetrate the skin and other membranes is a key aspect of its therapeutic efficacy.
- Patent Landscape: The patent space is moderately saturated with opportunities for new entrants to innovate in niche areas.
- Strategic Insights: Companies can use patent landscape analysis to identify niche areas, optimize geographical filing strategies, and assess competition.
FAQs
Q1: What is the primary focus of United States Patent 3,549,770?
The primary focus is the therapeutic administration of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) to human and animal subjects.
Q2: What are the key therapeutic uses of DMSO according to this patent?
The patent outlines the use of DMSO for treating pain, inflammation, and other symptoms.
Q3: How does DMSO penetrate the skin according to the patent?
DMSO rapidly saturates the stratum corneum and then continues to penetrate deeper into the underlying tissue and into the circulatory system.
Q4: What are the different formulations of DMSO mentioned in the patent?
The patent mentions undiluted DMSO, as well as formulations combined with propylene glycol, water, and other substances.
Q5: How can companies use patent landscape analysis in the context of this patent?
Companies can use patent landscape analysis to identify niche areas, optimize geographical filing strategies, and assess the level of competition in the DMSO therapeutic space.
Sources
- EP0235424B1 - Pharmaceutical solutions comprising dimethyl sulfoxide - Google Patents
- EP-0145779-A1 - Unified Patents Portal
- Patent Landscape Analysis - Uncovering Strategic Insights - AcclaimIP
- US3549770A - Therapeutic administration of effective amounts of dimethyl sulfoxide to human and animal subjects - Google Patents
- Patent Claims and Patent Scope - SSRN
