Details for Patent: 3,897,779

Summary for Patent: 3,897,779

Title:	Triamcinolone acetonide inhalation therapy
Abstract:	An aerosol container carrier and deceleration chamber for dispensing powdered triamcinolone acetonide with inhaled particles predominantly below 10 microns in size at a low velocity gives a comparatively high degree of topical effect in the lungs as compared with systemic effect from triamcinolone acetonide absorbed in the mouth or upper throat. The suspension of triamcinolone acetonide in dichlorodifluoromethane is preferably subjected to sonic waves at about -40.degree.C, resulting in a suspension having increased physical stability. A suspending agent such as anhydrous ethanol or sorbitan trioleate also increases stability.
Inventor(s):	Hansen; Lloyd Frank (Campbell Hall, NY)
Assignee:	American Cyanamid Company (Stamford, CT)
Application Number:	05/374,177
Patent Claim Types: see list of patent claims	Use; Device;

Understanding the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 3,897,779

Introduction

United States Patent 3,897,779, titled "Triamcinolone acetonide inhalation aerosol," is a significant patent in the field of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of inhalation aerosols. This analysis will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.

Patent Overview

Title and Abstract

The patent, granted on August 5, 1975, describes an aerosol container carrier and deceleration chamber designed for dispensing powdered triamcinolone acetonide, a corticosteroid used for treating respiratory conditions such as asthma. The invention focuses on ensuring that the inhaled particles are predominantly below 10 microns, enhancing the drug's efficacy and safety[5].

Claims Analysis

Independent and Dependent Claims

The patent includes several claims that define the scope of the invention. Here are the key claims:

• Claim 1: This is the primary independent claim that describes the aerosol container carrier and deceleration chamber. It outlines the specific design and functionality of the device, including the use of a powdered triamcinolone acetonide formulation.
• Dependent Claims: These claims build upon the independent claim, providing additional details and variations of the invention. For example, they might specify different materials for the container, variations in the deceleration chamber design, or different methods of dispensing the powder.

Claim Scope and Limitations

The claims are carefully crafted to ensure that the invention is protected while allowing for some flexibility in implementation. The scope includes:

• The specific design of the aerosol container and deceleration chamber.
• The use of powdered triamcinolone acetonide.
• The particle size distribution, ensuring particles are predominantly below 10 microns.

These claims are limited to the specific application and design described, preventing others from making, using, or selling similar devices without permission.

Technological Context

Medical and Pharmaceutical Advances

In the 1970s, the development of inhalation aerosols was a significant advancement in treating respiratory diseases. This patent contributed to the evolution of these treatments by providing a more effective and safe method of delivering corticosteroids directly to the lungs.

Patent Landscape

The patent landscape in the pharmaceutical and medical device sectors is highly competitive and dynamic. Patents like US 3,897,779 are crucial for protecting intellectual property and encouraging innovation. Here are some key points about the broader landscape:

• Patent Trends: The number of patents in the medical and pharmaceutical fields has consistently increased over the years, reflecting the ongoing innovation in these sectors. For instance, the USPTO has seen a significant rise in patents related to medical devices and pharmaceuticals, with electrical and mechanical engineering patents making up a substantial portion of these[1].
• Industry Players: Companies and research institutions in the pharmaceutical industry are major players in patent filings. In 2018, businesses received the majority of patents, with the computer and electronics manufacturing industry also showing high levels of patenting activity, which can indirectly influence medical device innovations[1].

Economic and Legal Implications

Economic Impact

Patents like US 3,897,779 have a significant economic impact by protecting the investment in research and development. This protection allows companies to recoup their investment and continue innovating. For example, firms in high R&D industries, such as computer and electronics manufacturing, also report high levels of domestic R&D performance, which is often linked to high patenting activity[1].

Legal Considerations

The legal framework surrounding patents is complex and evolving. Recent updates, such as the 2024 USPTO guidance on AI patents, reflect the need for clarity and consistency in patent eligibility criteria. While this patent predates such updates, it underscores the importance of clear and specific claims in patent applications to ensure legal protection[4].

Stakeholder Perspectives

Inventors and Researchers

For inventors and researchers, patents like US 3,897,779 serve as a benchmark for innovation. They provide a detailed roadmap of how to design and implement similar devices, encouraging further research and development.

Industry Experts

Industry experts view such patents as critical for advancing medical treatments. For example, Dr. Alan Marco, former Chief Economist for the USPTO, has emphasized the importance of patent data in understanding innovation trends and economic impacts[3].

Conclusion and Future Directions

United States Patent 3,897,779 is a pivotal invention in the field of inhalation aerosols, contributing significantly to the treatment of respiratory diseases. The detailed analysis of its claims and scope highlights the importance of precise patent drafting and the broader implications for innovation and economic growth.

Key Takeaways

• Specific Design: The patent protects a specific design of an aerosol container carrier and deceleration chamber for dispensing powdered triamcinolone acetonide.
• Particle Size: The invention ensures that inhaled particles are predominantly below 10 microns.
• Economic Impact: Patents like this one have significant economic implications by protecting R&D investments.
• Legal Framework: Clear and specific claims are crucial for legal protection, as highlighted by recent USPTO updates.
• Industry Trends: The patent landscape in medical and pharmaceutical fields is highly competitive, with ongoing innovation driven by patent protection.

FAQs

1. What is the main purpose of United States Patent 3,897,779?

   • The main purpose is to describe an aerosol container carrier and deceleration chamber for dispensing powdered triamcinolone acetonide, ensuring particles are predominantly below 10 microns.

2. How does this patent contribute to medical advancements?

   • It provides a more effective and safe method of delivering corticosteroids directly to the lungs, advancing the treatment of respiratory diseases.

3. What are the economic implications of this patent?

   • It protects the investment in research and development, allowing companies to recoup their investment and continue innovating.

4. How does the legal framework impact this patent?

   • The patent's claims must be clear and specific to ensure legal protection, as emphasized by recent USPTO updates on patent eligibility criteria.

5. Who are the key stakeholders affected by this patent?

   • Inventors, researchers, industry experts, and companies involved in the pharmaceutical and medical device sectors are key stakeholders.

Sources

1. Invention: U.S. and Comparative Global Trends - NCSES, January 15, 2020.
2. U.S. Patent Small Claims Court - ACUS.
3. Patent Claims Research Dataset - USPTO, August 28, 2017.
4. Understanding the 2024 USPTO Guidance Update on AI Patent - Mintz, July 25, 2024.
5. US3897779A - Triamcinolone acetonide inhalation aerosol - Google Patents.

Drugs Protected by US Patent 3,897,779

Applicant	Tradename	Generic Name	Dosage	NDA	Approval Date	TE	Type	RLD	RS	Patent No.	Patent Expiration	Product	Substance	Delist Req.	Patented / Exclusive Use	Submissiondate

International Family Members for US Patent 3,897,779

Country	Patent Number	Estimated Expiration	Supplementary Protection Certificate	SPC Country	SPC Expiration
Yugoslavia	166781