United States Patent 3,904,682: A Detailed Analysis of Scope and Claims
Introduction
United States Patent 3,904,682, filed by Fried et al., is a significant patent in the pharmaceutical field, particularly concerning the synthesis and formulation of naproxen, a widely used nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). This analysis will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Background
Naproxen, a propionic acid derivative, is known for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic properties. The patent in question, filed in 1975, addresses the synthesis and various pharmaceutical forms of naproxen, which were critical for its effective use in medical treatments.
Scope of the Patent
The patent 3,904,682 covers several key aspects of naproxen:
Synthesis of Naproxen
The patent describes a method for synthesizing naproxen, which involves the reaction of 2-(6-methoxy-2-naphthyl)propionic acid with various reagents to produce the desired compound. This synthesis method is crucial for the large-scale production of naproxen[1].
Pharmaceutical Forms
The patent also details various pharmaceutical forms of naproxen, including tablets, capsules, and liquids. These forms are designed to enhance the bioavailability and efficacy of the drug. The formulations often include excipients such as binders, disintegrants, and lubricants to improve the drug's performance[1].
Claims of the Patent
The claims of the patent are specific and detailed, ensuring broad protection for the inventors' work:
Claim 1: Synthesis Method
The first claim outlines the specific steps and reagents used in the synthesis of naproxen. This claim is fundamental as it protects the unique method developed by the inventors[1].
Claim 2-5: Pharmaceutical Compositions
Subsequent claims describe the various pharmaceutical compositions of naproxen, including the types of excipients used and their proportions. These claims ensure that any similar formulations would infringe on this patent[1].
Claim 6-10: Dosage Forms
These claims cover the different dosage forms of naproxen, such as tablets, capsules, and liquids, and the methods for their preparation. This comprehensive coverage ensures that the patent protects a wide range of naproxen products[1].
Patent Landscape
The patent landscape surrounding 3,904,682 is complex and involves several related patents and developments:
Prior Art
The patent references several prior art documents, including earlier patents by Fried et al. (U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,009,197), which also deal with the synthesis and formulation of naproxen. These references indicate a continuous improvement in the synthesis and formulation methods[1].
Subsequent Patents
Later patents, such as U.S. Pat. No. 6,165,506, build upon the foundational work of 3,904,682. For example, the 6,165,506 patent describes solid dose nanoparticulate naproxen formulations with improved dissolution rates, indicating an ongoing evolution in naproxen technology[1][5].
Global Patent System
The global patent system plays a crucial role in the protection and dissemination of this technology. Tools like the Global Dossier and Common Citation Document (CCD) facilitate the tracking and analysis of related patent applications across different jurisdictions, ensuring that inventors and companies can navigate the international patent landscape effectively[4].
Impact on the Pharmaceutical Industry
The patent 3,904,682 has had a significant impact on the pharmaceutical industry:
Improved Synthesis Methods
The synthesis method described in the patent has been widely adopted, enabling the mass production of naproxen with high purity and consistency. This has made naproxen a staple in the treatment of various inflammatory conditions.
Enhanced Formulations
The pharmaceutical forms described in the patent have improved the bioavailability and efficacy of naproxen, leading to better patient outcomes. Subsequent patents have further refined these formulations, such as the development of nanoparticulate forms with faster dissolution rates[1][5].
Patent Analytics and Management
Effective management of patents like 3,904,682 is crucial for companies to protect their intellectual property. Patent analytics tools, such as Claim Coverage Matrix and Claim Charts, help in tracking and analyzing patent claims, identifying gaps, and highlighting future design opportunities. These tools are essential for maintaining a robust patent portfolio and ensuring that all technological aspects are adequately protected[3].
Conclusion
United States Patent 3,904,682 is a foundational patent in the field of naproxen synthesis and formulation. Its scope and claims provide broad protection for the inventors' work, and its impact on the pharmaceutical industry has been significant. Understanding this patent and its place within the broader patent landscape is essential for any company involved in the development and production of naproxen or similar pharmaceuticals.
Key Takeaways
- Synthesis Method: The patent describes a specific method for synthesizing naproxen.
- Pharmaceutical Forms: It covers various pharmaceutical forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquids.
- Claims: The patent includes detailed claims protecting the synthesis method and pharmaceutical compositions.
- Impact: The patent has significantly improved the production and efficacy of naproxen.
- Patent Landscape: It is part of a larger landscape that includes subsequent patents and global patent systems.
- Patent Analytics: Effective management of such patents is crucial for protecting intellectual property.
FAQs
Q1: What is the primary focus of United States Patent 3,904,682?
The primary focus is the synthesis method and pharmaceutical forms of naproxen.
Q2: How has this patent impacted the pharmaceutical industry?
It has enabled the mass production of naproxen with improved purity and consistency, and enhanced the bioavailability and efficacy of naproxen formulations.
Q3: What are some of the key claims in this patent?
The claims include the synthesis method, various pharmaceutical compositions, and different dosage forms such as tablets, capsules, and liquids.
Q4: How does this patent fit into the broader patent landscape?
It is part of a series of patents related to naproxen, including subsequent patents that build upon its foundational work, and is tracked within global patent systems.
Q5: What tools are available for managing and analyzing patents like 3,904,682?
Tools such as Claim Coverage Matrix, Claim Charts, and global dossier services help in tracking, analyzing, and managing patent claims effectively.
Sources
- United States Patent and Trademark Office. United States Patent 6,165,506.
- Administrative Conference of the United States. U.S. Patent Small Claims Court.
- Schwegman, Lundberg & Woessner, P.A. Patent Analytics.
- United States Patent and Trademark Office. Search for patents.
- Canadian Patents Database. Patent 2342309 Summary.
