United States Patent 4,382,090: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 4,382,090, granted on May 3, 1983, to Pioch, is a significant patent in the field of organic chemistry, particularly in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds. This patent is crucial for understanding the development and protection of intellectual property related to drug synthesis.
Background
The patent titled "Process for Preparing Nizatidine" outlines a method for synthesizing nizatidine, a drug used to treat ulcers and other gastrointestinal conditions. Nizatidine is a histamine H2-receptor antagonist, and its synthesis involves several key chemical reactions.
Scope of the Patent
Chemical Process
The patent describes a specific chemical process for preparing nizatidine. This involves reacting an isothiourea compound with nitromethane to form an intermediate, which is then further processed to yield nizatidine[5].
Key Reactions
- The process starts with the reaction of an isothiourea compound of a specific formula with nitromethane.
- The resulting intermediate undergoes additional chemical transformations, including hydrolysis and other reactions, to produce nizatidine.
Claims
Independent Claims
The patent includes several independent claims that define the scope of the invention. These claims cover:
- The specific chemical process for preparing nizatidine.
- The intermediates formed during the process.
- The final product, nizatidine, and its purity standards.
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims further specify the conditions and reagents used in the process, such as the use of particular solvents, temperatures, and reaction times. These claims provide a detailed roadmap for replicating the synthesis of nizatidine.
Patent Landscape
Prior Art
The patent references several prior art documents, including earlier patents related to similar chemical processes. For example, it cites patents related to the synthesis of other histamine H2-receptor antagonists[1].
Subsequent Patents
Since the grant of this patent, numerous subsequent patents have been filed and granted that build upon or modify the process described in US 4,382,090. These include patents related to improved synthesis methods, new intermediates, and variations in the chemical process[1].
Impact on Industry
Pharmaceutical Applications
The synthesis of nizatidine as described in this patent has significant implications for the pharmaceutical industry. It provides a reliable and efficient method for producing a drug that is widely used for treating gastrointestinal disorders.
Competitive Landscape
The patent landscape around nizatidine synthesis is complex, with multiple patents held by different companies. This complexity necessitates thorough patent analytics to understand the scope of protection and potential gaps or opportunities in intellectual property coverage[3].
Patent Analytics and Claim Coverage
To navigate the patent landscape effectively, companies often use patent analytics tools. These tools help in categorizing patents by claims and scope concepts, making it easier to identify which patents and claims are actively protecting the intellectual property related to nizatidine synthesis. Claim charts and scope concepts are particularly useful in this context, allowing technical experts to review patent coverage and identify gaps or future design opportunities[3].
International Patent Considerations
Given the global nature of the pharmaceutical industry, it is crucial to consider international patent offices when assessing the patent landscape. Databases such as those provided by the European Patent Office (EPO), Japan Patent Office (JPO), and World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) offer valuable resources for searching and analyzing international patents related to nizatidine synthesis[4].
Public Search and Access
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 are essential for conducting thorough patent searches and understanding the prior art and current state of the patent landscape[4].
Conclusion and Future Directions
The United States Patent 4,382,090 remains a cornerstone in the synthesis of nizatidine, influencing both current and future developments in pharmaceutical chemistry. As the patent landscape continues to evolve, companies must stay vigilant in monitoring and analyzing patent claims to maintain their competitive edge.
Key Takeaways
- Specific Chemical Process: The patent describes a detailed chemical process for synthesizing nizatidine.
- Claims Coverage: The patent includes independent and dependent claims that define the scope of the invention.
- Patent Landscape: The patent is part of a complex landscape with numerous related patents and ongoing developments.
- Industry Impact: The synthesis method has significant implications for the pharmaceutical industry.
- Patent Analytics: Tools like claim charts and scope concepts are essential for navigating the patent landscape.
FAQs
What is the main subject of United States Patent 4,382,090?
The main subject is a process for preparing nizatidine, a histamine H2-receptor antagonist used to treat ulcers and other gastrointestinal conditions.
What are the key reactions involved in the synthesis of nizatidine as described in the patent?
The process involves reacting an isothiourea compound with nitromethane, followed by additional chemical transformations including hydrolysis.
How does this patent impact the pharmaceutical industry?
It provides a reliable and efficient method for producing nizatidine, which is widely used for treating gastrointestinal disorders.
What tools are available for analyzing the patent landscape related to this patent?
Tools such as claim charts, scope concepts, and databases from international patent offices like the USPTO, EPO, and WIPO are available.
Why is it important to consider international patent offices when analyzing this patent?
Considering international patent offices helps in understanding the global patent landscape, identifying potential gaps or opportunities, and ensuring comprehensive protection of intellectual property.
Cited Sources:
- United States Patent and Trademark Office, "US 8,440,851 B2" [PDF].
- USA.gov, "U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)".
- SLWIP, "Patent Analytics".
- USPTO, "Search for patents".
- Google Patents, "EP0116452B1 - Improvements in or relating to the preparation of nizatidine".
