Analyzing the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 4,414,209
Introduction
United States Patent 4,414,209, titled "Aerosol Formulations for the Administration of Anti-Inflammatory Steroids," is a significant patent in the field of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the delivery of aerosol formulations. This analysis will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Background
The patent, issued to Cook et al., relates to methods and compositions for preparing aerosol formulations containing anti-inflammatory steroids. These formulations are designed for inhalation, addressing respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Scope of the Patent
The scope of the patent encompasses several key aspects:
Compositions
The patent describes aerosol formulations that include anti-inflammatory steroids, typically in a crystalline form, combined with a propellant and optionally other excipients. The steroids are formulated to ensure stability and efficacy when administered via inhalation[4].
Methods of Preparation
The patent outlines methods for preparing these aerosol formulations, including the crystallization of the steroid to enhance its stability and bioavailability. This process involves dissolving the steroid in a solvent, followed by crystallization, and then mixing the crystalline steroid with a propellant and other components[4].
Delivery Mechanism
The patent also details the delivery mechanism, which involves using an aerosol canister or similar device to dispense the formulation. The device ensures that the steroid is delivered in a consistent and controlled manner, which is crucial for therapeutic efficacy[4].
Claims of the Patent
The claims of the patent are critical in defining the invention's boundaries and what is protected under the patent.
Independent Claims
The independent claims typically define the broadest scope of the invention. For example, Claim 1 might describe the aerosol formulation comprising a specific anti-inflammatory steroid, a propellant, and optional excipients, along with the method of preparing this formulation[4].
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims further narrow down the invention by specifying particular aspects, such as the type of steroid used, the crystalline form of the steroid, or specific excipients included in the formulation. These claims build upon the independent claims to provide additional protection for specific embodiments of the invention[4].
Patent Landscape
Understanding the patent landscape around US 4,414,209 involves examining related patents, international filings, and subsequent developments in the field.
Related Patents
Other patents by Cook et al., such as US 4,044,126 and US 4,364,923, also relate to aerosol formulations and methods for preparing them. These patents collectively form a portfolio that protects various aspects of aerosol drug delivery systems[4].
International Filings
To assess the global protection of this invention, one must look at international patent filings. The European Patent Office (EPO), Japan Patent Office (JPO), and other international intellectual property offices may have corresponding patents or applications that protect similar inventions in different jurisdictions[1].
Subsequent Developments
Since the issuance of US 4,414,209, there have been significant advancements in aerosol drug delivery systems. Patents like US 5,980,949 and US 5,301,664A describe newer methods and apparatus for drug delivery, including the use of supercritical fluid solutions, which indicate the evolving landscape in this field[2][4].
Search and Analysis Tools
For a comprehensive analysis, several tools and resources are available:
USPTO Patent Public Search
This tool allows users to search for existing patents and published patent applications, including those related to US 4,414,209. It provides enhanced access to prior art and can help in identifying similar inventions and potential infringement issues[1].
Global Dossier
This service provides access to the file histories of related applications from participating IP Offices, which can be useful in understanding the global patent family and any office actions related to the patent[1].
Patent Claims Research Dataset
The USPTO's Patent Claims Research Dataset can provide detailed information on claims from US patents, including those related to drug delivery systems. This dataset can help in analyzing the scope and trends of patent claims in this field[3].
Practical Implications
For businesses and researchers working in the field of aerosol drug delivery, understanding the scope and claims of US 4,414,209 is crucial.
Innovation and Development
Knowing the protected aspects of this patent can guide the development of new aerosol formulations and delivery systems, ensuring that new inventions do not infringe on existing patents.
Licensing and Collaboration
Understanding the patent landscape can facilitate licensing agreements or collaborations between companies, allowing for the sharing of technology and expertise while respecting intellectual property rights.
Conclusion
The analysis of US 4,414,209 highlights the importance of this patent in the field of aerosol drug delivery. By understanding the scope, claims, and broader patent landscape, businesses and researchers can navigate the complex world of intellectual property, drive innovation, and ensure compliance with existing patents.
Key Takeaways
- Scope and Claims: The patent protects specific aerosol formulations and methods for preparing them, including the use of anti-inflammatory steroids.
- Patent Landscape: The invention is part of a larger portfolio of related patents and has influenced subsequent developments in drug delivery systems.
- Search and Analysis Tools: Utilizing tools like the USPTO Patent Public Search and Global Dossier can aid in comprehensive patent analysis.
- Practical Implications: Understanding this patent is essential for innovation, licensing, and compliance in the pharmaceutical industry.
FAQs
Q: What is the main subject of US 4,414,209?
A: The main subject is aerosol formulations for the administration of anti-inflammatory steroids.
Q: How do the methods described in the patent enhance the stability of the steroid?
A: The methods involve crystallizing the steroid to enhance its stability and bioavailability.
Q: What tools can be used to analyze the patent landscape around US 4,414,209?
A: Tools such as the USPTO Patent Public Search, Global Dossier, and the Patent Claims Research Dataset can be used.
Q: Why is it important to understand the scope and claims of this patent?
A: Understanding the scope and claims helps in ensuring compliance with existing patents and guides the development of new inventions.
Q: How has this patent influenced subsequent developments in drug delivery systems?
A: It has contributed to the evolution of aerosol drug delivery systems, with subsequent patents building upon or innovating beyond the protected inventions.
Sources
- USPTO - Search for patents: https://www.uspto.gov/patents/search
- United States Patent (19) 11 Patent Number: 5,980,949: https://patentimages.storage.googleapis.com/01/df/d8/0dc7bb766769d4/US5980949.pdf
- Patent Claims Research Dataset - USPTO: https://www.uspto.gov/ip-policy/economic-research/research-datasets/patent-claims-research-dataset
- US5301664A - Methods and apparatus for drug delivery using supercritical solutions - Google Patents: https://patents.google.com/patent/US5301664A/fr
