United States Patent 4,503,067: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 4,503,067, titled "Carbazolyl-(4)-oxypropanolamine compounds and therapeutic compositions," is a patent that has significant implications in the pharmaceutical industry, particularly in the treatment and prophylaxis of circulatory and cardiac diseases. This analysis will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Background and Invention
The patent, granted on March 5, 1985, describes new carbazolyl-(4)-oxypropanolamine compounds and their therapeutic compositions. These compounds are designed to treat and prevent circulatory and cardiac diseases such as hypertension and angina pectoris. The invention involves compounds of a specific formula, which exhibit vasodilatory and β-receptor-blocking actions, making them effective for the mentioned medical conditions[4].
Claims of the Patent
The patent includes several claims that define the scope of the invention:
Compound Claims
- The patent claims cover specific carbazolyl-(4)-oxypropanolamine compounds, including their physiologically acceptable salts.
- These compounds are defined by a general formula, with specific substitutions for various groups (R1, R2, R3, R4, and X)[4].
Therapeutic Compositions
- The patent also claims therapeutic compositions containing these compounds, which are formulated for the treatment and prophylaxis of circulatory and cardiac diseases[4].
Methods of Treatment
- Claims include methods for treating hypertension and angina pectoris using the described compounds and compositions[4].
Patent Scope and Breadth
The scope of the patent is defined by the language of the claims, which is a critical aspect of patent law.
Independent Claim Length and Count
Research on patent scope often uses metrics such as independent claim length and count to measure the breadth of a patent. While this patent does not provide explicit metrics, the detailed description of the compounds and their uses suggests a focused scope aimed at specific therapeutic applications[3].
Claim Language and Dependency
The claims are structured to ensure that the invention is clearly defined and distinguishable from prior art. The dependency between claims helps in narrowing down the scope to the essential features of the invention[2].
Patent Landscape and Related Patents
The patent landscape around US 4,503,067 involves other patents and inventions related to cardiovascular treatments.
Prior Art and Related Inventions
- The patent references German Patent Specification No. 2,240,599, which describes carbazole derivatives with similar pharmacological properties. This indicates that the invention builds upon existing knowledge in the field[4].
Competing Patents and Litigation
- The pharmaceutical industry is highly litigious, and patents like US 4,503,067 can be involved in infringement disputes. For example, the case of Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc. vs. GSK highlights the complexities of patent infringement, particularly in the context of generic drugs and label instructions[1].
Examination and Grant Process
The process of examining and granting patents involves several stages that impact the final scope and validity of the patent.
Examination Process
- Research has shown that narrower claims at publication are associated with a higher probability of grant and a shorter examination process. This suggests that the claims in US 4,503,067 were likely carefully crafted to ensure a smooth examination process[3].
Post-Grant Challenges
- Patents can face challenges post-grant, such as inter partes review (IPR) or litigation. The validity and scope of a patent can be tested in these proceedings, as seen in cases like Koss Corp. v. Bose Corp., where patents were invalidated under 35 U.S.C. § 101[5].
Economic and Regulatory Impact
The economic and regulatory impact of a patent like US 4,503,067 is significant.
Innovation and Licensing
- Patents like this one can drive innovation by providing exclusive rights to the inventors, which can lead to further research and development. However, overly broad patents can increase licensing and litigation costs, potentially stifling innovation[3].
Regulatory Compliance
- The regulatory environment, including FDA approvals and compliance with healthcare regulations, plays a crucial role in the commercialization of patented pharmaceuticals. Ensuring that the patent claims align with regulatory requirements is essential for market success[4].
Citation and Influence
The influence of a patent can be measured by its citations and the impact it has on subsequent inventions.
Forward Citations
- Forward citations indicate the influence of a patent on later inventions. While specific citation data for US 4,503,067 is not provided here, patents in the pharmaceutical sector often have a significant impact on future research and development[3].
Conclusion and Key Takeaways
- Specific Claims: The patent includes detailed claims about the compounds, therapeutic compositions, and methods of treatment.
- Patent Scope: The scope is defined by the claim language and is focused on specific therapeutic applications.
- Patent Landscape: The patent is part of a broader landscape involving related inventions and potential litigation.
- Economic Impact: The patent can drive innovation but must balance against potential licensing and litigation costs.
- Regulatory Compliance: Alignment with regulatory requirements is crucial for commercial success.
FAQs
Q: What is the main subject of United States Patent 4,503,067?
A: The main subject is carbazolyl-(4)-oxypropanolamine compounds and their therapeutic compositions for treating circulatory and cardiac diseases.
Q: How are the claims of the patent structured?
A: The claims are structured to define specific compounds, therapeutic compositions, and methods of treatment, with a focus on distinguishing the invention from prior art.
Q: What is the significance of the examination process in patent granting?
A: The examination process ensures that the claims are valid and distinguishable from prior art, with narrower claims often leading to a higher probability of grant and a shorter examination process.
Q: How does the patent landscape affect the validity and scope of a patent?
A: The patent landscape, including prior art and potential litigation, can impact the validity and scope of a patent, as seen in cases involving infringement disputes and post-grant challenges.
Q: What is the economic impact of a patent like US 4,503,067?
A: The patent can drive innovation by providing exclusive rights, but it must balance against potential licensing and litigation costs that could stifle innovation.
Cited Sources
- SCOTUS denies cert in skinny label appeal from the Federal Circuit - JDSupra
- Patent Claims Research Dataset - USPTO
- Patent Claims and Patent Scope - SSRN
- Carbazolyl-(4)-oxypropanolamine compounds and therapeutic compositions - Google Patents
- Koss Corp. v. Bose Corp. - Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit
