United States Patent 4,615,697: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
The United States Patent 4,615,697, titled "Bioadhesive compositions and methods of treatment therewith," is a significant patent in the field of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the area of controlled release and bioadhesive technologies. This patent, which has since expired, was granted to innovators who developed novel bioadhesive compositions and methods for treating various medical conditions.
Background and Prior Art
To understand the scope and claims of this patent, it is essential to look at the prior art cited within it. The patent references several earlier patents that dealt with similar concepts, such as sustained release tablets and bioadhesive polymers. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 3,065,143 and U.S. Pat. No. 3,074,852 are mentioned as they describe earlier forms of sustained release pharmaceuticals and polymer carriers[4].
Patent Scope and Claims
Bioadhesive Compositions
The patent describes bioadhesive compositions that include a bioadhesive and an effective amount of a treating agent. These compositions are designed for controlled release, ensuring that the medicinal agent is delivered over a prolonged period. The bioadhesives mentioned include hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose ethers, sodium carboxy methyl cellulose, and carboxy polymethylene, among others[4].
Methods of Treatment
The patent also outlines methods of treatment using these bioadhesive compositions. These methods involve applying the composition to a specific site in the body where the treating agent can be released in a controlled manner. This could be particularly useful for treating conditions that require localized and sustained drug delivery.
Claim Structure
The claims of the patent are structured to cover both the composition and the method of use. The claims are detailed and specific, ensuring that the patent holders have broad protection over their invention. For instance, Claim 1 might describe the bioadhesive composition itself, while subsequent claims might detail the method of preparing the composition and the specific uses of the composition[4].
Key Components and Innovations
Bioadhesive Polymers
One of the key innovations of this patent is the use of bioadhesive polymers. These polymers are designed to adhere to biological tissues, allowing for prolonged release of the medicinal agent. The patent specifies the preparation and characteristics of these polymers, such as cross-linking with polyalkenyl polyethers[4].
Controlled Release Mechanism
The controlled release mechanism is another critical aspect of this patent. The compositions are designed to release the medicinal agent in a sustained manner, which is achieved through the swelling of the bioadhesive in aqueous fluids at body temperature. This mechanism ensures that the drug is delivered consistently over time, enhancing its efficacy[4].
Patent Landscape
Related Patents and Applications
The patent landscape surrounding U.S. Patent 4,615,697 includes several related patents and applications that deal with similar technologies. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 3,551,556 describes a controlled release system based on a neutral hydrogel, while U.S. Pat. No. 4,327,725 discusses an osmotic device for drug delivery[4].
International Patent Offices
To understand the global impact of this patent, it is important to look at international patent offices. Databases such as those provided by the European Patent Office (EPO), Japan Patent Office (JPO), and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) can be used to search for similar patents and applications filed in other countries[1].
Search Tools and Resources
Tools like the USPTO's Patent Public Search, Global Dossier, and the Common Citation Document (CCD) application can be used to search for related patents and understand the broader patent landscape. These tools provide access to prior art, citation data, and file histories of related applications, which are crucial for analyzing the scope and claims of a patent[1].
Economic and Research Implications
Patent Claims Research Dataset
The USPTO's Patent Claims Research Dataset provides detailed information on claims from U.S. patents, including those related to bioadhesive compositions. This dataset can be used to analyze trends in patent scope and claims, offering insights into the economic and research implications of such patents[3].
Industry Impact
The expiration of U.S. Patent 4,615,697 has significant implications for the pharmaceutical industry. With the patent no longer in force, other companies can now develop and market similar bioadhesive compositions without infringing on the original patent. This can lead to increased competition and innovation in the field of controlled release pharmaceuticals.
Legal Status and Expiration
The legal status of U.S. Patent 4,615,697 is listed as expired, which means that the exclusive rights granted to the patent holders have lapsed. This expiration allows other entities to use the technology described in the patent without needing to obtain a license or face legal repercussions[4].
Conclusion
U.S. Patent 4,615,697 represents a significant advancement in the field of bioadhesive compositions and controlled release pharmaceuticals. The detailed analysis of its scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape provides valuable insights into the innovation and its impact on the industry.
Key Takeaways
- Bioadhesive Compositions: The patent describes novel bioadhesive compositions for controlled release.
- Controlled Release Mechanism: The compositions are designed to release medicinal agents in a sustained manner.
- Prior Art: The patent references several earlier patents in the field.
- Patent Landscape: The landscape includes related patents and applications globally.
- Economic Implications: The expiration of the patent opens up opportunities for competition and innovation.
- Legal Status: The patent has expired, allowing for widespread use of the technology.
FAQs
What is the main innovation of U.S. Patent 4,615,697?
The main innovation is the development of bioadhesive compositions for controlled release of medicinal agents.
What are the key components of the bioadhesive compositions described in the patent?
The key components include bioadhesive polymers such as hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose ethers and sodium carboxy methyl cellulose.
How does the controlled release mechanism work?
The mechanism involves the swelling of the bioadhesive in aqueous fluids at body temperature, ensuring sustained release of the medicinal agent.
What are the implications of the patent's expiration?
The expiration allows other companies to develop and market similar bioadhesive compositions without infringing on the original patent, leading to increased competition and innovation.
Where can one find related patents and applications globally?
Databases such as those provided by the EPO, JPO, and WIPO can be used to search for similar patents and applications filed in other countries.
Sources
- USPTO - Search for patents: https://www.uspto.gov/patents/search
- USCOURTS Document: https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/USCOURTS-mad-1_07-cv-12389/pdf/USCOURTS-mad-1_07-cv-12389-1.pdf
- USPTO - Patent Claims Research Dataset: https://www.uspto.gov/ip-policy/economic-research/research-datasets/patent-claims-research-dataset
- Google Patents - US4615697A: https://patents.google.com/patent/US4615697A/en
