United States Patent 4,765,989: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
The United States Patent 4,765,989, titled "Osmotic Device for Administering Certain Drugs," is a significant innovation in the field of drug delivery systems. This patent, granted on August 23, 1988, revolutionized the way drugs are administered, particularly those that are insoluble to very soluble. Here, we will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Background of the Invention
The patent for the osmotic device was filed on October 29, 1986, and it addresses a critical need in pharmaceuticals: the efficient and controlled delivery of drugs. Traditional drug delivery methods often faced challenges such as variable absorption rates and limited control over the release of the active ingredients. The osmotic device was designed to overcome these limitations.
Scope of the Invention
Overview
The osmotic device is engineered to deliver drugs at a controlled rate, leveraging the principles of osmosis. This device consists of a semi-permeable membrane that surrounds a drug compartment. The semi-permeable membrane allows water to enter the compartment, causing the drug to be released through a passageway at a predictable and consistent rate[1].
Key Components
- Semi-permeable Membrane: This is the core component that regulates the flow of water into the device.
- Drug Compartment: Contains the drug to be delivered.
- Passageway: The outlet through which the drug is released.
- Osmotic Agent: Optional component that enhances the osmotic pressure within the device.
Claims of the Patent
The patent includes several claims that define the scope of the invention:
Independent Claims
- Claim 1 describes the osmotic device with a semi-permeable wall surrounding a compartment containing the drug and an osmotic agent.
- Claim 2 specifies the device with a passageway for the release of the drug.
- Claim 3 details the composition of the semi-permeable wall and its properties[1].
Dependent Claims
These claims further elaborate on the materials, dimensions, and specific configurations of the device, ensuring that the invention is well-defined and distinguishable from prior art.
Technical Details
Delivery Kinetics
The osmotic device enhances the delivery kinetics by ensuring a steady and controlled release of the drug. This is achieved through the careful design of the semi-permeable membrane and the osmotic agent, which together regulate the influx of water and the subsequent release of the drug[1].
Applications
The device is versatile and can be used for administering a wide range of drugs, from those that are insoluble to those that are very soluble. This makes it a valuable tool in various therapeutic areas.
Patent Landscape
Prior Art
The invention builds upon earlier work in osmotic drug delivery systems but introduces significant improvements. Prior art in this field often suffered from inconsistent release rates and limited control over drug delivery. The US4765989A patent addresses these shortcomings by providing a more reliable and efficient system[1].
Related Patents
Other patents in the field of drug delivery systems, such as those related to sustained release formulations and implantable devices, complement the technology described in US4765989A. For example, patents like the one for "Sustained Release Cannabinoid Pellets" (CA 3005885) also focus on controlled drug release but use different mechanisms[5].
Global Impact
The osmotic device has had a global impact on pharmaceuticals, enabling the development of more effective and patient-friendly drug delivery systems. This technology has been adopted and further innovated upon by various pharmaceutical companies worldwide.
Economic and Social Impact
Healthcare Benefits
The controlled release of drugs provided by the osmotic device has improved patient compliance and reduced the need for frequent dosing. This has led to better therapeutic outcomes and improved quality of life for patients.
Market Influence
The invention has influenced the market by setting a new standard for drug delivery systems. Pharmaceutical companies have invested heavily in developing similar technologies, driving innovation and competition in the industry.
Legal Status and Expiration
The patent US4765989A has expired, as it was granted for a term of 20 years from the filing date. This expiration has allowed other companies to develop similar technologies, further expanding the scope of controlled drug delivery systems.
Conclusion and Future Directions
The US4765989A patent for the osmotic device has been a cornerstone in the advancement of drug delivery systems. Its impact on the pharmaceutical industry has been profound, and it continues to influence new innovations in this field.
Key Takeaways
- Controlled Drug Delivery: The osmotic device ensures a consistent and controlled release of drugs.
- Versatility: Applicable to a wide range of drugs, from insoluble to very soluble.
- Global Impact: Influenced pharmaceuticals globally, improving patient compliance and therapeutic outcomes.
- Economic Influence: Set a new standard in the industry, driving innovation and competition.
- Legal Status: The patent has expired, allowing further development and innovation.
FAQs
Q1: What is the primary mechanism of the osmotic device described in US4765989A?
The primary mechanism involves the use of a semi-permeable membrane that allows water to enter the drug compartment, causing the drug to be released through a passageway at a controlled rate.
Q2: What types of drugs can be administered using this device?
The device can administer a wide range of drugs, from those that are insoluble to those that are very soluble.
Q3: What is the significance of the osmotic agent in the device?
The osmotic agent enhances the osmotic pressure within the device, ensuring a consistent and controlled release of the drug.
Q4: Has the patent US4765989A expired?
Yes, the patent has expired, as it was granted for a term of 20 years from the filing date.
Q5: How has the invention impacted the pharmaceutical industry?
The invention has set a new standard for drug delivery systems, improving patient compliance, therapeutic outcomes, and driving innovation and competition in the industry.
Sources
- US4765989A - Osmotic device for administering certain drugs - Google Patents
- U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) | USAGov
- Patent Claims Research Dataset - USPTO
- Search for patents - USPTO
- Patent 3005885 Summary - Canadian Patents Database