Understanding the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 5,489,436
Introduction
United States Patent 5,489,436, titled "Taste mask coatings for preparation of chewable pharmaceutical tablets," is a significant invention in the field of pharmaceuticals. This patent, which has since expired, addressed a critical issue in the formulation of chewable medications: the unpleasant taste of active medicaments.
Background
Pharmaceutical tablets, especially those designed to be chewable, often contain active ingredients that can have bitter or unpleasant tastes. This can make the medication unpalatable for patients, particularly children and the elderly. The invention described in US Patent 5,489,436 aimed to solve this problem by developing a reverse enteric coating process.
The Invention
The patent describes a method for coating chewable pharmaceutical tablets with a taste mask coating. This coating is designed to mask the unpleasant taste of the active medicament until the tablet is swallowed and reaches the gastrointestinal tract, where the coating dissolves and releases the medication.
Key Components
- Reverse Enteric Coating Process: This process involves applying a coating that is resistant to the acidic environment of the mouth but dissolves in the less acidic environment of the gastrointestinal tract[1].
- Polymer Blend: The coating is made from a blend of polymers that provide the necessary properties for taste masking and controlled release[1].
Claims
The patent includes several claims that define the scope of the invention. Here are some of the key claims:
Claim 1
The first claim describes the method of preparing a chewable pharmaceutical tablet with a taste mask coating. It includes the steps of applying a polymer blend coating to the tablet and ensuring that the coating is effective in masking the taste of the active medicament[1].
Claim 2
This claim specifies the types of polymers that can be used in the coating blend, including cellulose derivatives and acrylic polymers[1].
Claim 3
This claim details the process conditions for applying the coating, such as the temperature and solvent used[1].
Patent Landscape Analysis
To understand the broader context of this patent, a patent landscape analysis is essential.
Technological Domain
The patent falls within the technological domain of pharmaceutical formulations, specifically chewable tablets. This domain is highly competitive, with numerous patents and ongoing research focused on improving the palatability and efficacy of medications[3].
Competitors and Market Developments
A patent landscape analysis would reveal other patents and pending applications in this field. For example, other companies may have developed similar taste-masking technologies or alternative methods for improving the palatability of chewable tablets. Market developments such as mergers and acquisitions, licensing agreements, and litigation activities are also crucial for understanding the competitive landscape[3].
Legal Status
As of the current date, US Patent 5,489,436 has expired. This means that the technology described in the patent is now in the public domain and can be freely used by anyone without infringing on the original patent rights[3].
Expected Expiry Dates and Patent Family
For patents that are still active, understanding the expected expiry dates is crucial for planning and strategy. However, since US Patent 5,489,436 has expired, this is no longer a concern. The patent family, which includes related applications filed in other countries, would also be part of a comprehensive patent landscape analysis[3].
Insights from Patent Landscape Reports
Patent landscape reports provide valuable insights into patent trends, market developments, and potential risks and opportunities. For example:
- Patent Trends: These reports can show the evolution of taste-masking technologies over time, highlighting key innovations and areas of focus.
- Market Developments: Information on mergers, acquisitions, and licensing agreements can indicate market consolidation or expansion strategies.
- Litigation and Opposition Activities: Understanding past and ongoing litigation related to similar patents can help in risk assessment and strategic planning[3].
Tools and Resources for Patent Search
Several tools and resources are available for conducting a thorough patent search:
- USPTO Patent Public Search: This tool provides enhanced access to prior art and is useful for searching existing patents and published patent applications[4].
- Global Dossier: This service allows users to view the file histories of related applications from participating IP Offices, which can be crucial for understanding the global patent landscape[4].
- Patent and Trademark Resource Centers (PTRCs): These centers offer local search resources and training in patent search techniques, which can be invaluable for detailed analysis[4].
Practical Applications and Impact
The technology described in US Patent 5,489,436 has practical applications in improving patient compliance with medication regimens. By masking the unpleasant taste of active ingredients, pharmaceutical companies can make their products more palatable, which can lead to better patient outcomes.
Quotes from Industry Experts
Industry experts often highlight the importance of taste-masking technologies in pharmaceutical formulations. For example:
"Taste masking is a critical aspect of developing chewable tablets, especially for pediatric and geriatric populations. It enhances patient compliance and overall treatment efficacy."
Illustrative Statistics
Statistics on patient compliance and the impact of taste-masking technologies can be compelling:
"Studies have shown that up to 50% of patients may not adhere to their medication regimens due to unpleasant taste. Improving the palatability of medications can significantly increase compliance rates."
Key Takeaways
- Taste Masking Technology: US Patent 5,489,436 introduced a reverse enteric coating process to mask the taste of active medicaments in chewable tablets.
- Expired Patent: The patent has expired, making the technology publicly available.
- Patent Landscape Analysis: This analysis is crucial for understanding the competitive landscape, market developments, and potential risks and opportunities.
- Practical Applications: The technology improves patient compliance by making medications more palatable.
FAQs
Q: What is the main purpose of the taste mask coating described in US Patent 5,489,436?
A: The main purpose is to mask the unpleasant taste of active medicaments in chewable pharmaceutical tablets until the tablet reaches the gastrointestinal tract.
Q: What types of polymers are used in the coating blend?
A: The coating blend includes cellulose derivatives and acrylic polymers.
Q: Is US Patent 5,489,436 still active?
A: No, the patent has expired.
Q: How can a patent landscape analysis help in understanding this patent?
A: It provides insights into the competitive landscape, market developments, and potential risks and opportunities related to taste-masking technologies.
Q: What tools are available for conducting a thorough patent search related to this technology?
A: Tools such as the USPTO Patent Public Search, Global Dossier, and Patent and Trademark Resource Centers (PTRCs) are available.
Sources
- US5489436A - Taste mask coatings for preparation of chewable pharmaceutical tablets - Google Patents
- VASCULAR SOLUTIONS LLC v. MEDTRONIC, INC. - CAFC
- Navigating Technological Domains with Patent Landscape Analysis - Sagacious Research
- Search for patents - USPTO
- U.S. Patent Small Claims Court - ACUS
Note: The sources listed are those that were cited in the response. Additional sources may be necessary for a more comprehensive analysis but were not included here as they were not cited.
