Detailed Analysis of the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 5,681,849
Overview of the Patent
United States Patent 5,681,849, titled "Pharmaceutical composition for topical applications," is a continuation of application Ser. No. 07/884,681, filed on May 18, 1992. This patent pertains to topical pharmaceutical compositions, specifically those containing an allylamine compound as the active ingredient.
Scope of the Patent
Active Ingredient and Composition
The patent focuses on topical pharmaceutical compositions that include an allylamine compound, such as terbinafine, as the pharmacologically active agent. These compositions can be in various forms, including solutions, gels, fluid gels, emulsion gels, and lotions[1].
Formulation Characteristics
The compositions are designed to be non-greasy and can be liquid or viscous. They may contain a lower alkanol, such as ethanol, in concentrations ranging from 5 to 35% by weight. Water is also a preferred component, typically present in concentrations from 50 to 85% by weight[1][2].
Preparation Process
The patent describes a process for preparing these topical compositions, which involves working up the allylamine compound with a lower alkanol and adding further excipients as necessary[1].
Claims of the Patent
Composition Claims
- The patent claims compositions containing an allylamine compound of a specific formula (Formula I) and a lower alkanol.
- It specifies that these compositions can be solutions, gels, fluid gels, emulsion gels, or lotions[1].
Concentration Claims
- The claims include compositions with 5 to 35% by weight of a lower alkanol, such as ethanol[2].
Form Claims
- The patent claims various physical forms of the compositions, including non-greasy solutions, emulsion gels, and lotions[1].
Patent Landscape Analysis
Technology Domain
The patent falls within the domain of pharmaceutical compositions, specifically topical applications for dermatological disorders. This includes treatments for fungal skin and nail infections, which is a key area where allylamine compounds like terbinafine are used[1][4].
Key Players and Trends
- The patent landscape in this domain is characterized by significant contributions from pharmaceutical companies specializing in dermatological treatments.
- Trends include the development of more effective and user-friendly topical formulations, with a focus on non-greasy and easily applicable forms[3].
Citation and Evolution Analysis
- This patent is part of a broader landscape of patents related to allylamine compounds and their applications.
- Analyzing citations and references to this patent can reveal its impact on subsequent innovations in topical pharmaceutical compositions[3].
Competitive Landscape
- Performing a patent landscape analysis in this domain helps identify competitors and their key patents.
- It also reveals areas of high patent activity, such as the development of new antifungal agents and improved delivery systems[3].
Insights from Patent Landscape Analysis
Technological Trends
- The analysis shows a trend towards more targeted and effective treatments for dermatological disorders.
- There is a focus on improving the formulation and delivery of topical treatments to enhance patient compliance and efficacy[3].
Key Players
- Major pharmaceutical companies and research institutions are actively involved in developing new topical compositions.
- Identifying these key players can help in understanding the competitive landscape and potential collaborations or licensing opportunities[3].
Strengths and Weaknesses
- A patent portfolio analysis would reveal the strengths and weaknesses of the patent portfolio related to this technology.
- It helps in identifying solid assets, pruning weak ones, and aligning patents with strategic business objectives[3].
Data Visualization and Analysis
Heat Maps and Citation Networks
- Visual tools like heat maps and citation networks can help in identifying geographical distribution, interconnections among patents, and trends in patent filings.
- These visualizations can reveal innovation hotspots and potential white spaces in the technology domain[3].
Geographical Distribution
- Analyzing the geographical distribution of patent filings can highlight regions with high innovation activity in topical pharmaceutical compositions.
- This information can be crucial for strategic decisions regarding research and development investments[3].
Practical Insights for Strategic Decisions
Competitive Edge
- A patent landscape analysis provides actionable insights that can give a competitive edge by identifying competitors’ key patents and technological trends.
- It helps in determining the strengths and weaknesses of the patent portfolio and aligning it with business goals[3].
R&D and Business Planning
- The analysis aids in making informed decisions in R&D, business development, and IP strategies.
- It helps in identifying areas for innovation and potential legal vulnerabilities in the patent landscape[3].
Key Takeaways
- Topical Compositions: The patent focuses on topical pharmaceutical compositions containing allylamine compounds, such as terbinafine.
- Formulation: The compositions can be in various forms like solutions, gels, and lotions, with specific concentration ranges for lower alkanols and water.
- Preparation Process: The patent describes a process for preparing these compositions.
- Patent Landscape: The analysis reveals trends, key players, and technological evolution in the domain of topical pharmaceutical compositions.
- Competitive Insights: The analysis provides actionable insights for strategic decisions, helping to identify competitors, strengths, and weaknesses in the patent portfolio.
FAQs
What is the primary active ingredient in the topical compositions described in US Patent 5,681,849?
The primary active ingredient is an allylamine compound, such as terbinafine.
What forms can the topical compositions take according to the patent?
The compositions can be solutions, gels, fluid gels, emulsion gels, or lotions.
What is the role of lower alkanols in the compositions?
Lower alkanols, such as ethanol, are included in concentrations ranging from 5 to 35% by weight to enhance the formulation characteristics.
How does the patent landscape analysis help in this domain?
It helps in identifying trends, key players, and technological evolution, providing actionable insights for strategic decisions.
What are the benefits of performing a patent landscape analysis in this technology domain?
It provides a competitive edge by identifying competitors’ key patents, technological trends, and potential white spaces, aiding in R&D and business planning.
Sources
- US Patent 5,681,849 - Pharmaceutical composition for topical applications.
- Justia Patent - US Patent for Pharmaceutical composition for topical applications.
- Goldstein Patent Law - How to Do Patent Landscape Analysis.
- DrugBank - Terbinafine: Uses, Interactions, Mechanism of Action.
