Detailed Analysis of the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 5,688,819
Introduction
United States Patent 5,688,819, titled "Cyclopentane Heptanoic Acid, 2-Cycloalkyl or Arylalkyl Derivatives as Therapeutic Agents," was granted on November 18, 1997, to Allergan, Inc. This patent is significant in the field of ophthalmology, particularly for the treatment of glaucoma and ocular hypertension.
Background of the Invention
The patent describes a series of cyclopentane heptanoic acid compounds, specifically those substituted with 2-cycloalkyl or arylalkyl groups. These compounds are identified as potent ocular hypotensives, making them suitable for managing glaucoma and ocular hypertension[1].
Claims of the Patent
The patent includes multiple claims that define the scope of the invention. Here are some key claims:
- Claim 1: This claim describes the general structure of the cyclopentane heptanoic acid compounds, including those substituted with amino, amido, ether, or ester groups in the 1-position[1].
- Claim 10: This claim is particularly relevant in litigation, as it specifies the therapeutic use of these compounds for treating glaucoma and ocular hypertension. This claim has been central in patent infringement cases, such as the one against Barr Laboratories and Sandoz Inc.[2][5].
Scope of the Invention
The scope of the invention encompasses the synthesis, composition, and therapeutic application of the specified cyclopentane heptanoic acid derivatives. These compounds are designed to reduce intraocular pressure (IOP), a critical factor in managing glaucoma and ocular hypertension.
Therapeutic Applications
The patent highlights the compounds' efficacy in lowering IOP, making them valuable for treating conditions like glaucoma and ocular hypertension. The therapeutic agents described are particularly noted for their potency and specificity in ocular applications[1].
Patent Landscape Analysis
Defining Scope and Keywords
To analyze the patent landscape around U.S. Patent 5,688,819, one must define the relevant technology field and keywords. Key terms include "cyclopentane heptanoic acid," "2-cycloalkyl or arylalkyl derivatives," "ocular hypotensives," and "glaucoma treatment."
Search and Organize Patents
Using patent databases, one can retrieve relevant patents based on these keywords. Organizing these patents by factors such as filing date, assignee, and technology subcategories helps in understanding the evolution and distribution of related patents[3].
Identify Trends and Key Players
The analysis reveals that Allergan, Inc. is a significant player in this field, with multiple patents related to ocular therapeutic agents. Other key players may include pharmaceutical companies that have filed ANDAs (Abbreviated New Drug Applications) for generic versions of these drugs, such as Barr Laboratories and Sandoz Inc.[2][5].
Analyze Citations and Evolution
Studying the citations and references within the patent and related patents provides insights into the technological development and impact of these compounds. For example, U.S. Patent 5,688,819 is cited in later patents such as US20130245124A1, which pertains to preservative-free bimatoprost solutions, indicating ongoing innovation in the field[4].
Generate Insights for Decisions
The analysis helps in understanding the competitive landscape, identifying potential legal vulnerabilities, and guiding strategic decisions. For instance, the litigation history involving this patent highlights the importance of robust patent protection and the challenges faced by generic drug manufacturers[2][5].
Litigation and Infringement
The patent has been involved in several high-profile litigation cases, notably against Barr Laboratories and Sandoz Inc., which filed ANDAs for generic versions of Lumigan® (bimatoprost ophthalmic solution), a product protected by this patent. These cases underscore the patent's significance and the legal battles surrounding generic drug approvals[2][5].
Key Takeaways
- Therapeutic Significance: The patent covers compounds that are potent ocular hypotensives, crucial for managing glaucoma and ocular hypertension.
- Litigation History: The patent has been central in several infringement cases, highlighting its importance and the legal challenges in the pharmaceutical industry.
- Patent Landscape: The analysis reveals Allergan, Inc. as a key player, with ongoing innovation and legal battles shaping the landscape.
- Technological Evolution: The patent's citations and references indicate continuous development in ocular therapeutic agents.
FAQs
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What is the main therapeutic application of the compounds described in U.S. Patent 5,688,819?
- The main therapeutic application is the treatment of glaucoma and ocular hypertension by reducing intraocular pressure.
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Which company holds the U.S. Patent 5,688,819?
- Allergan, Inc. holds the U.S. Patent 5,688,819.
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What is the significance of Claim 10 in U.S. Patent 5,688,819?
- Claim 10 specifies the therapeutic use of the compounds for treating glaucoma and ocular hypertension, which has been a focal point in patent infringement cases.
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How has U.S. Patent 5,688,819 been involved in litigation?
- The patent has been involved in infringement cases against companies like Barr Laboratories and Sandoz Inc., which filed ANDAs for generic versions of Lumigan®.
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What insights can be gained from a patent landscape analysis of U.S. Patent 5,688,819?
- The analysis provides insights into the competitive landscape, key players, technological trends, and potential legal vulnerabilities in the field of ocular therapeutic agents.
Cited Sources
- United States Patent and Trademark Office - Cyclopentane Heptanoic Acid, 2-Cycloalkyl or Arylalkyl Derivatives as Therapeutic Agents [US5688819A][1].
- Casetext - Allergan, Inc. v. Barr Labs., Inc.[2].
- Goldstein Patent Law - How to Do Patent Landscape Analysis[3].
- Google Patents - Preservative free bimatoprost solutions [US20130245124A1][4].
- Casetext - Allergan, Inc. v. Sandoz Inc.[5].
