Analyzing the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 5,695,784: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
United States Patent 5,695,784, titled "Flavor-Masked Pharmaceutical Compositions," was issued on December 9, 1997. This patent is significant in the pharmaceutical industry, particularly in the development of taste-masked formulations. Here, we will delve into the scope and claims of this patent and analyze its position within the broader patent landscape.
Patent Overview
Title and Abstract
The patent titled "Flavor-Masked Pharmaceutical Compositions" addresses the issue of unpleasant tastes associated with certain pharmaceuticals. The abstract describes a method for masking the flavor of active pharmaceutical ingredients, making them more palatable for patients, especially children and the elderly.
Claims of the Patent
Independent Claims
The patent includes several independent claims that define the scope of the invention. These claims typically outline the composition, method of preparation, and the specific ingredients used to achieve the flavor-masking effect. For example, Claim 1 might describe a pharmaceutical composition comprising an active ingredient, a flavor-masking agent, and a carrier, where the flavor-masking agent is designed to reduce the unpleasant taste of the active ingredient[2].
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims further specify the details of the independent claims, such as the types of flavor-masking agents, the proportions of the ingredients, and the methods of preparing the composition. These claims help to narrow down the invention and provide additional protection against infringement.
Scope of the Patent
Technological Domain
The patent falls within the technological domain of pharmaceutical formulations, specifically in the area of taste masking. This domain is crucial for improving patient compliance, especially for medications with unpleasant tastes.
Key Components
- Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient: The patent specifies various active ingredients that can be used, such as antibiotics, antihistamines, and other drugs.
- Flavor-Masking Agent: This could include a variety of substances like sweeteners, flavor enhancers, or encapsulating materials.
- Carrier: The carrier can be a tablet, capsule, or liquid formulation that delivers the active ingredient and flavor-masking agent.
Patent Landscape Analysis
Defining Scope and Keywords
To conduct a patent landscape analysis around this patent, one would start by defining the scope and identifying relevant keywords such as "flavor-masked pharmaceutical compositions," "taste masking," "pharmaceutical formulations," and "palatable medications"[3].
Search and Organize Patents
Using databases like the USPTO's Patent Public Search tool, one can search for patents related to these keywords. The results can be organized by factors like filing date, assignee, and technology subcategories. Visual aids like heat maps can help in identifying clusters of patent activity.
Identify Trends and Key Players
The analysis would reveal trends in patent filings within the pharmaceutical formulation domain. Key players in this field, such as major pharmaceutical companies and research institutions, can be identified. For instance, companies like Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson, and Merck might have significant patent portfolios in this area.
Analyze Citations and Evolution
Studying how patents reference each other can provide insights into the development and impact of the technology. This analysis can show how the concept of flavor masking has evolved over time and how different patents have built upon or challenged the original invention.
Insights from Patent Landscape Analysis
Technological Trends
The analysis might show an increasing trend in the development of taste-masked formulations, particularly with the advancement of encapsulation technologies and new flavor-masking agents. This trend could be driven by the growing need for patient-friendly medications.
Competitive Landscape
The competitive landscape in this domain would include major pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, and research institutions. The analysis could highlight potential competitors and collaborators, as well as areas of innovation that are less crowded.
Legal Vulnerabilities
Understanding the patent landscape can also help in identifying potential legal vulnerabilities. For example, if there are overlapping patents or if the patent in question is at risk of being invalidated due to prior art, this would be crucial information for strategic decision-making.
Key Players and Innovations
Major Pharmaceutical Companies
Companies like Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson, and Merck have been active in the development of pharmaceutical formulations. These companies often have extensive patent portfolios that include innovations in taste masking and other related technologies.
Research Institutions
Universities and research institutions also play a significant role in the development of new pharmaceutical formulations. Their patents and publications can provide valuable insights into emerging trends and technologies.
Global Patent Trends
International Comparisons
Using the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) classification, one can compare patent trends globally. The report on "Invention: U.S. and Comparative Global Trends" highlights that patents in the chemical and pharmaceutical fields are significant globally, with the U.S., Europe, and Japan being major hubs for such innovations[1].
Tools and Resources for Patent Search
USPTO Resources
The USPTO provides several tools for patent searching, including the Patent Public Search tool, Global Dossier, and the Patent and Trademark Resource Centers (PTRCs). These resources are invaluable for conducting a comprehensive patent landscape analysis[4].
International Databases
Databases from other international intellectual property offices, such as the European Patent Office (EPO), Japan Patent Office (JPO), and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), can also be used to search for patents globally.
Conclusion
United States Patent 5,695,784 is a significant contribution to the field of pharmaceutical formulations, particularly in the area of taste masking. A thorough patent landscape analysis around this patent can provide valuable insights into technological trends, key players, and potential legal vulnerabilities. This information is crucial for inventors, researchers, and businesses looking to innovate and protect their intellectual property in this domain.
Key Takeaways
- Patent Scope: The patent covers flavor-masked pharmaceutical compositions, including the method of preparation and specific ingredients.
- Technological Domain: The patent falls within the pharmaceutical formulations domain, specifically taste masking.
- Key Players: Major pharmaceutical companies and research institutions are key players in this domain.
- Global Trends: The global patent landscape shows significant activity in the chemical and pharmaceutical fields.
- Tools and Resources: The USPTO and international databases are essential for conducting a comprehensive patent landscape analysis.
FAQs
What is the main purpose of United States Patent 5,695,784?
The main purpose of this patent is to provide a method for masking the unpleasant taste of active pharmaceutical ingredients, making medications more palatable for patients.
How does the patent landscape analysis help in understanding this patent?
A patent landscape analysis helps in identifying trends, key players, and potential legal vulnerabilities within the technological domain of pharmaceutical formulations. It provides insights into the competitive landscape and technological evolution.
What are the key components of the flavor-masked pharmaceutical compositions described in the patent?
The key components include the active pharmaceutical ingredient, a flavor-masking agent, and a carrier such as a tablet, capsule, or liquid formulation.
Which tools and resources are available for conducting a patent landscape analysis?
Tools such as the USPTO's Patent Public Search, Global Dossier, and international databases like the EPO, JPO, and WIPO are available for conducting a comprehensive patent landscape analysis.
How does the global patent landscape reflect the importance of this technology?
The global patent landscape shows significant activity in the chemical and pharmaceutical fields, indicating the importance of taste masking and other related technologies in improving patient compliance and medication efficacy.
