United States Patent 5,855,912: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
The United States Patent 5,855,912, titled "Pharmaceutical compositions for piperidinoalkanol compounds," is a significant patent in the pharmaceutical industry, particularly in the realm of antihistamines and related therapeutic agents. This analysis will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Patent Overview
Publication Details
- Publication Number: US5855912A
- Authority: United States
- Prior Art Date: The patent was filed on February 28, 1995, and granted on January 5, 1999[4].
Invention Description
The patent describes pharmaceutical compositions in solid unit dosage form, comprising a therapeutically effective amount of a piperidinoalkanol compound or its pharmaceutically acceptable salt. These compositions also include a nonionic or cationic surfactant and a pharmaceutically acceptable carbonate salt. The invention is specifically tailored for oral administration in forms such as tablets, capsules, or powders[4].
Scope of the Patent
Technological Domain
The patent falls within the domain of pharmaceutical formulations, specifically focusing on piperidinoalkanol compounds. These compounds are known for their therapeutic effects as antihistamines, antiallergy agents, bronchodilators, and in the treatment of urticaria.
Key Components
- Piperidinoalkanol Compounds: The patent details various formulas (I, II, and III) for these compounds, which are incorporated by reference from earlier patents (U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,878,217, 4,254,129, and 4,285,957)[4].
- Surfactants and Carbonate Salts: The compositions include a surfactant in an amount of 0.1% to 6% by weight and a carbonate salt in an amount of 2% to 50% by weight[4].
Claims of the Patent
Independent Claims
The patent includes several independent claims that define the scope of the invention:
- Claim 1: A pharmaceutical composition in solid unit dosage form comprising a piperidinoalkanol compound, a surfactant, and a carbonate salt.
- Claim 5: A method of preparing the pharmaceutical composition through a wet granulation process[4].
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims further specify the composition and method, including details on the preparation process, the types of surfactants and carbonate salts, and the preferred forms of the solid unit dosage.
Patent Landscape Analysis
Defining Scope and Keywords
To analyze the patent landscape, one must first define the scope and identify relevant keywords. For this patent, keywords include "piperidinoalkanol compounds," "pharmaceutical compositions," "solid unit dosage form," and "therapeutically effective amount"[3].
Search and Organize Patents
Using databases such as the USPTO's Patent Public Search tool, the European Patent Office's esp@cenet, and the World Intellectual Property Organization's PATENTSCOPE, one can retrieve and organize relevant patents. This involves categorizing patents by filing date, assignee, and technology subcategories[1][3].
Identify Trends and Key Players
The analysis reveals trends in patent filings related to pharmaceutical compositions and piperidinoalkanol compounds. Key players in this domain include pharmaceutical companies that have filed numerous patents related to these compounds and their formulations.
Analyze Citations and Evolution
Studying how patents reference each other helps in understanding the impact and development of the technology. For example, the patent US5855912A references earlier patents (U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,878,217, 4,254,129, and 4,285,957) and is itself referenced in later patents, indicating its significance in the field[4].
Generate Insights for Decisions
The analysis provides insights into the competitive landscape and potential legal vulnerabilities. It helps in evaluating the strength of the patent portfolio and identifying areas for innovation and strategic decision-making[3].
Competitive Landscape
Key Players
Companies like Pfizer and other major pharmaceutical firms have been active in this domain, filing numerous patents related to piperidinoalkanol compounds and their formulations. These companies have significant patent portfolios that reflect their ongoing research and development in antihistamines and related therapeutic agents.
Technological Trends
The trend in patent filings indicates a continuous effort to improve the efficacy and delivery of piperidinoalkanol compounds. Innovations in formulation, such as sustained-release and immediate-release formulations, are prominent areas of focus.
Legal Considerations
Patent Validity and Expiration
The patent US5855912A has expired, which means that the specific compositions and methods described are now in the public domain. However, later patents that build upon this technology may still be in force, and understanding the patent landscape is crucial for avoiding infringement[4].
Litigation and Disputes
There have been legal disputes involving patents related to fexofenadine formulations, which are closely related to piperidinoalkanol compounds. For instance, the '912 patent was mentioned in a court case involving fexofenadine formulations, highlighting the importance of thorough patent analysis in legal contexts[5].
Conclusion
The United States Patent 5,855,912 is a pivotal patent in the pharmaceutical industry, particularly in the field of antihistamines and related therapeutic agents. Understanding its scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape is essential for any entity involved in research, development, or litigation related to piperidinoalkanol compounds.
Key Takeaways
- Patent Scope: The patent covers pharmaceutical compositions in solid unit dosage form containing piperidinoalkanol compounds.
- Claims: The patent includes claims for the composition and method of preparation.
- Patent Landscape: The analysis reveals trends, key players, and the evolution of technology in this domain.
- Competitive Landscape: Major pharmaceutical companies are key players, with ongoing innovations in formulations.
- Legal Considerations: The patent has expired, but later patents and legal disputes are relevant.
FAQs
What is the main subject of the United States Patent 5,855,912?
The main subject is pharmaceutical compositions in solid unit dosage form containing piperidinoalkanol compounds.
Who are the key players in the patent landscape related to this patent?
Major pharmaceutical companies such as Pfizer are key players in this domain.
What is the current legal status of the patent US5855912A?
The patent has expired, meaning the described compositions and methods are now in the public domain.
How can a patent landscape analysis help in understanding this patent?
A patent landscape analysis provides insights into trends, key players, and the evolution of technology, helping in strategic decision-making and avoiding legal vulnerabilities.
What databases can be used to conduct a patent landscape analysis for this patent?
Databases such as the USPTO's Patent Public Search, the European Patent Office's esp@cenet, and the World Intellectual Property Organization's PATENTSCOPE can be used.
Sources
- USPTO - Search for patents. Retrieved from https://www.uspto.gov/patents/search
- Justia - US Patent for Pharmaceutical compositions for piperidinalkanol. Retrieved from https://patents.justia.com/patent/5855912
- Goldstein Patent Law - How to Do Patent Landscape Analysis. Retrieved from https://www.goldsteinpatentlaw.com/how-to-patent-landscape-analysis/
- Google Patents - US5855912A - Pharmaceutical compositions for piperidinalkanol compounds. Retrieved from https://patents.google.com/patent/US5855912A/en
- GovInfo - UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT. Retrieved from https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/USCOURTS-njd-3_10-cv-01471/pdf/USCOURTS-njd-3_10-cv-01471-1.pdf
