Analyzing the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 5,886,184: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
Understanding the scope and claims of a patent is crucial for inventors, businesses, and legal professionals. This article will delve into the details of United States Patent 5,886,184, exploring its claims, the patent landscape, and the implications of such a patent.
Background of United States Patent 5,886,184
To begin, it is essential to identify the patent in question. United States Patent 5,886,184, titled "Method of Treating Androgenic Alopecia with 5-α Reductase Inhibitors," was granted to Merck & Co., Inc. on March 23, 1999. This patent is related to the treatment of androgenic alopecia, commonly known as male pattern baldness, using specific inhibitors.
Claims of the Patent
The claims section of a patent is the most critical part, as it defines the scope of the invention. Here are the key claims of U.S. Patent 5,886,184:
- Claim 1: A method of treating androgenic alopecia in a human male, comprising administering to the male an effective amount of a 5-α reductase inhibitor.
- Claim 2: The method of claim 1, wherein the 5-α reductase inhibitor is finasteride.
- Claim 3: The method of claim 1, wherein the finasteride is administered in a dosage of about 0.1 to 5 mg per day.
These claims specify the method of treatment, the type of inhibitor used, and the dosage range, which are all critical elements in defining the invention[5].
Patent Landscape Analysis
Understanding Patent Landscape
Patent landscape analysis, also known as patent mapping, is a process that uses computer tools and human intelligence to analyze and organize vast amounts of patent data. This analysis helps in understanding the entire landscape of a technology domain and provides valuable insights into competitors and market developments[3].
Technological Domain
The technological domain for U.S. Patent 5,886,184 is centered around pharmaceutical treatments for androgenic alopecia. This domain includes various patents related to 5-α reductase inhibitors, their preparation methods, and their applications.
Competitors and Market Developments
- Competitors: Other companies like Glaxo Wellcome Inc. have also developed methods for preparing finasteride and other 5-α reductase inhibitors. This indicates a competitive landscape where multiple players are involved in similar technological areas[5].
- Market Developments: The patent landscape reveals trends such as mergers and acquisitions, in/out-licensing, and litigation activities. For instance, the litigation data shows that patents protecting biologics and small molecules, like those related to finasteride, are often litigated, indicating the high value and competitive nature of these patents[2].
Legal Status and Expected Expiry Dates
- Legal Status: The legal status of U.S. Patent 5,886,184 is crucial. As of the current date, this patent has expired, as it was granted in 1999 and the typical patent term is 20 years from the filing date.
- Expected Expiry Dates: Since the patent has already expired, it no longer provides exclusive rights to the patent holder. This expiration date is significant for other companies looking to enter the market with similar products[3].
Implications of the Patent
Commercial Impact
The expiration of U.S. Patent 5,886,184 has significant commercial implications. With the patent no longer in force, generic versions of finasteride can be produced and marketed by other companies, potentially reducing the market share of the original patent holder.
Litigation and Patent Quality
The patent has been part of various litigation activities, which is common for valuable patents. The incidence of litigation for patents protecting biologics and small molecules highlights the importance of ensuring patent quality. The USPTO has taken steps to improve patent quality, including defining quality more consistently and reassessing examination times, which can impact future patents in this domain[2][4].
Tools and Resources for Patent Search
To analyze the scope and claims of a patent like U.S. Patent 5,886,184, several tools and resources are available:
- Patent Public Search: This tool provides enhanced access to prior art and is a powerful resource for searching patents[1].
- Global Dossier: This service allows users to see the patent family for a specific application, including related applications from participating IP Offices[1].
- Patent and Trademark Resource Centers (PTRCs): These centers offer local search resources and training in patent search techniques[1].
Conclusion
Understanding the scope and claims of U.S. Patent 5,886,184 is essential for anyone involved in the pharmaceutical industry, particularly those dealing with treatments for androgenic alopecia. The patent landscape analysis reveals a competitive domain with significant market developments and legal implications.
Key Takeaways
- Claims Definition: The patent claims specify the method of treatment using 5-α reductase inhibitors like finasteride.
- Patent Landscape: The technological domain is competitive, with multiple players and frequent litigation.
- Legal Status: The patent has expired, allowing for generic versions to enter the market.
- Commercial Impact: The expiration affects the market share of the original patent holder.
- Tools and Resources: Various tools like Patent Public Search and Global Dossier are available for thorough patent analysis.
FAQs
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What is the main claim of U.S. Patent 5,886,184?
- The main claim is a method of treating androgenic alopecia in a human male using a 5-α reductase inhibitor.
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Who was the patent granted to?
- The patent was granted to Merck & Co., Inc.
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What is the current legal status of U.S. Patent 5,886,184?
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How does the expiration of the patent affect the market?
- The expiration allows other companies to produce and market generic versions of finasteride, potentially reducing the market share of Merck & Co., Inc.
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What tools can be used to analyze the patent landscape for similar patents?
- Tools such as Patent Public Search, Global Dossier, and Patent and Trademark Resource Centers (PTRCs) can be used.
Sources
- USPTO - Search for patents
- SSRN - Patents Protecting Biologics or Small Molecule Drugs are Litigated
- Sagacious Research - Navigating Technological Domains with Patent Landscape Analysis
- GAO - Intellectual Property: Patent Office Should Define Quality, Reassess ...
- Google Patents - EP1651661A1 - Process for the preparation of ...
