Detailed Analysis of the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 6,126,920
Introduction
United States Patent 6,126,920, titled "Method of treating a skin disease with a corticosteroid-containing pharmaceutical composition," is a significant patent in the field of dermatology and pharmaceuticals. This analysis will delve into the scope, claims, and patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Background of the Invention
The patent, filed on March 1, 1996, and granted on October 3, 2000, relates to an improved composition for the topical application of corticosteroid active substances to treat skin diseases. The invention is particularly focused on the formulation and delivery system of corticosteroids, which are widely used in treating various skin conditions[4].
Scope of the Invention
The scope of the patent encompasses several key aspects:
Composition
The invention describes a pharmaceutical composition that includes a corticosteroid active substance, such as betamethasone valerate, combined with various excipients and a propellant system. The composition is designed to be dispensed as a foam under pressure, which enhances the delivery and efficacy of the corticosteroid[4].
Formulation
The formulation involves mixing the corticosteroid with ingredients like cetyl alcohol, octadecan-1-ol, polysorbate 60, and ethanol. The mixture is then heated and filtered before being filled into a can with a butane/propane propellant. This formulation ensures a stable and effective delivery of the corticosteroid[4].
Delivery System
The delivery system is a critical component of the invention. The composition is contained in a metal can with an appropriate valve/nozzle for dispensing the foam. The use of a propellant like butane/propane ensures that the composition is dispensed uniformly and effectively[4].
Claims of the Patent
The patent includes several claims that define the scope of the invention:
Independent Claims
- Claim 1 describes the pharmaceutical composition comprising a corticosteroid active substance, excipients, and a propellant system.
- Claim 2 specifies the method of preparing the composition.
- Claim 3 details the container and dispensing system for the composition[4].
Dependent Claims
- These claims further specify the types of corticosteroids, excipients, and propellants used, as well as the proportions and conditions for preparing the composition[4].
Patent Landscape
Family Applications
The patent is part of a family of applications that include:
- US08/913,144 (the original application)
- US10/256,754 (a continuation application)
- US11/394,848 (a continuation application that was later abandoned)[4].
Priority Applications
The patent claims priority from earlier applications filed in 1995, including GB9504265 and PCT/GB1996/000490[4].
Related Patents
The patent is related to other patents and applications in the field of corticosteroid formulations and delivery systems. For example, US7078058B2 is a continuation of the original application and covers similar aspects of the composition and delivery system[4].
Claim Coverage and Scope Concepts
To analyze the claim coverage and identify gaps or opportunities, a Claim Coverage Matrix can be used. This matrix categorizes the patents and claims by scope concepts, which are overarching themes that link claims on similar patents. For example:
- High-value claims: Those that directly protect the current products or methods of the company.
- Medium-value claims: Those indicating potential future directions.
- Low-value claims: Those that may not be worth maintaining[3].
Patent Analytics
Patent analytics tools, such as ClaimScape® software, can help in reviewing the patent coverage. These tools generate interactive claim charts that can be reviewed by technical experts to determine whether a particular scope concept is applicable to a target product or method. This helps in identifying gaps in current coverage and highlighting future design opportunities[3].
Legal Status and Expiration
The patent US6126920A has expired, which means that the invention is now in the public domain. This expiration can impact the competitive landscape, as other companies can now use the disclosed technology without infringing on the original patent[4].
Economic and Strategic Impact
The value of a patent like US6126920A can be significant, especially in the pharmaceutical industry. The sale prices of similar patents can range from hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars, depending on the technology and market demand. For instance, the sale of Novell's patents for $510,204 per patent and the Nortel patent portfolio for $750,000 per patent document highlight the economic value of such intellectual property[2].
Conclusion
United States Patent 6,126,920 is a comprehensive patent that covers a specific method of treating skin diseases using a corticosteroid-containing pharmaceutical composition. The scope of the invention includes the formulation, delivery system, and claims that define the boundaries of the patent. Understanding the patent landscape, claim coverage, and the economic impact is crucial for companies operating in the pharmaceutical and dermatology sectors.
Key Takeaways
- Composition and Formulation: The patent describes a specific composition and formulation for topical corticosteroid application.
- Delivery System: The invention includes a unique delivery system using a propellant to dispense the composition as a foam.
- Claims and Scope: The patent includes several claims that define the scope of the invention, including independent and dependent claims.
- Patent Landscape: The patent is part of a family of applications and has related patents in the field.
- Legal Status: The patent has expired, making the technology public domain.
- Economic Impact: The value of such patents can be substantial, influencing market strategies and competitive dynamics.
FAQs
Q1: What is the main focus of United States Patent 6,126,920?
The main focus is on an improved composition and delivery system for topical application of corticosteroid active substances to treat skin diseases.
Q2: What are the key components of the pharmaceutical composition described in the patent?
The composition includes a corticosteroid active substance, excipients like cetyl alcohol and polysorbate 60, and a butane/propane propellant system.
Q3: How is the composition dispensed according to the patent?
The composition is dispensed as a foam under pressure from a metal can with an appropriate valve/nozzle.
Q4: What is the current legal status of the patent?
The patent has expired, making the technology public domain.
Q5: How can companies benefit from analyzing the claims and scope of this patent?
Companies can use patent analytics tools to identify gaps in their current coverage, highlight future design opportunities, and understand the competitive landscape better.
Sources
- USPTO Search: Find existing patents, published patent applications and other published patent documentation[1].
- The Value of a Patent: Perpetual Motion Patents[2].
- Patent Analytics: Intellectual Property Law, SLWIP[3].
- Method of treating a skin disease with a corticosteroid-containing pharmaceutical composition: Google Patents[4].
