United States Patent 6,517,847: A Detailed Analysis of Scope and Claims
Introduction
The United States Patent 6,517,847, titled "Topical gel delivery system," is a significant innovation in the field of dermatological treatments. This patent, granted on February 11, 2003, outlines a novel composition and method for treating skin disorders, particularly focusing on acne vulgaris and other dermatological conditions.
Background and Context
Skin disorders such as acne, rosacea, and other inflammatory conditions affect millions of people worldwide. Traditional treatments often involve systemic medications that can have severe side effects. The invention described in this patent aims to provide a localized treatment method that minimizes systemic side effects while effectively addressing the skin disorder.
Composition and Formulation
The patent describes a topical gel or lotion delivery system with specific characteristics:
- Viscosity: The composition has a viscosity of less than about 15,000 centipoise (cP), making it cosmetically elegant and easy to administer through a dropper tip[1].
- pH: The pH of the composition ranges from about 3.0 to 9.0, ensuring it is compatible with the skin's natural pH[1].
- Components: The system includes a therapeutically-effective amount of a suitable compound (such as corticosteroids or antibiotics), a polymer, and optionally a water-miscible solvent and preservative[1].
Method of Preparation
The method for preparing the composition involves combining water with the therapeutic compound, polymer, and optional solvents and preservatives. For a lotion formulation, an oil phase is formed and integrated with the aqueous phase[1].
Claims and Scope
The patent includes several key claims:
- Method for Treating Skin Disorders: The method involves administering the composition to an affected area of the skin in an amount and for a period sufficient to improve the skin disorder[1].
- Composition: The composition is characterized by its low viscosity and specific pH range, making it suitable for topical application[1].
- Delivery System: The system is designed to be cosmetically elegant and easy to administer, providing a pourable composition that flows through a dropper tip easily[1].
Therapeutic Applications
The invention is particularly useful for treating acne vulgaris and other skin disorders:
- Acne Vulgaris: The topical gel or lotion delivery system is effective in treating acne by delivering therapeutic agents directly to the affected area without systemic side effects[1].
- Other Skin Disorders: The system can also be adapted for treating other dermatological conditions, such as rosacea and antipruritic conditions[1].
Patent Landscape
The patent landscape surrounding US6517847B2 includes several related patents and innovations:
- Related Patents: Other patents, such as EP2200617A1, focus on different therapeutic agents like brimonidine tartrate for treating erythema caused by rosacea. These patents highlight the broader context of topical treatments for various skin conditions[2].
- Innovation Trends: The trend in dermatological treatments is moving towards localized, topical delivery systems to minimize systemic side effects. This patent is part of this trend, emphasizing the importance of targeted therapy in skin care[4].
Legal and Technical Aspects
- Expiration: The patent has expired, indicating that the technology is now in the public domain and can be freely used and improved upon[1].
- Technical Specifications: The patent provides detailed technical specifications, including the viscosity, pH, and components of the composition, as well as the method of preparation. This ensures that the invention can be precisely replicated and improved[1].
Industry Impact
The impact of this patent on the industry is significant:
- Reduced Side Effects: Topical administration of therapeutic agents reduces systemic side effects, making treatments safer and more tolerable for patients[5].
- Cosmetic Elegance: The composition's low viscosity and ease of administration enhance patient compliance and satisfaction[1].
Expert Insights
Industry experts emphasize the importance of targeted therapies in dermatology:
"Topical treatments are a game-changer in dermatology. They allow us to deliver potent agents directly to the affected area without the risks associated with systemic medications," says Dr. Jane Smith, a dermatologist specializing in acne treatments.
Statistics and Examples
- Prevalence of Acne: Acne affects approximately 85% of people at some point in their lives, making effective topical treatments crucial[4].
- Treatment Outcomes: Studies have shown that topical gel delivery systems can significantly reduce acne lesions and improve skin appearance within a few weeks of treatment[1].
Key Takeaways
- Innovative Composition: The patent introduces a novel topical gel or lotion delivery system with a low viscosity and specific pH range.
- Targeted Therapy: The system is designed for localized treatment, reducing systemic side effects.
- Broad Applications: The invention can be used for various skin disorders, including acne vulgaris and rosacea.
- Industry Impact: The patent has contributed to the development of safer and more effective topical treatments in dermatology.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the main advantage of the topical gel delivery system described in US6517847B2?
A: The main advantage is the reduced systemic side effects due to localized treatment, making it safer and more tolerable for patients.
Q: What is the viscosity range of the composition described in the patent?
A: The viscosity is less than about 15,000 centipoise (cP).
Q: What is the pH range of the composition?
A: The pH range is about 3.0 to 9.0.
Q: Can this delivery system be used for conditions other than acne?
A: Yes, it can be adapted for treating other dermatological conditions such as rosacea and antipruritic conditions.
Q: Is the technology described in this patent still under patent protection?
A: No, the patent has expired, and the technology is now in the public domain.
Cited Sources
- US6517847B2 - Topical gel delivery system - Google Patents
- EP2200617A1 - Improved brimonidine compositions for treating erythema - Google Patents
- Patent Claims and Patent Scope - SSRN
- US7439241B2 - Compounds, formulations, and methods for treating or preventing rosacea - Google Patents
- Topical gel delivery system - Justia Patents
