United States Patent 6,702,997: A Comprehensive Analysis
Overview of the Patent
United States Patent 6,702,997, titled "Albuterol inhalation solution, system, kit and method for relieving symptoms of pediatric asthma," was granted to address the specific needs of pediatric patients suffering from asthma. This patent encompasses an albuterol inhalation solution, a system for administering it, a kit, and the associated methods.
Inventors and Assignees
The patent was filed by the inventors who developed the specific formulation and delivery system for albuterol, a common bronchodilator used in asthma treatment. The assignees are typically the entities that own the rights to the patent, often pharmaceutical companies or research institutions.
Publication and Legal Status
The patent was published on March 9, 2004, and its legal status is listed as expired, indicating that the patent's lifetime has ended, and it is no longer in force[4].
Claims and Scope
Independent Claims
The patent includes several independent claims that define the scope of the invention. These claims typically cover the albuterol inhalation solution, the system for administering it, and the prepackaged kit.
- Claim 1: This claim usually defines the broadest scope of the invention, such as the composition of the albuterol inhalation solution.
- Claim 2: This might cover the system for administering the solution, including any devices or apparatuses.
- Claim 3: This could pertain to the prepackaged kit, including the single unit dosages and administration instructions[4].
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims further narrow down the scope of the independent claims by adding additional limitations. For example:
- Claim 4: This might specify the concentration of albuterol in the solution.
- Claim 5: This could detail the materials used in the prepackaged kit or the specific instructions for administration[4].
Description of the Invention
Albuterol Inhalation Solution
The patent describes an albuterol inhalation solution specifically formulated for pediatric patients. This solution is designed to relieve bronchospasm associated with asthma. The formulation includes a therapeutically effective amount of albuterol, which is a well-known bronchodilator[4].
System for Administering the Solution
The system includes devices such as nebulizers that are used to administer the inhalation solution. Figures 1-4 in the patent depict non-limiting examples of how the solution is administered using a nebulizer[4].
Prepackaged Kit
The prepackaged kit is a key component of the invention, designed for ease of use and convenience. It includes:
- Single unit dosages of albuterol in premeasured, premixed vials.
- Administration instructions for using the unit doses as an asthma treatment for pediatric patients.
- A dispensing container prefilled with the unit doses[4].
Classifications and Prior Art
The patent is classified under various categories within the International Patent Classification (IPC) system:
- A61K31/13: Medicinal preparations containing organic active ingredients, specifically amines.
- A61K9/007: Pulmonary tract; aromatherapy, specifically sprays or powders for inhalation.
- A61P11/06: Antiasthmatics[4].
Patent Landscape
Competing Patents
The patent landscape for albuterol inhalation solutions and related delivery systems is complex, with several other patents covering similar or related inventions. Competing patents may include variations in formulation, delivery mechanisms, or specific applications (e.g., adult vs. pediatric use).
Global Patent Family
To understand the full scope of protection, it is essential to look at the global patent family. This involves searching databases such as the European Patent Office (EPO), Japan Patent Office (JPO), and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) to see if similar patents have been filed in other jurisdictions[1].
Patent Analytics and Claim Coverage
Claim Coverage Matrix
To analyze the claims of this patent effectively, a Claim Coverage Matrix can be used. This tool helps in categorizing patents by claims and scope concepts, making it easier to identify gaps or opportunities in the patent coverage. For example, Schwegman’s ClaimScape® software can generate interactive claim charts to review patent coverage with technical experts[3].
Scope Concepts
The scope concepts of the patent claims can be categorized into high, medium, or low value based on their current and future relevance to the company. This helps in determining whether the claims cover the intended technology and identifying areas for future design opportunities[3].
Practical Applications and Benefits
Clinical Benefits
The albuterol inhalation solution and delivery system provide a convenient and effective way to relieve bronchospasm in pediatric patients. The prepackaged kit ensures that each dose is accurately measured, reducing the risk of overdose or underdose.
Market Impact
This patent has likely influenced the development of similar products in the market, particularly those targeting pediatric asthma treatment. The expiration of the patent could open up opportunities for generic or similar products to enter the market.
Conclusion
United States Patent 6,702,997 is a significant contribution to the field of pediatric asthma treatment, offering a specifically formulated albuterol inhalation solution, a system for its administration, and a prepackaged kit. Understanding the claims, scope, and patent landscape is crucial for companies looking to develop or improve similar products.
Key Takeaways
- Specific Formulation: The patent covers a specific albuterol inhalation solution designed for pediatric patients.
- Delivery System: The system includes devices like nebulizers for administering the solution.
- Prepackaged Kit: The kit includes premeasured, premixed vials and administration instructions.
- Patent Landscape: The patent is part of a broader landscape that includes competing patents and global filings.
- Claim Coverage: Analyzing the claims using tools like Claim Coverage Matrix and scope concepts is essential for understanding the patent's value.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the primary focus of United States Patent 6,702,997?
A1: The primary focus is on an albuterol inhalation solution, system, and prepackaged kit specifically designed for relieving bronchospasm in pediatric patients with asthma.
Q2: How is the albuterol inhalation solution administered?
A2: The solution is administered using devices such as nebulizers, as depicted in the patent figures.
Q3: What are the key components of the prepackaged kit?
A3: The kit includes single unit dosages of albuterol in premeasured, premixed vials and administration instructions.
Q4: Why is it important to analyze the claims of this patent?
A4: Analyzing the claims helps in understanding the scope of protection, identifying gaps or opportunities, and determining the value of the patent to the company.
Q5: What happens now that the patent has expired?
A5: With the patent expired, similar products can now be developed and marketed without infringing on the original patent, potentially leading to more competition in the market.
Cited Sources
- USPTO - Search for patents.
- Federal Register - 2024 Guidance Update on Patent Subject Matter Eligibility.
- SLWIP - Patent Analytics.
- Google Patents - Albuterol inhalation solution, system, kit and method for relieving symptoms of pediatric asthma.
- PubChem - Apparatus and method for diluting nasal sprays containing addictive compounds.
