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Last Updated: December 22, 2024

Details for Patent: 6,706,276

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Which drugs does patent 6,706,276 protect, and when does it expire?

Patent 6,706,276 protects PHEXXI and is included in one NDA.

This patent has nineteen patent family members in thirteen countries.

Summary for Patent: 6,706,276

Title:	Compositions and methods for trapping and inactivating pathogenic microbes and spermatozoa
Abstract:	Antimicrobial and contraceptive compositions and methods which prevent and/or reduce the risk of transmission of sexually transmitted diseases through sexual activity as well as prevent and/or reduce the risk of pregnancy are provided. The compositions contain (1) a matrix-forming agent, (2) a bio-adhesive agent, (3) a buffering agent, (4) optionally a humectant, (5) optionally a preservative, and (6) water; wherein the composition is suitable for application within the vagina; wherein the compositions forms a semisolid matrix on contact with ejaculate (thereby trapping ejaculated microbes and spermatozoa); wherein the composition causes hardening of cervical mucus (thereby decreasing the probability of sperm entry); wherein the composition forms a bio-adhesive layer over vaginal surfaces (thereby preventing or reducing the risk of contact of STD-causing microbes with the vaginal surfaces); wherein the composition maintains an acidic vaginal pH of less than about 5 in the presence of semen ejaculated from the male; and wherein the composition does not significantly impair the natural microbiological balance within the vagina. The antimicrobial and contraceptive compositions may also contain additional antimicrobial and/or contraceptive agents (e.g., nonoxynol-9, octoxynol-9, benzalkonium chloride, phosphorylated hesperidins, sulfonated hesperidins, polystyrene sulfonates, substituted benzenesulfonic acid formaldehyde co-polymers, H.sub.2 SO.sub.4 -modified mandelic acids, povidone iodine, itraconazole, ketoconazole, metronidazole, clotrimazole, fluconazole, teraconazole, miconazole, tinidazole, iconazole, chloramphenicol, nystatin, cyclopiroxolamine, and the like).
Inventor(s):	Garg; Sanjay (Punjab, IN), Zaneveld; Lourens Jan Dirk (Chicago, IL), Anderson, Jr.; Robert Anthony (Chicago, IL), Waller; Donald Paul (Oak Brook, IL)
Assignee:	Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke's Medical Center (Chicago, IL)
Application Number:	09/800,036
Patent Claim Types: see list of patent claims	Use; Composition; Compound; Dosage form;
Patent landscape, scope, and claims:	United States Patent 6,706,276: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape Introduction The United States Patent 6,706,276, hereafter referred to as the '276 patent, is a significant intellectual property asset in the field of women’s sexual and reproductive health. This patent, held by Rush University and exclusively licensed to Evofem Biosciences, covers a composition of matter for Phexxi®, a hormone-free, woman-controlled contraceptive and protective agent against certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Background and Invention Overview The '276 patent, issued on March 16, 2004, and initially set to expire in March 2009, has undergone several extensions and is now expected to expire in March 2026[2][5]. Composition and Method The patent describes compositions and methods for trapping and inactivating pathogenic microbes and spermatozoa. The invention involves the use of specific chemical compositions that can effectively capture and neutralize harmful microorganisms and sperm, thereby preventing pregnancy and reducing the risk of STIs[1][4]. Scope of the Patent Claim Structure The patent claims are structured to cover both the composition of matter and the methods of use. The claims include: Specific chemical compounds and their formulations. Methods for preparing these compositions. Methods for using these compositions to trap and inactivate microbes and spermatozoa[1]. Independent Claim Length and Count Research on patent scope suggests that the length and count of independent claims can be indicative of the patent's breadth. The '276 patent, with its detailed claims, reflects a focused yet comprehensive approach to covering the invention. The claims are narrowed down to ensure clarity and specificity, which is crucial for maintaining the patent's validity and enforceability[3]. Patent Claims and Specifications Composition of Matter The patent specifies the use of certain organic compounds, including carboxylic acids and their salts or anhydrides, which are key components in the composition. These compounds are designed to create an acidic environment that enhances the efficacy of the contraceptive microbicide and antiviral agents[1][4]. Methods for Use The methods described include the application of these compositions in various forms, such as gels or suppositories, to prevent pregnancy and protect against STIs. The patent emphasizes the synergistic effect of combining contraceptive microbicides and antiviral agents in an acidic carrier[4]. Patent Landscape Ownership and Licensing The '276 patent is held by Rush University and has been exclusively licensed to Evofem Biosciences. This licensing arrangement allows Evofem to commercialize Phexxi®, leveraging the intellectual property to address unmet needs in women’s sexual and reproductive health[2]. Related Patents Evofem Biosciences has a portfolio of patents related to Phexxi®, including several other U.S. patents filed between 2021 and 2024. These patents cover various aspects of the composition and methods, ensuring a robust intellectual property protection for the product[5]. Patent Expiration and Extensions The original expiration date of the '276 patent has been extended several times due to interim patent term extensions granted by the USPTO. The current expected expiration date is March 2026. These extensions are critical for maintaining the exclusivity of Phexxi® in the market[5]. Legal and Regulatory Activities Recent Activities Recent legal activities on the '276 patent include interim patent term extensions, changes in power of attorney, and correspondence address changes. These activities indicate ongoing efforts to maintain and extend the patent's life, ensuring continued protection for Phexxi®[5]. Impact on the Market Market Domination The exclusive licensing of the '276 patent to Evofem Biosciences allows the company to dominate the market for hormone-free, woman-controlled contraceptives and STI protection. This intellectual property asset is crucial for Evofem’s competitive advantage and its ability to address significant unmet needs in women’s health[2]. Innovation and Competition The patent landscape around Phexxi® encourages innovation in the field of reproductive health. While the '276 patent provides a strong foundation, other companies may be motivated to develop alternative solutions, driving further innovation and competition in the market[2]. Key Takeaways Composition and Method: The '276 patent covers specific compositions and methods for trapping and inactivating pathogenic microbes and spermatozoa. Scope and Claims: The patent includes detailed claims on the composition of matter and methods of use, ensuring clarity and specificity. Ownership and Licensing: The patent is held by Rush University and exclusively licensed to Evofem Biosciences. Patent Landscape: Evofem has a robust portfolio of related patents, and the '276 patent has undergone several extensions to maintain its exclusivity. Market Impact: The patent is crucial for Evofem’s market dominance in hormone-free, woman-controlled contraceptives and STI protection. FAQs What is the '276 patent, and what does it cover? The '276 patent covers compositions and methods for trapping and inactivating pathogenic microbes and spermatozoa, specifically related to Phexxi®, a hormone-free, woman-controlled contraceptive and protective agent against certain STIs. Who owns the '276 patent? The '276 patent is owned by Rush University and has been exclusively licensed to Evofem Biosciences. What is the current expected expiration date of the '276 patent? The current expected expiration date of the '276 patent is March 2026, following several interim patent term extensions. How does the '276 patent impact the market for women’s reproductive health products? The '276 patent allows Evofem Biosciences to dominate the market for hormone-free, woman-controlled contraceptives and STI protection, providing a significant competitive advantage. Are there other patents related to Phexxi®? Yes, Evofem Biosciences has a portfolio of other U.S. patents filed between 2021 and 2024 that cover various aspects of Phexxi®, ensuring robust intellectual property protection. Sources US6706276B2 - Compositions and methods for trapping and inactivating pathogenic microbes and spermatozoa - Google Patents Evofem Biosciences Announces Orange Book Listing of Two U.S. Patents for Phexxi - Biospace Patent Claims and Patent Scope - Hoover Institution United States Patent - googleapis.com - Patent Images Phexxi patent expiration - Pharsight Greyb More… ↓ ⤷ Subscribe

Drugs Protected by US Patent 6,706,276

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Applicant	Tradename	Generic Name	Dosage	NDA	Approval Date	TE	Type	RLD	RS	Patent No.	Patent Expiration	Product	Substance	Delist Req.	Patented / Exclusive Use	Submissiondate
Evofem Inc	PHEXXI	citric acid; lactic acid; potassium bitartrate	GEL;VAGINAL	208352-001	May 22, 2020		RX	Yes	Yes	6,706,276	⤷ Subscribe	Y				⤷ Subscribe
>Applicant	>Tradename	>Generic Name	>Dosage	>NDA	>Approval Date	>TE	>Type	>RLD	>RS	>Patent No.	>Patent Expiration	>Product	>Substance	>Delist Req.	>Patented / Exclusive Use	>Submissiondate

International Family Members for US Patent 6,706,276

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Country	Patent Number	Estimated Expiration	Supplementary Protection Certificate	SPC Country	SPC Expiration
Austria	489937	⤷ Subscribe
Australia	2001243431	⤷ Subscribe
Australia	4343101	⤷ Subscribe
Brazil	0109078	⤷ Subscribe
Brazil	PI0109078	⤷ Subscribe
>Country	>Patent Number	>Estimated Expiration	>Supplementary Protection Certificate	>SPC Country	>SPC Expiration

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