United States Patent 6,787,529: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
The United States Patent 6,787,529, titled "Topical composition," is a significant patent in the field of pharmaceuticals, particularly for the treatment of skin conditions such as psoriasis. This analysis will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Background of the Patent
The patent, issued on September 7, 2004, pertains to a pharmaceutical gel composition designed for topical application on the skin. The invention combines at least one vitamin D or vitamin D analogue with at least one corticosteroid, along with a viscosity-increasing excipient to ensure even distribution and stability of the active ingredients[4].
Scope of the Invention
The scope of the patent is defined by its application in treating skin conditions, notably psoriasis and related conditions such as sebo-psoriasis of the scalp. The composition is specifically formulated to address the instability issues of corticosteroids at alkaline pH values and vitamin D analogues at acid pH values, which were common challenges in previous formulations[4].
Key Components
- Vitamin D or Vitamin D Analogue: The composition includes at least one vitamin D or its analogue, such as calcipotriol, which is known for its efficacy in treating psoriasis.
- Corticosteroid: The inclusion of a corticosteroid, such as those commonly used in dermatological treatments, enhances the therapeutic effect.
- Viscosity-Increasing Excipient: This component ensures that the corticosteroid does not sediment during application and storage, facilitating an even distribution on the affected skin area[4].
Claims of the Patent
The patent includes several claims that define the invention's boundaries:
Independent Claims
- Claim 1: The pharmaceutical gel composition comprising at least one vitamin D or vitamin D analogue and at least one corticosteroid, along with a viscosity-increasing excipient.
- Claim 2: The method of preparing the composition, involving melting the base excipient, adding the vitamin D analogue solution, and then adding the corticosteroid dispersion[4].
Dependent Claims
- Claims that specify the types of excipients, solvents, and anti-fungal agents that can be included in the composition.
- Claims that detail the concentration ranges of the active ingredients and the preparation process[4].
Patent Landscape
The patent landscape surrounding US 6,787,529 involves several key aspects:
Prior Art and Related Patents
- The invention builds upon previous knowledge of combining vitamin D analogues and corticosteroids for dermatological treatments. However, it addresses specific stability issues not resolved in prior art[4].
International Patent Filings
- The patent is part of a broader international patent family, with filings in various countries. This is evident from the use of services like the Global Dossier, which provides access to related applications from participating IP Offices[1].
Competing Patents
- Other patents in the field of dermatological treatments may offer similar or alternative compositions. For example, patents from other pharmaceutical companies might use different combinations of active ingredients or excipients[1].
Economic and Market Impact
The economic impact of this patent is significant, given the prevalence of psoriasis and the need for effective treatments. The combination of vitamin D analogues and corticosteroids in a stable gel composition has likely influenced the market by providing a more user-friendly and effective treatment option.
Market Statistics
- Psoriasis affects approximately 3% of the U.S. population, translating into a substantial market for treatments. Patents like US 6,787,529 play a crucial role in driving innovation and competition in this market.
Legal Status and Expiration
- The patent has expired, as indicated by its legal status. This means that the invention is now in the public domain, and other companies can manufacture and market similar compositions without infringing on the original patent[4].
Search and Analysis Tools
For researchers and practitioners, tools like the USPTO's Patent Public Search, Global Dossier, and the Common Citation Document (CCD) are invaluable for analyzing the patent landscape and identifying related patents and prior art[1].
Conclusion and Key Takeaways
- Invention Scope: The patent covers a specific pharmaceutical gel composition for treating skin conditions like psoriasis.
- Claims: The claims define the composition, preparation method, and specific components.
- Patent Landscape: The patent is part of an international family and has influenced the market for psoriasis treatments.
- Economic Impact: The patent has driven innovation and competition in the dermatological treatment market.
- Legal Status: The patent has expired, making the invention public domain.
FAQs
What is the main purpose of US Patent 6,787,529?
The main purpose is to provide a pharmaceutical gel composition for the topical treatment of skin conditions such as psoriasis.
What are the key components of the composition?
The composition includes at least one vitamin D or vitamin D analogue, at least one corticosteroid, and a viscosity-increasing excipient.
Why is the viscosity-increasing excipient important?
It ensures that the corticosteroid does not sediment during application and storage, facilitating an even distribution on the affected skin area.
Is the patent still in effect?
No, the patent has expired, making the invention public domain.
How can one search for related patents?
Tools like the USPTO's Patent Public Search, Global Dossier, and the Common Citation Document (CCD) can be used to search for related patents and prior art.
Cited Sources
- USPTO - Search for patents[1]
- US Patent for Topical composition[2]
- Patent Claims Research Dataset - USPTO[3]
- US6787529B2 - Topical composition - Google Patents[4]
- AT-380542-T - null | Unified Patents[5]
