United States Patent 7,150,881: A Detailed Analysis of Scope and Claims
Introduction
United States Patent 7,150,881, titled "Adhesive mixture for transdermal delivery of highly plasticizing drugs," is a significant patent in the field of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the area of transdermal drug delivery systems. This patent, granted to innovators in the medical and pharmaceutical industry, outlines a novel adhesive mixture designed to facilitate the transdermal delivery of drugs that are highly plasticizing.
Background
Transdermal drug delivery systems have gained popularity due to their ability to provide steady and controlled release of drugs, avoiding the first-pass metabolism and improving patient compliance. However, highly plasticizing drugs pose a challenge due to their tendency to soften and degrade the adhesive, compromising the efficacy and stability of the patch[1].
Patent Overview
Publication Details
- Publication Number: US7150881B2
- Prior Art Date: This patent builds upon earlier research and innovations in transdermal drug delivery, with a prior art date indicating the evolution of this technology.
- Legal Status: The patent has expired, which is common for patents that have reached the end of their 20-year term from the date of filing.
Technical Description
The patent describes an adhesive mixture specifically formulated to accommodate highly plasticizing drugs. This mixture is designed to maintain its adhesive properties while ensuring the stable release of the drug through the skin.
Key Components
- Adhesive Layer: The adhesive layer in these transdermal patches is formulated with macromolecular compounds, such as polyacrylates, which are known for their stability and compatibility with a wide range of drugs[1].
- Drug Incorporation: The drug is incorporated directly into the adhesive layer, ensuring a uniform distribution and consistent release profile.
- Backing Layer and Release Liner: The patent also details the structure of the backing layer and the release liner, which are crucial for the overall functionality and user-friendliness of the patch.
Scope of the Patent
Claims
The patent includes several claims that define the scope of the invention:
- Claim 1: Describes the adhesive mixture comprising a combination of polymers and plasticizers that maintain the integrity of the adhesive while delivering the drug.
- Claim 2: Specifies the type of drugs that can be used, including selegiline, which is a highly plasticizing drug.
- Claim 3: Details the method of preparing the transdermal patch, including the application of the adhesive mixture and the drug[1].
Coverage
The patent covers various aspects of the transdermal patch, including:
- Drug-in-Adhesive Type Patches: These patches have the drug directly incorporated into the adhesive layer.
- Macromolecular Compounds: The use of polyacrylates and other macromolecular compounds to ensure stability and efficacy.
- Specific Drug Examples: The patent mentions selegiline and other amines with aromatic rings, highlighting the versatility of the adhesive mixture[1].
Patent Landscape
Related Patents and Technologies
The patent landscape in transdermal drug delivery is rich with innovations aimed at improving drug delivery systems. Other patents and technologies focus on:
- Advanced Adhesives: Research into new adhesive materials that can handle a broader range of drugs.
- Controlled Release Mechanisms: Innovations in controlled release profiles to enhance therapeutic efficacy.
- Patient Compliance: Designs that improve user-friendliness and comfort, such as flexible patches and easy-to-use application systems[4].
International Context
Transdermal drug delivery is a global field with significant contributions from various countries. International patent databases, such as those provided by the European Patent Office (EPO), Japan Patent Office (JPO), and World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), offer insights into global trends and innovations in this area[4].
Impact and Applications
Clinical Significance
The patent has significant clinical implications, particularly for patients requiring continuous drug delivery. For example:
- Parkinson’s Disease: Selegiline, a drug mentioned in the patent, is used in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. The transdermal delivery system can provide a stable and consistent release of this drug, improving patient outcomes.
- Other Therapeutic Areas: The technology can be applied to various therapeutic areas where transdermal delivery is beneficial, such as pain management and hormone replacement therapy.
Market Impact
The introduction of this technology has likely influenced the market by:
- Enhancing Patient Compliance: By providing a more convenient and stable drug delivery system.
- Competitive Advantage: Companies that have developed similar technologies may have gained a competitive edge in the pharmaceutical market.
- Innovation Pipeline: This patent has likely spurred further research and development in transdermal drug delivery systems.
Key Takeaways
- Novel Adhesive Mixture: The patent introduces a unique adhesive mixture that can handle highly plasticizing drugs.
- Transdermal Delivery: The technology enhances the efficacy and stability of transdermal drug delivery systems.
- Clinical Applications: It has significant implications for various therapeutic areas, including Parkinson’s disease and pain management.
- Market Influence: The patent has likely influenced the pharmaceutical market by improving patient compliance and driving innovation.
FAQs
What is the main innovation of United States Patent 7,150,881?
The main innovation is the development of an adhesive mixture that can accommodate highly plasticizing drugs for transdermal delivery.
What types of drugs can be used with this adhesive mixture?
The patent specifies drugs like selegiline and other amines with aromatic rings.
How does the adhesive mixture maintain its integrity?
The mixture uses macromolecular compounds such as polyacrylates to ensure stability and efficacy.
What are the clinical implications of this patent?
It has significant implications for patients requiring continuous drug delivery, particularly in therapeutic areas like Parkinson’s disease and pain management.
Is this patent still in force?
No, the patent has expired, which is common for patents that have reached the end of their 20-year term from the date of filing.
Sources
- US7150881B2 - Adhesive mixture for transdermal delivery of highly plasticizing drugs - Google Patents
- U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) - USAGov
- Patent Claims Research Dataset - USPTO
- Search for patents - USPTO
- U.S. Patent Small Claims Court - ACUS
