United States Patent 7,829,120: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
The United States Patent 7,829,120, titled "TRAZODONE COMPOSITION FOR ONCE A DAY ADMINISTRATION," was granted on November 9, 2010. This patent is significant in the pharmaceutical industry, particularly in the development of sustained-release formulations for the antidepressant trazodone. Here, we will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Inventors and Assignees
The patent was invented by a team of researchers including Sonia Gervais, Damon Smith, Miloud Rahmouni, Pauline Contamin, Rachid Ouzerourou, My Linh Ma, Angela Ferrada, and Fouzia Soulhi. The assignees of the patent are Labopharm Inc., Labopharm Europe Limited, and Labopharm (Barbados) Limited[1][4].
Background and Field of the Invention
Trazodone is an antidepressant commonly used to treat major depressive disorder. The traditional dosage regimen involves multiple daily doses, which can lead to compliance issues. The invention described in this patent addresses this by developing a once-daily sustained-release formulation of trazodone, enhancing patient compliance and therapeutic efficacy[1][4].
Scope of the Invention
The patent covers a pharmaceutical composition designed for once-daily administration, containing trazodone or a trazodone derivative. The formulation is engineered to provide a controlled release of the active ingredient over an extended period, typically 24 hours. This is achieved through a combination of immediate and sustained-release components, ensuring a steady plasma concentration of trazodone throughout the day[1][4].
Claims
The patent includes several claims that define the scope of the invention:
- Claim 1: A pharmaceutical composition for once-daily administration, comprising trazodone or a trazodone derivative, and a controlled release component.
- Claim 2: The composition of claim 1, where the controlled release component includes a mixture of immediate and sustained-release formulations.
- Claim 3: The composition of claim 1, where the trazodone or trazodone derivative is present in a specific dosage, such as 150 mg.
- Claim 4: A method of treating depression using the composition of claim 1[1][4].
Detailed Description
The patent provides a detailed description of the formulation, including the types of excipients and the manufacturing process. It also includes pharmacokinetic data showing the release profile of trazodone over time when administered to humans. Figures and graphs illustrate the plasma concentration of trazodone at various time points, demonstrating the efficacy of the sustained-release formulation[1][4].
Prior Art and References
The patent cites several prior art documents, including earlier patents and publications related to pharmaceutical formulations and controlled release technologies. These references highlight the advancements and innovations brought by the current invention over existing technologies[1][4].
Patent Landscape
Related Patents and Applications
This patent is part of a larger family of patents related to trazodone formulations. For example, U.S. Patent 9,439,866 is a continuation of the application that led to U.S. Patent 7,829,120 and further refines the formulation and its manufacturing process[4].
Global Patent System
The patent is part of the global patent system, with corresponding applications and grants in other jurisdictions. Tools like the Global Dossier and Common Citation Document (CCD) facilitate the tracking of related applications and citations across different patent offices[2].
Impact on Innovation
The development of this sustained-release formulation of trazodone has significant implications for patient compliance and therapeutic outcomes. It aligns with broader trends in pharmaceutical innovation, where controlled release technologies are increasingly used to enhance the efficacy and convenience of medications.
Patent Quality and Scope Changes
Research on patent quality and scope changes, such as that presented by the Hoover Institution, suggests that patents with narrower claims at publication are more likely to be granted and take less time to examine. This patent, with its specific claims and detailed description, exemplifies this trend[3].
Conclusion and Key Takeaways
- Innovative Formulation: The patent introduces a once-daily sustained-release formulation of trazodone, improving patient compliance and therapeutic efficacy.
- Detailed Claims: The patent includes specific claims defining the composition, dosage, and method of administration.
- Broader Patent Landscape: The invention is part of a larger family of patents and applications, reflecting ongoing innovation in controlled release technologies.
- Global Implications: The patent is integrated into the global patent system, with tools like the Global Dossier and CCD facilitating international coordination.
- Impact on Patient Care: The sustained-release formulation enhances patient compliance and therapeutic outcomes, aligning with broader trends in pharmaceutical innovation.
Key Takeaways
- The patent covers a once-daily sustained-release formulation of trazodone.
- The formulation combines immediate and sustained-release components.
- The patent includes specific claims and a detailed description.
- It is part of a larger family of related patents and applications.
- The invention has significant implications for patient compliance and therapeutic outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the main innovation of U.S. Patent 7,829,120?
The main innovation is the development of a once-daily sustained-release formulation of the antidepressant trazodone.
Who are the inventors and assignees of this patent?
The inventors include Sonia Gervais, Damon Smith, and others, with the assignees being Labopharm Inc., Labopharm Europe Limited, and Labopharm (Barbados) Limited.
How does the sustained-release formulation work?
The formulation combines immediate and sustained-release components to provide a steady plasma concentration of trazodone over 24 hours.
What are the benefits of this formulation for patients?
The benefits include improved patient compliance and enhanced therapeutic efficacy due to the once-daily dosing regimen.
Is this patent part of a larger family of patents?
Yes, it is part of a larger family of patents related to trazodone formulations, including U.S. Patent 9,439,866.
Cited Sources
- United States Patent and Trademark Office, "TRAZODONE COMPOSITION FOR ONCE A DAY ADMINISTRATION," US007829120B2, November 9, 2010.
- United States Patent and Trademark Office, "Search for patents," October 18, 2018.
- Hoover Institution, "Patent Claims and Patent Scope," 2023.
- United States Patent and Trademark Office, "TRAZODONE COMPOSITION FOR ONCE A DAY ADMINISTRATION," US09439866B2, September 13, 2016.
