United States Patent 7,834,059: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 7,834,059, titled "Topical nepafenac formulations," is a significant patent in the field of ophthalmic medications, particularly for the treatment of pain and inflammation associated with cataract surgery. This analysis will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Background of Nepafenac
Nepafenac is an ophthalmic nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for the symptomatic treatment of pain and inflammation following cataract surgery. It is known for its efficacy in reducing ocular inflammation and pain[1].
Patent Overview
Publication and Priority Dates
The patent, US 7,834,059 B2, was published on November 16, 2010, with a priority date of December 2, 2004. This indicates that the invention was initially filed over six years before its publication[4].
Assignee and Inventors
The patent is assigned to Alcon Research, Ltd., with inventors including Masood A. Chowhan, Malay Ghosh, Bahram Asgharian, and Wesley Weshin Han, among others[4].
Scope of the Patent
Invention Description
The patent describes topical suspension compositions of nepafenac, which are specifically designed for topical ophthalmic administration. These compositions are formulated to enhance the stability and efficacy of nepafenac when applied to the eye.
Key Components
The formulations consist essentially of nepafenac, a carbomer (carboxyvinyl polymer), a nonionic surfactant, a tonicity-adjusting agent, a pH-adjusting agent, and purified water. Optionally, they may include a preservative and a chelating agent[4].
Claims of the Patent
Independent Claims
The patent includes several independent claims that define the scope of the invention. These claims specify the composition of the topical suspension, including the concentration of nepafenac (0.09-0.11%, preferably 0.1%), the use of carbomers for thickening, and the presence of other stabilizing agents[4].
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims further detail the specific components and their roles within the formulation. For example, they specify the types of carbomers that can be used (such as Carbopol®) and the optional inclusion of preservatives and chelating agents[4].
Patent Landscape
Related Patents
The patent is part of a family of patents related to topical nepafenac formulations. Other patents in this family include US 8,071,648 B2 and US 8,324,281 B2, which also pertain to similar formulations and their applications[4][5].
Prior Art and References
The patent references several prior art documents, including earlier patents by the same inventors and other related ophthalmic formulations. These references highlight the evolution of nepafenac formulations and the innovations introduced by this patent[4].
Patent Scope Metrics
Independent Claim Length and Count
According to metrics used to measure patent scope, the length and count of independent claims are significant. The patent's independent claims are concise yet comprehensive, indicating a well-defined scope. The number of independent claims also suggests a focused invention with clear boundaries[3].
Legal Status and Expiration
The patent is currently active and is estimated to expire on January 31, 2027. This expiration date is crucial for understanding the timeline during which the patent holder has exclusive rights to the invention[4].
Impact on Ophthalmic Treatments
The patent has contributed significantly to the field of ophthalmic treatments by providing stable and effective formulations of nepafenac. These formulations have improved the management of post-surgical pain and inflammation, enhancing patient outcomes.
Conclusion
United States Patent 7,834,059 represents a critical advancement in ophthalmic NSAID formulations, particularly for nepafenac. The patent's scope and claims are well-defined, ensuring a clear understanding of the invention and its applications. The broader patent landscape underscores the ongoing innovation in this field, with multiple related patents contributing to the development of effective ophthalmic treatments.
Key Takeaways
- Nepafenac Formulations: The patent describes specific formulations of nepafenac for ophthalmic use.
- Key Components: The formulations include nepafenac, carbomers, nonionic surfactants, tonicity-adjusting agents, pH-adjusting agents, and purified water.
- Patent Scope: The patent has a well-defined scope with concise independent claims.
- Related Patents: Part of a family of patents related to topical nepafenac formulations.
- Legal Status: Currently active, with an estimated expiration date of January 31, 2027.
- Impact: Significant contribution to ophthalmic treatments, improving post-surgical pain and inflammation management.
FAQs
What is the primary use of nepafenac as described in US 7,834,059?
Nepafenac is used for the symptomatic treatment of pain and inflammation associated with cataract surgery.
Who are the inventors listed on US 7,834,059?
The inventors include Masood A. Chowhan, Malay Ghosh, Bahram Asgharian, and Wesley Weshin Han.
What are the key components of the nepafenac formulations described in the patent?
The key components include nepafenac, carbomers, nonionic surfactants, tonicity-adjusting agents, pH-adjusting agents, and purified water.
When is the patent estimated to expire?
The patent is estimated to expire on January 31, 2027.
How does the patent contribute to ophthalmic treatments?
The patent provides stable and effective formulations of nepafenac, improving the management of post-surgical pain and inflammation in ophthalmic treatments.
Sources
- DrugBank: Nepafenac: Uses, Interactions, Mechanism of Action.
- Google Patents: US9662398B2 - Carboxyvinyl polymer-containing nanoparticle suspensions.
- Hoover Institution: Patent Claims and Patent Scope.
- Google Patents: US7834059B2 - Topical nepafenac formulations.
- Google Patents: US8324281B2 - Topical nepafenac formulations.
