United States Patent 8,058,291: A Detailed Analysis
Introduction
United States Patent 8,058,291, hereafter referred to as the '291 patent, is a significant patent in the pharmaceutical sector, particularly focusing on methods and compositions for the treatment of CNS-related conditions. This analysis will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this patent.
Background and Context
The '291 patent is part of a series of patents related to the treatment of Central Nervous System (CNS) conditions. It was granted to address the need for effective treatments for various neurological and psychiatric disorders.
Scope of the Patent
Subject Matter
The '291 patent covers novel methods and compositions for the treatment and prevention of CNS-related conditions. This includes the use of specific pharmaceutical compounds, such as memantine and donepezil, which are well-known for their efficacy in treating conditions like Alzheimer's disease and other dementia-related disorders[1].
Claims
The patent includes multiple claims that define the scope of the invention. Key claims include:
- Claim 1: A pharmaceutical composition comprising memantine or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and donepezil or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
- Claim 2: A method for treating a CNS-related condition, comprising administering a pharmaceutical composition that includes memantine and donepezil.
- Claims 21-23: These claims specify the dosage forms and administration methods of the pharmaceutical composition, including immediate release formulations[2][5].
Patent Claims Analysis
Independent Claims
The independent claims (e.g., Claim 1) are crucial as they define the broadest scope of the invention. These claims typically include the essential elements of the invention and are used to determine the patent's validity and infringement[3].
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims (e.g., Claims 2, 21-23) build upon the independent claims and provide additional specificity. These claims often narrow down the scope by adding more detailed features or limitations.
Patent Landscape
Related Patents
The '291 patent is part of a larger family of patents related to CNS treatments. Other patents in this family include US Patent Nos. 8,039,009, 8,168,209, 8,173,708, and others, which collectively cover various aspects of CNS-related treatments and formulations[2][5].
Litigation and Infringement
The '291 patent has been involved in several patent infringement lawsuits. For instance, Forest Laboratories and Adamas Pharmaceuticals have asserted infringement claims against generic drug manufacturers like Amerigen Pharmaceuticals, alleging that their generic versions of drugs like Namenda XR® infringe on the '291 patent among others[2][5].
Patent Scope Metrics
Independent Claim Length and Count
Research suggests that the scope of a patent can be measured by metrics such as independent claim length and count. Narrower claims, as seen in the '291 patent, are often associated with a higher probability of grant and a shorter examination process[3].
Global Patent System Integration
The '291 patent is part of the global patent system, with its file history and related applications accessible through services like the Global Dossier. This integration facilitates a more streamlined and harmonized approach to patent management across different jurisdictions[4].
Public Search and Examination Data
The USPTO's Patent Public Search tool and the Patent Examination Data System (PEDS) provide public access to the '291 patent's bibliographic data, claims, and examination history. These resources are essential for conducting thorough patent searches and analyzing the patent's validity and enforcement[4].
Common Citation Document (CCD)
The CCD application consolidates prior art citations from multiple offices, including those related to the '291 patent. This helps in visualizing the search results for the same invention across different patent offices, enhancing the efficiency of patent searches[4].
Litigation Implications
The '291 patent's involvement in litigation highlights the importance of patent enforcement in the pharmaceutical industry. The ongoing legal battles over patent infringement underscore the financial and strategic significance of these patents to the companies involved[2][5].
Key Takeaways
- The '291 patent covers specific methods and compositions for treating CNS-related conditions using memantine and donepezil.
- The patent includes multiple claims that define its scope, with a focus on pharmaceutical compositions and treatment methods.
- The patent is part of a larger family of related patents and has been involved in several infringement lawsuits.
- Metrics such as independent claim length and count can provide insights into the patent's scope and validity.
- The patent is integrated into the global patent system, with accessible file histories and examination data.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the main subject matter of the '291 patent?
The '291 patent focuses on methods and compositions for the treatment and prevention of CNS-related conditions, particularly using memantine and donepezil.
What are the key claims of the '291 patent?
Key claims include the pharmaceutical composition comprising memantine and donepezil, and methods for treating CNS-related conditions using these compounds.
Has the '291 patent been involved in any litigation?
Yes, the '291 patent has been involved in several patent infringement lawsuits against generic drug manufacturers.
How can the scope of the '291 patent be measured?
The scope can be measured using metrics such as independent claim length and count, which are associated with the patent's validity and examination process.
Where can I find more information about the '291 patent?
More information can be found through the USPTO's Patent Public Search tool, the Global Dossier, and other resources provided by the USPTO.
Cited Sources:
- US8058291B2 - Methods and compositions for the treatment of CNS-related conditions - Google Patents
- IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE DISTRICT ... - Insight.RPXCorp
- Patent Claims and Patent Scope - SSRN
- Search for patents - USPTO - USPTO
- IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE DISTRICT ... - Insight.RPXCorp