United States Patent 8,426,410: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
The United States Patent 8,426,410, titled "Compounds, Formulations, and Methods for Treating or Preventing Inflammatory Skin Disorders," is a significant patent in the field of dermatology, particularly for the treatment of conditions like rosacea. Here, we will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Background
Rosacea is a common inflammatory skin disorder affecting millions of people worldwide, including over 10 million in the United States. It typically involves the cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead, causing symptoms such as redness, visible blood vessels, and acne-like lesions[1].
Patent Overview
Publication and Ownership
The patent was issued on April 23, 2013, and is owned by NSH, a company involved in the development of pharmaceuticals for skin disorders[2].
Scope of the Patent
The patent covers compounds, formulations, and methods for treating or preventing inflammatory skin disorders, including rosacea. It encompasses a wide range of therapeutic approaches, from topical formulations to systemic treatments.
Claims of the Patent
Independent Claims
The patent includes several independent claims that define the scope of the invention. These claims are crucial as they outline the novel and non-obvious aspects of the invention.
- Claim 1: This claim refers to a method of topically administering a pharmaceutical composition containing specific compounds to treat or prevent inflammatory skin disorders[5].
- Other Claims: Additional claims cover various formulations such as gels, ointments, emulsions, creams, and lotions, as well as the specific chemical compounds and their combinations used in these formulations[1].
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims further specify the details of the independent claims, such as the concentration of active ingredients, the method of application, and the duration of treatment.
Formulations and Compounds
Types of Formulations
The patent describes various formulations suitable for topical application, including:
- Gels: Known for their ease of application and quick absorption.
- Ointments: Often used for their moisturizing properties.
- Emulsions: Useful for combining oil and water-based ingredients.
- Creams: A mixture of oil and water, providing a balance between moisturizing and non-greasy texture.
- Lotions: Liquid formulations that are easy to apply and absorb quickly[1].
Chemical Compounds
The patent specifies several chemical compounds that are effective in treating inflammatory skin disorders. These compounds include:
- Alkyl derivatives: Known for their anti-inflammatory properties.
- Halogens: Used in various pharmaceutical applications for their therapeutic effects.
- Other specific chemical structures: Detailed in the patent, these structures are designed to target the underlying causes of rosacea and other inflammatory skin conditions[1].
Methods for Treatment
Topical Administration
The patent emphasizes the importance of topical administration for treating inflammatory skin disorders. This method allows for direct application of the therapeutic compounds to the affected area, reducing systemic side effects[1].
Systemic Treatments
In addition to topical treatments, the patent also covers systemic methods, which involve oral or injectable medications. These methods are often used for more severe cases or when topical treatments are insufficient[2].
Patent Landscape
Related Patents
The patent landscape in this area is complex, with several related patents covering similar or complementary technologies. For example:
- U.S. Patent No. 7,439,241: Also owned by NSH, this patent covers compounds and formulations for treating rosacea and other inflammatory skin disorders[2].
- U.S. Patent No. 8,410,102: This patent focuses on methods and compositions for treating erythema, a symptom often associated with rosacea[2].
Litigation and Enforcement
The patents in this family have been involved in litigation, particularly regarding infringement claims. For instance, NSH has taken legal action against Actavis for alleged infringement of several patents, including the '241 and '102 patents, which are closely related to the '410 patent[2].
Economic and Research Implications
Patent Claims Research Dataset
The USPTO's Patent Claims Research Dataset provides valuable insights into the scope and claims of patents like the '410 patent. This dataset helps in understanding the trends and measurements of patent scope, which can be crucial for researchers and practitioners in the field[3].
Global Patent Searching
The ability to search and analyze patents globally, using databases like PATENTSCOPE and the Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC) system, is essential for understanding the broader patent landscape. This helps in identifying potential overlaps, gaps, and opportunities for innovation[4].
Industry Impact
Market Dominance
Patents like the '410 patent play a significant role in shaping the market for treatments of inflammatory skin disorders. By protecting novel compounds and formulations, these patents can give their owners a competitive edge in the pharmaceutical industry.
Innovation and Research
The protection offered by these patents encourages further research and innovation. Companies are more likely to invest in R&D when they have the assurance that their inventions will be protected.
Key Takeaways
- Scope and Claims: The patent covers a wide range of compounds, formulations, and methods for treating inflammatory skin disorders, including rosacea.
- Formulations and Compounds: Various topical and systemic formulations are described, along with specific chemical compounds.
- Methods for Treatment: Topical administration is emphasized, with systemic treatments also covered.
- Patent Landscape: The patent is part of a larger family of related patents and has been involved in litigation.
- Economic and Research Implications: The patent contributes to the broader understanding of patent scope and encourages further research and innovation.
FAQs
What is the primary focus of U.S. Patent 8,426,410?
The primary focus of U.S. Patent 8,426,410 is on compounds, formulations, and methods for treating or preventing inflammatory skin disorders, particularly rosacea.
Who owns U.S. Patent 8,426,410?
The patent is owned by NSH, a company involved in the development of pharmaceuticals for skin disorders.
What types of formulations are covered by the patent?
The patent covers various formulations including gels, ointments, emulsions, creams, and lotions.
What is the significance of topical administration in this patent?
Topical administration is significant as it allows for direct application of therapeutic compounds to the affected area, reducing systemic side effects.
How does this patent fit into the broader patent landscape?
The patent is part of a family of related patents and has been involved in litigation regarding infringement claims, highlighting its importance in the pharmaceutical industry.
Sources
- US8426410B2 - Compounds, formulations, and methods for treating or preventing inflammatory skin disorders - Google Patents
- IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE DISTRICT - Insight.RPXcorp
- Patent Claims Research Dataset - USPTO
- Research and Course Guides: Patent Searching, Advanced: Overview - Clemson University
- 15-232.pdf - District of Delaware - US Courts
