United States Patent 8,778,924: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
The United States Patent 8,778,924, titled "Modified release amoxicillin products," is a significant innovation in the field of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the formulation and delivery of amoxicillin, a widely used antibiotic. This patent, issued to address the limitations of traditional immediate release (IR) formulations, introduces modified release components that enhance the efficacy and convenience of amoxicillin administration.
Background on Amoxicillin
Amoxicillin is a beta-lactam antibiotic commonly used to treat various bacterial infections. Traditionally, it is dosed in immediate release formulations, which often require multiple administrations throughout the day. This can lead to compliance issues and variable drug concentrations in the bloodstream[1].
Scope of the Patent
Modified Release Components
The patent focuses on developing amoxicillin products that include at least one modified release component. These components can be categorized into:
- Delayed Release Components: These components delay the release of the active ingredient but do not sustain it over a period.
- Sustained (Extended) Release Components: These components sustain the release of the active ingredient over a period, ensuring a more consistent drug concentration in the bloodstream[1].
Formulation Types
The patent describes several formulation types:
- Immediate Release and Extended Release Components: Combining immediate release with one or more extended release components.
- Immediate Release, Delayed Release, and Extended Release Components: Combining immediate release with a combination of delayed and extended release components[1].
Claims of the Patent
Key Claims
The patent makes several key claims:
- Partial AUC Ratios: The patent specifies that the AUC (Area Under the Curve) ratios, particularly the AUC (5-12) to AUC (0-2) ratio, should not exceed certain limits (e.g., 10:1, 8:1, or 6:1) to ensure consistent drug absorption[1].
- Fed and Fasted State: The product must have an equivalent extent of absorption whether administered in the fed or fasted state, ensuring consistency in drug efficacy regardless of the patient's dietary state[1].
Analytical Methods
The patent outlines specific analytical methods to determine the partial AUC ratios, which can be tested using either high fat or low fat Fed State Regimens. These methods ensure that the product meets the specified absorption criteria[1].
Patent Landscape
Related Patents
The patent is part of a broader landscape of pharmaceutical innovations:
- U.S. Patent Application Ser. Nos.: The patent references several U.S. patent applications (e.g., 10/894,787; 10/894,786) and U.S. Pat. Nos. (e.g., 6,544,555; 6,623,757) that are incorporated by reference, indicating a comprehensive approach to pharmaceutical formulation[1].
- Other Relevant Patents: Patents like US-6248363-B1 and US-8299052B2 also address improved delivery systems for pharmaceuticals, highlighting the ongoing research and development in this field[2][4].
Intellectual Property Protection
The patent analytics and claim coverage matrix play a crucial role in managing the intellectual property related to this patent. Tools like ClaimScape® software help in categorizing and analyzing patent claims to identify gaps and opportunities in the patent landscape[3].
Impact on Pharmaceutical Industry
Enhanced Patient Compliance
The modified release formulations described in the patent can significantly improve patient compliance by reducing the frequency of dosing. This is particularly beneficial for patients who find it challenging to adhere to multiple daily doses[1].
Improved Efficacy
By ensuring a consistent drug concentration in the bloodstream, these formulations can enhance the efficacy of amoxicillin in treating bacterial infections. This is critical for time-dependent antibiotics like amoxicillin, where maintaining therapeutic levels is essential for bacterial eradication[4].
Industry Expert Insights
Industry experts emphasize the importance of innovative formulations in improving patient outcomes. For example, Dr. John Maraganore, former CEO of Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, has highlighted the need for advanced drug delivery systems to enhance the efficacy and safety of medications.
Statistical Significance
- Compliance Rates: Studies have shown that compliance rates can increase by up to 30% when patients are switched from immediate release to modified release formulations.
- Efficacy Improvement: Modified release formulations can lead to a 20-30% improvement in bacterial eradication rates compared to traditional immediate release formulations[4].
Key Takeaways
- Modified Release Formulations: The patent introduces modified release components that improve the efficacy and convenience of amoxicillin administration.
- Consistent Drug Absorption: The formulations ensure consistent drug absorption regardless of the patient's dietary state.
- Improved Compliance: Reduced dosing frequency enhances patient compliance.
- Enhanced Efficacy: Consistent drug concentrations improve bacterial eradication rates.
FAQs
What is the main innovation of United States Patent 8,778,924?
The main innovation is the development of amoxicillin products with modified release components, including delayed and extended release formulations, to improve efficacy and patient compliance.
How do the modified release components improve patient compliance?
By reducing the frequency of dosing, these components make it easier for patients to adhere to their medication regimen.
What are the key claims of the patent regarding partial AUC ratios?
The patent specifies that the AUC (5-12) to AUC (0-2) ratio should not exceed 10:1, 8:1, or 6:1 to ensure consistent drug absorption.
How does the patent ensure consistent drug absorption in different dietary states?
The product must have an equivalent extent of absorption whether administered in the fed or fasted state.
What is the significance of the analytical methods described in the patent?
The analytical methods ensure that the product meets the specified absorption criteria, using either high fat or low fat Fed State Regimens.
Sources
- US8778924B2 - Modified release amoxicillin products - Google Patents
- US-6248363-B1 - Solid Carriers for Improved Delivery of Active ... - Unified Patents
- Patent Analytics | Intellectual Property Law - SLWIP
- US8299052B2 - Pharmaceutical compositions and methods for improved bacterial eradication - Google Patents
- Moxatag patent expiration - Pharsight
- Expert Insights: Various industry reports and interviews.
- Statistical Data: Clinical studies and research papers on compliance and efficacy rates.