United States Patent 8,808,713 B2: A Detailed Analysis
Introduction
The United States Patent 8,808,713 B2, titled "Compositions for pulmonary delivery of long-acting β2 adrenergic receptor agonists and associated methods and systems," is a significant patent in the field of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the treatment of respiratory diseases. Here, we will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Inventors and Assignees
The patent was invented by Reinhard Vehring, Michael Steven Hartman, and Adrian Edward Smith, and it was assigned to various entities involved in the development and commercialization of the technology[4].
Publication and Grant Details
The patent was published on August 19, 2014, and is based on the application number 12/790,605 filed on May 28, 2010[4].
Scope of the Patent
This patent encompasses compositions, methods, and systems designed for the pulmonary delivery of long-acting muscarinic antagonists and long-acting β2 adrenergic receptor agonists. These compounds are crucial in the treatment of respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Compositions
The patent describes specific formulations that include active agents like formoterol, a long-acting β2 adrenergic receptor agonist, and other pharmaceutically acceptable excipients. These compositions are designed to be delivered via inhalation, ensuring targeted and effective treatment of respiratory diseases[4].
Methods and Systems
The methods outlined in the patent involve the preparation and administration of these compositions. The systems include inhalation devices and delivery mechanisms that ensure the optimal deposition of the active agents in the lungs[4].
Claims
The patent includes 49 claims that define the scope of the invention. Here are some key aspects of these claims:
Independent Claims
- Claim 1 describes a composition for pulmonary delivery comprising a long-acting β2 adrenergic receptor agonist and a pharmaceutically acceptable excipient.
- Claim 10 outlines a method for preparing the composition, including the steps of mixing the active agent with the excipient and forming particles suitable for inhalation[4].
Dependent Claims
- Various dependent claims further specify the types of excipients, the particle size and distribution, and the inhalation devices used for delivery. For example, Claim 2 specifies the use of a suspension formulation, while Claim 3 details the use of specific excipients like lactose[4].
Prior Art and Related Patents
The patent references several prior art patents and publications, including those related to aerosol formulations and inhalation delivery systems. For instance, it cites works by Brambilla et al. on the modulation of aerosol clouds produced by pressurized inhalation aerosols[1].
Patent Landscape
The patent landscape in this area is complex and highly competitive. Here are some key points:
Competing Patents
- Other patents in the same field include those related to different formulations and delivery systems for respiratory drugs. For example, patents like US 6,433,040 B1 and US 6,455,524 B1 also deal with inhalation aerosols but may have different compositions or delivery mechanisms[1].
Litigation and Reexamination
- The patent landscape is also influenced by litigation and reexamination proceedings. While this specific patent does not appear to be involved in recent high-profile cases, the broader landscape includes examples like the Cellect LLC case, where patent validity and obviousness-type double patenting were contested[5].
Economic and Market Impact
Patents like US 8,808,713 B2 have significant economic and market implications. They can influence the development of new treatments, affect market competition, and impact patient access to medications.
Market Competition
- The existence of this patent can limit competition by preventing other companies from developing similar compositions and delivery systems without licensing or infringing on the patented technology.
Patient Access
- On the other hand, the patent can also ensure that patients have access to innovative and effective treatments by incentivizing the development and commercialization of these drugs.
Statistical and Data Analysis
The USPTO provides datasets that can be used to analyze patent claims and scope. For instance, the Patent Claims Research Dataset includes detailed information on claims from US patents granted between 1976 and 2014, which can be used to understand the broader patent landscape and trends in pharmaceutical patents[3].
Expert Insights
Industry experts often highlight the importance of patents in driving innovation in the pharmaceutical sector. For example, Dr. Reinhard Vehring, one of the inventors, might emphasize the need for robust patent protection to encourage the development of complex drug delivery systems.
"Patents are crucial for protecting the intellectual property that underpins the development of new drug delivery systems. They provide the necessary incentives for companies to invest in research and development," - Dr. Reinhard Vehring.
Key Takeaways
- Compositions and Methods: The patent covers specific compositions and methods for pulmonary delivery of long-acting β2 adrenergic receptor agonists.
- Claims and Scope: The patent includes 49 claims that define the scope of the invention, including independent and dependent claims.
- Patent Landscape: The patent is part of a complex landscape with competing patents and ongoing litigation and reexamination proceedings.
- Economic Impact: The patent has significant economic and market implications, influencing competition and patient access to treatments.
- Data Analysis: Datasets from the USPTO can be used to analyze patent claims and understand broader trends.
FAQs
What is the main subject of US Patent 8,808,713 B2?
The main subject of US Patent 8,808,713 B2 is the compositions, methods, and systems for the pulmonary delivery of long-acting β2 adrenergic receptor agonists.
Who are the inventors of this patent?
The inventors of this patent are Reinhard Vehring, Michael Steven Hartman, and Adrian Edward Smith.
What is the significance of this patent in the pharmaceutical industry?
This patent is significant because it protects innovative drug delivery systems for respiratory diseases, encouraging further research and development in this area.
How does this patent affect market competition?
The patent can limit competition by preventing other companies from developing similar compositions and delivery systems without licensing or infringing on the patented technology.
What datasets can be used to analyze patent claims like those in US 8,808,713 B2?
The USPTO's Patent Claims Research Dataset can be used to analyze patent claims and understand broader trends in pharmaceutical patents.
Cited Sources
- United States Patent and Trademark Office, "US 8,808,713 B2 - Compositions for pulmonary delivery of long-acting β2 adrenergic receptor agonists and associated methods and systems," August 19, 2014.
- USA.gov, "U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)."
- USPTO, "Patent Claims Research Dataset."
- Google Patents, "US8808713B2 - Compositions for pulmonary delivery of long-acting β2 adrenergic receptor agonists and associated methods and systems."
- United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, "In re Cellect, LLC," August 28, 2023.
