United States Patent 8,883,849: A Detailed Analysis of Scope and Claims
Introduction
United States Patent 8,883,849, titled "Treatment of sleep disturbances," is a patent that addresses a significant health issue affecting many individuals. This patent, granted to the inventors, outlines a novel composition and method for treating sleep disturbances, particularly those associated with pain. Here, we will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Patent Overview
Publication Number and Authority
The patent number is US8883849B2, and it was granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)[5].
Prior Art and Background
The patent builds upon existing knowledge in the field of sleep disturbances and pain management. It references prior art involving the use of ibuprofen and diphenhydramine, common ingredients in pain relief and sleep aid medications, respectively[5].
Invention Description
The invention describes a new composition for treating pain-associated sleep disturbances. This composition includes a combination of ibuprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), and diphenhydramine, an antihistamine. The combination is designed to address both the pain and the sleep disturbance, providing a more comprehensive treatment than single-ingredient formulations[5].
Claims
Independent Claims
The patent includes several independent claims that define the scope of the invention. These claims cover the composition itself, the method of treatment, and the specific formulations.
- Claim 1: This claim describes the composition comprising ibuprofen and diphenhydramine, along with optional ingredients such as a gelatin capsule or a tablet[5].
- Claim 2: This claim outlines the method of treating sleep disturbances associated with pain using the described composition[5].
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims further specify the details of the composition and method, including the dosage forms, the ratio of ibuprofen to diphenhydramine, and the presence of additional ingredients.
- Claim 3: This claim specifies the dosage form, such as a tablet or caplet, and the amount of ibuprofen and diphenhydramine in each dosage unit[5].
- Claim 4: This claim details the ratio of ibuprofen to diphenhydramine and the optional inclusion of other ingredients like polyethylene glycol[5].
Scope of the Invention
Therapeutic Use
The invention is specifically aimed at treating sleep disturbances that are associated with pain. This includes conditions such as insomnia or reduced sleep duration due to pain. The combination of ibuprofen and diphenhydramine is intended to provide both pain relief and promote sleep[5].
Formulations
The patent covers various formulations, including tablets, caplets, and gelatin capsules. These formulations can be tailored to different patient needs, such as varying dosages and delivery mechanisms[5].
Patent Landscape
Related Patents
The patent landscape for sleep disturbances and pain management is extensive. Other patents in this field include those focused on different combinations of active ingredients, alternative delivery methods, and specific therapeutic applications.
- International Patents: Similar compositions and methods may be patented in other countries, such as those listed in the European Patent Office (EPO) or the Japan Patent Office (JPO) databases[1].
Global Dossier
Using the Global Dossier service provided by the USPTO, one can access the file histories of related applications from participating IP Offices. This can help in understanding the global patent family and any office actions related to similar inventions[1].
Economic and Market Impact
Market Need
The market for sleep disturbance treatments is significant, given the prevalence of sleep disorders and the impact on quality of life. This patent addresses a specific need by providing a dual-action treatment that combines pain relief and sleep aid[5].
Competitive Landscape
The competitive landscape includes other pharmaceutical companies and research institutions working on similar treatments. The unique combination of ibuprofen and diphenhydramine in this patent provides a competitive edge in the market.
Legal Status
Current Status
As of the latest information, the patent has expired, which means that the exclusive rights to the invention have lapsed, and the technology is now in the public domain[5].
Implications
The expiration of the patent allows other companies to manufacture and market similar products without infringing on the original patent. This can lead to increased competition and potentially lower prices for consumers.
Conclusion
United States Patent 8,883,849 represents a significant contribution to the field of sleep disturbance treatment by providing a novel composition that combines pain relief and sleep aid. Understanding the scope, claims, and broader patent landscape is crucial for both inventors and businesses looking to navigate this complex field.
Key Takeaways
- Composition: The patent describes a composition combining ibuprofen and diphenhydramine for treating pain-associated sleep disturbances.
- Claims: The patent includes independent and dependent claims specifying the composition, method of treatment, and formulations.
- Scope: The invention is aimed at treating sleep disturbances associated with pain, with various formulations available.
- Patent Landscape: The patent is part of a broader landscape that includes related patents globally and competitive market dynamics.
- Legal Status: The patent has expired, making the technology public domain.
FAQs
Q1: What is the main purpose of United States Patent 8,883,849?
The main purpose of this patent is to provide a novel composition and method for treating sleep disturbances associated with pain.
Q2: What are the key ingredients in the patented composition?
The key ingredients are ibuprofen, an NSAID, and diphenhydramine, an antihistamine.
Q3: What types of formulations are covered by the patent?
The patent covers various formulations, including tablets, caplets, and gelatin capsules.
Q4: Is the patent still in effect?
No, the patent has expired, making the technology public domain.
Q5: How can one access related patent information globally?
One can use the Global Dossier service provided by the USPTO to access related patent information from participating IP Offices.
Sources
- USPTO - Search for patents - USPTO
- USA.gov - U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) | USAGov
- USPTO - Patent Claims Research Dataset - USPTO
- Commerce.gov - U.S. Patent and Trademark Office | U.S. Department of Commerce
- Google Patents - US8883849B2 - Treatment of sleep disturbances - Google Patents
