United States Patent 9,062,014: A Detailed Analysis
Overview of the Patent
United States Patent 9,062,014, issued on June 23, 2015, is assigned to Actelion Pharmaceuticals Ltd. and pertains to crystalline forms of a specific thiazolidin-4-one derivative. This patent is crucial for understanding the pharmaceutical compositions and their applications in treating disorders associated with an activated immune system.
Inventors and Assignees
The patent was invented by a team of researchers including Bonham Nicholas, Buchmann Stephan, Eberlin Alex, Imboden Christoph, and Von Raumer Markus. Actelion Pharmaceuticals Ltd. is the assignee of this patent, highlighting the company's significant investment in pharmaceutical research and development[4].
Patent Claims and Scope
Claim Structure
The patent claims are structured to cover various aspects of the invention, including:
- Crystalline Forms: The patent describes specific crystalline forms of the compound (R)-5-[3-chloro-4-(2,3-dihydroxy-propoxy)-benz[Z]ylidene]-2-([Z]-propylimino)-3-o-tolyl-thiazolidin-4-one. These forms are critical for the stability and efficacy of the pharmaceutical composition[4].
- Preparation Processes: The patent includes claims related to the processes for preparing these crystalline forms, ensuring that the methods are reproducible and efficient.
- Pharmaceutical Compositions: Claims cover the pharmaceutical compositions containing these crystalline forms, which are designed to improve vascular function and act as immunomodulating agents.
- Therapeutic Uses: The patent specifies the use of these compositions alone or in combination with other active compounds or therapies to treat disorders associated with an activated immune system.
Patent Scope Metrics
To understand the scope of this patent, metrics such as independent claim length and independent claim count can be analyzed. Research suggests that narrower claims at publication are associated with a higher probability of grant and a shorter examination process. This implies that the claims in Patent 9,062,014 were likely refined during the examination process to ensure clarity and specificity[3].
Patent Expiration Dates
The patent is set to expire on May 6, 2032. This expiration date is significant as it marks the end of the exclusive rights granted to Actelion Pharmaceuticals Ltd. for this specific invention. After this date, generic versions of the drug could potentially enter the market, provided there are no additional exclusivities or patents that extend the protection period[4].
Related Exclusivities
In addition to patent protection, the FDA grants exclusivity rights that can run concurrently with or independently of patent protection. For the drug related to this patent, the new chemical entity (NCE) exclusivity is set to expire on March 18, 2026. This exclusivity period ensures that the drug has a certain period of market exclusivity, even if the patent expires earlier[4].
Impact on Pharmaceutical Market
The expiration of this patent and related exclusivities will have significant implications for the pharmaceutical market. Generic manufacturers will be able to develop and market their own versions of the drug, potentially reducing costs and increasing accessibility for patients. This could also lead to increased competition, driving innovation and better pricing in the market.
Competitive Landscape
The pharmaceutical landscape is highly competitive, especially in the area of immunomodulating agents. The expiration of patents like 9,062,014 opens up opportunities for other companies to enter the market with generic or biosimilar products. This competition can drive down prices and improve patient outcomes by providing more treatment options.
Regulatory Considerations
Regulatory bodies like the FDA play a crucial role in ensuring that generic versions of drugs meet the same safety and efficacy standards as the original branded drug. The approval process for generics involves demonstrating bioequivalence to the branded drug, which helps maintain the quality and safety of the medications available in the market.
Economic Implications
The economic implications of patent expiration are substantial. The entry of generic drugs can significantly reduce healthcare costs by providing cheaper alternatives. For example, a study by the Generic Pharmaceutical Association found that generic drugs saved the U.S. healthcare system over $1.7 trillion from 2007 to 2016[3].
Innovation and R&D
While patent expiration can lead to increased competition and lower prices, it also underscores the need for continuous innovation in pharmaceutical research and development. Companies like Actelion Pharmaceuticals Ltd. must invest in new research to develop novel compounds and secure new patents to maintain their market position.
Conclusion
United States Patent 9,062,014 is a critical piece of intellectual property for Actelion Pharmaceuticals Ltd., covering specific crystalline forms of a thiazolidin-4-one derivative. Understanding the claims, scope, and expiration dates of this patent is essential for navigating the pharmaceutical market. As the patent approaches its expiration date, it is crucial for stakeholders to consider the regulatory, economic, and competitive implications.
Key Takeaways
- Patent Claims: The patent covers crystalline forms, preparation processes, pharmaceutical compositions, and therapeutic uses.
- Expiration Date: The patent expires on May 6, 2032.
- Exclusivities: NCE exclusivity expires on March 18, 2026.
- Market Impact: Patent expiration will open the market to generic competition.
- Regulatory Considerations: Generic drugs must demonstrate bioequivalence to the branded drug.
- Economic Implications: Generic entry can significantly reduce healthcare costs.
- Innovation: Continuous R&D is necessary to maintain market position.
FAQs
What is the main subject of United States Patent 9,062,014?
The main subject of this patent is the crystalline forms of the compound (R)-5-[3-chloro-4-(2,3-dihydroxy-propoxy)-benz[Z]ylidene]-2-([Z]-propylimino)-3-o-tolyl-thiazolidin-4-one, used in pharmaceutical compositions to treat disorders associated with an activated immune system.
Who are the inventors of this patent?
The inventors are Bonham Nicholas, Buchmann Stephan, Eberlin Alex, Imboden Christoph, and Von Raumer Markus.
What is the expiration date of this patent?
The patent is set to expire on May 6, 2032.
What are the implications of patent expiration for the pharmaceutical market?
Patent expiration will allow generic manufacturers to enter the market, potentially reducing costs and increasing accessibility for patients, while also driving competition and innovation.
How do regulatory bodies ensure the quality of generic drugs?
Regulatory bodies like the FDA ensure that generic drugs meet the same safety and efficacy standards as the original branded drug by requiring bioequivalence testing.
Cited Sources
- Generic Ponvory Availability - Drugs.com
- Patent Claims and Patent Scope - Hoover Institution
- The Lens - Patent Lens
- Generic Pharmaceutical Association (not directly cited but referenced for economic implications)