United States Patent 9,161,920: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 9,161,920, titled "Pharmaceutical Compositions for the Coronated Delivery of NSAIDs," was granted to Pozen Inc. on October 20, 2015. This patent is significant in the pharmaceutical industry, particularly in the development of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Here, we will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Patent Overview
Inventor and Assignee
The patent was invented by John R. Plachetka and assigned to Pozen Inc., a pharmaceutical company based in Chapel Hill, North Carolina[4].
Patent Date and Classification
The patent was granted on October 20, 2015, and is classified under various categories including A61K 31/495, A61K 45/06, and A61K 9/2846, among others[4].
Scope of the Patent
Pharmaceutical Compositions
The patent describes pharmaceutical compositions designed for the coronated delivery of NSAIDs. This delivery method is intended to reduce gastrointestinal side effects associated with traditional NSAID formulations. The compositions involve a combination of NSAIDs with other components that help in targeted delivery, minimizing the risk of gastrointestinal damage[4].
Key Components
The patent outlines specific formulations that include a NSAID, a buffering agent, and an alkaline component. These components work together to maintain a pH level that protects the gastrointestinal tract while ensuring the effective delivery of the NSAID[4].
Claims of the Patent
Independent Claims
The patent includes several independent claims that define the scope of the invention. For example, Claim 1 describes a pharmaceutical composition comprising a NSAID, a buffering agent, and an alkaline component, all formulated to achieve a specific pH range[4].
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims further specify the details of the composition, such as the types of NSAIDs, buffering agents, and alkaline components that can be used. These claims also outline the methods of preparation and the therapeutic uses of the compositions[4].
Patent Landscape
Prior Art and References
The patent cites numerous prior art documents, including U.S. and international patents, that relate to NSAID formulations and delivery methods. These references highlight the evolution of NSAID formulations and the ongoing efforts to mitigate their side effects[4].
International Patent Databases
To understand the global patent landscape, one can refer to international patent databases such as those provided by the European Patent Office (EPO), Japan Patent Office (JPO), and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). These databases offer insights into similar patents filed in other jurisdictions[1].
Global Dossier
The Global Dossier service provided by the USPTO allows users to view the patent family for a specific application, including related applications filed at participating IP Offices. This service is useful for understanding the global reach and related filings of the patent[1].
Litigation and Legal Implications
Recent Litigation
The patent has been involved in recent litigation, with a New Jersey judge dismissing certain claims related to two Horizon drug patents in 2022. This highlights the ongoing legal battles in the pharmaceutical industry over patent rights and infringement[5].
Legal Significance
The legal implications of this patent are significant, as it protects Pozen Inc.'s innovative approach to NSAID delivery. This protection can prevent other companies from developing similar formulations, thereby giving Pozen Inc. a competitive edge in the market[5].
Economic and Research Implications
Patent Claims Research Dataset
The USPTO's Patent Claims Research Dataset provides detailed information on claims from U.S. patents, including those related to pharmaceutical compositions. This dataset can be used to analyze trends in patent scope and the dependency relationships between claims, offering valuable insights for researchers and economists[3].
Economic Impact
The economic impact of this patent can be substantial, given the widespread use of NSAIDs and the potential for reduced side effects with the new delivery method. This could lead to increased market share for Pozen Inc. and improved patient outcomes[3].
Conclusion
United States Patent 9,161,920 represents a significant advancement in the formulation and delivery of NSAIDs, addressing a critical issue in pharmaceuticals. Understanding the scope, claims, and broader patent landscape is crucial for both legal and business strategies in the industry.
Key Takeaways
- The patent protects a specific method of delivering NSAIDs to reduce gastrointestinal side effects.
- It includes detailed formulations and methods of preparation.
- The patent has been involved in recent litigation, highlighting its legal significance.
- International patent databases and the Global Dossier service provide insights into the global patent landscape.
- The economic impact could be substantial due to the potential for improved patient outcomes and market share.
FAQs
What is the main innovation of United States Patent 9,161,920?
The main innovation is the development of pharmaceutical compositions for the coronated delivery of NSAIDs, designed to reduce gastrointestinal side effects.
Who is the inventor and assignee of the patent?
The inventor is John R. Plachetka, and the assignee is Pozen Inc.
What are the key components of the pharmaceutical compositions described in the patent?
The key components include a NSAID, a buffering agent, and an alkaline component.
How can one search for similar patents globally?
One can use international patent databases such as those provided by the EPO, JPO, and WIPO, as well as the Global Dossier service.
What is the significance of the Patent Claims Research Dataset in relation to this patent?
The dataset provides detailed information on claims from U.S. patents, allowing for the analysis of trends in patent scope and dependency relationships between claims, which can be useful for researchers and economists.
