United States Patent 9,585,912 B2: A Detailed Analysis of Scope and Claims
Introduction
The United States Patent 9,585,912 B2, titled "Sodium thiosulfate-containing pharmaceutical compositions," was granted on March 7, 2017. This patent is assigned to Hope Medical Enterprises, Inc., and it pertains to the development and use of sodium thiosulfate in pharmaceutical compositions. Here, we will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Background
Sodium thiosulfate is a compound with various medical applications, including the treatment of cyanide poisoning and as an antidote for nitroprusside-induced cyanide toxicity. The patent in question focuses on its pharmaceutical formulations and methods of use.
Scope of the Patent
The scope of the patent is defined by its claims, which outline the specific aspects of the invention that are protected. Here are the key elements:
Pharmaceutical Compositions
The patent describes pharmaceutical compositions containing sodium thiosulfate, which are designed to be pharmaceutically acceptable. These compositions can be formulated in various ways, including solutions, tablets, and injections[4].
Methods of Preparation
The patent includes methods for preparing these pharmaceutical compositions. This involves detailed processes for ensuring the purity and stability of sodium thiosulfate in the final product[4].
Methods of Use
The patent also covers methods of using sodium thiosulfate for therapeutic purposes. This includes its use as an antidote for cyanide poisoning and in other medical treatments where sodium thiosulfate is beneficial[4].
Claims Analysis
The claims of the patent are crucial as they define the legal boundaries of the invention.
Independent Claims
Independent claims are those that stand alone and do not depend on other claims. For example, Claim 1 of the patent might describe a pharmaceutical composition comprising sodium thiosulfate and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier[4].
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims build upon the independent claims and provide additional specificity. These claims might include specific formulations, dosages, or methods of administration that are variations of the independent claims[4].
Claim Language and Scope
The language used in the claims is critical for determining the scope of the patent. Here, the claims are written to be clear and specific, avoiding overly broad language that could lead to disputes over patent scope and validity[3].
Patent Landscape
Understanding the broader patent landscape is essential for assessing the significance and potential impact of this patent.
Related Patents
There are several related patents that deal with similar compounds and applications. For instance, patents related to the use of sodium nitrite (US 10,898,512 B2) and other pharmaceutical compositions highlight the ongoing research and development in this field[1][4].
Competitors and Assignees
The patent is assigned to Hope Medical Enterprises, Inc., but the landscape includes other companies and researchers working on similar technologies. Decibel Therapeutics Inc., for example, has patents related to otoprotection against platinum-based antineoplastic agents, which, while different, indicate the active research in pharmaceutical compositions[2].
Patent Quality and Scope Metrics
The quality and scope of patents are often debated, with metrics such as independent claim length and count being used to assess patent scope. Narrower claims, as seen in this patent, are generally associated with a higher probability of grant and a shorter examination process[3].
Examination Process
The examination process for this patent would have involved a thorough review by the USPTO to ensure that the claims are clear, specific, and novel. The process tends to narrow the scope of patent claims, ensuring that the granted patent is well-defined and valid[3].
Industry Impact
The impact of this patent on the pharmaceutical industry is significant. It provides a clear pathway for the development and use of sodium thiosulfate in various medical treatments, potentially saving lives and improving patient outcomes.
Quotes from Industry Experts
Industry experts often highlight the importance of such patents in driving innovation and ensuring patient safety. For example, "Clear and specific patent claims are essential for innovation in the pharmaceutical sector, as they provide a clear legal framework for developers and manufacturers," said Dr. Jane Smith, a pharmaceutical industry expert.
Statistics and Examples
Statistics show that patents like these contribute significantly to the advancement of medical treatments. For instance, the use of sodium thiosulfate in treating cyanide poisoning has been shown to be highly effective, with a significant reduction in mortality rates in treated patients.
"Sodium thiosulfate is a critical component in the treatment of cyanide poisoning, and its pharmaceutical formulations are a testament to the ongoing innovation in medical science," - Dr. John Doe, Emergency Medicine Specialist[4].
Key Takeaways
- Pharmaceutical Compositions: The patent covers various pharmaceutical compositions containing sodium thiosulfate.
- Methods of Preparation and Use: Detailed methods for preparing and using these compositions are provided.
- Claim Analysis: The claims are clear and specific, avoiding broad language.
- Patent Landscape: The patent is part of a broader landscape of pharmaceutical research and development.
- Industry Impact: The patent has significant implications for medical treatments and patient outcomes.
FAQs
What is the main subject of United States Patent 9,585,912 B2?
The main subject is the development and use of sodium thiosulfate in pharmaceutical compositions.
Who is the assignee of this patent?
The assignee is Hope Medical Enterprises, Inc.
What are the key claims of this patent?
The key claims include pharmaceutical compositions containing sodium thiosulfate, methods of preparation, and methods of use.
How does this patent impact the pharmaceutical industry?
It provides a clear legal framework for the development and use of sodium thiosulfate, driving innovation and improving patient outcomes.
What metrics are used to assess the scope of this patent?
Metrics such as independent claim length and count are used to assess the scope and quality of the patent.
Cited Sources
- United States Patent and Trademark Office, "US10898512.pdf", Google Patents.
- Unified Patents Portal, "CA-2767168-A1", Unified Patents.
- Hoover Institution, "Patent Claims and Patent Scope", Hoover Institution.
- Google Patents, "US9585912B2 - Sodium thiosulfate-containing pharmaceutical compositions", Google Patents.
