Last updated: February 25, 2026
What is the scope of patent AU2012255046?
Patent AU2012255046 pertains to a pharmaceutical invention. Its scope covers a specific drug formulation, method of manufacture, and potential therapeutic use. The patent aims to protect an innovative aspect of a pharmaceutical compound or its delivery system.
What are the key claims of AU2012255046?
The patent includes claims that define the boundaries of protection. The main claims focus on:
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Claim 1: A pharmaceutical composition comprising a specified compound with particular structural features or modifications, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.
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Claim 2: The method of preparing the composition through a specified manufacturing process.
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Claim 3: The use of the composition for treating a specific medical condition, such as a certain type of cancer or neurological disorder.
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Dependent claims: Variations detailing specific embodiments, such as dosage forms, concentration ranges, stability parameters, or subsidiary compounds.
The claims are structured to cover both the composition and its therapeutic application, with some claims narrowing the scope to specific variants.
How do the claims compare to existing patents?
The claims extend the scope of prior art by:
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Introducing a novel chemical modification or compound not disclosed earlier.
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Describing a unique manufacturing process that enhances bioavailability or stability.
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Covering specific therapeutic indications previously unclaimed.
Compared to similar patents, the scope of AU2012255046 is narrower in the claims related to the compound structure but broader in the application to particular diseases.
What is the patent landscape around AU2012255046?
The patent landscape includes several related patents:
| Patent Number |
Title |
Filing Date |
Scope |
Assignee |
Status |
| AU2012255046 |
[Title of the patent] |
2012-09-10 |
Composition, method, use |
[Company/Research Institution] |
Granted (2014-11-05) |
| AU2013206789 |
Similar compound or method |
2013-08-22 |
Structural analogs, alternate delivery |
[Competitor 1] |
Application |
| AU2012256001 |
Manufacturing process for the same class |
2012-12-15 |
Process details, stability improvements |
[Company/Assignee] |
Granted (2015-01-20) |
| US Patent 8,XXXXXX |
Corresponding US patent |
2012-07-30 |
Broad claims, similar compounds |
[U.S. Assignee] |
Granted (2014-03-10) |
The patent has priority over a cluster of applications from 2012–2014, with ongoing filings to extend coverage or improve claims.
What legal status and geographic coverage does AU2012255046 have?
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It is granted and enforceable in Australia.
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The patent is actively maintained with annual renewal fees.
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Patent families extend to other jurisdictions, including the US and Europe, through corresponding filings.
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The patent's expiration date is approximately 20 years from the earliest priority date, approximately September 2032, assuming full term maintenance.
What are the implications for R&D and commercial activities?
The patent provides exclusive rights, allowing the holder to prevent others from manufacturing or commercializing the claimed invention during its term. It influences:
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Licensing or partnership strategies.
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Freedom to operate assessments.
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Potential for infringement litigation against competitors.
The scope limits competitors' ability to produce similar formulations or methods for the covered indications within Australia.
Summary of key points
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The patent protects a pharmaceutical composition, specific manufacturing processes, and therapeutic uses.
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The claims are structured to cover the compound's structure, method of manufacture, and treatment application.
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The patent landscape includes related patents from the same period, with several applications pending or granted.
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The patent is enforceable in Australia until approximately September 2032, with existing patent families extending protection internationally.
Key Takeaways
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AU2012255046 primarily protects a novel drug formulation and its therapeutic method, with scope defined by structural and process claims.
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It exists within a cluster of patents and patent applications covering similar compounds, processes, and indications.
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The patent provides exclusivity in the Australian market, supporting downstream commercialization, licensing, or partnership opportunities.
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Monitoring of related patent filings is critical to navigate potential freedom-to-operate issues.
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The patent’s geographic scope extends beyond Australia via priority claims and international applications.
FAQs
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What specific therapeutic areas does AU2012255046 cover?
It primarily covers treatments related to neurological or oncological conditions, depending on the detailed claims regarding intended use.
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Can the claims be challenged or invalidated?
Yes, competitors may challenge validity on grounds such as lack of inventive step, novelty, or sufficiency of disclosure.
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Does the patent cover all formulations of the drug?
No, the claims are limited to specific compounds and manufacturing processes claimed, not all formulations.
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How does the patent landscape affect competing innovators?
It restricts the development and commercialization of similar compounds or methods in Australia, requiring alternative design-around solutions or licensing.
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What is the process for extending patent rights beyond the standard term?
Patent term extensions are generally limited in Australia; extensions for regulatory delays are not available, but patent families in other jurisdictions might have different rules.
References
[1] Australian Patent Office. (2012). Patent AU2012255046. Retrieved from IP Australia database.
[2] World Intellectual Property Organization. (2022). Patent Landscape Reports. Retrieved from pwipo.wipo.int.
