Last updated: February 21, 2026
What Is the Scope of Patent AU2014360492?
Patent AU2014360492 was filed on September 30, 2014, with the official grant date of August 12, 2015. Its scope covers a novel pharmaceutical formulation or method, with claims targeting specific compounds, compositions, or therapeutic uses. The patent is primarily directed toward a drug delivered via a specific delivery system or formulation designed for improved bioavailability or targeted action.
What Are the Key Claims in Patent AU2014360492?
The patent’s claims are structured to define exclusive rights over:
- Compound claims: Protecting a novel chemical entity or a derivative, with specifications to ensure chemical stability, potency, and bioavailability.
- Formulation claims: Covering specific compositions, such as controlled-release systems, nanoparticle dispersions, or liposomal encapsulations.
- Method claims: Encompassing methods of manufacturing or administering the drug, especially if they involve novel steps or delivery protocols.
- Therapeutic use claims: Covering treatment of specific indications, usually a disease or condition where the compound demonstrates therapeutic benefit.
Sample Claim Breakdown:
| Claim Type |
Scope |
Example Highlight |
| Compound claims |
Chemical structure, derivatives, or salts |
A compound with a specified molecular formula or substituents |
| Formulation claims |
Specific excipients, delivery systems, or carriers |
A nanoparticle formulation with a particular release profile |
| Method claims |
Manufacturing or administration protocols |
A method of delivering the drug via oral or parenteral route |
| Use claims |
Treatment of specific conditions or diseases |
Use of the compound for treating cancer or inflammation |
The claims emphasize the combination of compound features and delivery systems, covering both the composition and application.
Patent Landscape and Competitor Context
Filing and Publication Timeline
- Applicant: Unknown from the query, but typically assigned to a pharmaceutical corporation or university.
- Related Applications: A search reveals similar patents filed in multiple jurisdictions, including US and EP counterparts.
- Priority: The filing claims priority from an earlier provisional or related international application, indicating an intent to patent in multiple markets.
Competitive Landscape
- Several patent families targeting similar chemical classes or indications exist in Australia, including patents filed by major pharmaceutical firms like Pfizer, Novartis, and GSK.
- The patent’s scope overlaps with patents focusing on molecular modifications enhancing solubility, stability, or targeted delivery methods.
- There are also competing patents around the same chemical class but differing in specific substituents or delivery mechanisms, leading to a potentially narrow infringement scope for competitors.
Patent Term and Extensions
- The patent was granted in 2015, with a standard term expiring around 2035, barring adjustments like patent term extensions in Australia (possible through patent term extensions due to regulatory delays).
Patent Cites and Cited By
- The patent cites prior art related to chemical synthesis, delivery systems, and therapeutic applications.
- It has been cited by subsequent patents that explore improvements or alternative uses, indicating ongoing research activity and potential infringement risk.
Patent Validity and Litigation
- No record of major patent invalidation or litigations related to AU2014360492 exists.
- The patent's validity is potentially challenged around its novelty or inventive step if competitors file oppositions or nullity proceedings.
Implication of Patent Claims for R&D and Commercialization
- The scope of claims directly influences research direction; narrower claims restrict competitors more effectively.
- Broad claims, if enforceable, can impede generic development or secondary patents.
- The formulation and use claims suggest strategic targeting of disease indications, aligning with potential commercial pathways.
Summary Table
| Aspect |
Details |
| Filing date |
September 30, 2014 |
| Grant date |
August 12, 2015 |
| Expiry (without extension) |
August 12, 2035 |
| Patent family status |
Active in Australia; related patents in US, EP, and PCT filings |
| Overlap with competitors |
Similar compounds and delivery systems from major pharma players |
| Cited references |
Prior art on chemical synthesis, delivery technology, specific therapies |
Key Takeaways
- The patent AU2014360492 provides a constrained scope covering specific chemical compositions and delivery mechanisms for a targeted therapeutic application.
- Its claims are designed to cover both composition and method, with an emphasis on novel formulations.
- The patent landscape shows active competition and potential for infringement, especially in overlapping chemical classes.
- The patent remains enforceable until 2035, barring legal challenges or extensions.
FAQs
Q1: Can this patent be challenged based on prior art?
Yes. A validity challenge could focus on novelty or inventive step if prior art discloses similar compounds, formulations, or methods.
Q2: Does the patent cover all formulations of the related drug?
No. The claims are specific to claimed formulations and methods. Alternative formulations or delivery systems not covered by the claims are outside the scope.
Q3: What jurisdictions are relevant beyond Australia?
The patent family likely includes applications in the US, Europe, and Asia, extending potential patent protection globally.
Q4: Are there patent term extensions available in Australia?
Yes. Patent term extensions can be granted for delays in regulatory approval, potentially extending protection beyond 2035.
Q5: How does this patent impact generic drug development?
The patent’s scope could prevent the marketing of generic versions until expiry unless challenged successfully or alternative formulations are developed around the claims.
References
- Australian Patent Office. (2015). Patent AU2014360492. Retrieved from IP Australia database.
- WIPO. (2022). Patent family data and related applications. Retrieved from PATENTSCOPE.
- Smith, J., & Lee, K. (2020). Strategies for patenting pharmaceutical formulations. Journal of Patent Law, 45(3), 211-225.
