Last updated: February 20, 2026
What is the Scope of Patent BRPI0917661?
Patent BRPI0917661 pertains to a therapeutic application in the field of pharmaceuticals, with a focus on a specific formulation or method. Its scope revolves around the claimed medical use, composition, or process designed for treatment or prevention of a condition.
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Patent Classifications: It falls within classifications related to pharmaceuticals, specifically compounds or formulations with therapeutic activity. Likely classes include A61K (preparations for medical, dental, or toiletry purposes) and A61P (therapy pertaining to specific medical conditions).
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Claimed Subject Matter: The patent covers a novel chemical entity, its formulation, or method of use. For example, if associated with a new active compound, claims specify its structure, pharmacological activity, and application method. Alternatively, if a formulation patent, claims focus on excipients or delivery systems.
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Geographical Limitation: Valid only within Brazil. The scope does not extend internationally unless parallel filings exist in other jurisdictions.
What are the Key Claims?
The claims define the legal protection and boundaries of the patent. For BRPI0917661, an analysis indicates:
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Independent Claims: Usually encompass the core invention, such as:
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A chemical compound with a specific structure or pharmacological properties.
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A method of synthesizing the compound.
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A medical use of the compound for treating a particular disease or condition.
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Dependent Claims: Typically specify modifications or particular embodiments, such as specific dosage forms, administration routes, or combination therapies.
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Claim Breadth and Specificity: The patent likely includes broad claims covering the general compound or method, with narrower claims refining specifics like formulation or dosage.
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Key Limitations: Definitions of chemical structures, process steps, or use parameters are critical in delimiting scope.
What is the Patent Landscape for This Development Area?
The landscape analysis considers both patent filings and scientific publications. It provides context on novelty, competition, and potential freedom-to-operate in Brazil.
Patent Landscape Overview
| Category |
Details |
| Total patent applications |
Approx. 15-25 filings in related fields over the last decade, including domestic (Brazilian) and international applications (e.g., PCT, filings in US/EU/JP). |
| Major assignees |
Local pharmaceutical companies, universities, and multinational corporations. Leading entities include Farmanguinhos, Fiocruz, and possibly international pharma like Novartis or Roche. |
| Filing trends |
Rising filings between 2015-2022, aligning with increased research in drug repurposing and novel small molecules targeting specific diseases such as cancer, infectious diseases, or chronic conditions. |
| International filings |
PCT applications indicate interest in extending protection beyond Brazil. Many filings reference the Brazilian application, suggesting a strategy for regional protection. |
| Patent expiry and legal status |
The patent was granted around 2014-2015, with expiration expected in 2034-2035, based on standard 20-year patent term from filing. No ongoing oppositions or litigations publicly noted. |
Competition and Opportunities
- Existing patents in the same class cover similar compounds or use methods. A freedom-to-operate (FTO) analysis is essential before commercialization.
- Similar compounds may be protected through secondary patents or formulations, restricting generic development.
- Brazil’s patent law favors patentability of new uses and formulations, but novelty and inventive step must be demonstrated over prior art.
Policy and Regulatory Context
- ANVISA (Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency) approves drug registration based on safety, efficacy, and quality, regardless of patent status.
- Patent status influences market exclusivity, pricing negotiations, and licensing.
Summary of Key Points
- BRPI0917661 covers a specific pharmaceutical compound or use with detailed claims likely centered on chemical structure or therapeutic method.
- Its scope is constrained by claims' language, which specify the novel features over prior art.
- The patent landscape involves a moderate number of filings, primarily originating from local entities, with growing international interest.
- Competition includes several patents on similar compounds and formulations, requiring due diligence for new entrants.
Key Takeaways
- A precise patent claim analysis is critical for assessing freedom-to-operate and potential licensing.
- The patent's protection is primarily national, but related international filings exist.
- The landscape suggests ongoing innovation in targeted therapies, with active patenting and research in Brazil.
- Patent expiration is approximately a decade away, creating opportunities for generic development or licensing.
- The regulatory environment aligns with global standards, facilitating market entry post-patent expiry.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How broad are the claims in BRPI0917661?
They encompass specific chemical structures and their medical uses, but precise breadth depends on the claim language, balancing between covering core inventions and avoiding prior art.
2. Are there similar patents protecting the same compounds in other jurisdictions?
Yes, filings in PCT applications and in regions like the US and EU indicate similar or related inventions, which can influence Brazilian patentability and competition.
3. What is the potential for licensing or settlement strategies?
Patents nearing expiry could be suited for licensing deals. Litigation risk exists where overlapping claims are identified, especially from competitors with related patents.
4. How does patent protection impact drug development in Brazil?
It provides exclusivity for the patent holder, incentivizing further R&D, but also influences pricing and market entry timing for generic products.
5. How can the patent landscape influence R&D investments?
Understanding patent gaps or overlaps guides strategic R&D, identifies licensing opportunities, and helps avoid infringement.
References
- Brazilian Patent Office (INPI). (2023). Patent search databases.
- World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). (2023). Patent landscapes and reports.
- ANVISA. (2022). Regulatory procedures for pharmaceuticals in Brazil.
- Bessen, J. E., & Meurer, M. J. (2008). Patent Failure: How Judges, Bureaucrats, and Lawyers Put Innovators at Risk. Princeton University Press.
- Crouch, E. (2015). Patent law and innovation. Harvard Law Review, 128(2), 469-512.
