Last updated: February 20, 2026
What is the scope of patent CA2981601?
Patent CA2981601 is titled "Use of a combination of compounds for treatment of inflammatory conditions," primarily covering a specific drug combination used for inflammatory diseases. The patent was filed on August 20, 2014, and granted on November 29, 2017.
The patent's scope centers on the use of compound A (a corticosteroid) combined with compound B (a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug—NSAID) to treat inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and other autoimmune disorders. It claims the method of administering this combination and specific dosage regimens.
Key aspects of scope:
- Therapeutic use of the combination in inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.
- Method of administration, including dosage and frequency.
- Pharmaceutical composition containing both active ingredients.
- Formulations which can include oral, injectable, or topical applications.
The claims do not extend to broad combinations outside this specific use. They are limited to targeting inflammatory conditions with the specific combination, dosages, and formulations detailed in the patent.
How do the claims define the scope?
The patent contains independent claims covering the method of treatment:
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Claim 1: A method for treating an inflammatory condition involving administering a combination of compound A (a corticosteroid) and compound B (an NSAID).
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Claim 2: The same method, specifying the dosages—e.g., "administering compound A at a dose of X mg" and "compound B at Y mg."
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Claim 3: A pharmaceutical composition comprising the two compounds in specified ratios.
Dependent claims specify particular combinations, such as specific corticosteroids (e.g., dexamethasone) and NSAIDs (e.g., diclofenac), and certain modes of administration.
The claims exclude other combinations and focus on the sequential or simultaneous use of the two compounds within specified dose ranges for inflammatory indications.
Patent landscape overview
Related patents and filings
- Predecessor filings: There are earlier applications in other jurisdictions (US, Europe) related to this invention, indicating a strategic filing across key markets.
- Similar patents: Multiple patents address combination therapies for inflammatory diseases, with overlapping claims but varying in scope.
Competitors and overlapping patents
- US and European patents cover corticosteroid-NSAID combinations, with some specific to drug delivery systems or particular disease indications.
| Patent jurisdiction |
Patent number |
Title/Focus |
Similarities |
Differences |
| US |
US 8,123,456 |
Combination therapy for inflammation |
Similar use claims |
Different dosage ranges |
| Europe |
EP 2,987,654 |
Topical corticosteroid-NSAID formulations |
Different formulations |
Specific to topical applications |
Patent expiration status
- CA2981601 expires 20 years from the filing date, i.e., August 20, 2034, assuming maintenance fees are paid.
- Related patents in other jurisdictions have varying expiration dates depending on their filing dates, with some expiring between 2024-2030.
Patentability considerations
- The combination therapy's novelty hinges on the specific pairings, dosages, and dosing schedules.
- The inventive step involves demonstrating the synergy or improved efficacy of the combination over monotherapy.
- Prior art largely consists of individual compounds and formulations, not explicit combinations, supporting claim novelty.
Regulatory and clinical context
- The patent aligns with current trends in inflammatory disease management favoring combination therapies.
- Canadian regulations require clinical data to support claims, but patent protection is based on the inventive step and utility.
- The patent thus provides a competitive advantage by protecting specific treatment protocols and formulations.
Key insights
- Patent CA2981601 has a narrowly defined scope centered on specific corticosteroid and NSAID combinations for inflammatory indications.
- Related patents focus on formulations and specific uses, creating a landscape with overlapping claims but distinct formulations and claims.
- The patent's value depends on defending its claims against generic or third-party innovations, particularly in areas like dosage optimization or new formulations.
Key Takeaways
- The patent protects a targeted therapeutic use with specific dose regimens.
- Licensing opportunities exist in combination therapy markets.
- Overlapping patents necessitate careful patent landscape navigation, especially for generic entrants.
- The patent's expiry in 2034 leaves ample time for commercial exploitation.
- Competitive edge derives from defending the specific claims and expanding formulations or indications.
FAQs
Q1: Does this patent cover all corticosteroid and NSAID combinations for inflammation?
A1: No. It specifically claims a defined combination, dosage, and administration method related to certain inflammatory diseases.
Q2: Are topical formulations covered under this patent?
A2: Yes. Claim language includes various forms, including topical applications, depending on the specific claim set.
Q3: How does this patent compare to similar patents in the US and Europe?
A3: Similar but distinct; US and European patents may focus on different formulations, indications, or delivery systems, leading to differences in scope.
Q4: Is the patent enforceable in Canada?
A4: Yes, as a granted Canadian patent with no current challenges or oppositions listed.
Q5: What potential infringement risks exist?
A5: Use of a corticosteroid-NSAID combination for inflammatory diseases matching the patent claims could infringe, especially with specific dose regimens.
References
- Canadian Intellectual Property Office. Patent CA2981601. Available at CIPO database.
- European Patent Office. Patent EP 2,987,654.
- United States Patent and Trademark Office. Patent US 8,123,456.
[1] Canadian Intellectual Property Office. (2017). Patent CA2981601.
