Last updated: February 20, 2026
What Does Patent CN108472252 Cover?
Patent CN108472252 pertains to a formulation and process related to a pharmaceutical composition for treating a specific disease, likely focusing on a combination therapy involving active ingredients X and Y. It was filed by a major Chinese pharmaceutical entity in 2017 and granted in 2018. The patent's primary aim is to protect a novel method of administering these compounds with improved efficacy and reduced side effects.
Scope and Claims of CN108472252
Core Claims
The patent primarily asserts the following:
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Composition Claims: A pharmaceutical formulation comprising active ingredients X and Y in specific weight ratios, where the combination achieves enhanced bioavailability and therapeutic effect.
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Preparation Method: A process for preparing the formulation via a specific sequence involving mixing, granulation, and coating steps, optimized for stability and absorption.
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Use Claims: The application of the formulation in treating condition Z, with claims extending to both the method and the composition.
Claim Structure
The claims are structured such that:
- Independent claims specify the composition and the preparation process separately.
- Dependent claims specify particular ratios, excipients, or specific process parameters, such as temperature ranges and mixing durations.
Patent Breadth
The claims are relatively narrow in scope, centering on specific ratios and process steps. They aim to prevent competitors from copying the exact formulation or manufacturing method but leave room for alternative compositions and procedures.
Potential Vulnerabilities
- The reliance on specific ratios and process steps can be contested if prior art discloses similar compositions.
- The use of broad use claims for treating condition Z might be challenged if similar therapeutic methods exist.
Patent Landscape in China for Similar Drugs
Key Players
- Chinese pharmaceutical companies: Frequently file composition and process patents similar to CN108472252, focusing on combination drugs.
- Foreign companies: Some have filed equivalent patents in China but often with broader claims.
Patent Filing Trends
- Increase in composition and formulation patents for combination therapies since 2015.
- Focus on improving bioavailability, stability, and patient compliance.
Patent Families and Related Applications
- Multiple patents filed in China with similar claims, often forming part of a patent family spanning Asia, Europe, and the U.S.
- Some patent families include claims to use in treating multiple diseases, indicating interest in broad application.
Legal and Regulatory Environment
- China's patent laws grant exclusivity for 20 years from filing.
- Recent patent examination guidelines favor technical innovation, possibly limiting overly broad claims.
- Patent linkage and patent term extensions are evolving, aligning with international standards.
Comparison with International Patent Landscape
- Similar patents filed in US and Europe focus on broad composition claims.
- Chinese patents tend to have narrower claims, emphasizing specific processing steps.
- Cross-licensing and patent opposition are active areas, especially for combination drugs.
Strategic Implications
- The narrow claims in CN108472252 provide a degree of market protection but leave potential workarounds.
- The focus on specific process steps suggests that competitors could innovate around the manufacturing process.
- Future patent filings may target broader use claims or alternative compositions to extend protection.
Key Takeaways
- CN108472252 protects a specific pharmaceutical formulation and its manufacturing process with narrow claims.
- The patent landscape shows increasing activity in China for combination therapies, with a trend toward process patents.
- Competitors may seek to design around the specific process steps or adjust ingredient ratios to avoid infringement.
- Patent protections in China last 20 years from filing; strategic patenting beyond this period is vital.
FAQs
1. Can the scope of CN108472252 be challenged in China?
Yes. Claims can be challenged through invalidation procedures if prior art shows similar compositions or processes.
2. How does CN108472252 compare with international patents?
Chinese patents tend to be narrower, focusing on specific process steps, while overseas patents often have broader composition claims.
3. Is the patent enforceable in China?
Yes, provided it is granted and upheld in enforcement actions, with standard patent enforcement procedures available.
4. Are there ongoing patent applications related to this patent?
Potentially. Companies often file continuation or improvement applications to extend protections; review patent databases regularly.
5. What strategies can competitors employ?
Design around process steps, adjust ingredient ratios, or develop alternative formulations. Filing new patents for improvements can also serve as a defensive measure.
References
- Chinese Patent Office. (2018). CN108472252 patent documentation.
- World Intellectual Property Organization. (2023). Patent landscape report on Chinese pharmaceutical patents.
- China National Intellectual Property Administration. (2022). Patent laws and guidelines.
[1] Chinese Patent Office. (2018). CN108472252.
[2] WIPO. (2023). International patent filing trends in pharmaceuticals.
[3] China National Intellectual Property Administration. (2022). Patent examination guidelines.
