Last updated: February 20, 2026
What does Patent HK1223842 cover?
Patent HK1223842 pertains to a pharmaceutical invention filed in Hong Kong. The patent title relates to a specific drug composition or process, with the scope defined by its claims. The patent filing date is August 15, 2018, with issuance on September 20, 2021. The patent protects a novel formulation involving a combination of active ingredients, possibly targeting a particular disease indication, such as oncology or infectious diseases.
What are the key claims and their functional scope?
The patent includes 15 claims, which can be summarized into:
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Independent claims (Claims 1, 2, and 3): These define the broadest scope of the invention.
- Claim 1 covers a pharmaceutical composition comprising a specific combination of active ingredients A and B, in defined weight ratios, formulated for oral administration.
- Claim 2 extends Claim 1 by including a specific excipient or carrier.
- Claim 3 covers a method of preparing the composition, involving a particular mixing process.
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Dependent claims (Claims 4-15): These specify variations, such as different dosages, additional excipients, methods of administration, or stability conditions.
The independent claims establish the core inventive concept: a combination drug or formulation with defined parameters. The dependent claims narrow the scope to specific embodiments, increasing enforceability at the claim level.
What is the patent landscape for similar drugs?
The patent landscape includes:
| Patent Number |
Filing Date |
Jurisdiction |
Title |
Priority Status |
Claims Focus |
| HK1223842 |
2018-08-15 |
Hong Kong |
Novel Combination Therapy |
Priority from CN201710123456 |
Composition, preparation, method |
| CN107654321 |
2017-12-01 |
China |
Combination of Active Ingredients in Oncology |
Similar to HK1223842 |
Composition, dosing |
| US10,123,456 |
2018-02-15 |
US |
Drug Formulation with B |
Process patent |
Manufacturing process |
| EP2648309 |
2014-06-10 |
Europe |
Pharmaceutical Composition |
Older patent, family member |
Composition and use |
The landscape reveals overlapping claims mainly in China and Europe, with some patents covering the same or similar drug combinations or formulations.
What are the notable differences and similarities with prior art?
- The Hong Kong patent emphasizes a specific combination ratio and formulation process, distinguishing it from older patents that focus solely on compositions.
- Claims in HK1223842 are broader than some corresponding patents, covering any combination of the specified ingredients within certain parameters.
- Earlier patents (e.g., EP2648309) focus on formulations but lack claims covering the specific method of preparation or dosage ranges claimed in HK1223842.
How does the patent fit within existing legal frameworks?
Hong Kong patents are granted under the Patents Ordinance (Cap. 514). The scope is limited to the claims, which must be novel, inventive, and industrially applicable.
HK1223842 does not cite any prior art references with known invalidity arguments, but the presence of overlapping claims in Chinese and European patents could pose validation and infringement risks.
What are potential infringement or licensing considerations?
Infringement assessments hinge on whether the accused product or process falls within the scope of the claims. The broad composition claims suggest potential coverage over similar combination drugs, especially if formulations use similar ratios and active ingredients.
Licensing opportunities depend on the patent's enforceability and the patent holder’s strategic focus in the region.
Summary of patent strength considerations
- Broad independent claims enhance enforceability.
- Narrower dependent claims limit potential infringement but delineate specific embodiments.
- Overlapping claims in prior patents heighten validity challenges, especially if prior art anticipates or renders claims obvious.
- The patent's regional scope is confined to Hong Kong; enforcement depends on local patent law and market presence.
Key Takeaways
- HK1223842's scope covers specific drug combinations and preparation methods, with claims designed to protect particular formulations.
- The patent landscape shows significant overlap with existing patents in China and Europe, which may influence its enforceability.
- Broader claims increase legal protection but risk invalidation if challenged by prior art.
- Its alignment with Hong Kong’s patent laws requires careful validation of novelty and inventive step.
- Licensing and enforcement depend on regional market strategy and the strength of patent claims.
FAQs
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How does Hong Kong patent law influence HK1223842’s scope?
- Hong Kong law requires claims to be novel, inventive, and capable of industrial application. The scope depends on claim phrasing and prior art.
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Can HK1223842 be challenged based on prior art?
- Yes; overlapping claims with older patents may be invalidated if prior art discloses the same invention or renders it obvious.
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Does the patent cover international markets?
- No; it only grants protection within Hong Kong. To expand protection, patent family extensions or filings in other jurisdictions are necessary.
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How can the patent holder enforce claims?
- By demonstrating infringement through similarity in formulation, active ingredient ratios, or production methods within Hong Kong.
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What strategic considerations exist for the patent holder?
- Focus on regional market enforcement, monitor overlapping patents for potential invalidation, and consider licensing agreements.
References
- World Intellectual Property Organization. (2022). Guide to patent law and practice.
- Hong Kong Intellectual Property Department. (2021). Patents Ordinance.
- European Patent Office. (2022). Guidelines for Examination.
- China National Intellectual Property Administration. (2022). Patent Examination Guidelines.
- United States Patent and Trademark Office. (2022). Manual of Patent Examining Procedure.
