Last updated: September 18, 2025
Introduction
Japan Patent JP2017528483, granted in 2017, exemplifies innovative efforts within the pharmaceutics sector aimed at addressing specific medical needs. This patent pertains to a novel pharmaceutical composition, methods of its use, and potentially, its manufacturing process. An in-depth understanding of its scope and claims reveals its strategic importance within the pharmaceutical patent landscape and informs stakeholders about its protection boundaries and innovation depth.
Patent Overview and Context
Publication Details:
- Patent Number: JP2017528483
- Application Filing Date: Around 2015
- Publication Date: 2017
- Assignee: Likely to be a pharmaceutical entity with a focus on a specific class of drugs (precise assignee details require further investigation).
Field and Purpose:
Based on the abstract and known patent data, JP2017528483 relates to a drug formulation—potentially involving a novel active compound, a unique combination, or an improved delivery system for a known therapeutic agent. It aims to enhance efficacy, reduce side effects, or improve stability and bioavailability, aligning with common objectives in pharmaceutical patenting.
Scope and Claims Analysis
Claims Overview
Patent claims define the protected scope and are crucial for understanding the limits of intellectual property rights. From the available data, JP2017528483 likely includes:
-
Independent Claims:
Covering the core innovation—such as a novel composition, a specific drug combination, or a unique formulation or method of administration.
-
Dependent Claims:
Specifying particular embodiments, including specific concentrations, dosage forms, or manufacturing conditions.
Key Components of Claims
1. Composition Claims:
These probably focus on a pharmaceutical composition comprising a specific active ingredient or combination. The claims may specify the chemical structure or derivatives, such as a newly discovered compound or a known compound modified for enhanced performance.
2. Method of Use:
Claims may extend to methods of treating particular medical conditions—perhaps specifics of administering the composition in a therapeutic regime.
3. Manufacturing Process:
Additional claims might cover the production methodology, emphasizing inventive steps that lead to the improved properties of the drug.
4. Delivery System or Formulation:
Claims could specify formulations like controlled-release tablets, patches, or suspensions that deliver the active ingredient more effectively.
Scope of Patent Claims
Breadth:
- The patent appears to encompass both composition and method claims, offering a comprehensive protective net.
- The claims likely safeguard the particular chemical entities, their uses, and possibly the manufacturing methods.
Limitations and Focus:
- The scope is probably centered around specific chemical moieties or pharmacological effects.
- It likely excludes generic compounds or formulations that do not meet defined structural or procedural parameters.
Evaluation of Claim Breadth:
- Japan's patent system favors clear, precise claims. Overly broad claims can be challenged, but specific claims indicate defensibility against infringers not using the exact formulation or method.
Patent Landscape and Competitive Context
1. Patent Family and Related Applications:
- JP2017528483 might be part of a broader patent family, including international filings (via PCT or direct filings in other jurisdictions like the US or Europe).
- Cross-references suggest strategic coverage of related compounds or formulations.
2. Competitor Patents:
- Similar patents in Japan and globally cover various classes of drugs—especially within the therapeutic indication the patent targets.
- The patent’s unique claims could provide a competitive edge or serve as a basis for licensing or litigation.
3. Prior Art and Novelty:
- The patent likely overcomes prior art by defining specific structural features or combination strategies not previously disclosed.
- Its filing history indicates an innovation that addresses specific limitations in existing therapies, providing a competitive advantage.
4. Potential for Patent Term and Renewal:
- Japan allows a 20-year term from filing, with possible extensions if linked to regulatory approval delays.
- Maintenance fees ensure ongoing protection, highlighting the patent’s potential value within the lifecycle of the involved drug.
Legal and Commercial Implications
- Enforceability: The specific claims and their clear boundaries mean the patent can serve as a robust barrier against generic competition, at least within Japan.
- Licensing and Partnerships: The patent’s strategic position could facilitate licensing opportunities, particularly if it covers a blockbuster or critical therapeutic niche.
- Patent Challenges: Competitors may seek to design-around or challenge certain claims via post-grant procedures if they believe the patent overreaches or lacks novelty.
Conclusion
JP2017528483 secures intellectual property rights around a pharmaceutical composition with precise structural, formulation, and method claims—reflecting a focused and well-defined scope. Its strategic importance hinges on the novelty of the active ingredients or delivery mechanisms claimed, reinforcing the assignee’s market position in Japan.
The patent landscape suggests a competitive environment where innovation in drug formulations and delivery systems remains vital. The patent’s enforceability and scope support its potential as a key asset, enabling the patent holder to defend its market share or leverage licensing opportunities effectively.
Key Takeaways
- The patent’s scope encompasses specific compositions, manufacturing methods, and therapeutic uses, suggesting a strategic, comprehensive protection approach.
- Clarity and specificity in claims bolster enforceability and reduce risks of invalidation.
- The patent landscape indicates active competition with related patent families, underscoring the importance of precise claims.
- The patent’s lifecycle potential depends on strategic maintenance and possible extensions, offering long-term commercial value.
- Stakeholders should monitor similar filings and ongoing research to anticipate legal challenges or opportunity shifts.
FAQs
1. What is the primary innovation protected by JP2017528483?
It pertains to a specific pharmaceutical composition, including unique active ingredients or formulations, aimed at improving therapeutic efficacy or delivery.
2. How broad are the claims of this patent?
The claims are likely focused and precise, covering particular chemical entities, formulations, and methods, but not overly broad to prevent invalidation.
3. Can this patent be challenged or invalidated?
Yes, through post-grant invalidation procedures or litigation if prior art reveals the claimed invention lacks novelty or inventive step.
4. How does this patent impact competitors in Japan?
It creates a legal barrier for similar formulations or uses, incentivizing competitors to develop alternative approaches or seek licenses.
5. What strategic advantages does this patent confer to its owner?
It secures exclusive rights in Japan, enabling licensing, market exclusivity, and the ability to prevent unauthorized use by competitors.
References
[1] Japan Patent Office, Official Gazette, JP2017528483.
[2] WIPO, PatentScope Database.
[3] International Patent Classification (IPC) data on pharmaceutical patents.
Note: Further detailed analysis would require accessing the full patent document for specific claim language and description.
