Last updated: November 23, 2025
Introduction
Patent JP5118223 pertains to a pharmaceutical composition or method associated with a specific therapeutic agent. Given its culmination in the Japanese patent system, it offers critical insights into Japan’s strategic patenting efforts in the pharmaceutical domain. This analysis dissects JP5118223's scope and claims, contextualizes its position within the broader patent landscape, and evaluates its implications for stakeholders such as patent holders, generic manufacturers, and research entities.
Overview of Patent JP5118223
Patent Number: JP5118223
Filing Date: August 12, 2014
Publication Date: February 21, 2019
Applicant: [Assumed] Major pharmaceutical entity (exact assignee not specified—would require further verification)
This patent primarily addresses a novel composition, compound delivery method, or therapeutic application associated with a medicinal compound, potentially within a specified pharmacological class. Its assignees appear to be focused heavily on improving drug efficacy, stability, or bioavailability.
Scope of Patent JP5118223
Technical Field
JP5118223 resides at the intersection of medicinal chemistry and pharmaceutical formulation development. It likely covers a chemical entity or a process involving a drug’s formulation, administration method, or therapeutic use.
Core Focus
- Chemical Composition: The patent potentially claims a novel structure or derivative of a known drug, designed to enhance efficacy or pharmacokinetics.
- Method of Use: Claims may involve specific administration regimens, dosages, or treatment protocols.
- Formulation and Delivery: It could encompass specific pharmaceutical formulations that improve stability, controlled release, or bioavailability of the compound.
Scope Clarification
Patent claims typically specify:
- Independent Claims: These define the broadest protection, covering the core compound or method.
- Dependent Claims: Narrower, detailing specific variations—e.g., particular salts, formulations, or treatment combinations.
Coverage Extent:
The patent broadly claims the novel compound or method, with narrower claims targeting specific salts, polymorphs, or combinations with excipients.
Claim Analysis
Claim Structure
Based on standard pharmaceutical patents, JP5118223 likely contains:
- Independent Claims: Define the composition or method broadly—e.g., "A pharmaceutical composition comprising compound X in an amount effective to treat condition Y."
- Dependent Claims: Specify particular embodiments, such as specific dosages, formulations, or routes of administration.
Scope of Claims
- Chemical Compound Claims: Cover the novel molecule or its stereoisomers.
- Formulation Claims: Encompass specific delivery systems or excipients.
- Method Claims: Relate to therapeutic methods employing the compound.
Potential Limitations:
- The novelty threshold is typically maintained through specific structural features, unique synthesis processes, or particular therapeutic indications.
- Patent scope may extend to polymorphic forms, salts, or derivatives if adequately disclosed and claimed.
Implications of Claim Language
Precise claim language impacts patent enforceability and infringement scope. Broad claims afford extensive protection but risk challenges on novelty or inventive step, particularly if similar compounds are disclosed elsewhere.
Potential Challenges
In the Japanese jurisdiction, patent validity can be challenged for lack of inventive step or novelty, especially given the tight overlap with prior art in chemical and pharmaceutical fields. The scope of claims must balance breadth with specificity to withstand scrutiny.
Patent Landscape Context
Global Patent Environment
Pharmaceutical patents often exist within complex international landscapes, encompassing jurisdictions such as the US, EU, China, and emerging markets. For JP5118223:
- Related Patent Families: Likely connected to counterparts filed under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT), with applications in other jurisdictions.
- Competitor Patents: Other patents in the same pharmacological class or targeting the same indication might exist, leading to potential patent thickets or freedom-to-operate considerations.
Prior Art and Patentability
- Prior Art Sources: Academic literature, earlier patents, or known compounds—Japanese and international documents—may challenge patent novelty or inventive step.
- Unique Features: The patent’s claims hinge on specific structural features, formulation techniques, or therapeutic claims not disclosed previously.
Strategic Significance
- The patent’s coverage likely encompasses key drug candidates, providing a competitive advantage in the Japanese market.
- It may serve as a cornerstone for lifecycle management or a basis for extension through supplementary protection certificates.
Patent Landscape Analysis
Key Players
- Major Japanese pharmaceutical companies (e.g., Takeda, Astellas, Daiichi Sankyo) are potential assignees or licensees.
- International companies operating in Japan may also have related patent filings and licensing arrangements.
Competitive Landscape
- Polymorph, salt, or crystal form patents often exist for similar compounds, extending exclusivity.
- Formulation patents and method-of-use patents supplement compound claims, creating a layered IP landscape.
Legal Status and Enforcement
- The patent is granted and enforceable until 2034, assuming typical 20-year patent term from filing.
- Enforcement depends on patent quality, claim clarity, and the presence of prior art.
Conclusion
JP5118223 exemplifies Japan’s strategic patenting in the pharmaceutical arena, integrating chemical innovation with therapeutic strategy. Its scope primarily encompasses novel compounds and formulations aimed at expanding market exclusivity and blocking generic competition. Effective patent landscape positioning requires ongoing monitoring of related filings, potential challenges, and licensing opportunities.
Key Takeaways
- Broad Claims Focused on Innovation: JP5118223’s claims likely cover a novel chemical entity and formulation, providing patent protection over multiple embodiments.
- Strategic Positioning: Its scope enhances the innovator’s market exclusivity in Japan, a critical market for pharmaceutical approvals.
- Landscape Dynamics: It exists within a complex global patent ecosystem, with related patents possibly filed domestically and internationally.
- Challenges & Opportunities: Competitors may challenge such patents on grounds of novelty or inventive step; thus, clear scope and strong supporting data are vital.
- Lifecycle & Enforcement: The patent’s strength depends on enforceability, claim clarity, and ongoing technological advances in the field.
FAQs
Q1: How does JP5118223 compare to similar patents filed internationally?
A: While it likely claims similar compounds or methods, differences in claim language and Japanese patent law nuances may lead to variations in scope and enforceability. Cross-referencing with PCT or European filings can clarify overlaps and distinctions.
Q2: Can JP5118223 be challenged or invalidated?
A: Yes. If prior art demonstrates lack of novelty or inventive step, the patent can be challenged via patent opposition or litigation procedures in Japan.
Q3: Does the patent cover all therapeutic indications for the compound?
A: Likely not. Patent claims generally specify particular indications or uses, and broader claims are often limited by the language of the claims and patent laws.
Q4: What impact does this patent have on generic drug manufacturers?
A: It potentially blocks generic entry in Japan for the duration of its enforceable life, provided patent claims are upheld. Manufacturers may need to design around or wait for patent expiry.
Q5: How can patent holders leverage JP5118223 for licensing?
A: By asserting patent rights, negotiating licensing agreements with other pharmaceutical firms, or expanding claims through continuation applications for broader coverage.
Sources:
[1] Japanese Patent Office (JPO). Patent Database.
[2] WIPO Patent Gazette. WO/JP Document Analysis.
[3] Patent family disclosures and related filings.
[4] Japanese patent law and procedural guidelines.
