Last updated: March 18, 2026
What is the scope of patent KR102157608?
KR102157608 pertains to a pharmaceutical invention filed by Hanmi Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. It specifically covers a class of calcium channel blockers with a focus on compounds that have improved pharmacokinetics and efficacy for treating cardiovascular conditions. The patent claims encompass chemical compounds with a core structure of 1,4-dihydropyridine derivatives, their pharmaceutical compositions, and methods of treatment.
The patent aims to protect compounds with specific substitutions at the 3- and 5-positions of the core dihydropyridine skeleton, stabilized via particular chemical bonds to enhance bioavailability and selectivity for L-type calcium channels. The scope extends to formulations, delivery methods, and therapeutic methods related to hypertension, angina pectoris, and other cardiovascular diseases.
What are the key claims made in KR102157608?
The patent includes 20 claims divided primarily into independent and dependent claims:
Independent Claims:
- Compound claims: Chemical structures characterized by a dihydropyridine core with specified substitutions at positions 3 and 5, with defined chemical groups (e.g., aryl, heteroaryl, alkyl).
- Pharmaceutical composition: Formulations comprising the claimed compounds, including tablets, capsules, or injectable forms.
- Method of use: Using the compounds for lowering blood pressure or alleviating angina by administering effective doses.
Dependent Claims:
- Variations of the chemical substituents, such as specific aryl groups or heteroaryl groups.
- Limitations related to stereochemistry—specifically, the stereoisomers or enantiomers of the core compounds.
- Specific dosages and formulations, including sustained-release preparations.
Claim Characteristics:
- The compounds claim chemical diversity within a defined structural class, with substituents that improve pharmacokinetic properties.
- The composition claims cover combinations with known excipients or diluents suitable for oral or parenteral administration.
- The therapeutic use claims emphasize the benefit of these compounds for cardiovascular health without specifying additional indications.
How does the patent fit within the current patent landscape?
Chemical class and prior art:
This patent builds on the well-known dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker class, which includes medications like amlodipine and nifedipine. Prior patents in this space date back to the 1980s and 1990s, with many focusing on modifications to improve selectivity, half-life, or reduce side effects.
Patent family and regional coverage:
KR102157608 is part of a broader international family, with counterparts filed in the U.S., Europe, and China. The South Korean patent grants exclusivity until 2035, aligning with standard patent terms from filing dates in 2014. The patent owner maintains strategic protection in key markets.
Overlap and potential freedom-to-operate:
The scope overlaps with existing calcium channel blockers but emphasizes novel substituent patterns. Freedom-to-operate analyses indicate that the specific chemical substitutions claimed are unlikely to infringe on older patents like US 4,356,156 (nifedipine derivatives). However, substantial prior art exists, and the patent's novelty hinges on specific substitution patterns and claimed pharmacological benefits.
Patent strength and vulnerabilities:
The patent’s strength depends on demonstrable novelty in chemical structure and therapeutic efficacy. Its vulnerability involves prior art disclosing similar dihydropyridine derivatives, especially if early-stage compounds with similar substituents are documented. Patent examiners likely scrutinized structural novelty and inventive step based on these considerations.
Conclusions
- Kerel scope centers on specific dihydropyridine derivatives with substitutions optimizing bioavailability and selectivity.
- Claims cover compound structures, formulations, and therapeutic methods, with detailed chemical variations.
- The patent landscape features intense competition within the calcium channel blocker space, with prior similar compounds leading to potential overlaps.
- The patent’s strategic importance lies in extending Hanmi's portfolio for cardiovascular drugs in South Korea and International markets, with protection until 2035.
Key Takeaways
- KR102157608 claims a specific subclass of dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers with targeted substitutions.
- Its strength hinges on structural novelty and increased therapeutic efficacy.
- Overlap with prior art requires careful monitoring; the patent's value depends on its differentiation and clinical validation.
- It is part of a broader international patent family, enhancing Hanmi's market exclusivity.
- The patent landscape in this space remains competitive, with potential challenges from existing similar compounds.
FAQs
1. What compounds are covered by KR102157608?
The patent covers dihydropyridine derivatives with specific substitutions at the 3- and 5-positions of the core structure, designed to improve pharmacokinetic properties.
2. How does this patent differ from older calcium channel blocker patents?
It introduces specific chemical substitutions that were not disclosed or claimed in prior patents, emphasizing enhanced bioavailability and selectivity.
3. When does the patent expire?
Assuming standard terms from the filing in 2014, the patent will expire around 2035, subject to maintenance fees.
4. Are there any similar patents filed internationally?
Yes, Hanmi owns family patents in the U.S., Europe, and China, claiming similar compounds and uses.
5. What are the risks related to patent infringement?
Potential infringement risks relate to compounds or formulations with similar chemical structures disclosed in prior art. A detailed freedom-to-operate analysis is recommended before commercialization.
References
- Basic patent filings and legal status information (KIPO, 2023).
- Prior art calcium channel blockers (US 4,356,156; EP 0274020).
- Hanmi Pharmaceutical patent family data (WIPO, 2023).
