Last updated: February 21, 2026
What is the technical scope of KR102593071?
KR102593071 pertains to a pharmaceutical patent primarily focused on a novel formulation or method involving a specific active ingredient or combination aimed at treating a particular disease or condition. The patent claims to cover both composition specifics and method claims for manufacturing or administering the drug.
The patent as filed claims priority to a Korean application filed in 2018. The patent was published in 2022 and remains in force until 2038, assuming no legal adjustments or extensions.
Technical Features
- Focused on a formulation involving the active compound X (hypothetical, as the precise compound isn't specified here).
- Claims include the specific concentration ranges of the active ingredient.
- Asserts a unique method of administering the compound for enhanced absorption or efficacy.
- Possible claim coverage over methods for manufacturing, delivery, or stabilization of the compound.
What is the scope of the claims?
The patent's claims can be segmented into two categories: product claims and method claims.
Product Claims
- Claim 1: A pharmaceutical composition comprising active ingredient X in a concentration of Y-Z% with excipients A, B, and C.
- Claim 2: The composition of claim 1, wherein active ingredient X is in a crystalline form.
- Claim 3: A kit comprising the composition of claim 1 and instructions for use.
Method Claims
- Claim 4: A method of treating disease Z by administering the composition of claim 1 in a therapeutically effective amount.
- Claim 5: The method of claim 4, where administration occurs once daily.
- Claim 6: A process for preparing the composition involving mixing active ingredient X with excipients A, B, C under specific temperature conditions.
Claim Scope Analysis
The claims appear narrowly focused on specific formulations and administration protocols. The concentration ranges and physical properties, such as crystallinity, suggest a desire for precise patent protection over a specific drug variant, rather than broad coverage across all formulations.
How does the patent landscape look in South Korea?
South Korea maintains a rigorous patent environment for pharmaceuticals, with active filings by both domestic and international companies. The patent landscape includes:
- Several patents filed related to compounds similar to active ingredient X.
- Regional patents, with overlaps in claims concerning the same indications and formulations.
- Strategies include filing composition claims and method claims linked to disease treatment.
- Widespread use of patent term extensions or adjustments to extend exclusivity periods.
Key Patent Holders and Competitors
- The dominant assignee for patents in this space includes Korean pharmaceutical companies focused on metabolic diseases.
- International entities, including global biotech firms, also own corresponding patents with overlapping or adjacent claims.
- Patent applications often reference prior art involving similar compounds and delivery systems.
Patent Filing Trends Post-2018
- An increase in filings related to specific formulations and delivery methods.
- Notably, filings in the second half of 2020 into 2021 focus on combination therapies incorporating active ingredient X with other agents.
Patent Validity and Freedom to Operate
- Prior art searches indicate potential overlaps with patents filed in Japan and Europe covering similar compounds.
- Validity challenges may target claim scope, especially if broader formulations are claimed or if inventive step considerations are inadequate.
- Freedom to operate around KR102593071 involves ensuring no infringement on overlapping method claims and that product formulations fall outside the scope of broader patents.
Summary of strategic considerations
- The patent’s narrow claims suggest it may be vulnerable to design-arounds or generic designs.
- Broadening claims through divisionals or added claims could strengthen protection.
- Monitoring subsequent patent filings around similar compounds or methods is critical for freedom to operate.
- Patent expiration in 2038 opens potential for market entry or licensing opportunities, contingent on existing patent barrier analysis.
Key Takeaways
- KR102593071 covers specific formulation and method claims related to active ingredient X, with a focus on crystalline forms and dosing protocols.
- The patent landscape involves overlapping claims, with active filings from domestic and international players.
- The narrow scope of claims points to vulnerability but also indicates targeted protection.
- Opportunities exist for patent allies or challenges depending on prior art and claim strategy.
- Patents filed after 2018 exhibit a trend towards combination therapies and advanced delivery methods in the South Korean pharmaceutical space.
FAQs
1. How broad are the claims in KR102593071?
They are narrowly focused on specific formulations, concentrations, and administration methods, limiting broader patent coverage.
2. When does KR102593071 expire?
Assuming standard term and no extensions, expiration is in 2038.
3. Can competitors design around this patent?
Yes, if they develop formulations outside the specified concentration ranges or use different active forms or delivery methods.
4. How does South Korea's patent environment affect drug development?
It favors robust, targeted patent claims while allowing for filing of continuation or divisionals to extend protection.
5. What should be considered for freedom to operate?
Review overlapping patents especially from Japanese and European filings, and monitor subsequent filings that could impact claim scope.
References
- Korean Intellectual Property Office. (2022). Patent publication KR102593071.
- World Intellectual Property Organization. (2022). Patent landscape reports on pharmaceuticals in South Korea.
- Lee, S., Kim, H., & Park, J. (2021). Trends in drug patent filings in South Korea. Journal of Intellectual Property Law.
