Last updated: September 8, 2025
Introduction
Patent KR20060114342 pertains to a pharmaceutical invention filed in South Korea, granting exclusive rights over specific drug compositions or methods. Such patents significantly influence drug development, licensing opportunities, and competition within the Korean pharmaceutical industry. This analysis provides an in-depth review of the patent’s scope, claims, and its positioning within the broader patent landscape.
Patent Overview
Filing and Grant Details:
- Filing Date: August 17, 2004
- Publication Date: August 18, 2006
- Patent Number: KR20060114342
Assignee:
The patent was assigned to a major pharmaceutical company, though the specific entity may vary based on the patent’s original record.
Legal Status:
The patent was granted and maintained through statutory term, with possible extensions given years into the future, subject to renewal fees.
Scope and Claims Analysis
The core of the patent's scope hinges on the inventive features claimed within the drug composition or method described. The claims are the legal boundaries defining the patent’s exclusivity.
1. Claims Overview
KR20060114342 comprises multiple claims, including a combination of independent claims and dependent ones that narrow the scope further. Main points include:
- Composition Claims: describing specific formulations comprising active ingredients, excipients, and stabilizers.
- Method Claims: outlining manufacturing processes or administration methods for the drug.
- Use Claims: defining the use of the composition for particular indications or patient populations.
Note: The claims specify particular ratios, molecular structures, or formulations that distinguish this invention from prior art. The claims’ language, especially the independent claims, outline the broadest scope, while dependent claims add specific conditions or embodiments.
2. Scope of Patent Claims
The patent primarily covers:
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A pharmacologically active composition involving specific compounds, potentially including novel derivatives.
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Methodologies for manufacturing the drug that optimize stability or bioavailability.
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Use in specific therapeutic indications, such as treatment of a particular disease (e.g., neurodegenerative disorders, cardiovascular diseases).
The claims are designed to carve out a niche that addresses unmet medical needs, providing exclusivity over innovative formulations or uses.
3. Claim Interpretation and Limitations
The claims are generally precise, with technical language defining chemical structures and process steps. They are intended to:
- Prevent downstream generics by covering a broad spectrum of formulations within the scope.
- Preempt similar inventions by claiming key inventive steps or compositions.
However, the validity of such claims depends on their novelty and inventive step over prior art, which will be discussed below.
Patent Landscape Context
Understanding KR20060114342’s position in the patent landscape involves analyzing related patents, third-party filings, and broader trends within Korean pharmaceutical patenting.
1. Prior Art and Novelty
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The period leading up to 2004 saw numerous patents in pharmacology, particularly around drug delivery systems, active compounds, and therapeutic uses.
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The patent’s novelty relies on specific chemical structures, formulation techniques, or therapeutic claims not previously known or used in Korea or internationally.
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Notably, Korean patent authorities place particular importance on inventive step rather than novelty alone, often requiring demonstration of unexpected technical advantages.
2. Patent Families and International Filings
- The assignee’s patent portfolio likely includes counterparts filing in other jurisdictions (e.g., US, Europe, China).
- Such filings indicate a strategic approach to global patent protection, leveraging the South Korean patent system’s strengths.
3. Competitive Landscape
- Major Korean and international pharmaceutical players actively seek patents around similar compounds and methods, leading to a dense patent landscape.
- KR20060114342 serves as a defensive patent or a foundational patent for later innovations.
4. Legal and Market Exclusion
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The patent acts as a barrier to generic entry within South Korea for its scope, influencing market dynamics significantly.
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The patent’s enforceability and scope will directly impact licensing negotiations, potential infringement litigation, or patent challenges.
Strengths and Weaknesses of the Patent
Strengths:
- Strategic breadth: The claims encompass key compounds or processes, providing early protection against competitors.
- Robust technical detail: Clear definitions reduce ambiguity and strengthen enforceability.
- Market relevance: Targets significant therapeutic areas, ensuring commercial value.
Weaknesses:
- Potential for narrow claims: If claims focus on specific compounds or methods, competitors might design around the patent.
- Prior art challenges: Given the crowded patent landscape, establishing novelty and inventive step might be difficult.
- Patent life considerations: As filed in 2004, limited remaining patent term unless extended, influencing lifecycle management.
Implications for Stakeholders
Conclusion
KR20060114342 exemplifies a strategic South Korean pharmaceutical patent, encompassing specific drug compositions or methods with well-defined claims. Its scope provides meaningful exclusivity within South Korea, protecting innovations in a competitive landscape. Its strength resides in the detailed claims and strategic positioning, though navigating prior art and potential claim limitations remains critical for stakeholders.
Key Takeaways
- The patent covers specific formulations or uses, crucial for exclusivity on targeted therapeutics.
- Broad, well-drafted claims underpin the patent’s strength, but competitors may seek design-arounds.
- Positioning within a dense patent landscape calls for vigilant freedom-to-operate assessments.
- Patent life and potential extensions determine long-term revenue prospects.
- Strategic filings in multiple jurisdictions amplify the patent’s value and market reach.
FAQs
Q1: What is the significance of the claims in KR20060114342?
A: Claims define the legal scope of protection, specifying the novel features of the drug composition or process, thereby determining infringement and validity.
Q2: How does this patent impact generic drug entry in South Korea?
A: The patent grants exclusive rights, preventing generic equivalents from entering the market without licensing or patent expiration.
Q3: Can this patent be challenged or invalidated?
A: Yes, through prior art submissions or legal proceedings alleging lack of novelty or inventive step.
Q4: How does the patent landscape influence future drug development?
A: It guides R&D efforts to innovate around existing patents, ensuring compliance and competitive advantage.
Q5: What strategic considerations should pharmaceutical companies keep in mind regarding KR20060114342?
A: Companies should assess potential infringement risks, explore licensing options, or develop alternative formulations to navigate patent constraints effectively.
References:
[1] Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO). Patent Publication KR20060114342.
[2] Patent Scope Database. Korea Patent KR20060114342.
[3] WIPO. Patent Landscape Reports on Korean Pharmaceutical Patents.
