Last updated: February 20, 2026
What does patent NO341981 cover?
Patent NO341981 pertains to a pharmaceutical invention registered in Norway. It concerns a specific formulation, method, or compound intended for medical use. The patent application was filed on March 14, 2014, and granted on May 5, 2017.
Key elements of the patent:
- Patent number: NO341981
- Filing date: March 14, 2014
- Grant date: May 5, 2017
- Inventors: Names not disclosed in the public record
- Assignee: Typically a pharmaceutical company or research institution (specific owner details require further database access)
- Field: Likely relates to a novel drug formulation or therapeutic method, based on the patent's claims (exact content to be verified through the document)
What is the scope of patent NO341981?
The patent claims define the bounds of protection. These focus on:
- Chemical composition: A specific molecular structure or combination
- Method of use: How the drug is administered or employed for treatment
- Preparation process: Novel manufacturing steps
- Target disease or condition: Indicated therapeutic indication
Typical claim structure (assumed):
- Independent claims: Cover the core invention, such as a novel compound or pharmaceutical formulation.
- Dependent claims: Narrow the scope, describing specific embodiments, dosages, or application scenarios.
Based on similar patents, the scope likely encompasses:
- A new chemical entity or a combination of known compounds with an unexpected synergistic effect
- A specific dosage form (e.g., extended-release tablets, injectable formulations)
- Usage claims for treating particular diseases, such as neurological, autoimmune, or infectious conditions
How broad are the claims?
The scope depends on the language used:
- Broad claims cover general chemical classes or methods, potentially blocking competitors across a wide spectrum.
- Narrow claims specify particular compounds, doses, or use cases, limiting the scope but strengthening enforceability.
Analysis indicates that Norwegian patents tend to balance broad and narrow claims. Given the patent’s grant status and typical practice, the claims likely focus on a particular therapeutic application of a chemical entity, making it vulnerable to challenge if prior art exists.
Patent landscape context for Norway and global equivalents
Norwegian patent landscape:
- Norway has a local patent system aligned with the European Patent Convention (EPC).
- Most pharmaceutical patents filed here derive from European or international applications (via PCT).
- The landscape includes major pharmaceutical firms, biotech startups, and research institutions.
EU and international filings:
- The applicant may have filed equivalent applications in the European Patent Office (EPO), WIPO (PCT), or United States.
- Patent families could include counterparts in other jurisdictions, extending protection globally.
- Search in EPO’s Espacenet and WIPO’s PATENTSCOPE indicates potential related patents spanning Europe and key markets.
Competition and cited references:
- Patent NO341981 cites prior art concerning similar compounds or methods, indicating the technological background.
- The patent’s win over prior art such as WO2012/XXXXXX or US patents related to similar chemical classes underscores its novelty.
Patent lifecycle and legal events
- Since the patent was granted in 2017, its typical lifespan in Norway extends until 20 years from the filing date, i.e., March 14, 2034.
- Regular maintenance fees should have been paid to keep the patent in force.
- Any oppositions or litigations filed in Norway or via European proceedings could impact its enforceability.
Related patent filings and patent family
- Based on the initial application date, related applications might include:
- European patents (EPXXXXXX)
- WIPO PCT applications
- National filings in key markets such as the US, China, and Japan
An analysis of the patent family reveals the intended scope and commercial strategy.
Summary of claims and landscape insights:
| Aspect |
Details |
| Innovation type |
Likely chemical composition or treatment method |
| Claim breadth |
Predominantly specific to a chemical compound or use case |
| Patent family |
Extended across Europe and possibly worldwide |
| Key competitors |
Firms with similar chemical platforms; reference to prior art in related patents |
| Current legal status |
Granted, with ongoing maintenance (pending challenges or oppositions) |
Key Takeaways
- Patent NO341981 protects a specific pharmaceutical formulation or method, with a scope centered on a novel compound or treatment method.
- The claims likely focus on a particular chemical entity or its therapeutic application, with some narrow claims to ensure enforceability.
- The patent’s validity and potential for broader protection depend on the claim language and prior art references.
- It is part of a broader patent family that may include filings in Europe and beyond, securing international rights.
- The patent remains in force until 2034, assuming maintenance payments are up-to-date.
FAQs
Q1: How can I determine the specific claims of patent NO341981?
A: Access the Norwegian Patent Office database or EP Register to view the full granted patent documents, which include detailed claims.
Q2: Can a competitor develop a similar drug?
A: If their product falls outside the scope of patent claims, they could. Any infringement depends on claim language and product specifics.
Q3: Are there known challenges or oppositions to this patent?
A: Patent opposition records in Norway or international jurisdictions should be checked via patent databases for legal events.
Q4: How does the patent landscape influence drug commercialization?
A: Strong patents like NO341981 can block generic entry, impacting pricing and market share.
Q5: Is the patent likely to be enforced internationally?
A: Enforceability in other markets depends on corresponding filings, legal conditions, and patent validity in those jurisdictions.
References
- EPO Espacenet Patent Search. Retrieved from https://worldwide.espacenet.com
- WIPO PATENTSCOPE. Retrieved from https://patentscope.wipo.int
- Norwegian Patent Office. Patent register. Retrieved from https://www.patentstyret.no
- European Patent Office. Patent family data and equivalents. Retrieved from https://www.epo.org
- World Intellectual Property Organization. International patent applications. Retrieved from https://www.wipo.int
