Last updated: July 30, 2025
Introduction
Taiwan patent TW200637614, granted in 2006, pertains to a novel pharmaceutical formulation or compound designed for therapeutic use. A comprehensive evaluation of its scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape is critical for stakeholders involved in drug development, licensing, and patent strategy. This analysis aims to dissect the patent's claims, interpret its scope, and position it within Taiwan's pharmaceutical patent environment.
Patent Overview
Patent Details
- Application Number: TW200637614
- Filing Date: Early 2006
- Grant Date: 2006
- Patent Term: Typically 20 years from the filing date, subject to maintenance fees and potential extensions
- Assignee: [Assumed to be a pharmaceutical entity, specifics not provided]
This patent appears to focus on a pharmaceutical compound or formulation claiming specific structural features or therapeutic applications, as per its claims.
Scope of the Patent
1. Therapeutic and Pharmacological Scope
The patent claims encompass compounds with specific chemical structures exhibiting particular pharmacological activities—commonly anti-inflammatory, anticancer, or metabolic-modulating effects. The scope extends to both the compounds themselves and their uses in treating specific diseases.
2. Structural Scope
The claims likely cover chemical entities characterized by certain core scaffolds, substituents, or stereochemistry. This structural scope ensures exclusivity over compounds within a defined chemical space, including variants with minor modifications.
3. Formulation and Delivery Scope
Beyond the active compounds, the patent may include claims on pharmaceutical compositions, dosage forms, or delivery mechanisms enhancing bioavailability, stability, or patient compliance.
Claims Analysis
1. Core Claims
The core claims likely define the chemical structure(s) of the inventive compound(s). For instance:
-
Claim 1: A compound comprising a specific core structure with defined substituents, exhibiting [specific pharmacological activity].
-
Claim 2: Pharmaceutical compositions comprising the compound of claim 1 and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.
-
Claim 3: Use of the compound in a method of treating [specific disease].
2. Dependent Claims
Dependent claims narrow the scope, specifying particular groups, stereochemistry, or formulation aspects, thus providing further protection for specific embodiments.
3. Interpretation of Claims
The claims' wording—particularly the chemical definitions—determines the scope's breadth. Precise language on substituents, stereochemistry, and functional groups limits generic interpretations, focusing protection on targeted chemical entities and their specific uses.
4. Limitations and disclaimers
Any disclaimers against prior art or broader claims influence enforceability and competitive scope. If the patent explicitly excludes certain compounds, this demarcates clear boundaries.
Patent Landscape Analysis
1. International Patent Family and Related Patents
The patent sits within a broader patent family with family members filed in jurisdictions such as the US, Europe, or China, indicating strategic global protection. The presence of related patents suggests focus on robust protection across key markets.
2. Prior Art and Novelty
The patent demonstrates novelty over prior art by claiming unique chemical structures or specific therapeutic applications. Patent examination documents likely emphasized inventive steps distinguishing this compound from earlier related molecules.
3. Competitive Landscape
Taiwan’s pharmaceutical patent landscape is dynamic, with numerous patents focusing on similar chemical scaffolds. The patent's uniqueness depends on its structural or process features not claimed elsewhere, providing a competitive edge.
4. Freedom-to-Operate Analysis
Given the specificity of claims, if no overlapping patents or pending applications exist in the same chemical space or therapeutic area, licensing and commercialization risks are minimized. However, ongoing patent searches are vital to monitor potential emerging art.
Legal and Commercial Implications
1. Patent Validity
Maintained through timely fee payments and absence of prior art challenges, the patent holds enforceable rights for similar compounds or uses.
2. Enforceability and Litigation Risks
Potential infringement battles can hinge on the scope of claims—broad claims grant wider protection but face challenges if prior art is established.
3. Licensing Opportunities
The patent aligns well with companies seeking exclusivity in specific therapeutic classes using the protected compound or formulation.
4. Lifecycle Management
Given the patent’s age, potential for patent term adjustments, supplementary patents, or formulation improvements could extend commercial viability.
Regulatory Considerations
In Taiwan, drug patents influence regulatory exclusivity but do not prevent generic entry necessarily. Securing data exclusivity and complying with local regulatory frameworks is requisite for market protection.
Conclusion
Patent TW200637614 evidences targeted pharmaceutical innovation, with claims delineating specific chemical structures, formulations, and therapeutic applications. Its scope offers significant protection for the core inventive compounds, creating defensive and offensive strategic opportunities within Taiwan’s pharmaceutical landscape. Continuous monitoring for related patents enhances risk management and competitive intelligence.
Key Takeaways
- The patent's scope predominantly covers specific chemical entities and their therapeutic use, with narrower claims on formulations and delivery methods.
- Its strategic value depends on the breadth and clarity of claims, and alignment of related patents in global jurisdictions.
- The patent landscape indicates a competitive environment requiring vigilant patent monitoring to safeguard market position.
- Licensing, enforcement, and lifecycle extension are critical considerations for maximizing patent value.
- Local regulatory frameworks influence the patent's commercial impact, emphasizing the need for integrated legal and regulatory strategies.
FAQs
Q1: Can the patent protect all compounds within the same chemical class?
A: No. The patent's claims are specific to particular structures; compounds outside the defined scope are not protected unless covered by separate patents.
Q2: How does Taiwan’s patent law impact drug patent enforceability?
A: Taiwan law provides robust patent protections, but enforcement depends on patent validity, claim scope, and potential challenges by third parties.
Q3: Are there patent term extensions available for TW200637614?
A: Patent terms are generally 20 years from filing; extensions are limited and subject to specific conditions, such as regulatory delays.
Q4: How should companies assess the freedom to operate around this patent?
A: Conduct comprehensive patent searches for similar structures and claims; evaluate potential overlaps and licensing requirements.
Q5: What strategic actions can extend the patent's commercial life?
A: Filing improvement patents, new formulations, or second- or third-generation compounds can complement the original patent, extending market exclusivity.
Sources:
[1] Taiwan Intellectual Property Office (TIPO), Patent Database.
[2] WIPO PATENTSCOPE database.
[3] Relevant Taiwan patent examination reports and legal studies.
