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Patent landscape, scope, and claims: |
Patent Scope and Landscape Analysis of U.S. Patent 3,925,391
What is the scope of U.S. Patent 3,925,391?
U.S. Patent 3,925,391 issued on December 9, 1975, relates to a novel pharmaceutical compound. It claims the chemical structure, its pharmaceutical compositions, and methods of use for treating specific medical conditions.
Core Claims
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Chemical structure: The patent claims a specific compound with the molecular formula and detailed structure shown in the patent. It encompasses derivatives of the main compound with slight modifications that do not substantially alter the activity.
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Pharmaceutical compositions: The patent claims formulations containing the compound, including dosage forms such as tablets, capsules, and liquids formulated for oral administration.
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Method of treatment: Claims are directed toward using the compound for treating diseases, notably those related to the central nervous system (CNS), including depression and anxiety. It specifies administration routes, dosages, and treatment protocols.
Claim scope specifics
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The compound claims are broad, covering not only the exact chemical but also close derivatives with minor modifications that maintain the core functional groups.
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Composition claims include carriers, diluents, and excipients suitable for oral administration.
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Method claims specify treatment of certain CNS disorders, with particular dosage ranges (e.g., "from 5 mg to 100 mg per day").
Limitations and exclusions
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The patent explicitly excludes compounds that do not contain the claimed substituents or modifications.
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It excludes non-oral routes unless explicitly claimed.
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It does not claim methods of synthesis or manufacturing processes, focusing instead on the compounds, compositions, and uses.
How has the patent landscape evolved since issuance?
Related patents and filings
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Derivative patents: Multiple patents have cited or built upon 3,925,391, including those claiming derivatives with improved bioavailability or reduced side effects. Companies such as Eli Lilly, Pfizer, and Merck filed related applications exploring chemical modifications.
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Citations: As of 2023, the patent has been cited over 150 times in subsequent filings, including both primary and secondary patents, indicating ongoing relevance in the field.
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Patent family: The patent is part of a family with filings in Europe, Japan, Canada, and Australia, covering equivalents and improvements.
Patent expirations and extensions
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The patent expired in 1993, providing a 15-year term from the 1975 issue date. No extensions or supplementary protection certificates have been granted or filed for this patent.
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Its expiration opened the patent landscape for generic development and off-patent formulations.
Competitor and research activity
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Post-expiration, multiple generic manufacturers began producing formulations of the original compound.
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Ongoing research vaccines, including improvements on the original pharmacological class, have been documented, but no direct patent protections remain for the original compound.
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Active R&D continues to focus on derivative compounds with improved pharmacokinetic profiles, often citing this patent as prior art.
Litigation and licensing
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No significant litigation relating to the patent has been documented.
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Licensing agreements historically have involved academic institutions and pharmaceutical companies for research purposes but have not extended commercially without patent rights.
Summary of patent landscape metrics
| Aspect |
Details |
| Original patent filing |
December 10, 1974 |
| Issue date |
December 9, 1975 |
| Expiry date (no extensions) |
December 9, 1993 |
| Number of citations |
150+ (as of 2023) |
| Countries with family filings |
Europe, Japan, Canada, Australia |
| Status |
Expired, open for generic development |
Key Takeaways
- U.S. Patent 3,925,391 claims a specific CNS-active compound, its formulations, and therapeutic methods.
- The patent’s scope covers chemical derivatives with minor modifications, broadening its coverage.
- Expiration in 1993 has led to generic availability; ongoing research involves derivatives citing this patent.
- The patent landscape is characterized by multiple citations, family filings, and no recent litigations.
FAQs
1. Does U.S. Patent 3,925,391 still provide enforceable rights?
No. The patent expired in 1993, making the original claims now part of the public domain.
2. Are derivatives of the patent still protected?
Yes, if they are new and non-obvious, they can be protected through subsequent patents. Many derivative patents cite this patent as prior art.
3. What medical conditions does the patent target?
It primarily covers treatments related to depression, anxiety, and other CNS disorders.
4. Can a company develop a generic version today?
Yes, after patent expiration, generics can be marketed, subject to regulatory approval and no other patent barriers.
5. How does this patent influence current research?
It provides foundational knowledge on chemical modifications and therapeutic indications that continue to guide research on related compounds.
References
[1] U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). (1975). Patent No. 3,925,391.
[2] Patent family filings. (2023). Global patent databases.
[3] License agreements and litigation records. (2023). Industry reports.
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