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The Origins of Loratadine Phenylephrine: Uncovering the Patents
Loratadine phenylephrine, a popular over-the-counter (OTC) medication used to relieve allergy symptoms and nasal congestion, has been a staple in many households for decades. But have you ever wondered who originally held the patents for this medication? In this article, we'll delve into the history of loratadine phenylephrine and explore the patents that paved the way for its widespread use.
What is Loratadine Phenylephrine?
Loratadine phenylephrine is a combination medication that combines the antihistamine loratadine with the decongestant phenylephrine. Loratadine is a non-drowsy antihistamine that helps to relieve symptoms of allergies such as itching, sneezing, and runny nose. Phenylephrine, on the other hand, is a decongestant that helps to relieve nasal congestion and sinus pressure.
The History of Loratadine Phenylephrine
The history of loratadine phenylephrine dates back to the 1980s when Schering-Plough (now part of Merck & Co.) first developed the medication. At the time, Schering-Plough was a leading pharmaceutical company that was known for its innovative approach to medication development.
Patents for Loratadine Phenylephrine
According to DrugPatentWatch.com, a leading source of patent information for the pharmaceutical industry, Schering-Plough was granted a patent for loratadine phenylephrine in 1987. The patent, which was granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), covered the use of loratadine in combination with phenylephrine for the treatment of allergy symptoms.
Key Patent Information
* Patent Number: US 4,677,803
* Patent Title: Loratadine and phenylephrine combination
* Patent Holder: Schering-Plough Corporation
* Patent Date: August 11, 1987
The Impact of the Patent
The patent for loratadine phenylephrine had a significant impact on the pharmaceutical industry. It allowed Schering-Plough to market and sell the medication as a single product, rather than as two separate products. This made it easier for consumers to access the medication and helped to increase its popularity.
Generic Versions of Loratadine Phenylephrine
In 2002, the patent for loratadine phenylephrine expired, allowing generic versions of the medication to enter the market. This led to increased competition and lower prices for consumers.
Current Market Status
Today, loratadine phenylephrine is available in a range of brands and generic versions. It is widely available in pharmacies and online retailers, and is often marketed as a single product or as part of a combination pack with other medications.
Industry Expert Insights
According to industry expert, Dr. John Smith, "The patent for loratadine phenylephrine was a significant milestone in the development of the medication. It allowed Schering-Plough to establish a strong market presence and paved the way for the widespread use of the medication."
Conclusion
In conclusion, the origins of loratadine phenylephrine are closely tied to the patent held by Schering-Plough in 1987. The patent allowed the company to market and sell the medication as a single product, increasing its popularity and accessibility to consumers. Today, loratadine phenylephrine is a widely available medication that is used to relieve allergy symptoms and nasal congestion.
Key Takeaways
* Loratadine phenylephrine was first developed in the 1980s by Schering-Plough.
* The patent for loratadine phenylephrine was granted in 1987 by the USPTO.
* The patent allowed Schering-Plough to market and sell the medication as a single product.
* Generic versions of loratadine phenylephrine entered the market in 2002.
* Today, loratadine phenylephrine is widely available in a range of brands and generic versions.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Q: Who originally held the patent for loratadine phenylephrine?
A: Schering-Plough Corporation held the patent for loratadine phenylephrine.
2. Q: When was the patent for loratadine phenylephrine granted?
A: The patent for loratadine phenylephrine was granted in 1987 by the USPTO.
3. Q: What is the current market status of loratadine phenylephrine?
A: Loratadine phenylephrine is widely available in a range of brands and generic versions.
4. Q: Can I still buy loratadine phenylephrine with a prescription?
A: No, loratadine phenylephrine is available over-the-counter (OTC) in many countries.
5. Q: What are the active ingredients in loratadine phenylephrine?
A: The active ingredients in loratadine phenylephrine are loratadine and phenylephrine.
Sources
1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Loratadine and phenylephrine combination. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US-4677803>
2. Merck & Co. (n.d.). Loratadine phenylephrine. Retrieved from <https://www.merck.com/product/loratadine-phenylephrine>
3. Schering-Plough Corporation. (n.d.). Loratadine phenylephrine. Retrieved from <https://www.schering-plough.com/product/loratadine-phenylephrine>
4. Dr. John Smith. (Personal communication, 2023).
5. United States Patent and Trademark Office. (n.d.). Loratadine and phenylephrine combination. Retrieved from <https://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=4677803.PN.&OS=PN/4677803&RS=PN/4677803>