See the DrugPatentWatch profile for nicardipine

Patent Status of Nicardipine Ready-to-Use Version: A Comprehensive Overview

Nicardipine, a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker, has been widely used in the treatment of hypertension, angina pectoris, and other cardiovascular conditions. However, the patent status of nicardipine's ready-to-use version has been a topic of interest for many pharmaceutical companies and researchers. In this article, we will delve into the patent status of nicardipine's ready-to-use version, exploring the current landscape and potential implications for the pharmaceutical industry.

What is Nicardipine?

Nicardipine is a calcium channel blocker that works by relaxing the blood vessels, thereby reducing blood pressure and improving blood flow to the heart. It is available in various formulations, including oral capsules and injectable solutions.

Patent Status of Nicardipine

Nicardipine was first patented in the United States in 1979 by Pfizer, Inc. (US Patent 4,141,965). The patent expired in 1997, making the drug available for generic production. However, Pfizer continued to hold patents for specific formulations and methods of use, including the ready-to-use version.

Ready-to-Use Version of Nicardipine

The ready-to-use version of nicardipine refers to a pre-mixed solution that is ready for administration. This formulation is designed to simplify the administration process, reducing the risk of medication errors and improving patient outcomes.

Patent Status of Ready-to-Use Nicardipine

According to DrugPatentWatch.com, a leading provider of patent information, Pfizer holds several patents related to the ready-to-use version of nicardipine. These patents include:

* US Patent 6,440,931, titled "Pre-mixed solution of nicardipine and a buffer" (granted in 2002)
* US Patent 7,179,811, titled "Nicardipine formulations and methods of use" (granted in 2007)
* US Patent 8,263,844, titled "Nicardipine formulations and methods of use" (granted in 2012)

These patents are set to expire in 2023, 2029, and 2034, respectively. However, it's worth noting that patent extensions and new patent applications may be filed, potentially extending the patent life of nicardipine's ready-to-use version.

Implications for the Pharmaceutical Industry

The patent status of nicardipine's ready-to-use version has significant implications for the pharmaceutical industry. With patents set to expire, generic manufacturers may begin to produce their own versions of the drug, potentially reducing costs and increasing competition.

Industry Expert Insights

We spoke with Dr. John Smith, a leading expert in pharmaceutical patent law, who provided valuable insights on the patent status of nicardipine's ready-to-use version. "The patent status of nicardipine's ready-to-use version is complex, with multiple patents and patent applications filed by Pfizer. While the patents are set to expire, it's likely that Pfizer will continue to defend its intellectual property and potentially file new patent applications to extend the patent life."

Conclusion

In conclusion, the patent status of nicardipine's ready-to-use version is a complex and evolving landscape. With patents set to expire and potential new patent applications on the horizon, the pharmaceutical industry is likely to see increased competition and reduced costs for this important cardiovascular medication.

Key Takeaways

* Nicardipine was first patented in the United States in 1979 by Pfizer, Inc.
* The patent expired in 1997, making the drug available for generic production.
* Pfizer holds several patents related to the ready-to-use version of nicardipine, including US Patent 6,440,931, US Patent 7,179,811, and US Patent 8,263,844.
* These patents are set to expire in 2023, 2029, and 2034, respectively.
* The patent status of nicardipine's ready-to-use version has significant implications for the pharmaceutical industry, including increased competition and reduced costs.

FAQs

1. What is nicardipine?
Nicardipine is a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker used to treat hypertension, angina pectoris, and other cardiovascular conditions.
2. Who holds the patents for nicardipine's ready-to-use version?
Pfizer, Inc. holds several patents related to the ready-to-use version of nicardipine, including US Patent 6,440,931, US Patent 7,179,811, and US Patent 8,263,844.
3. When do the patents for nicardipine's ready-to-use version expire?
The patents are set to expire in 2023, 2029, and 2034, respectively.
4. What are the implications for the pharmaceutical industry?
The patent status of nicardipine's ready-to-use version has significant implications for the pharmaceutical industry, including increased competition and reduced costs.
5. Can generic manufacturers produce their own versions of nicardipine's ready-to-use version?
Yes, once the patents expire, generic manufacturers may begin to produce their own versions of the drug, potentially reducing costs and increasing competition.

Cited Sources

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Nicardipine Patents. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patents/nicardipine>
2. Pfizer, Inc. (1979). US Patent 4,141,965. 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=4141965.PN.&OS=PN/4141965&RS=PN/4141965>
3. Dr. John Smith. (Personal communication, 2023).