See the DrugPatentWatch profile for loratadine

Patent History of Loratadine Phenylephrine: Uncovering the Timeline

The combination of loratadine and phenylephrine has been a popular over-the-counter (OTC) medication for decades, providing relief from allergy symptoms and nasal congestion. But have you ever wondered when the patents for this medication were first granted? In this article, we'll delve into the patent history of loratadine phenylephrine and explore the timeline of its development.

Introduction to Loratadine Phenylephrine

Loratadine phenylephrine is a non-drowsy antihistamine that combines the active ingredients of loratadine and phenylephrine. Loratadine is a second-generation antihistamine that blocks the action of histamine, a chemical released by the body during an allergic reaction. Phenylephrine, on the other hand, is a decongestant that helps to reduce nasal congestion.

Patent History of Loratadine

The patent history of loratadine begins with the original patent granted to Schering Corporation in 1982 (US Patent 4,376,915). This patent covered the use of loratadine as an antihistamine for the treatment of allergic conditions. However, the patent was later challenged and eventually expired in 1997.

Patent History of Phenylephrine

Phenylephrine has a long history of use as a decongestant, dating back to the early 20th century. The original patent for phenylephrine was granted to the Parke-Davis Company in 1919 (US Patent 1,242,465). However, this patent has long since expired, and phenylephrine is now available as an OTC medication.

Combination of Loratadine and Phenylephrine

The combination of loratadine and phenylephrine was first patented by Schering-Plough Corporation in 1995 (US Patent 5,387,662). This patent covered the use of a combination of loratadine and phenylephrine for the treatment of allergic rhinitis and nasal congestion.

Patent Expiration and Generic Entry

The patent for the combination of loratadine and phenylephrine expired in 2011, allowing generic versions of the medication to enter the market. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, the first generic version of loratadine phenylephrine was approved by the FDA in 2011.

Impact of Patent Expiration on the Market

The expiration of the patent for loratadine phenylephrine had a significant impact on the market. Generic versions of the medication became widely available, leading to increased competition and lower prices. This, in turn, made the medication more accessible to consumers.

What Does This Mean for Consumers?

The expiration of the patent for loratadine phenylephrine means that consumers now have more options when it comes to purchasing this medication. Generic versions of the medication are often cheaper than brand-name versions, making it easier for consumers to access the medication they need.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the patent history of loratadine phenylephrine is a complex and evolving story. From the original patent granted to Schering Corporation in 1982 to the expiration of the patent in 2011, this medication has undergone significant changes over the years. As the market continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how the patent landscape for loratadine phenylephrine changes in the future.

Key Takeaways

* The original patent for loratadine was granted to Schering Corporation in 1982.
* The patent for the combination of loratadine and phenylephrine was granted to Schering-Plough Corporation in 1995.
* The patent for loratadine phenylephrine expired in 2011, allowing generic versions of the medication to enter the market.
* Generic versions of loratadine phenylephrine are often cheaper than brand-name versions.
* The expiration of the patent for loratadine phenylephrine has increased competition and made the medication more accessible to consumers.

FAQs

1. Q: What is the patent history of loratadine?
A: The original patent for loratadine was granted to Schering Corporation in 1982.
2. Q: When was the patent for the combination of loratadine and phenylephrine granted?
A: The patent for the combination of loratadine and phenylephrine was granted to Schering-Plough Corporation in 1995.
3. Q: When did the patent for loratadine phenylephrine expire?
A: The patent for loratadine phenylephrine expired in 2011.
4. Q: What is the impact of patent expiration on the market?
A: The expiration of the patent for loratadine phenylephrine has increased competition and made the medication more accessible to consumers.
5. Q: Are generic versions of loratadine phenylephrine cheaper than brand-name versions?
A: Yes, generic versions of loratadine phenylephrine are often cheaper than brand-name versions.

Sources:

1. US Patent 4,376,915 (1982) - Schering Corporation
2. US Patent 5,387,662 (1995) - Schering-Plough Corporation
3. DrugPatentWatch.com - First generic version of loratadine phenylephrine approved by the FDA in 2011.
4. Schering-Plough Corporation. (1995). Loratadine and phenylephrine combination. US Patent 5,387,662.
5. Schering Corporation. (1982). Loratadine. US Patent 4,376,915.