See the DrugPatentWatch profile for remifentanil
What does a “remifentanil hydrochloride” patent cover?
Patents that name “remifentanil hydrochloride” typically claim specific inventions related to the drug substance or how it is used or made. That can include new formulations (for example, an injectable composition), dosing or administration methods (including particular infusion or perioperative regimens), manufacturing processes, or stability/packaging features. Without a specific patent number or assignee, the exact claims for a given “remifentanil hydrochloride” patent can’t be verified from the question alone.
Which remifentanil patents should you look for (and what terms match)?
If you’re searching patent databases, use combinations of these terms:
- “remifentanil hydrochloride”
- “remifentanil HCl”
- “remifentanil” plus “formulation,” “injectable,” “pharmaceutical composition,” “stability,” or “lyophilized”
- “remifentanil” plus “method of treatment,” “administration,” “infusion,” “dosing regimen,” or “perioperative”
- “process for preparing remifentanil” or “manufacturing” (to find process patents)
These variations often surface patents that do not repeat the full drug name in the title but still focus on the same active ingredient.
How long do remifentanil hydrochloride patents last?
Patent term generally depends on filing date, jurisdiction, and whether the patent is a full composition/process patent versus a later “life-cycle” patent (for example, a new formulation). Many pharmaceutical patents follow a standard maximum term from the earliest priority date, but the actual expiry can shift due to delays and maintenance fees, and some markets add regulatory exclusivity (which is separate from patents). To determine the remifentanil hydrochloride patent expiry for a specific country, you need the specific patent (or at least an assignee + publication number) and the jurisdiction.
Are there patent challenges (e.g., generic or biosimilar entry) tied to remifentanil?
If a remifentanil hydrochloride patent is asserted against competitors, the dispute typically centers on whether a generic manufacturer can market a product without infringing the claimed method/composition/process features. Whether a challenge exists, and the basis for it, depends on the specific patent(s) and the regulatory pathway in that country. Identifying the exact patent number is necessary to check litigation or regulatory submissions tied to it.
Can you tell me the exact patent you mean?
To give a precise answer (scope, claims, assignee, priority date, expiry, and any relevant litigation), share one of the following:
- patent number (US, EP, WO, etc.)
- publication number (e.g., US20xx/xxxxxx)
- assignee/company name
- country/region (US, EU, UK, etc.)
- a link to the patent record
If you provide that, I can summarize what the patent covers and how to interpret its relevance to remifentanil hydrochloride products.
Sources
No sources were provided in your prompt, and no patent number or jurisdiction was specified, so I can’t reliably cite any specific remifentanil hydrochloride patent documents.