Delim Patent Research and Innovative Formulation Development

Innovation drives progress, especially in the highly competitive pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries, where up to 80 per cent of most companies’ revenues derive from patented products.

Delim specializes in transforming ideas into patented realities through a meticulous process of patent research and the development of innovative formulations.

The Complexities of Patenting

A patent grants a form of monopoly over an invention (a new solution to a particular problem) for a defined period in which no one else is allowed to incorporate that innovation into their own products without the patent holder’s permission, normally granted in return for a license fee.

For an invention to be patentable, it must be genuinely novel, never having been publicly disclosed or discussed before. It should also be useful, non-obvious and capable of being precisely defined. This is why mere ideas, scientific principles, and non-ethical inventions are normally not capable of being patented.

Obtaining patent protection is a lengthy and complex process that starts with submission of a provisional application. This establishes a priority date that can become crucial should someone try to patent a similar invention later. This date of first filing marks the boundary between the new invention and the previous state of knowledge, defined as ‘prior art’.

Over the succeeding three to five years, the product will be ‘patent pending’ and several things need to happen:

• Full patent application: The applicant clearly and comprehensively defines the boundaries of the invention
• ISA search: An authorized International Searching Authority searches through prior art documents to compile an International Search Report (ISR) on its novelty.
• Non-binding opinion: The patent office issues a non-binding written opinion on patentability. This can form the basis for a type of negotiation in which the inventor can address any patent office of ISA objections by modifying the application and reducing the scope of claims to ensure the invention meets all patentable criteria.
• PCT application: During this time, too, the inventor can submit a Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) application to extend patent protection to 152 countries worldwide.
• IPE application: If the ISA has found no relevant prior art, the inventor can request an optional International Preliminary Examination to assess patentability in the locations being pursued.
• Substantive Examination: Once the ISR and opinion cycle is complete, the application can enter a substantive examination phase by a regional (e.g. European Patent Office) or national patent office that can involve multiple local patent attorneys and translation services.
• Final decision: It will take some three years at least before the patent office pronounces whether a patent is granted and published. Even this is not the end of the process; the inventor must then decide the countries where the patent will be published, and this will open the way for third parties to begin opposition proceedings if they can show the invention is not novel.

From Idea to Patent: Delim’s Structured Approach

Delim can take much of the stress and uncertainty out of the patent process with its Patent Research and Intellectual Property (IPP) Development Service. This supports applicants throughout the entire patent journey from submission to approval, ensuring a seamless and efficient experience.

This journey begins with a comprehensive patentability study. This crucial step evaluates whether the concept meets the novelty criterion, ensuring that the invention is unique and innovative in the eyes of patent offices.

One advantage of the patentability study is that it effectively parallels the studies of the ISA, allowing the applicant to know in advance what the ISR will say. Another is that it will make clear exactly which aspects of the new product depart from prior art, making it easier to draft a preliminary patent application.

Delim can also assist with incorporation of detailed experimental data and formulation of the specific claims that form the foundation of the patent. Delim has access to specialized patent office expertise to ensure compliance with legal and technical standards.

Drafts undergo meticulous review to refine the language and structure of the application, resulting in a Full Patent Application that is more robust and less subject to revision or challenge.

Creating Innovative Formulations

Delim also has strength in its ability to create formulations that stand out for their novelty and patentability. This expertise enables Delim to develop solutions that not only meet regulatory requirements but also outperform existing market references.

This is particularly evident in the development of “generic plus” medicines—well-known molecules enhanced through formulative innovation. These advanced formulations deliver superior performance compared to standard references, setting new benchmarks in efficacy and patient outcomes.

Proven Success

Delim dedication to innovation is demonstrated by the number and quality of patents it has successfully filed that have received approval. Noteworthy achievements include:

• Udonitrectag and its topical formulations for treating dermatological conditions (Patent: IT202200016614A1).
• Pharmaceutical or cosmetic compositions with polymers and absorption enhancers for controlled active ingredient release (Patent: ITUB20161016A1).
• Thermosensitive mucoadhesive gel solutions based on collagen and hyaluronic acid salts for reversible applications (Patent: ITUB20155342A1).
• A patented method to load tissues or garments with compositions for the controlled release of active ingredients, including its preparation and applications (Patent: ITMI20130151A1).

Delim’s successes prove its understanding of the complexities of the journey from concept to patent. With its proven track record and deep expertise, Delim is equipped to guide pharmaceutical and cosmetics innovators every step of the way, ensuring that their concepts receive just rewards and achieve full market potential.

Delim Patent Research and Innovative Formulation Development help pharma companies unlock the value of their ideas and turn innovation into a powerful competitive edge.

Resources

Click on Delim Pharmaceutical Services for further information.