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The Origins of Claritin: Uncovering the Story of Loratadine's Patentee

Loratadine, commonly known as Claritin, is a popular over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamine medication used to treat allergies and relieve symptoms such as itching, sneezing, and runny nose. But have you ever wondered who was the initial patentee for loratadine as a standalone drug? In this article, we'll delve into the history of loratadine and uncover the story behind its patent.

The Discovery of Loratadine

Loratadine was first synthesized in the 1970s by a team of scientists at the pharmaceutical company Schering-Plough (now part of Merck & Co.). The team, led by Dr. Charles P. Austin, was working on developing a new class of antihistamines that would be more effective and have fewer side effects than existing medications.

The Patent Process

Schering-Plough filed for a patent for loratadine in 1980, and the patent was granted in 1983. The patent, titled "Antihistaminic compounds," described the chemical structure and properties of loratadine, as well as its use as a treatment for allergies and other conditions.

The Patentee

So, who was the initial patentee for loratadine? According to DrugPatentWatch.com, the patentee was Schering Corporation, a subsidiary of Schering-Plough. The patent was assigned to Schering Corporation, and the company held the exclusive rights to manufacture and sell loratadine for a period of 20 years.

The Rise of Claritin

Loratadine was first marketed as a prescription medication in the United States in 1984 under the brand name Claritin. The medication quickly gained popularity due to its effectiveness and relatively few side effects. In 1993, Claritin became the first antihistamine medication to be approved for over-the-counter (OTC) use, making it widely available to consumers.

The Impact of Claritin

The introduction of Claritin revolutionized the treatment of allergies, providing a convenient and effective solution for millions of people worldwide. Today, Claritin is one of the most widely used OTC medications, and its success has paved the way for the development of other antihistamine medications.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the initial patentee for loratadine as a standalone drug was Schering Corporation, a subsidiary of Schering-Plough. The company's discovery and development of loratadine led to the creation of Claritin, a medication that has had a significant impact on the treatment of allergies. As we continue to explore new treatments and medications, it's essential to acknowledge the pioneers who paved the way for our current understanding of medicine.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who was the initial patentee for loratadine?
Schering Corporation, a subsidiary of Schering-Plough.
2. When was loratadine first synthesized?
The 1970s.
3. When was the patent for loratadine granted?
1983.
4. When was Claritin first marketed as a prescription medication?
1984.
5. When did Claritin become available over-the-counter (OTC)?
1993.

Cited Sources

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Loratadine Patent. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US-4446144>
2. Schering-Plough Corporation. (1983). Antihistaminic compounds. United States Patent and Trademark Office.

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