Patents by Inventor Benjamin R. Yerxa
Benjamin R. Yerxa has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
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Patent number: 7132410Abstract: The present invention are directed to P1, P4-di(uridine 5?-)tetraphosphate, tetra-alkali metal salts such as tetrasodium, tetralithium, tetrapotassium, and mixed tetra-alkali metal cations thereof. The tetra alkali metal salts of P1, P4-di(uridine 5?-)tetraphosphate are water-soluble, nontoxic, and easy to handle during manufacture. These tetra-monovalent alkali metal salts are more resistant to hydrolysis than the mono-, di-, or tri-acid salts, therefore, they provide an improved stability and a longer shelf life for storage. The present invention also provides methods for the synthesis of P1, P4-di(uridine 5?-)tetraphosphate, and its pharmaceutically acceptably acceptable salts thereof, and demonstrates the applicability to the production of large quantities. The methods substantially reduce the time required to synthesize diuridine tetraphosphate, for example, to three days or less.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2005Date of Patent: November 7, 2006Assignee: Inspire Pharmaceuticals, Inc.Inventors: Benjamin R. Yerxa, Edward G. Brown
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Patent number: 7115585Abstract: The present invention relates to mononucleoside phosphate compounds that have the benefits of a dinucleotide pharmaceutical. These mononucleoside phosphates can be made from a mononucleotide that has been modified by attaching a degradation resistant substituent on the terminal phosphate of a polyphosphate mononucleotide. By attaching this degradation resistant substituent, the stability from degradation matches or exceeds those of certain dinucleotides.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2002Date of Patent: October 3, 2006Assignee: Inspire Pharmaceuticals, Inc.Inventors: Benjamin R. Yerxa, James G. Douglass, III, Sammy Ray Shaver, Ward M. Peterson, Edward G. Brown, Christopher S. Crean
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Patent number: 7109181Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method of altering the amount or composition of synovial fluids secreted from joints in a subject in need of such treatment. The method comprises administering to a subject a pharmaceutical composition comprising a P2Y purinergic receptor agonist in an amount effective to alter the amount or composition of synovial fluids. The P2Y purinergic receptor agonist is administered in an amount effective to stimulate secretion of synovial fluid, lubricin, hyaluronic acid, or surface-active phospholipids; to enhance joint lubrication; or to treat osteoarthritis. The pharmaceutical compositions useful in the present invention comprise a P2Y purinergic receptor agonist of Formula I and include, but are not limited to: uridine-, adenosine-, cytidine-5?-di- or triphosphates, dinucleoside polyphosphates, and analogs thereof. The invention is useful for treating conditions associated with reduced joint lubrication and joint stiffness, such as osteoarthritis.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2002Date of Patent: September 19, 2006Assignee: Inspire Pharmaceuticals, Inc.Inventors: Matthew S. Cowlen, Benjamin R. Yerxa, Arthur C. Jones, Edward G. Brown
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Patent number: 7101860Abstract: This invention is directed to a method of preventing or treating diseases or conditions associated with platelet aggregation. The method is also directed to a method of treating thrombosis. The method comprises administering to a subject a pharmaceutical composition comprising a therapeutically effective amount of P2Y12 receptor antagonist compound, wherein said amount is effective to bind the P2Y12 receptors on platelets and inhibit ADP-induced platelet aggregation. The P2Y12 receptor antagonist compounds useful for this invention include mononucleoside polyphosphates and dinucleoside polyphosphates of general Formula I, or salts thereof The present invention also provides compositions comprising mononucleoside polyphosphates and dinucleoside polyphosphates according to Formula Ia and Ib.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2001Date of Patent: September 5, 2006Assignees: Inspire Pharmaceuticals, Inc., University of North CarolinaInventors: Jose L. Boyer, Gillian M. Olins, Benjamin R. Yerxa, James G. Douglass
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Patent number: 7091334Abstract: The present invention provides new methods for the synthesis of the therapeutic dinucleotide, P1,P4-di(uridine 5?)-tetraphosphate, and demonstrates applicability to the production of large quantities. The methods of the present invention substantially reduce the time period required to synthesize diuridine tetraphosphate, preferably to three days or less. The novel tetrammonium and tetrasodium salts of P1,P4-di(uridine 5?)-tetraphosphate (Formula I) prepared by these methods are stable, soluble, nontoxic, and easy to handle during manufacture. wherein: X is Na, NH4 or H, provided that all X groups are not H.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2004Date of Patent: August 15, 2006Assignee: Inspire Pharmaceuticals, Inc.Inventors: Benjamin R. Yerxa, William Pendergast
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Patent number: 7084128Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method of reducing intraocular pressure. The method comprises administering to a subject a pharmaceutical composition comprising an effective amount of a purinerginic receptor ligand, which is a mononucleoside polyphosphate or dinucleoside polyphosphate defined by general Formula I. The method of the present invention is useful in the treatment or prevention of ocular hypertension, such as glaucoma, including primary and secondary glaucoma. The method can be used alone to reduce intraocular pressure. The method can also be used in conjunction with other therapeutic agents or adjunctive therapy commonly used to treat glaucoma to enhance the therapeutic effect of reducing the intraocular pressure.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2003Date of Patent: August 1, 2006Assignee: Inspire Pharmaceuticals, Inc.Inventors: Benjamin R. Yerxa, Robert Plourde, Jr., Edward G. Brown, Ward M. Peterson
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Patent number: 7078391Abstract: The present invention provides a method of treating edematous retinal disorders. The method comprises administration of a pharmaceutical formulation comprising a hydrolysis-resistant P2Y receptor agonist to stimulate the removal of pathological extraneous fluid from the subretinal and retinal spaces and thereby reduce the accumulation of said fluid associated with retinal detachment and retinal edema. The P2Y receptor agonist can be administered with therapeutic and adjuvant agents commonly used to treat edematous retinal disorders. The pharmaceutical formulation useful in this invention comprises a P2Y receptor agonist with enhanced resistance to extracellular hydrolysis, such as dinucleoside polyphosphate compounds, or hydrolysis-resistant mononucleoside triphosphates.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 2003Date of Patent: July 18, 2006Assignee: Inspire Pharmaceuticals, Inc.Inventors: Ward M. Peterson, Benjamin R. Yerxa
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Patent number: 7018985Abstract: The present invention provides novel compounds of dinucleotide polyphosphates and the method of preventing or treating diseases or conditions associated with platelet aggregation. The method comprises administering systemically to a patient a pharmaceutical comprising a purinergic P2? receptor antagonist, in an amount effective to elevate its extracellular concentration to bind to P2? receptors and inhibit P2? receptor-mediated platelet aggregation. Methods of systemic administration include injection by intravenous, intramuscular, intrasternal and intravitreal routes, infusion, transdermal administration, oral administration, rectal administration and intra-operative instillation.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2000Date of Patent: March 28, 2006Assignees: Inspire Pharmaceuticals, Inc., University of North Carolina at Chapel HillInventors: José L. Boyer, Gillian M. Olins, Benjamin R. Yerxa, James G. Douglass, III
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Patent number: 6977246Abstract: The present invention relates to certain novel dinucleotides and formulations thereof which are highly selective agonists of the P2Y2 and/or P2Y4 purinergic receptor. They are useful in the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases such as chronic bronchitis, PCD, cystic fibrosis, as well as prevention of pneumonia due to immobility. Furthermore, because of their general ability to clear retained mucus secretions and stimulate ciliary beat frequency, the compounds of the present invention are also useful in the treatment of sinusitis, otitis media and nasolacrimal duct obstruction. They are also useful for treatment of dry eye disease and retinal detachment as well as facilitating sputum induction and expectoration.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2001Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Inspire Pharmaceuticals, Inc.Inventors: William Pendergast, Benjamin R. Yerxa, Janet L. Rideout, Suhaib M. Siddiqi
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Patent number: 6921755Abstract: A method and preparation for the stimulation of tear secretion in a subject in need of such treatment is disclosed. The method comprises administering to the ocular surfaces of the subject a purinergic receptor agonist such as uridine 5?-triphosphate (UTP), dinucleotides, cytidine 5?-triphosphate (CTP), adenosine 5?-triphosphate (ATP), or their therapeutically useful analogs and derivatives, in an amount effective to stimulate tear fluid secretion and enhance drainage of the lacrimal system. Pharmaceutical formulations and methods of making the same are also disclosed. Methods of administering the same would include: topical administration via a liquid, gel, cream, or as part of a contact lens or selective release membrane; or systemic administration via nasal drops or spray, inhalation by nebulizer or other device, oral form (liquid or pill), injectable, intra-operative instillation or suppository form.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2001Date of Patent: July 26, 2005Assignee: Inspire Pharmaceuticals, Inc.Inventors: Benjamin R. Yerxa, Karla M. Jacobus, William Pendergast, Janet L. Rideout
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Patent number: 6916794Abstract: A method and preparation for the stimulation of tear secretion in a subject in need of such treatment is disclosed. The method comprises administering to the ocular surfaces of the subject a purinergic receptor agonist such as uridine 5?-triphosphate (UTP), dinucleotides, cytidine 5?-triphosphate (CTP), adenosine 5?-triphosphate (ATP), or their therapeutically useful analogs and derivatives, in an amount effective to stimulate tear fluid secretion and enhance drainage of the lacrimal system. Pharmaceutical formulations and methods of making the same are also disclosed. Methods of administering the same would include: topical administration via a liquid, gel, cream, or as part of a contact lens or selective release membrane; or systemic administration via nasal drops or spray, inhalation by nebulizer or other device, oral form (liquid or pill), injectable, intra-operative instillation or suppository form.Type: GrantFiled: January 3, 2002Date of Patent: July 12, 2005Assignee: Inspire Pharmaceutical, Inc.Inventors: Benjamin R. Yerxa, Karla M. Jacobus, William Pendergast, Janet L. Rideout
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Patent number: 6897201Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method of reducing intraocular pressure. The method comprises administering to a subject a pharmaceutical composition comprising an effective amount of a nucleoside 5?-pyrophosphate pyranoside or analogue, which is defined by general Formula I. The method of the present invention is useful in the treatment or prevention of ocular hypertension, such as found in glaucoma, including primary and secondary glaucoma. The method can be used alone to reduce intraocular pressure. The method can also be used in conjunction with another therapeutic agent or adjunctive therapy commonly used to treat glaucoma to enhance the therapeutic effect of reducing the intraocular pressure. The present invention also provides a novel composition comprising a nucleoside 5?-pyrophosphate pyranoside or analogues.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2002Date of Patent: May 24, 2005Assignee: Inspire Pharmaceuticals, Inc.Inventors: Jose L. Boyer, Benjamin R. Yerxa, Robert Plourde, Jr., Edward G. Brown
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Patent number: 6887858Abstract: A method and preparation for the stimulation of tear secretion in a subject in need of such treatment is disclosed. The method comprises administering to the ocular surfaces of the subject a purinergic receptor agonist such as uridine 5?-triphosphate [UTP], dinucleotides, cytidine 5?-triphosphate [CTP], adenosine 5?-triphosphate [ATP], or their therapeutically useful analogs and derivatives, in an amount effective to stimulate tear fluid secretion and enhance drainage of the lacrimal system. Pharmaceutical formulations and methods of making the same are also disclosed. Methods of administering the same would include: topical administration via a liquid, gel, cream, or as part of a contact lens or selective release membrane; or systemic administration via nasal drops or spray, inhalation by nebulizer or other device, oral form (liquid or pill), injectable, intra-operative instillation or suppository form.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 1998Date of Patent: May 3, 2005Assignee: Inspire Pharmaceuticals, Inc.Inventors: Benjamin R. Yerxa, Karla M. Jacobus, William Pendergast, Janet L. Rideout
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Patent number: 6881725Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method of treating pain. The method comprises administering to a subject a pharmaceutical composition comprising an effective amount of a P2X receptor antagonist. The methods of the present invention are useful in reducing pain, such as traumatic pain, neuropathic pain, organ pain and pain associated with diseases. The P2X receptor antagonists particularly useful for this invention are mononucleoside polyphosphate derivatives or dinucleoside polyphosphate derivatives of general Formula I. The compounds of the present method can be used alone to treat pain. The compounds of the present method can also be used in conjunction with other therapeutic agents or adjunctive therapies commonly used to treat pain, thus enhancing the overall pain-reducing effect in a subject in need of such treatment.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2003Date of Patent: April 19, 2005Assignee: Inspire Pharmaceuticals Inc.Inventors: Benjamin R. Yerxa, Ward M. Peterson, Christopher S. Crean
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Patent number: 6872710Abstract: The present invention is directed to P1, P4-di(uridine 5?)-tetraphosphate, tetra-alkali metal salts such as tetrasodium, tetralithium, tetrapotassium, and mixed tetra-alkali metal cations thereof. The tetra alkali metal salts of P1, P4-di(uridine 5?)-tetraphosphate are water-soluble, nontoxic, and easy to handle during manufacture. These tetra-monovalent alkali metal salts are more resistant to hydrolysis than the mono-, di-, or tri-acid salts, therefore, they provide an improved stability and a longer shelf life for storage. The present invention also provides methods for the synthesis of P1, P4-di(uridine 5?)-tetraphosphate, and its pharmaceutically acceptably acceptable salts thereof, and demonstrates the applicability to the production of large quantities. The methods substantially reduce the time required to synthesize diuridine tetraphosphate, for example, to three days or less.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2003Date of Patent: March 29, 2005Assignee: Inspire Pharmaceuticals, Inc.Inventors: Benjamin R. Yerxa, Edward G. Brown
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Patent number: 6867199Abstract: The present invention relates to certain novel dinucleoside polyphosphates of general Formulae I, II and III, and formulations thereof which are selective ligands of the P2Y purinergic receptors. Applicants have discovered that dinucleoside polyphosphates of general Formulae I, II and III are effective in clearing retained mucous secretions, balancing tissue hydration and fluid secretion, and/or inhibiting or preventing early stages of platelet activation, platelet degranulation, and platelet aggregation.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2003Date of Patent: March 15, 2005Assignee: Inspire Pharmaceuticals, Inc.Inventors: Janet L. Rideout, Benjamin R. Yerxa, Sammy Ray Shaver, James G. Douglass, III
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Publication number: 20040267005Abstract: The present invention provides new methods for the synthesis of the therapeutic dinucleotide, P1,P4-di(uridine 5′)-tetraphosphate, and demonstrates applicability to the production of large quantities. The methods of the present invention substantially reduce the time period required to synthesize diuridine tetraphosphate, preferably to three days or less. The novel tetrammonium and tetrasodium salts of P1,P4-di(uridine 5′)-tetraphosphate (Formula I) prepared by these methods are stable, soluble, nontoxic, and easy to handle during manufacture.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 20, 2004Publication date: December 30, 2004Inventors: Benjamin R. Yerxa, William Pendergast
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Patent number: 6818629Abstract: The present invention provides a method of treating edematous retinal disorders. The method comprises administration of a pharmaceutical formulation comprising a hydrolysis-resistant P2Y receptor agonist to stimulate the removal of pathological extraneous fluid from the subretinal and retinal spaces and thereby reduce the accumulation of said fluid associated with retinal detachment and retinal edema. The P2Y receptor agonist can be administered with therapeutic and adjuvant agents commonly used to treat edematous retinal disorders. The pharmaceutical formulation useful in this invention comprises a P2Y receptor agonist with enhanced resistance to extracellular hydrolysis, such as dinucleoside polyphosphate compounds, or hydrolysis-resistant mononucleoside triphosphates.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2003Date of Patent: November 16, 2004Assignee: Inspire Pharmaceuticals, Inc.Inventors: Ward M. Peterson, Benjamin R. Yerxa
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Publication number: 20040220133Abstract: This invention is directed to a method of preventing or treating diseases or conditions associated with platelet aggregation. The method is also directed to a method of treating thrombosis. The method comprises administering to a subject a pharmaceutical composition comprising a therapeutic effective amount of P2Y12 receptor antagonist compound, wherein said amount is effective to bind the P2Y12 receptors on platelets and inhibit ADP-induced platelet aggregation. The P2Y12 receptor antagonist compounds useful for this invention include mononucleoside 5′-monophosphates, mononucleoside polyphosphates, and dinucleoside polyphosphates of general Formula I, or salts thereof. The present invention also provides novel compounds of mononucleoside 5′-monophosphates, mononucleoside polyphosphates, and dinucleoside polyphosphates. The present invention further provides pharmaceutical formulations comprising mononucleoside 5′-monophosphates, mononucleoside polyphosphates, or dinucleoside polyphosphates.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 31, 2004Publication date: November 4, 2004Inventors: Jose L. Boyer, James G. Douglass, Sammy R. Shaver, Krzysztof Bednarski, Benjamin R. Yerxa, Gillian M. Olins
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Publication number: 20040198803Abstract: The present invention provides a method of reducing intraocular pressure by administering pharmaceutical compositions comprising indole derivatives. The pharmaceutical compositions useful in this invention comprise indole derivatives and melatonin analogs of Formulae I-IV. A preferred embodiment is a method of lowering intraocular pressure using 5-(methoxycarbonylamino)-N-acetyltryptamine (5-MCA-NAT), also known as GR 135531, which has a prolonged duration of action and greater efficacy in lowering intraocular pressure compared to melatonin. The present invention further provides a method of treating disorders associated with ocular hypertension, and a method of treating various forms of glaucoma; the method comprises administering an effective dose of a pharmacuetical composition comprising an indole derivative with or without agents commonly used to treat such disorders.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 20, 2004Publication date: October 7, 2004Inventors: Jesus J. Pintor, Maria A. Peral, Ward M. Peterson, Robert Plourde, Edward G. Brown, Benjamin R. Yerxa