Trademark Class 5: How to Protect Pharmaceuticals and Supplements

For companies producing pharmaceuticals, supplements, or medicated products, protecting a brand name isn’t just about business—it’s about public trust and legal compliance. If your business manufactures, sells, or distributes drugs, vitamins, or therapeutic products, understanding International Trademark Class 5 is essential for building strong, enforceable rights.

Let’s walk through what Class 5 covers, highlight real-world examples, and offer practical advice for securing your health-focused brand.

What Is International Trademark Class 5?

International Trademark Class 5 is part of the Nice Classification system, the global standard for categorizing goods and services for trademark purposes.

Class 5 covers:

• Pharmaceuticals (prescription and over-the-counter drugs)
• Veterinary pharmaceuticals
• Nutritional and dietary supplements
• Medicated skin care products
• Sanitary preparations
• Baby food
• Medicated dental products (e.g., therapeutic toothpaste)

Importantly, medicated products belong in Class 5, while non-medicated cosmetics typically fall into Class 3. Functional foods may belong in other classes like Class 29 or Class 30 depending on their formulation and intended use.

For a broader overview of trademark classifications, see our International Trademark Classes Guide.

Why Proper Classification Matters for Pharmaceutical and Supplement Brands

Filing in the wrong class—or using vague descriptions—can result in USPTO rejections, costly delays, and weaker protection. With pharmaceutical and supplement products, there’s even greater scrutiny due to public health concerns.

Consider the case of Pfizer Inc. v. Zydus Pharmaceuticals USA Inc.. Pfizer successfully defended its trademarks over competing pharmaceutical names that could confuse consumers. Similarly, disputes like Vitamin Shoppe v. Nature’s Bounty show how fiercely supplement companies protect brand identity in Class 5.

At Harrigan IP, we help pharmaceutical and supplement companies craft trademark strategies that stand up to regulatory and market scrutiny. Learn more about our trademark registration services.

Real-World Examples: Class 5 in Action

Leading pharmaceutical and supplement brands actively protect Class 5 trademarks:

• Pfizer: Pharmaceutical brands like LIPITOR®, VIAGRA®, and others protected across numerous countries under Class 5.
• Nature’s Bounty: Extensive Class 5 trademark filings for vitamins, minerals, and herbal supplements.
• Johnson & Johnson: Trademark protection for over-the-counter medications, baby care products, and sanitary items.

When products directly affect public health, clear brand differentiation through trademark protection becomes critical—and filing under the correct class is a major part of that strategy.

How to Draft Goods Descriptions Correctly

The USPTO expects highly specific goods descriptions in Class 5 applications. Generic terms like “supplements” or “pharmaceuticals” without further detail often lead to Office Actions requesting clarification.

Better examples include:

• “Dietary supplements containing vitamins C and D”
• “Medicated anti-inflammatory skin creams”
• “Therapeutic mouthwash for the treatment of gingivitis”

To see accepted phrasing, you can consult the USPTO Trademark ID Manual.

When Filing in Multiple Classes Is Necessary

Sometimes, companies offer both medicated and non-medicated versions of products. For example:

• A therapeutic toothpaste (Class 5) and a cosmetic whitening toothpaste (Class 3).
• Dietary supplements (Class 5) sold through retail stores (services in Class 35).

Filing in multiple classes ensures that your brand is protected across your entire product and service portfolio. Learn more about trademark clearance and multi-class filings.

Conclusion: Protect Your Pharmaceutical and Supplement Brands with Confidence

International Trademark Class 5 plays a vital role for companies producing health-related products. Filing under the correct class, crafting precise goods descriptions, and building a strong trademark portfolio can protect your brand, your customers, and your business’s future.

Key takeaways:

• Class 5 covers pharmaceuticals, dietary supplements, medicated skincare, and related goods.
• Precision matters: Goods descriptions must be highly specific.
• Public health concerns make brand clarity—and trademark protection—especially important.

Ready to protect your pharmaceutical or supplement brand? Contact Harrigan IP today to discuss your trademark strategy, or start your trademark application online.

Want to learn more? Explore our articles on what a trademark is, why trademark clearance matters, and our flat-fee trademark services.