How to Search for Existing Medical Device Trademarks Online for Free
Introduction
If you’re launching a new medical device or planning to expand your existing product line, securing your trademark is one of the most critical steps in building a strong and legally protected brand. But before you file for trademark registration, there’s an essential step you can’t afford to skip—searching for existing trademarks that might already be registered or pending.
Many medical startups and device manufacturers overlook this step and end up facing rejection from the Trademark Registry or even legal disputes. Fortunately, there are free, government-backed, and reliable methods to search for existing trademarks in India and globally.
In this detailed guide, we’ll show you the right way to conduct a trademark search specifically for medical devices, using only free methods that are accessible to everyone—even without legal knowledge.
Why Search Before Trademark Registration?
Trademark search is not just a formality—it’s your legal shield and your brand’s insurance policy. Here’s why it’s non-negotiable:
- ✅ Avoid Legal Infringement: Filing a trademark that’s identical or confusingly similar to an existing one may lead to costly lawsuits.
- ✅ Prevent Trademark Rejection: The Trademark Registry will reject your application if it conflicts with a registered mark.
- ✅ Protect Brand Identity: It ensures that your branding is truly unique, especially in a sensitive and competitive sector like medical devices.
- ✅ Save Time & Money: Filing, examination, and rebranding costs add up fast. A pre-check avoids these expenses.
Know Your Class: Why Class 10 Matters
All medical devices fall under Trademark Class 10, which covers:
- Surgical and medical instruments
- Dental and veterinary devices
- Orthopedic supports and apparatus
- Diagnostic apparatus and tools
- Prosthetics and artificial limbs
When searching for medical device trademarks, always start your search in Class 10, but don’t limit yourself—overlapping classes like Class 5 (pharmaceuticals) and Class 9 (electronic diagnostic equipment) may also be relevant depending on your product.
Free Methods to Search Existing Medical Device Trademarks in India
Let’s now dive into the most reliable and completely free methods to check existing trademarks.
1. IP India Public Search Tool (Government Portal)
The official website of the Controller General of Patents, Designs & Trademarks provides a public search interface that is easy to access and legally authentic.
Link: https://ipindiaonline.gov.in/tmrpublicsearch
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Visit the Site and select ‘Wordmark Search’.
- In the “Class” field, type 10 (for medical devices).
- Enter your desired brand name under “Wordmark”.
- Use the wildcard symbol () if you want broader results.
Example: Searching for “Medi” will show results like “MediCare”, “MediPlus”, etc. - Hit Search and view results including:
- Application Number
- Proprietor
- Status (Registered, Objected, Abandoned)
- Class of goods
Pro Tip:
Always review both registered and pending trademarks. Even a pending mark can block your registration.
2. WIPO Global Brand Database (For International Checks)
If you’re considering future exports or already selling globally, do a trademark check in the WIPO (World Intellectual Property Organization) database.
Link: https://www.wipo.int/branddb/en/
Steps:
- Type your proposed brand name into the search bar.
- Filter by “India” to limit your results, or check across all jurisdictions.
- Use the “Nice Class” filter and select Class 10.
- Scan through results for matching or similar entries.
Why Use WIPO?
- See if your mark is in conflict globally
- Understand how competitive the trademark environment is internationally
- Helps you plan Madrid Protocol applications
3. Google & Marketplace Search (Unofficial but Effective)
Although not legal databases, search engines like Google and platforms like Amazon and Flipkart can provide real-world brand usage insights.
What to Do:
- Search your brand name + “medical device”
- Look for any established presence on:
- Company websites
- Online shops
- Medical portals
- Note down brands that look similar or use similar suffixes like “Medi”, “Care”, “Bio”, etc.
Use Case:
If someone is using a similar brand name commercially (even if not trademarked yet), they might object to your registration.
4. Social Media Search
Social platforms often showcase early-stage brands or startups that haven’t filed for trademarks yet.
Where to Search:
- LinkedIn: Look for health tech companies and med device startups
- Instagram: Hashtag + brand name to find marketing campaigns
- Twitter: Use the search bar for real-time mentions
Why It Matters: Social media names might not appear in trademark databases, but they’re real-world conflicts waiting to happen.
5. Startup India & MSME Databases
If a company has registered on Startup India or under MSME using a brand name, it might not show in TM databases but still hold ground in conflict cases.
How to Search:
- Visit https://www.startupindia.gov.in
- Use company/brand name in search bar
- Repeat the same for Udyam MSME portal
6. Phonetic Search on IP India (Highly Recommended)
Phonetic similarity is a major reason for trademark objections, especially in healthcare. Think “Mediq” vs “Medik”.
Steps:
- On IP India public search, select “Phonetic Search”
- Enter your brand name phonetically
- Select class 10
- Review variations that “sound” like your brand name
Bonus Tip:
Use phonetic search before finalizing your brand name. It saves major trouble.
What to Look for During Your Search?
When reviewing trademark search results, focus on:
- Exact Matches – These will cause instant rejections.
- Phonetic Similarity – Even different spellings can be rejected if they sound alike.
- Visual Similarity (Logos) – In case of graphic marks or stylized fonts.
- Trademark Status – Check whether a trademark is registered, objected, opposed, or abandoned.
- Owner Name – Helps in identifying competitors and their filing strategy.
Free Tools That Make Search Easier
| Tool | Use Case | Cost |
| IP India | Indian trademark search | Free |
| WIPO Brand DB | Global trademark lookup | Free |
| TMView | European trademark search | Free |
| LogoGrab (free version) | Image similarity search | Free |
| Google Alerts | Brand name monitoring | Free |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Searching only by exact brand name
- ❌ Ignoring phonetic or visual similarities
- ❌ Skipping international checks if exporting
- ❌ Assuming no search = no conflict
- ❌ Not checking status (some trademarks are live even if not registered)
Final Checklist Before You File
✅ Conduct Wordmark Search (IP India)
✅ Perform Phonetic Search
✅ Check WIPO Brand DB (if exporting)
✅ Look at online presence (Google, eCommerce, social media)
✅ Verify TM status and class (Class 10)
✅ Save search records/screenshots for legal use
Conclusion
Conducting a thorough and proper trademark search is the foundation of protecting your medical device brand. With the rise of innovation and startups in the healthcare space, Class 10 is more crowded than ever—and avoiding conflicts through free but powerful search methods is a smart business move.
If you’re still unsure about the process or want expert assistance, we can help.
Need Help With Trademark Search or Registration?
VMK Professionals is your trusted partner for trademark search, filing, and brand protection. Whether you’re a medical startup or an established device manufacturer, our experts can help you navigate trademark Class 10 with ease.
👉 Contact VMK Professionals today for:
- Trademark Search & Clearance Reports
- Expert Legal Filing
- Brand Protection Strategy
- Nationwide & International Trademark Support
Let’s protect what you’ve built. Your brand deserves it.
