Abstract: The present invention provides the methods and composition useful as a contraceptive by preventing motile sperm from reaching a mature ovum, thereby blocking fertilization and preventing pregnancy. The contraceptive is comprised of halogen functionalized fullerene nanoparticles (halo fullerenes) and chemotactic stimulants that act synergistically to divert, incapacitate and ultimately rupture spermatozoa to avert fertilization. When applied vaginally prior to coitus, the suspension is activated by exposure to spermatozoa upon insemination. Notably, non-spermatozoa cells are unaffected by the pH-neutral suspension; however, closer to the same scale, microbes are susceptible to its inherent biocidal properties. Following application and coitus, the contraceptive evacuates naturally, along with seminal and vaginal fluids thereafter.

Abstract: A skin-friendly absorbent structure providing oxygen, comprising a absorbing layer and skin-friendly and oxygen-providing units, the skin-friendly and oxygen-providing unit being evenly dispersed in partial or entire scope of the absorbing layer wherein the skin-friendly and oxygen-providing unit comprises oxygen providing units and pH regulating units; and the pH of the skin-friendly absorbent structure is between 4 and 7 after absorbing liquids.

Abstract: A new and improved hybrid “framed-frameless” copper-releasing contraceptive device (IUD) which is a combination of a plastic retention arm of reduced dimensions to adapt to uterine cavities of smaller size, particularly regarding their transverse width at the fundal level of the uterus, and whose retention arm has a centrally located extension of varying length to be connected with hollow copper tubes which functions as the frameless stem of the IUD, and which consists of loosely connected hollow tubes, threaded on a length of suture, or a thin plastic or metallic stem, or a thin polymeric drug eluting stem, allowing release of copper ions, from the outside and from the inside of the tubes, in the uterine cavity thereby enhancing the contraceptive effect, and of which the bottom tube, is crimped onto the lower end of the stem, including a separate metallic ion-releasing fiber, holding all copper tubes together.

Abstract: Implantable drug delivery devices are provided to have a deployment shape for implantation in the body and a retention shape for retention in the body. The device may have one or more elongated drug reservoirs containing a drug, and the drug reservoir may be formed from a deformable material. In one case, a first filament is attached to the first end of the drug reservoir and second filament is attached to the second end of the drug reservoir, wherein a fastener is positioned about the first and second filaments to permit shortening and prevent lengthening of the filaments with reference to the ends of the drug reservoir, as a means for transforming the device from the implantation shape to the retention shape.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a drug delivery system and method provide a member including a combination of a drug substance and a polymer or other material, and an encapsulating layer formed in an outer surface of the member by gas cluster ion beam irradiation of the outer surface of the member, which encapsulating layer is adapted to determine one or more characteristics of the drug delivery system.

Abstract: An odor control composition includes (a) at least one fragrance and (b) a halo active aromatic sulfonamide compound of Formula (I): wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, and R5 are independently selected from hydrogen, COOR?, CON(R?)2, alkoxy, CN, NO2, SO3R?, halogen, substituted or unsubstituted phenyl, sulfonamide, halosulfonamide, and substituted or unsubstituted C1-C12 alkyl; R? is hydrogen, an alkali metal, an alkaline earth metal, substituted C1-C12 alkyl, or unsubstituted C1-C12 alkyl; and R? is hydrogen or substituted or unsubstituted C1-C12 alkyl, where the two R? groups in CON(R?)2 may be independently selected; X is halogen; M is an alkali or alkaline earth metal; and n is the number of water molecules per molecule of the sulfonamide compound.

Abstract: The present invention provides improved intravaginal drug delivery devices, i.e., intravaginal rings, useful for the prophylactic administration of dapivirine in combination with either an antimicrobial compound or a contraceptive to a human. The present invention also provides methods of blocking DNA polymerization by an HIV reverse transcriptase enzyme, methods of preventing HIV infection in a female human, methods of treating HIV infection in a female human, methods of preventing unintended pregnancy in a female human, and methods of preparing intravaginal rings.

Abstract: According to one claim of the invention, a method for occluding a fallopian tube in a vertebrate subject is described, which comprises comprising transcervically delivering a solid blocking material into the fallopian tube. In various embodiments, a fluid sealing material is delivered along with the solid blocking material. Other claims of the invention pertain to articles of manufacture, delivery devices and kits for use in occluding the fallopian tubes of a vertebrate subject.

Abstract: The various embodiments of the present inventions provide stabilization devices and methods for use of the stabilization devices with minimally invasive gynecological procedures such as methods of preventing pregnancy by inserting intrafallopian contraceptive devices into the fallopian tubes.

Abstract: Copper ion treatments and methods of treatment are provided to treat various body conditions affecting the genital and/or rectal areas. The copper ion treatments contain a copper ion-containing solution which, as a result of the copper ions contacting anatomical tissue of the vagina, the rectal canal and/or the external genital or rectal areas, brings about local and systemic therapeutic effects. The copper ion treatments and methods for treating conditions affecting the genital and/or rectal areas involve the use of tampons, suppositories, lotions, creams, gels, foams and solutions, each containing a copper ion-containing solution. The tampon bodies and the copper ion lotions, creams, gels and foams may be delivered into the vagina, and the suppositories can be delivered into the vagina or into the rectal canal. The copper ion lotions, creams, gels, foams and solutions may also be topically applied to the external genital and/or rectal areas.

Abstract: Intravaginal drug delivery devices, including intravaginal rings, are provided herein. The devices include a reservoir of at least one vaginally administrable drug wherein the reservoir is surrounded at least in part by a hydrophilic elastomer. The devices are capable of exhibiting a substantially zero order release profile of drug over extended periods of time. Also disclosed are methods for making the devices and methods of using the devices to prevent or treat a biological condition.

Abstract: Described are transdermal drug delivery systems for the transdermal administration of levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol, comprising an acrylic polymer matrix. Methods of making and using such systems also are described.

Abstract: The invention described is directed to an intracorporeal occluding device having elements with non-traumatic ends and devices, systems and methods for occluding the lumens of anatomical passageways and/or for delivering drugs or other substances to the bodies of human or animal subjects.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a patch comprising a drug-containing layer with low content of hormones, such as gestodene, and optionally an estrogen (e.g. ethinyl estradiol). Upon administering the patch to a woman, plasma levels of at least 1.0 ng/ml of Gestodene is achieved at steady state conditions without the need of incorporating penetration enhancers or permeation enhancers in the drug-containing layer. Satisfactorily plasma levels of the hormones is also achieved throughout a period of at least 1 week, making the patch applicable for being used in female contraception with the concept of administering the patch ones weekly.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of pharmaceutical formulation techniques. The invention provides a low dosage pharmaceutical composition for transdermal delivery of hormones, preferably a progestin, such as a Gestodene, and an estrogen, preferably Ethinylestradiol so as to achieve plasma concentration profiles effective in inhibiting ovulation in a woman.

Abstract: A convenient and highly accurate intravaginal device with wireless sensors for monitoring fertility and sexual health of humans and animals is proposed. Sensors in the intravaginal device measure fertility and sexual health and via wireless transmitter send this information to a terminal on which the information is processed and displayed in convenient form.

Abstract: A microbicidal delivery system including: a microbicidal composition including a microbicidal compound including a dendrimer including one or more surface groups of formula (IV); a microbicidally active derivative thereof, or pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof; and a carrier, excipient or diluent therefor; and a prophylactic device; the microbicidal composition being carried on a surface of the prophylactic device and being compatible therewith.

Abstract: Systems, methods, apparatus and devices for performing improved gynecologic and urologic procedures are disclosed. The system and devices provide simplified use and reduced risk of adverse events. Patient benefit is achieved through improved outcomes, reduced pain, especially peri-procedural pain, and reduced recovery times. The various embodiments enable procedures to be performed outside the hospital setting, such as in a doctor's office or clinic.

Abstract: The present invention comprises systems, methods and devices for the delivery of visualizable or treatment compositions or therapeutic agents comprising device elements for diagnosis and/or treatment of conduits. A delivery system comprising an introducer shaft having at least one exit port sad at least one delivery catheter tor placement of compositions into the conduit, such as a fallopian tube.

Abstract: The present technology provides intravaginal devices designed to intravaginally deliver difficult to formulate water-soluble molecules and macromolecules for a sustained period of time. The devices include a chamber having at least one orifice and containing a sustained-release formulation. Such formulations include a water-swellable polymer and an intravaginally administrable substance. Methods of making and using the devices are also provided.

Abstract: Medical devices and related methods are disclosed for delivering an implant into the body of a patient. The devices include a damping assembly having an internal chamber with a varying inner diameter, and a piston slideably disposed therein. The piston is operably connected with a catheter portion such that movement of the piston is associated with concurrent movement of the catheter for implant delivery. The varying inner diameter of the damping assembly results in a decrease in damping force during implant delivery, thus providing a substantially constant velocity of implant delivery.

Abstract: This invention provides, inter alia, commensal organisms engineered to express antibody fragments, which inhibit sperm motility or fertilization and compositions comprising the same. The present invention provides for the use of the engineered commensal organisms or compositions comprising the same as effective contraceptive means in females.

Abstract: According to one claim of the invention, a method for occluding a fallopian tube in a vertebrate subject is described, which comprises comprising transcervically delivering a solid blocking material into the fallopian tube. In various embodiments, a fluid sealing material is delivered along with the solid blocking material. Other claims of the invention pertain to articles of manufacture, delivery devices and kits for use in occluding the fallopian tubes of a vertebrate subject.

Abstract: The various embodiments of the present inventions provide stabilization devices and methods for use of the stabilization devices with minimally invasive gynecological procedures such as methods of preventing pregnancy by inserting intrafallopian contraceptive devices into the fallopian tubes.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides improved packaged condoms that enable the use of a large quantity of a composition inside the condom. In addition, a sufficient quantity of certain spermicidal and/or microbicidal compositions is provided for efficient inactivation of sperm and pathogens. The present disclosure also provides condoms with reduced tendency to slip or break. Compositions associated with different surfaces of the condom can be effectively segregated to their intended condom surface according to the present disclosure.

Abstract: The invention described is directed to an intracorporeal occluding device having elements with non-traumatic ends and devices, systems and methods for occluding the lumens of anatomical passageways and/or for delivering drugs or other substances to the bodies of human or animal subjects.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a device adapted for occluding the ovarian pathway of a female body for sterilization purposes. The device delivers RF energy to wound tissue at a desired location within at least one fallopian tube and implants a porous foam plug adjacent to the wounded tissue at said location. Depending on the plug's pore sizes, vascularized tissue may grow into the plug to prevent or discourage the formation of scar tissue around the plug and/or a vascularized capsule may form around the plug, which limits the patient's foreign body response so that the capsule does not constrict around the plug.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of pharmaceutical formulation techniques. The invention provides a low dosage pharmaceutical composition for transdermal delivery of hormones, preferably a progestin, such as a Gestodene, and an estrogen, preferably Ethinylestradiol so as to achieve plasma concentration profiles effective in inhibiting ovulation in a woman.

Abstract: An intrauterine contraceptive device comprising a carrier body (1) and an active metallic alloy (4), characterized in that the active metallic alloy is of the formula ZnxCuyMnzAuk (I) or ZnxCuyMnzAgk (II), wherein x+y+z+k=100 weight %, x is in the range from approximately 18 to 30 weight %, z is in the range from approximately 0.5 to 3 weight %, and k is in the range from approximately 3 to 12 weight %, y being the balance.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to biodegradable intravaginal rings for the delivery of therapeutic or prophylactic agent, inter alia, antiviral agents. The present disclosure further relates to biodegradable polyurethanes which will allow therapeutic/prophylactic agents to be released in a controlled manner that will not degrade when in use, but will degrade upon disposal.

Abstract: Devices, such as medical devices for inhibiting conception, and methods of using and/or making these devices. In one aspect of the disclosure, a medical device has a delivery system and a first insert, which is removably coupled to the delivery system and which is designed to be deployed within a portion of a first fallopian tube, and a second insert, which is removably coupled to the delivery system and which is designed to be deployed within a portion of a second fallopian tube. Other aspects of the disclosure include, among other things, inserts made from one or more polymers; inserts which are designed to pierce and remain in place; and inserts which are implanted through a fluid delivery system.

Abstract: Devices, systems and methods for occluding the lumens of anatomical passageways and/or for delivering drugs or other substances to the bodies of human or animal subjects.

Abstract: A container for dispensing fluids, powders, medications, or aerosolized contents in pre-measured amounts at the moment of delivery. The container can be used to apply a condom or condom like device to the penis in the correct-way-on direction. A detachably-attached polymer or latex film, which serves as the vehicle of delivery, and which could be a condom is located at one end and is rolled over the outside of the package which may or may not have a leak proof layer. To dispense the condom on a penis or fit the film on any extremity, the extremity is inserted into the package and by virtue either of such insertion and/or by virtue of flexing the package to fracture an internal frangible membrane. The membrane may be attached to, or a part of a reservoir that is adhered to the inner walls of the package.

Abstract: A vaginal exercise device adapted to allow the user to perform vaginal muscle exercises, having an elastic hollow tube adapted to be inserted into a female user's vagina so that the user can exercise vaginal muscles by compressing part of the elastic hollow tube. The elastic hollow tube includes two internal chambers inside the hollow tube that are connected by at least one damping hole, such that the hollow tube is configured to offer resilient resistance to the user's vaginal compression when fluid in the tube is forced, by the user's vaginal compression, from a first one of the internal chambers, through the damping hole, into a second one of the internal chambers.

Abstract: A device and method of using the device for contraception or sterilization and particularly for reversible contraception by occluding a reproductive lumen to prevent the passage of reproductive cells through the lumen for a desired period of time until the patient wishes to become fertile again and then be reopened. The occluding member preferably comprises a tubular framework formed from a shape memory material configured to be implanted in a reproductive lumen. The occluding member is implanted within a body lumen, secured to the wall of the reproductive lumen and then collapsed to collapse the wall and occlude the lumen. Alternatively, the occluding member may be collapsed upon a solid plug. The closure of the reproductive lumen may be reversed by introducing a balloon catheter and by a series of inflations of the balloon reexpanding the collapsed occluding member or by removing the plug.

Abstract: Intra-vaginal devices and methods are disclosed for a broad range of applications in the women's health field. The devices and methods provide for placement in the cervical region, and for transferring heat to a cervical region, a barrier contraception method, collection of menstrual fluid, and release of drugs and/or hormones intra-vaginally. The device also can address multiple women's health issues.

Abstract: A female condom is provided that includes a pouch of resilient membranous material and a hydrophilic cling mechanism. According to an embodiment of the invention, the cling mechanism includes three or more foam cling elements attached to an outer surface of the pouch. Upon insertion, the foam cling elements cling lightly to vaginal walls proximate a transition zone between the vagina's introitus and its rugated internal tissue. The foam cling elements may be shaped to permit them to nestle into a user's rugated internal vaginal tissue. An inserter may be coupled to the pouch for facilitating insertion of the condom. The inserter may retain a distal portion of the pouch in a collapsed form. The cling mechanism may be contained within the dissolvable inserter. The inserter may be dissolvable in the presence of vaginal moisture. Methods are also provided for collapsing the pouch and compressing it into an insertion package.

Abstract: A transvaginal drug delivery system comprising: (a) a deposition comprising an effective amount of said drug and, optionally, a wetting agent; and (b) a polymeric support on which said deposition is deposited. Also disclosed is a catamenial tampon for insertion in a human vagina comprising: (a) an inner core comprising an absorbent material; (b) an outer layer comprising a liquid-permeable material; and (c) a delivery system according to the invention. A method of transvaginal drug delivery is also described.

Abstract: A vaginal discharge collection device is formed of an elastomeric rim and a flexible film reservoir. The rim may have a generally rectangular cross section and forms a collection space for collecting vaginal discharge. The reservoir may be collapsible so as to be substantially enclosed within the rim when the device is being used. Advantageously, the rim and the reservoir are arranged such that compressing diametrically opposed portions of the rim toward each other causes a leading portion of the rim to dip downwardly to facilitate insertion of the device. The device is ergonomically constructed so as to be convenient to use, comfortable to wear internally, and reliable. A system for reliably, comfortably and conveniently introducing agents, including drugs and other substances, into the vaginal canal is also disclosed.

Abstract: A biodegradable intra vaginal device for insertion into the vagina of an animal (eg; cattle) useful for herd oestrus synchrony purposes, the device is intra vaginally insertable, intra vaginally retainable and withdrawable by virtue of its ability to change its geometry yet is formed at least almost exclusively from a cyclodextrin and progesterone impregnated moulded matrix of a polyester polymer (eg; poly (&egr;-caprolactone)) or a starch-like polysaccharide polymer. There is preferably a loading of progesterone of from 0.1 to 3 gms. The surface area of the impregnated matrix is preferably from 15 to 200 cm2. Related methods and uses also form part of the invention.

Abstract: The present invention concerns an intrauterine device comprising a support 41, and constituents 42, 43 releasing an active ingredient. In accordance with the invention, the active ingredient is constituted by copper with a surface area of 100 to 250 mm2 and by a steroid from the progesterone family with a release rate in the range 10% to 70% of the minimum release rate employed for the steroid concerned when it is used as a contraceptive active ingredient. With the device of the invention, contraceptive efficacy is very high and side effects are substantially reduced.

Abstract: An cervical drug delivery apparatus having an absorbent cylindrical structure with a cervical cap attached to one end. One or more therapeutic agents are applied to the internal surface of the cervical cap. The cervical drug delivery apparatus is housed within an applicator and inserted into a patient's vagina. Upon deployment of the cervical drug delivery apparatus, the cervical cap is automatically positioned over the patient's cervix providing for the direct application of the therapeutic agents on the patient's cervix. Alternative features of the cervical drug delivery apparatus include, a break-away cylindrical structure, a collapsible support structure for the cervical cap, an inflatable means for supporting the cervical cap, and the ability of the cylindrical structure and/or the cervical cap to contain one or more therapeutic agents that can be delivered by outside means.

Abstract: A method of introducing continuous lengths of filament into the body in surgical procedures in which it is desirable to place a significant amount of material into the body through a small portal. The material so introduced may serve to bulk a tissue or cavity of the body or to occlude a vas, as well as to introduce diagnostic or therapeutic agents into a site in the body. A device for implementing the method has a mechanism for feeding the filament through a conduit in such a manner that sufficient force is applied to the filament that it is forced into the desired site. In one embodiment, a system of reciprocating cannulae and synchronized grippers is used to supply the requisite force to the filament.

Abstract: The invention provides intrafallopian devices and non-surgical methods for their placement to prevent conception. The efficacy of the device is enhanced by forming the structure at least in part from copper or a copper alloy. The device is anchored within the fallopian tube by imposing a secondary shape on a resilient structure, the secondary shape having a larger cross-section than the fallopian tube. The resilient structure is restrained in a straight configuration and transcervically inserted within the fallopian tube, where it is released. The resilient structure is then restrained by the walls of the fallopian tube, imposing anchoring forces as it tries to resume the secondary shape.

Abstract: Thermoset polymer controlled release devices are produced by an injection molding of two or more polymers in a mold to produce a core surrounded by a sheath. The polymers may be injected sequentially or simultaneously.

Abstract: An ovarian capsule includes a capsule body enclosing an interior for receiving an ovary and defining a selectively openable, selectively closeable access. The access, when open, forms a gap, space or opening in the ovarian capsule through which an ovary is introduced in the interior. When the access is closed, withdrawal of the ovary from the interior is prevented whereby the ovary is encapsulated by the ovarian capsule to prevent fertilization of ova released by the encapsulated ovary. A method of encapsulating an ovary in the body of a patient includes the steps of introducing an ovarian capsule in the abdominal cavity of the patient, opening the ovarian capsule to provide access to the interior thereof, positioning an ovary of the patient within the interior of the capsule and closing the ovarian capsule to encapsulate the ovary and prevent withdrawal of the ovary from the ovarian capsule.

Abstract: A chemical composition, method and product for administration into the vaginal canal. The composition, method and product are effective in preventing the spread of sexually transmitted diseases, including the spread of AIDS.

Abstract: A method of sterilizing objects as well as the sterilized objects obtained from the method are disclosed. The method involves contacting an object such as a medical device to be reused with polycationic dendrimer under conditions which result in rendering a conformationally altered protein (e.g. a prion) non-infectious. A disinfecting agent or surgical scrub composition which comprises the dendrimers is also disclosed as are gelatin capsules treated with polycationic dendrimers.

Abstract: There is provided spermicidal/antiviral compositions in the form of lotions, cremes, foams and gels that are non-irritating. The compositions contain an effective amount of 4,4′-methylenebis-(tetrahydro-1,2,4-thiadiazine)-1,1,1′,1′-tetraoxide as a spermicide/virucide.

Abstract: A device is provided for reliably, comfortably and conveniently introducing agents, including drugs and other substances, into the vaginal canal. A discharge collection device is also disclosed. The disclosed devices may be formed of an elastomeric rim and a flexible film. The rim may have a non-circular cross section. The film may be collapsible into a low profile insertion configuration. The devices may be disposable, and may be constructed so as to be convenient to use, comfortable to wear internally, and reliable. Preferably, the devices are formed of thermoplastic material that softens in response to body temperature to provide improved comfort and handling.