Abstract: A method for suppressing obstruction of meibomian gland in a mammalian subject, the method comprising administering to the mammalian subject an eye drop comprising 0.01 to 0.5% (w/v) of sirolimus or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof as a sole active ingredient, wherein the eye drop is administered to an eye of the mammalian subject 1 to 2 times per day.

Abstract: Methods and devices for eradicating biofilms and planktonic bacteria are provided. In on embodiment, a therapeutic delivery device comprised of at least a port and a antimicrobial releasing pouch and one or more therapeutic agents is provided to the mammal. In one aspect of at least one embodiment the releasing pouch has an internal reservoir comprised of a membrane that is configured to contain the one or more therapeutic agents that is to be administered to the mammal and the port is in fluid communication with the pouch and configured such that the pouch can be refilled with one or more therapeutic agents via the port. In other aspect of at least one embodiment the method is able to fully eradicate 109 colony forming units (CFU) of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) within a 24 hr period.

Abstract: The present invention provides a gastrointestinal tract positioning switch, a method of manufacturing the gastrointestinal tract positioning switch and a site-specific delivery capsule. The gastrointestinal tract positioning switch includes a base, a first electrode, a second electrode, a conductive device and a positioning film. The first electrode and the second electrode are spaced apart from each other and fixed on the base. The first electrode and the second electrode electrically connected to the conductive device respectively, and covered by the positioning film. Both the first electrode and the second electrode are an inert electrode, and can be exposed after dissolution or/and degradation of the positioning film in the stomach or intestine.

Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein relate to systems and methods for securing a drug delivery component to an intraocular lens (IOL) assembly. The systems generally include a support base and a plunger. The support base includes a first portion configured to accommodate a drug delivery component; and a second portion configured to act as a plunger guide. The plunger can be inserted into the plunger guide such that the plunger is positioned to interface with a drug delivery component and an IOL assembly during use. The plunger includes an elongated body and a tip, wherein the tip can include a ramp configured to interface with a fixation loop of a drug delivery component during use and a compartment configured to interface with a haptic of an IOL assembly during use.

Abstract: A new insight on the lubrication of artificial joint components is presented. Addition of small amounts of nanoscale diamond particles to an artificial joint promotes a substantial improvement in friction and wear behavior of the artificial joint surfaces. Artificial joint implants are made from a variety of materials ranging from metal alloys to polymers. Suitable methods of applying nanoscale diamond particles to an artificial joint include (i) coating an effective amount of nanoscale diamond particles onto the artificial joint prior to implants; (ii) applying a composition to the artificial joint during an artificial joint implanting surgery, wherein said composition comprises a biocompatible carrier fluid and an effective amount of nanoscale diamond particles dispersed in the biocompatible carrier fluid; (iii) injecting the composition for lubricating the artificial joint into the artificial joint.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the formation of gels. In particular, the present invention is directed to a method of forming a cross-linked polymer hydrogel using competitive ligand exchange.

Abstract: Non-invasive Ocular Drug Delivery Insert Technology. The invention concerns an ocular insert which is a new biocompatible polymer-based controlled drug delivery system (CDDS) applicable to a variety of drugs and other compounds for the treatment of different ocular pathologies. This ocular insert allows releasing of at least one drug under suitable concentration levels during suitable periods of time. The device may be inserted in the lower or upper fornix conjunctiva, in a non-invasive way, meaning that the patient will be able to place the device himself, without intervention of medical specialized staff. The insert of the invention will release the drug in such a controlled rate that will allow the drug release up to 300 days by either a “Fickian” or a linear profile according to the intend purpose or pathology.

Abstract: Disclosed are various bioactive grafts and methods of making the same. In one embodiment, bone material is harvested from a donor. The harvested bone material is exposed to a lysing agent, the lysing agent configured to release growth factors and bioactive materials from cellular material of the harvested bone material. The harvested bone material is then rinsed with a rinsing agent. The pH of the harvested bone material is substantially neutralized.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to formulations and methods for treatment of disease such as chemoprevention of cancer, for example oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), and for methods of preparing the formulations. Further, the disclosure relates to local administration in slow release dosage forms for treatment of disease. The extended-release formulations are comprised of biodegradable polymeric implants (for example millicylinders and microspheres as well as in situ forming gels) and therapeutic agents selected from an anti-interleukin 6 agent, a synthetic vitamin A analogue and/or metabolite, and/or an estradiol metabolite for the local delivery of therapeutic agents to a site where a cancer has been previously excised or to prevent progression of a precancerous lesion.

Abstract: An implant can include a plurality of polymeric fibers associated together into a fibrous body. The fibrous body is capable of being shaped to fit a tracheal defect and capable of being secured in place by suture or by bioadhesive. The fibrous body can have aligned fibers (e.g., circumferentially aligned) or unaligned fibers. The fibrous body can be electrospun. The fibrous body can have a first characteristic in a first gradient distribution across at least a portion of the fibrous body. The fibrous body can include one or more structural reinforcing members, such as ribbon structural reinforcing members, which can be embedded in the plurality of fibers. The fibrous body can include one or more structural reinforcing members bonded to the fibers with liquid polymer as an adhesive, the liquid polymer having a substantially similar composition of the fibers.

Abstract: Polymeric eye inserts are provided that may be dissolvable when placed in the cul-de-sac of the eye. These inserts may contain one or more mucoadhesive polymers polymers, a biodegradable polymer as well as softener/plasticizer so that, when inserted into the eye, they may absorb tears, and dissolve and slowly release lubricant into the tear film to lubricate and protect the ocular surface for an extended duration of time. The biodegradable polymer containing eye insert may increase dissolution time on the ocular surface for longer lasting relief, may reduce dosing frequency and patient burden typically associated with topical drop usage. These polymeric eye inserts also may include one or more pharmaceutically active agents.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to compositions and methods for treating ocular diseases with antibiotics. In particular, the disclosure relates to non-blurring, antibiotic-containing hydrogel compositions that have an extended contact time on the eye and do not interfere with wound healing.

Abstract: Provided herein are methods, compositions, and devices for occluding cavities or passageways in a patient, in particular cavities or passageways in the cardiovascular system of a patient, such as the LAA of a patient's heart. The methods, compositions, and devices can be used to percutaneously occlude the LAA, decreasing the risk of thromboembolic events associated with AF.

Abstract: An injectable formulation of therapeutic agent may comprise the therapeutic agent and a stabilizer such that a substantial portion of the stabilizer remains in the therapeutic device to stabilize the therapeutic agent when the therapeutic agent is released from the therapeutic device. The injectable formulation may comprise one or more of binding agent particles or erodible material particles, such that the formulation can be injected into the therapeutic device. The binding agent particles can bind reversibly to the therapeutic agent so as to modulate release of the therapeutic agent, and the erodible material particles can generate protons of an acid so as to increase stability of the therapeutic agent and may modulate release of the therapeutic agent. The therapeutic agent can be combined with one or more of the stabilizer, the binding agent particles or the erodible particles to increase stability of the therapeutic agent and may modulate release.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the formation of gels. In particular, the present invention is directed to a method of forming a cross-linked polymer hydrogel using competitive ligand exchange.

Abstract: Biocompatible intraocular implants include a prostamide component and a biodegradable polymer that is effective in facilitating release of the prostamide component into an eye for an extended period of time. The prostamide component may be associated with a biodegradable polymer matrix, such as a matrix of a two biodegradable polymers. The implants may be placed in an eye to treat or reduce a at least one symptom of an ocular condition, such as glaucoma.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides novel formulations for treating foot or hand pain by topically administering a sympathomimetic drug, particularly oxymetazoline, to the skin of the foot or hand.

Abstract: What is disclosed is a controlled release pharmaceutical composition comprising a biocompatible and bioerodible semi-solid gel comprising a triglyceride of ricinoleic acid, a gelling agent, bupivacaine and, optionally, a corticosteroid, an analgesic, or an anti-inflammatory agent.

Abstract: Biocompatible implants comprising a cyclic lipid therapeutic agent are made using a low temperature melt extrusion process. The implants are suitable for intraocular use to treat an ocular condition.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a drug delivery system comprising a core and a shell in which the core comprises a hydrolytically degradable polymer X which polymer backbone comprises pendant ester and acid functionalities and in which the shell comprises a hydrolytic degradable polymer Y. The hydrolytic degradable polymers X and Y are different polymers. Polymer X further comprises amino-acids in the polymer backbone and degrades via zero order degradation kinetics for a period of at least 3 months. Polymer Y degrades via auto-acceleration degradation kinetics.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for treating eye disorders by administering a drug delivery system into an eye compartment of the patient, wherein the drug delivery system contains a particle containing a core; a coating associated with the particle, wherein the coating is covalently or non-covalently associated with the particle and presents a hydrophilic region to the environment around the particle; and a therapeutic agent are disclosed. The eye compartment can exhibit reduced inflammation or IOP after administration of the drug delivery systems to a patient than if a drug delivery system including an uncoated particle were administered to the patient.

Abstract: Biocompatible intraocular implants include a prostamide component and a biodegradable polymer that is effective in facilitating release of the prostamide component into an eye for an extended period of time. The prostamide component may be associated with a biodegradable polymer matrix, such as a matrix of a two biodegradable polymers. The implants may be placed in an eye to treat or reduce at least one symptom of an ocular condition, such as glaucoma.

Abstract: Described herein are intracameral implants including at least one therapeutic agent for treatment of at least one ocular condition. The implants described herein are not anchored to the ocular tissue, but rather are held in place by currents and gravity present in the anterior chamber of an eye. The implants are preferably polymeric, biodegradable and provide sustained release of at least one therapeutic agent to both the trabecular meshwork and associated ocular tissue and the fluids within the anterior chamber of an eye.

Abstract: The use of methotrexate, e.g., repeated dosing or sustained-release formulations of methotrexate, for treating or reducing risk of proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) or epiretinal membranes (ERM), e.g., after surgical vitrectomy to treat retinal detachment.

Abstract: What is described is a semi-solid controlled release composition comprising a semi-solid lipid and bupivacaine in a solution or a homogenous suspension, methods of using the composition for treating a disease, and methods of manufacturing the composition.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides novel formulations for treating foot or hand pain by topically administering a sympathomimetic drug, particularly oxymetazoline, to the skin of the foot or hand.

Abstract: Ophthalmically therapeutic materials, such as liquid-containing compositions and polymeric drug delivery systems, include a therapeutic component that includes an Glucocorticoid Derivative which, upon delivery to the posterior segment of a mammalian eye, does not significantly diffuse to the anterior segment of said eye. Methods of making and using the present materials are also described.

Abstract: According to embodiments, a membrane with a flat or curved surface is provided for protection of intraocular tissues. The membrane can be used to cover the cornea for protecting corneal endothelial cells, to cover the anterior and posterior surface of the iris, or to cover the surface of the posterior capsule for separating the intraocular tissues. The membrane has a layered structure, which is composed of a collagen and a hydrophilic biopolymer or an organic polymer material. In particular, the membrane has high transparency and high water retention in a wet state.

Abstract: The use of methotrexate, e.g., repeated dosing or sustained-release formulations of methotrexate, for treating or reducing risk of proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) or epiretinal membranes (ERM), e.g., after surgical vitrectomy to treat retinal detachment.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for treating eye disorders by administering a drug delivery system into an eye compartment of the patient, wherein the drug delivery system contains a particle containing a core; a coating associated with the particle, wherein the coating is covalently or non-covalently associated with the particle and presents a hydrophilic region to the environment around the particle; and a therapeutic agent are disclosed. The eye compartment can exhibit reduced inflammation or IOP after administration of the drug delivery systems to a patient than if a drug delivery system including an uncoated particle were administered to the patient.

Abstract: The invention provides multi-chamber encapsulated cell therapy cartridge devices that are capable of delivering biologically active molecules as well as methods of using these devices.

Abstract: Biocompatible intraocular implants include a prostamide component and a biodegradable polymer that is effective in facilitating release of the prostamide component into an eye for an extended period of time. The prostamide component may be associated with a biodegradable polymer matrix, such as a matrix of a two biodegradable polymers. The implants may be placed in an eye to treat or reduce a at least one symptom of an ocular condition, such as glaucoma.

Abstract: A liquid composition in an osmotic drug delivery system and a dosage form in an osmotic drug delivery system is disclosed comprising an amphiphilic molecule, a non-aqueous liquid solvent, and a pharmaceutically active agent.

Abstract: Methods for reducing or preventing transplant rejection in the eye of an individual are described, comprising: a) performing an ocular transplant procedure; and b) implanting in the eye a bioerodible drug delivery system comprising an immunosuppressive agent and a bioerodible polymer.

Abstract: Prostamide-containing intraocular implants that biodegrade in the eye and that are effective for reducing intraocular pressure in an eye for a sustained period. The implants generally contain a prostamide, such as bimatoprost, and at least three distinct biodegradable polymers selected from polylactide and poly(lactide-co-glycolide) polymers and are optimized for placement in and compatibility with the anterior chamber of the eye, particularly the anterior chamber angle. Methods for making and using the implants to reduce ocular hypertension and intraocular pressure in a patient are described.

Abstract: A method for the producing a complex containing human or mammal's amniotic membrane/placental extract with or without collagen. Compositions containing the complexes and therapeutic methods using the complexes are provided. In addition, the invention relates to a method of controlling the absorption rates of amniotic membrane/extract and/or placental extract by combining any one of them with collagen having a desired degradation rate.

Abstract: The present embodiments provide for sustained release formulations of antioxidants that are useful in treating afflictions of the eye and tumors.

Abstract: A bimodal bioabsorbable polymer composition. The composition includes a first amount of a bioabsorbable polymer polymerized so as to have a first molecular weight distribution; a second amount of said bioabsorbable polymer polymerized so as to have a second molecular weight distribution having a weight average molecular weight between about 10,000 to about 50,000 Daltons, the weight average molecular weight ratio of said first molecular weight distribution to said second molecular weight distribution is at least about two to one; wherein a substantially homogeneous blend of said first and second amounts of said bioabsorbable polymer is formed in a ratio of between about 50/50 to about 95/5 weight/weight percent. Also disclosed are a medical device, a method of making a medical device and a method of melt blowing a semi-crystalline polymer blend.

Abstract: Biocompatible intraocular implants include a tyrosine kinase inhibitor and a biodegradable polymer that is effective to facilitate release of the tyrosine kinase inhibitor into the vitreous of an eye for an extended period of time. The therapeutic agents of the implants may be associated with a biodegradable polymer matrix, such as a matrix that is substantially free of a polyvinyl alcohol. The implants can be placed in an eye to treat or reduce the occurrence of one or more ocular conditions.

Abstract: A bimodal bioabsorbable polymer composition. The composition includes a first amount of a bioabsorbable polymer polymerized so as to have a first molecular weight distribution; a second amount of said bioabsorbable polymer polymerized so as to have a second molecular weight distribution having a weight average molecular weight between about 10,000 to about 50,000 Daltons, the weight average molecular weight ratio of said first molecular weight distribution to said second molecular weight distribution is at least about two to one; wherein a substantially homogeneous blend of said first and second amounts of said bioabsorbable polymer is formed in a ratio of between about 50/50 to about 95/5 weight/weight percent. Also disclosed are a medical device, a method of making a medical device and a method of melt blowing a semi-crystalline polymer blend.

Abstract: Intraocular implants may include a corticosteroid and a biodegradable polymer associated with the corticosteroid to facilitate the release of the corticosteroid into an eye for a period of time. In some embodiments, ocular conditions, such as diabetic macular edema can be treated through administration of an intraocular implant including a corticosteroid and a biodegradable polymer associated with the corticosteroid to the eye of a human at a frequency of about once every six months to about once a year.

Abstract: Prostamide-containing intraocular implants that biodegrade in the eye and that are effective for reducing intraocular pressure in an eye for a sustained period. The implants generally contain a prostamide, such as bimatoprost, and at least three distinct biodegradable polymers selected from polylactide and poly(lactide-co-glycolide) polymers and are optimized for placement in and compatibility with the anterior chamber of the eye, particularly the anterior chamber angle. Methods for making and using the implants to reduce ocular hypertension and intraocular pressure in a patient are described.

Abstract: The present invention provides a sustained release implant for intraocular use to treat elevated intraocular pressure, which implant is configured for intracameral or anterior vitreal administration to a patient with elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), said implant comprising a core of an antihypertensive agent surrounded by a polymer, which limits the rate of passage of the antihypertensive agent from the implant into the eye of said patient and said implant provides a linear rate of release of therapeutically effective amounts of said anti-hypertensive agent into the eye for a period of time of between 14 days and 365 days.

Abstract: Biodegradable implants sized and suitable for implantation in an ocular region or site and methods for treating ocular conditions. The implants provide an extended release of an active agent at a therapeutically effective amount for a period of time between 10 days and one year or longer.

Abstract: Biocompatible intraocular implants include a steroid and a polymer associated with each other to facilitate release of the steroid into an eye for a period of time greater than about two months. The steroid may be associated with a biodegradable polymer matrix, such as a matrix of a two biodegradable polymers. Or, the steroid may be associated with a polymeric coating having one or more openings effective to permit the steroid to be released into an external environment. The implants may be placed in an eye to treat one or more ocular conditions. The steroid is released from the implant for more than about two months, and may be release for more than several years.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for treating eye disorders by administering a drug delivery system into an eye compartment of the patient, wherein the drug delivery system contains a particle containing a core; a coating associated with the particle, wherein the coating is covalently or non-covalently associated with the particle and presents a hydrophilic region to the environment around the particle; and a therapeutic agent are disclosed. The eye compartment can exhibit reduced inflammation or IOP after administration of the drug delivery systems to a patient than if a drug delivery system including an uncoated particle were administered to the patient.

Abstract: Provided are methods of delivering at least one pharmaceutical agent to the central nervous system (CNS) of a subject, methods of treating a neurological disorder or pain in a subject that include administering at least one pharmaceutical agent onto a SEM graft in the skull base of the subject. Also provided are methods of treating a neurological disorder or pain in a subject that include forming a SEM graft in the skull base of the subject and administering at least one pharmaceutical agent onto the SEM graft in the skull base of the subject. Also provided are methods of forming a SEM graft in the skull base of a subject, compositions for administration onto a SEM graft in the skull base or into an endonasal reservoir or endonasal reservoir device in a subject, and devices for administering such compositions onto a SEM graft in the skull base of a subject.

Abstract: Described herein are liquid formulations which deliver a variety of therapeutic agents, including but not limited to rapamycin, to a subject for an extended period of time; liquid formulations which form a non-dispersed mass when placed in an aqueous medium of a subject; liquid formulations, comprising a therapeutic agent and a plurality of polymers; and methods for delivering therapeutic agents to a subject for an extended period of time using the liquid formulations. The liquid formulation may be placed in an aqueous medium of a subject, including but not limited to via intraocular or periocular administration. A method may be used to administer rapamycin to treat or prevent angiogenesis, choroidal neovascularization, or age-related macular degeneration in a subject.

Abstract: Methods for treating and preventing retinopathic conditions by administering an anti-VEGF compound to the vitreous chamber of a patient at risk of, or suffering from, the retinopathy.

Abstract: Biocompatible intraocular implants include a prostamide component and a biodegradable polymer that is effective in facilitating release of the prostamide component into an eye for an extended period of time. The prostamide component may be associated with a biodegradable polymer matrix, such as a matrix of a two biodegradable polymers. The implants may be placed in an eye to treat or reduce a at least one symptom of an ocular condition, such as glaucoma.