Abstract: Absorbent articles containing an additive are disclosed. The absorbent articles include an effective amount of an inhibitory compound, such as thiolactomycin or thiomalonate, to substantially inhibit the production of TSST-1 by Gram positive bacteria.

Abstract: A tampon adapted to deliver a therapeutic agent, the tampon including a tampon body that is manufactured at a first manufacturing facility; and a dosage form coupled to the body, wherein the dosage form includes a formulation including a therapeutic agent, and wherein the dosage form is manufactured at a second manufacturing facility. Also, a method for producing a medicated tampon including manufacturing a tampon body at a first manufacturing facility; manufacturing a dosage form at a second manufacturing facility, wherein the dosage form includes a formulation including a therapeutic agent; and coupling the dosage form to the tampon body.

Abstract: A tampon adapted to deliver a therapeutic agent, the tampon including a tampon body having a distal end; and a dosage form affixed to the distal end of the tampon body, wherein the dosage form includes a formulation including a therapeutic agent, and wherein the dosage form comprises a plurality of layers. Also, a method for manufacturing a medicated tampon adapted to deliver a therapeutic agent, the method including manufacturing a tampon body having a distal end; producing a dosage form having a plurality of layers, wherein the dosage form includes a formulation including a therapeutic agent; and affixing the dosage form to the distal end of the tampon body.

Abstract: Non-absorbent articles, such as tampon applicators, containing an additive are disclosed. The non-absorbent articles include an effective amount of an inhibitory compound, such as thiolactomycin or thiomalonate, for example, to substantially inhibit the production of TSST-1 or exoprotein by Gram positive bacteria.

Abstract: The present invention discloses novel isolated strains of lactic acid producing bacteria of the genera Lactobacillus and Pediococcus, and a method for isolation of such bacterial strains, having the ability to colonise and become established in a human vagina, even during menstrual discharge. Furthermore, a composition comprising the bacterial strains and a sanitary article comprising the bacterial strains, such as a tampon, for prophylaxis and/or treatment of infections of the urogenital tract, are described. The present invention also describes a method for prophylaxis and/or treatment of infections of the urogenital tract, wherein at least one of the bacterial strains is administered vaginally.

Abstract: A vaginal drug delivery system includes a device formed of porous material that holds a flowable therapeutic formulation. The device, preferably in a soft, prewetted state, is inserted into the vagina to reside typically at or near the cervix where it continuously releases the flowable therapeutic formulation through its outer surface which is in contact with the vaginal surfaces. In operation, the flowable therapeutic formulation migrates via capillary forces from a reservoir that is centrally located in the device and through a covering that envelopes the reservoir.

Abstract: Processes for preparing products comprising an oxygen-generating additive for reducing the amount of skin irritation and inflamation and odor are disclosed. Specifically, products such as training pants and diapers are disclosed which contain a carbohydrate-hydrogen peroxide crystalline powder which, when wetted, produces a stream of oxygen which can be used by various bacteria on and near the wearer's skin during metabolism resulting in a significant decrease in the amount of volatile organic compounds produced by the bacteria during metabolism.

Abstract: Effective amounts of the inhibitory compounds described herein capable of significantly reducing the production of TSST-1 are as follows: (1) compounds of Structure (I): from about 0.0001 micromoles/gram absorbent product to about 0.08 micromoles/gram absorbent product, desirably from about 0.0005 micromoles/gram of absorbent product to about 0.05 micromoles/gram of absorbent product; and (2) compounds of Structures (II) and (III): from about 0.05 micromoles/gram of absorbent product to 5 micromoles/gram of absorbent product, desirably from about 0.1 micromoles/gram of absorbent product to about 1 micromole/gram of absorbent product. Specifically, effective amounts of hexachlorophene include from about 0.00024 micromoles/gram of absorbent product to about 0.08 micromoles/gram of absorbent product, desirably from about 0.001 micromoles/gram of absorbent product to about 0.05 micromoles/gram of absorbent product. Specifically, effective amounts of triclosan include from about 0.

Abstract: This invention provides to a novel pharmaceutical preparation for the treatment of gynecological diseases. The pharmaceutical preparation according to the invention comprises a therapeutic drug for the intrauterine, intravaginal or intrapelvic administration, or for the administration into the ovarian endometrioma, and a biodegradable polymer comprising a chemically modified hyaluronic acid or a salt thereof prepared by O-acylating, alkoxylating or crosslinking a complex of hyaluronic acid or a salt thereof and a cationic compound in a nonaqueous solvent. The preparation of the invention is preferably administered intrauterine, intravaginal, intrapelvic, and intratumor cavity.

Abstract: Devices, methods, and compositions for cancer therapy by administration of chemotherapeutic agents and/or inhibitors of membrane efflux systems to the vagina for topical and systemic tumor targets.

Abstract: The present invention discloses compositions derived from an isolated Bacillus species, spores, or an extracellular product of Bacillus coagulans comprising a supernatant or filtrate of a culture of said Bacillus coagulans strain, suitable for topical application to the skin or mucosal membranes of a mammal, which are utilized to inhibit the growth of bacterium, yeast, fungi, virus, and combinations thereof. The present invention also discloses methods of treatment and therapeutic systems for inhibiting the growth of bacterium, yeast, fungi, virus, and combinations thereof, by topical application of therapeutic compositions which are comprised, in part, of isolated Bacillus species, spores, or an extracellular product of Bacillus coagulans comprising a supernatant or filtrate of a culture of said Bacillus coagulans strain.

Abstract: Devices, methods, and improved formulation for transmucosal vaginal delivery of bisphosphonates. A targeted site delivery of bisphosphonates to the systemic circulation using a vaginal device comprising an improved bisphosphonate formulation for transmucosal delivery. A method for treatment of osteoporosis and related bone and skeleton diseases, for prevention of bone breakdown and loss of bone mass and strength by intravaginal administration of bisphosphonates to the vagina and transmucosal delivery of bisphosphonates to the general circulation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a novel essentially pH neutral vaginal drug delivery system suitable for modified delivery of a therapeutically active material in the vaginal cavity. The vaginal drug delivery system comprises an essentially pH neutral emulsion having globules having two phases, an internal water soluble phase and an external water-insoluble phase or film, wherein the water-soluble interior phase contains a therapeutically active drug or drugs. One novel aspect of the vaginal drug delivery system is that the internal water soluble phase comprises an acidic buffered phase.

Abstract: Products comprising an oxygen-generating additive for reducing the amount of skin irritation and inflamation and odor are disclosed. Specifically, products such as training pants and diapers are disclosed which contain a carbohydrate-hydrogen peroxide crystalline powder which, when wetted, produces a stream of oxygen which can be used by various bacteria on and near the wearer's skin during metabolism resulting in a significant decrease in the amount of volatile organic compounds produced by the bacteria during metabolism.

Abstract: A novel strain of Lactobacillus plantarum, referred to as LB931, has now been isolated. The strain has been deposited at Deutsche Sammlung von Mikroorganismen, Braunschweig, DE. It has been assigned accession number DSM11918. Accordingly LB931 can be used for treating and/or preventing urogenital infections. LB931 can advantageously be included in pharmaceutical compositions and in products for personal care, such as feminine hygiene products, diapers and sanitary napkins.

Abstract: There is provided a fibrous absorbent article for absorbing body fluids. The article includes a fibrous material suitable for absorbing the body fluids, and a molecular sieve disposed within the fibrous material to reduce odors from the body fluids. The molecular sieve is a natural zeolite of the clinoptilolite or chabasite species having an exchangeable cation.

Abstract: Non-absorbent substrates for use in inhibiting the production of exoproteins from Gram positive bacteria, such as harmful proteins produced by Staphylococcus species, are provided. The substrates are particularly useful for inhibiting the production of TSST-1, alpha-toxin and/or enterotoxins A, B and C from S. aureus bacteria. The substrates include an alkyl polyglycoside incorporated in or on at least a portion of the substrate. The alkyl polyglycoside typically has an HLB of about 10 to 15 and/or an average number of carbon atoms in the alkyl chain of about 8 to about 12.

Abstract: A method of inhibiting the production of exoproteins from Gram positive bacteria, such as harmful proteins produced by Staphylococcus species, is described. The method is particularly useful for inhibiting the production of TSST-1, alpha-toxin and/or enterotoxins A, B and C from S. aureus bacteria. The method may be based on exposing Gram positive bacteria to alkyl polyglycoside incorporated into an absorbent product. Alternatively, the methods can include causing Gram positive bacteria to come into contact with the alkyl polyglycoside in other forms, e.g., when formulated with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or incorporated in or on a non-absorbent substrate. Typically, the alkyl polyglycoside has an HLB of at least about 10 and an alkyl group with an average of 8 to 14 carbon atoms.

Abstract: The present invention discloses compositions derived from an isolated Bacillus species, spores, or an extracellular product of Bacillus coagulans comprising a supernatant or filtrate of a culture of said Bacillus coagulans strain, suitable for topical application to the skin or mucosal membranes of a mammal, which are utilized to inhibit the growth of bacterium, yeast, fungi, virus, and combinations thereof. The present invention also discloses methods of treatment and therapeutic systems for inhibiting the growth of bacterium, yeast, fungi, virus, and combinations thereof, by topical application of therapeutic compositions which are comprised, in part, of isolated Bacillus species, spores, or an extracellular product of Bacillus coagulans comprising a supernatant or filtrate of a culture of said Bacillus coagulans strain.

Abstract: An intravaginal bio-erodible microbicidal barrier device. The device comprises (a) at least one micronized compound selected from the group consisting of cellulose acetate phthalate and hydroxypropylmethylcellulose phthalate, and (b) at least one pectin, such as an apple pectin, and optionally at least one water soluble or water dispersible cellulose compound selected from the group consisting of hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, methylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxyethylmethylcellulose, hydroxyethylethylcellulose and hydroxypropylethylcellulose. The device is prepared by a combination of foaming, freezing and freeze-drying processes.

Abstract: An intravaginal bio-erodible microbicidal barrier device. The device comprises (a) at least one micronized compound selected from the group consisting of cellulose acetate phthalate and hydroxypropylmethylcellulose phthalate, and (b) at least one water soluble or water dispersible cellulose compound selected from the group consisting of hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, methylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxyethylmethylcellulose, hydroxyethylethylcellulose and hydroxypropylethylcellulose. The device is prepared by a combination of foaming, freezing and freeze-drying processes.

Abstract: Devices, methods, and compositions for vaginal delivery of bisphosphonates. A targeted site delivery of bisphosphonates to the vagina using a medicated intravaginal device comprising a bisphosphonate composition formulated for transvaginal delivery. A method for treatment of osteoporosis and related bone and skeleton diseases, for prevention of bone breakdown and loss of bone mass and strength by intravaginal administration of bisphosphonates to the vagina and transvaginal delivery of bisphosphonates to the general circulation.

Abstract: An absorbent article, particularly a tampon having additives that reduce toxic shock syndrome toxin (TST-1) production is disclosed. The tampon has a combination of an effective amount of at least one oxygen inhibiting agent and an effective amount of at least one surface active agent applied to: the surface of the absorbent tampon material; the surfaces of the fibers comprising the tampon; to the tampon applicator; or any combination of the foregoing. The effective amounts of the oxygen inhibiting agent and the surface active agent are sufficient to reduce the toxin production at lease about 50%, but do not negatively affect the wearer's normal vaginal flora.

Abstract: The proliferation of uterine fibroid leiomyoma cells is inhibited by certain Fibroid Cell Growth Inhibitor (FGI) agents. The pharmacological doses of these FGI agents in the milieu of uterine fibroid cells can be made high enough to not only inhibit proliferation, but to also causes cell death. Non-invasive or minimally invasive, non-systemic delivery methods are used to deliver the FGI agent to the milieu of the target fibroid leiomyoma cell population, thereby avoiding the disadvantages and side effects of surgical and systemic hormonal therapy interventions in the treatment of uterine fibroids. The FGI agents are substrates that are normally present or are well tolerated in the human body. The efficacy of the FGI agents appears to be related to their ability to moderate the Protein Kinase C and Mitogen Activated Protein Kinase pathways. Specific FGI agents shown to be useful to inhibit growth or proliferation of uterine fibroid cells include: &agr;-tocopherol, &agr;-tocopherol succinate, and troglitazone.

Abstract: The present invention provides antiviral proteins, peptides and conjugates, as well as methods of obtaining these agents. The antiviral proteins, peptides and conjugates of the present invention can be used alone or in combination with other antiviral agents in compositions, such as pharmaceutical compositions, to inhibit the infectivity, replication and cytopathic effects of a virus, such as a retrovirus, in particular a human immunodeficiency virus, specifically HIV-1 or HIV-2, in the treatment or prevention of viral infection.

Abstract: Devices, methods, and compositions for treating vaginal fungal, bacterial, viral and parasitic infections by intravaginal or transvaginal administration of therapeutic and/or palliative antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral or parasiticidal drugs to the vagina or to the uterus.

Abstract: Anti-microbic copolymers and derivatives thereof are used in methods for controlling odor in hygienic articles. The copolymers comprise at least two different ethylenically unsaturated monomers.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a low temperature process for adding pharmaceutically active compounds to substrates. The substrates are preferably those used in the manufacture of disposable absorbent articles, or are the articles themselves. The pharmaceutically active compound is selected from the group consisting of: monoesters of a polyhydric aliphatic alcohol and a fatty acid containing from eight to eighteen carbon atoms and wherein said monoester has at least one hydroxyl group associated with its aliphatic alcohol residue; diesters of a polyhydric aliphatic alcohol and a fatty acid containing from eight to eighteen carbon atoms and wherein said diester has at least one hydroxyl group associated with its aliphatic alcohol residue; and mixtures of said monoesters and diesters.

Abstract: The first aspect of the invention relates to a method of inducing changes in the cervical mucus of a person to achieve a contraceptive effect, and wherein the method involves administering to the person an effective amount of ebrotidine sufficient to achieve a contraceptive effect. The second aspect of the invention involves a method for treating atrophic vaginitis urinary incontinence and their associated signs and symptoms, in a person, the method involves administering to the person an effective mount of an agent sufficient to treatment of atrophic vaginitis, the agent being selected from a group consisting of stimulants or antagonists, purinergic receptors, a sodium ion update agents and an anion secretion inhibitors.

Abstract: The invention relates to disposable absorbent articles containing an additive to control odors associated with bodily fluids. The invention is particularly useful in articles used to manage urine and menstrual fluids. The single additive provides both a pleasant aroma and antimicrobial activity.

Abstract: A method of delivering one or more therapeutic agents comprising providing a suppository comprising one or more therapeutic agents and a biocompatible carrier medium and shaped to be capable of cooperating with the periurethral musculature to retain the suppository in place in the urethra, inserting the suppository into the urethra, and retaining the suppository within the urethra by the action of the periurethral musculature for a period of time sufficient to permit the therapeutic agent to diffuse substantially into the urethra, the referred suppository comprising a shaft having a first end and a second end and shaped to be capable of cooperating with the action of the periurethral musculature to retain the suppository within the urethra and a substantially ellipsoidal knob extending from the second end of the shaft and sized to prevent insertion into the urethra.

Abstract: A tampon, particularly for feminine hygiene, includes an absorbent body and a variably perforated or apertured cover. The absorbent body has an introduction end, a withdrawal end, and a longitudinal main portion therebetween. The cover includes a fluid-impervious plastic material in the form of a resilient three-dimensional web having a multiplicity of perforations. The perforations are varied over the length of the tampon so that a differentiated expansion of the tampon while absorbing fluid is achievable. Preferably, the degree of perforations of the cover increases towards the withdrawal end of the tampon at least over a portion of its length.

Abstract: A novel and useful apparatus for delivering an anesthetic locally to the cervical region of a female is provided, wherein the apparatus comprises a ring having a surface and at least one depression on the surface. An anesthetic composition comprising an anesthetic agent and an excipient are placed within the at least one depression. The ring is comprised of a pharmaceutically acceptable inert material that is biocompatible. Furthermore, the ring is of sufficient size such that it can be inserted into the vaginal canal of a female. In the vaginal canal, the anesthetic agent is immediately released from the anesthetic composition and directly anesthetizes the cervical region.

Abstract: A tampon constructed of a foamed plastic polyvinyl acetal material with an outer skin and a less dense inner central portion having a greater large pore and common pore density. The polyvinyl acetal material is impregnated with glycerine in a range of 2% to 20% concentration in a water carrier to present a soft compliant tampon.

Abstract: The invention provides a pharmaceutical composition for rectal or vaginal administration which comprises at least two parts wherein the composition comprises (i) two or more physiologically acceptable substances each in separate parts of the composition which are such that on admixture they react to produce a physiologically acceptable gas; (ii) in at least one part of the composition a polymer stabiliser which is adapted to facilitate the formation of a water-soluble collapsible foam structure; and (iii) in at least one part of the composition a pharmaceutically active substance; an its use in the treatment or prophylaxis of disorders of the intestines, rectum or vagina.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a composition for dermatological infections by the use of a lytic enzyme in a carrier suitable for topical application to dermal tissues. The method for the treatment of dermatological infections comprises administering a composition comprising effective amount of a therapeutic agent, with the therapeutic agent comprising a lytic enzyme produced by infecting a bacteria with phage specific for that bacteria.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for the prophylactic and therapeutic treatment of bacterial infections are disclosed which comprise administering to an individual an effective amount of a composition comprising an effective amount of lytic enzyme and a carrier for delivering the lytic enzyme. This method and composition can be used for the treatment of upper respiratory infections, skin infections, wounds, burns, vaginal infections, eye infections, intestinal disorders and dental problems.

Abstract: Nasal, sinus and otic packings exhibiting a less adherent surface when in contact with tissue and being less traumatic on removal are prepared. In a first embodiment, polyvinyl acetal foamed packing material undergoes a surface modification imparting a non-adherent hydrogel coated surface. The surface modification is accomplished after final processing and fabrication of the packing product shape. The packing material is subjected to either an atomized spray of an aqueous solution of ethyl alcohol or a polyvinyl acetate/polyvinyl alcohol copolymer. In another embodiment, a foamed polyvinyl acetal material is produced by crosslinking polyvinyl alcohol with an organic compound containing two hydroxyl reactive groups in the presence of an inert gas. An aqueous solution containing polyvinylpyrrolidone is mixed into the reaction during crosslinking.

Abstract: Methods, devices, and compositions for treatment of dysmenorrhea comprise an intravaginal drug delivery system containing an appropriate pharmaceutical agent incorporated into a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier whereby the pharmaceutical agent is released into the vagina and absorbed through the vaginal mucosa to provide relief of dysmenorrhea. The drug delivery system can be a tampon device, vaginal ring, pessary, tablet, suppository, vaginal sponge, bioadhesive tablet, bioadhesive microparticle, cream, lotion, foam, ointment, paste, solution or gel. The system delivers a higher concentration to the muscle of the uterus, the primary site for the dyskinetic muscle contraction, which is the pathophysiologic cause of dysmenorrhea.

Abstract: An article for packing body cavities comprises a protective sheath of supple, smooth, polymeric film, containing an absorbent sponge or like tampon component. The sheath facilitates insertion and removal of the article by minimizing tissue attachment, adherence, abrasion, and desiccation of the tampon.

Abstract: A delivery system is disclosed for delivering a beneficial agent to an animal. The delivery system comprises a wall that surrounds a lumen, said wall comprising a composition that limits the passage of fluid into the system and a composition that permits the passage of fluid into the system. The lumen comprises a beneficial agent and an expandable member. The delivery system comprises an exit means for delivering the beneficial agent.

Abstract: A method for decreasing the frequency of transmission of human immunodeficiency virus or herpesviruses or for preventing the transmission of or treating a sexually transmitted bacterial infection by administering to a human an anti-human immunodeficiency virus amount or an anti-herpesvirus amount or an anti-bacterial amount of cellulose acetate phthalate (CAP) or hydroxypropyl methylcellulose phthalate (HPMCP), such as in micronized form, or a combination thereof, either alone or in combination with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or diluent. The CAP and/or HPMCP may be employed as a suspension of micronized particles and may further contain a water miscible, non-solvent for CAP or HPMCP, such as glycerol.

Abstract: An intravaginal drug delivery device comprising at least one active agent dispersed in a polymer matrix, wherein the concentration of active agent at the outer surface of the device at the time of use is not substantially higher than the concentration of the active agent in the remainder of the device, a method of treatment therewith and a process for its preparation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a low temperature process for adding pharmaceutically active compounds to substrates. The substrates are preferably those used in the manufacture of disposable absorbent articles, or are the articles themselves. The pharmaceutically active compound is selected from the group consisting of: monoesters of a polyhydric aliphatic alcohol and a fatty acid containing from eight to eighteen carbon atoms and wherein said monoester has at least one hydroxyl group associated with its aliphatic alcohol residue; diesters of a polyhydric aliphatic alcohol and a fatty acid containing from eight to eighteen carbon atoms and wherein said diester has at least one hydroxyl group associated with its aliphatic alcohol residue; and mixtures of said monoesters and diesters.

Abstract: Methods, devices, and compositions for treatment of dysmenorrhea comprise an intravaginal drug delivery system containing an appropriate pharmaceutical agent incorporated into a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier whereby the pharmaceutical agent is released into the vagina and absorbed through the vaginal mucosa to provide relief of dysmenorrhea. The drug delivery system can be a tampon device, vaginal ring, pessary, tablet, suppository, vaginal medicated tampon, vaginal sponge, bioadhesive tablet, bioadhesive microparticle, cream, lotion, foam, ointment, paste, solution or gel. The system delivers a higher concentration to the muscle of the uterus, the primary site for the dyskinetic muscle contraction, which is the pathophysiologic cause of dysmenorrhea.

Abstract: The present invention describes a polyoxaester copolymers containing amines and/or amido groups and blends thereof with other polymers that may be used to produce surgical devices such as sutures, sutures with attached needles, molded devices, and the like. The polyoxaesters copolymer of the present invention is formed from a first divalent repeating unit of formula IA:[--C(O)--R.sub.30 --C(O)--] IAa second divalent repeating unit of the formula IB:[O--C(O)--C(R.sub.1)(R.sub.2)--O--(R.sub.3)--O--C(R.sub.1)(R.sub.2)--C(O)-- ]Iand a third repeating unit of the formula:[--O--R.sub.12 --].sub.U, XVIand optionally a fourth repeating unit with a formula selected from the group consisting of:[--O--R.sub.4 --].sub.A, II[--O--R.sub.5 --C(O)--].sub.B, III([--O--R.sub.5 --C(O)].sub.P --O--).sub.L G XIand combinations thereof wherein R.sub.12 contains an internal amine or internal amide group.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of one or more oxidoreductases in combination with a mediator for the reduction of malodor. Malodor reducing compositions and products comprising such composition are also claimed.

Abstract: A method for decreasing the frequency of transmission of human immunodeficiency virus or herpesviruses by administering to a human an anti-human immunodeficiency virus amount or an anti-herpesvirus amount of cellulose acetate phthalate (CAP) or hydroxypropyl methylcellulose phthalate (HPMCP), such as in micronized form, or a combination thereof, either alone or in combination with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or diluent. The CAP and/or HPMCP may be employed as a suspension of micronized particles and may further contain a water miscible, non-solvent for CAP or HPMCP, such as glycerol.

Abstract: A method for producing an improved antimicrobial material thereby producing a soft, dry, iodine/acetalized polyvinyl alcohol complex sponge material having a pleasing yellow-gold coloration which self-indicates activation of the antimicrobial elements in the complex.

Abstract: There is disclosed a composition and method for reducing or alleviating the discomforting symptoms associate with menstruation, particularly menstrual pain. The composition is administered by topical or local administration to the uterus or vaginal tissues of a women in need thereof, and contains an omega fatty acid in combination with a cyclo-oxygenase inhibitor. Preferred omega fatty acids include docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid, and preferred cyclo-oxygenase inhibitors include, ibuprophen, acetylsalicylic acid and salicylic acid. The composition may further include pharmaceutically acceptable carriers or diluents, and may be locally applied via intracervical or intrauterine application, or may be topically applied to the skin of the lower abdomen.