Abstract: A chronotherapeutic pharmaceutical formulation comprising a core containing an active agent (e.g., a drug) and a surfactant and a delayed release compression coating comprising a natural or synthetic gum applied onto the surface of the core.

Abstract: Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) can be treated by the administration of ?5-androstene-3?-ol-7,17 dione and metabolizable precursors thereof.

Abstract: The present invention provides for methods of treating cancer comprising administering a topical active corticosteroid in conjunction with a form of non-myeloablative conditioning, wherein the above regimen results in a reduction or elimination of cancer cells in an individual.

Abstract: To provide a kit for cancer treatment and a pharmaceutical composition for cancer treatment that can inhibit the growth of tumors and cancers in mammals more than ever. The kit for cancer treatment includes a combination of two different drugs in a kit formulation. The first drug contains a synthetic retinoid or a pharmaceutically acceptable organic or inorganic acid addition salt thereof, and the second drug contains a chemotherapeutic agent for cancer treatment. A synthetic retinoid that can be suitably used is a benzoic acid derivative represented by the following formula (I): or a pharmaceutically acceptable organic or inorganic acid addition salt thereof.

Abstract: Disclosed is a novel class of steroid compounds based on estradiol, and carrying an 11?-substitution. Said substitution is a hydrocarbon group which may be linear or branched, provided that it comprises, as the longest chain on carbon atom no. 11 of the steroid skeleton, one single linear chain having a length of from 5 to 9 carbon atoms, wherein said chain may be saturated or unsaturated. The resulting compounds have a desirable mixed agonist/antagonist profile for estrogen receptor ? and estrogen receptor ?.

Abstract: The present invention relates to novel uses of a steroid compound, which specifically binds to the androgen receptor (AR) but which is not metabolized by aromatase to a process for their preparation, to pharmaceutical compositions containing them, and to the use of said compounds for the prophylaxis and/or treatment of hormone-dependent or hormone receptor regulated cancers in mammals.

Abstract: The present invention relates to formulations of concentrated azalide antibiotics and methods for making and using them. Specifically, the invention relates to a method of treating an infection comprising administering to a patient in need thereof, an effective amount of a concentrated aqueous azalide antibiotic formulation made according to the method comprising dissolving an azalide antibiotic in an aqueous solution comprising a strong acid. The invention also relates to methods for making concentrated aqueous azalide antibiotic formulations for use in pulmonary infection, a nasopharyngeal infection, an otic infection, an ocular infection, a dermal or a vaginal infection. The invention also relates to concentrated aqueous azalide antibiotic formulations made by dissolving an azalide antibiotic in an aqueous solution comprising a strong acid.

Abstract: A topical composition for treatment of contact dermatitis comprising a corticosteroid, one or more drying agents, such as zinc oxide and talc, an alcohol solvent, a humectant and a viscosity agent, such as bentonite. The humectant may be glycerin, and the carrier is water.

Abstract: Therapeutic compositions and methods for treatment of late-onset Gaucher disease are described herein. The compositions comprise compounds having activity as pharmacological chaperones for mutant forms of the beta-glucocerebrosidase. Methods of treatment involve providing therapeutically effective amounts of such compositions to subjects in need thereof.

Abstract: The present invention relates to glucocorticoid-containing pharmaceutical compositions or kits for use in acute emergency situations where acute glucocorticoid therapy is required. Notably, the invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions and kits that are designed to be administered by non-medically trained persons outside a hospital or another medical or clinical setting.

Abstract: The present invention is related to novel 21-hydroxy-6,19-oxidoprogesterone (21OH-6OP) analogues, their use as antiglucocorticoids for the treatment and/or prophylaxis of disease associated to an excess of glucocorticoids. In particular, the invention relates to the use of novel 21-hydroxy-6,19-oxidoprogesterone (21OH-6OP) analogues for treating Cushing's syndrome, iatrogenic hypercortisolism or depression. Also the present invention is related to methods of preparing the novel 21-hydroxy-6,19-oxidoprogesterone (21OH-6OP) analogues.

Abstract: Physically stable pharmaceutical/cosmetic compositions contain at least one hydrophilic phase, at least one lipophilic phase and at least one active principle, e.g., at least one steroidal anti-inflammatory agent, anti-fungal agent, anti-parasitic agent, nuclear receptor modulator and/or sex steroid, said at least one active principle being present in dissolved state in each of these phases; these are formulated via characteristic multi-step methodology.

Abstract: A method for treating or preventing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by using as active agent a non-glucorticoid steroid, analogue thereof, such as dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), or their salts, in an amount effective for preventing or treating COPD.

Abstract: Methods for making comb-type antithrombotic conjugate wherein substantially all side chains of water soluble poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) are extended by ring-opening polymerization to form a copolymer wherein substantially all terminals are conjugated to an antithrombotic molecule. In addition, a method is provided for applying a coating comprising a comb-type anti-thrombotic conjugate to at least a portion of an implantable device to prevent or reduce the formation of thrombosis on the surface of the device. A first or sub-layer of the coating is prepared by mixing a polymeric material and a biologically active agent with a solvent, thereby forming a homogeneous solution. A second or outer layer comprising a comb-type anti-thrombotic conjugate may be applied over the inner drug-containing layers using, for example, a dip coating or spray coating process.

Abstract: The invention relates to compositions and methods for a one-step synthetic technique for making cationic steroid or cationic drug molecules for use as delivery vehicles. The invention further relates to methods for using cationic steroid molecules in lipofection or transfection, delivery of drugs, and for treatment of inflammation and other diseases and disorders. The invention also relates to cationic steroid prodrugs and cationic prodrugs and to methods of modifying drugs.

Abstract: Compounds are disclosed of the formula in which R3 is C8 to C24 hydrocarbon or the residue of misoprostol. The compounds are useful for treating rhinitis and asthma, particularly by inhalation, and for treating inflammation, particularly by local or topical administration.

Abstract: Novel topically applicable oil-in-water emulsions, with a high proportion of oily phase in the inner phase, combine the occlusive and emollient properties of an ointment without having the drawbacks of a greasy feel, while at the same time promoting the therapeutic properties of a biologically active agent contained therein; such emulsions are especially useful for the treatment of dermatological diseases, conditions or afflictions, notably psoriasis.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of xanthan gum as re-epithelializing agent and, in particular, to a pharmaceutical formulation comprising xanthan gum as a re-epithelializing active principle eventually mixed with hyaluronic acid. Said use and composition speed up and improve advantageously the formation of newly grown epithelium.

Abstract: Stabilized 17-substituted hydrocortisone containing compositions and methods of manufacture. Isomerization of the hydrocortisone component of topical steroid compositions is markedly reduced by introducing an omega-6. acid in the form of linoleic acid into the skin preparation. Preferably, the linoleic acid is added as a component of refined safflower oil. The omega-6 acid has been found to be an effective way of preventing the isomerization of hydrocortisone 17-butyrate into the undesirable isomer HC21-B.

Abstract: The invention provides methods of downregulating mRNA encoding osteopontin comprising administering to a cell or mammal an amount of astrogorgiadiol effective to downregulate production of mRNA encoding osteopontin. The invention also provides methods of treating osteoporosis and autoimmune disease comprising administering to a patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount of astrogorgiadiol. Pharmaceutical compositions comprising astrogorgiadiol and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or diluent are also provided.

Abstract: There is provided a pharmaceutical composition comprising (i) a compound of the formula wherein: X is a hydrocarbyl ring having at least 4 atoms in the ring; K is a hydrocarbyl group; Rs is a sulphamate group; (ii) optionally admixed with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, diluent, excipient or adjuvant, wherein the compound is present in an amount to provide a dosage of no greater than 200 ?g/day.

Abstract: A stick for the topical or transmucosal application of a skin care or active agent onto and via the nasal mucosa, respectively, is provided, wherein the stick material contains a composition of at least one carrier substance and at least one skin care or active agent, which is capable of acting on the nasal mucosa and/or being resorbed by it or which contains at least one volatile substance that acts on the deeper respiratory tract and/or is being resorbed by the deeper respiratory tract. Furthermore, the use of a medical skin care or cosmetical stick or of a stick material or of a refill cartridge containing said material for the topical or transmucosal application is described.

Abstract: Methods are provided for the treatment of pulmonary hypertension and other conditions associated therewith. In particular, the methods include treatment of pulmonary hypertension with estradiol metabolite or estradiol metabolite associated with biodegradable microparticles or nanoparticles alone or in combination with another therapeutic agent. Preferred estradiol metabolites include 2-methoxyestradiol, 4-methoxyestradiol, 2-hydroxyestradiol, and 4-hydroxyestradiol, and/or to synthetic derivatives and analogues thereof or prodrugs thereof. The compositions may also be in the form of a controlled release formulation.

Abstract: This invention generally pertains to the field of psychiatry. In particular, this invention pertains to the discovery that agents which inhibit the binding of cortisol to its receptors can be used in methods for treating delirium. Mifepristone, a potent specific glucocorticoid receptor antagonist, can be used in these methods. The invention also provides a kit for treating delirium in a human including a glucocorticoid receptor antagonist and instructional material teaching the indications, dosage and schedule of administration of the glucocorticoid receptor antagonist.

Abstract: This invention describes the new 17?-fluoroalkyl steroids of general formula I as well as their physiologically compatible salts with bases. The new compounds have an extraordinary strong antigestagenic action and are suitable for the production of pharmaceutical preparations.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a novel method for preparing 21-hydroxy-6,19-oxidopro-gesterone (21OH-6OP) and/or its 21-acetate, 21-propionate, 21-hemisuccinate, 21-phosphate, 21-oleate derivatives. 21OH-6OP and its ester derivatives are antiglucocorticoids for the treatment or prophyl axis of diseases associated to an excess of glucocorticoids, in particular for treating Cushing's syndrome, iatrogenic hypercortisolism or depression.

Abstract: A medicament containing, separately or together, (A) formoterol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or a solvate of formoterol or a solvate of the salt and (B) mometasone furoate, for simultaneous, sequential or separate administration in the treatment of an inflammatory or obstructive airways disease.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for preventing the development of epithelial ovarian cancer by administering a Vitamin D compound in an amount capable of increasing apoptosis in non-neoplastic ovarian epithelial cells of the female subject.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a female mammal contraceptive process consisting of the sequential administration for at least 28 days of (a) a gestagen in an ovulation-preventing dose for at least 28 days in combination with (b) a natural oestrogen for 5 to 10 days at the end of the sequential dosage of at least 28 days, and a contraception kit.

Abstract: Preeclampsia and preterm labor in a pregnant female mammal are treated by administering thereto a combination of a progestin and a nitric oxide synthase substrate, a nitric oxide donor or both, optionally in further combination with one or more of a cyclooxygenase inhibitor, a PGI2-mimetic, a thromboxane (TXA2) inhibitor, a compound possessing TXA2-agonistic and TXA2-inhibiting properties, a compound possessing TXA2-antagonistic and PGI2-memetic activities, and a TXA2 antagonist.

Abstract: Corticoid 17,21-dicarboxylic esters and corticosteroid 17-carboxylic ester 21-carbonic esters, processes for their preparation and pharmaceuticals containing these compounds Corticoid 17,21-dicarboxylic esters and corticoid 17-carboxylic ester 21-carbonic esters of the formula I: are described, in which A is CHOH and CHCl, CH2, C═O or 9(11) double bond; Y is H, F or Cl; Z is H, F or methyl; R(1) is aryl or hetaryl; R(2) is alkyl and R(3) is H or methyl. They are obtained, inter alia, by reacting a compound of the formula II: in which R(5) is OH, with an activated carboxylic acid of the formula III:  R(6)-CO—(O)n[(C1-C4)-alkyl]m-R(1)  III. They have a very strong local and topical antiinflammatory action and exhibit a very good ratio of local to systemic antiinflammatory effects. They are used, inter alia, as agents for treating inflammatory dermatoses.

Abstract: 17&agr;-fluoroalkyl steroids of formula I as well as their physiologically compatible salts with acids and for —CO2R9 radicals with R9 meaning hydrogen, as well their physiologically compatible salts with bases, have an extraordinarily strong antigestagenic action and are suitable for the production of pharmaceutical preparations.

Abstract: There is provided a natural composition for boosting the libido of an individual, the composition including an effective amount of an aphrodisiac and a compound to increase blood flow to the pelvic area in a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. A natural composition for boosting the libido of an individual, including an effective amount of a compound for driving blood flow to the penis and an aphrodisiac in a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier is also provided. Also provided is a method of increasing the libido by administering an effective amount of composition including an aphrodisiac and a compound to increase blood flow to the pelvic area in a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

Abstract: The properties of biologically active compounds, for example drugs and agrochemicals, which contain in their molecular structure one or more functional groups selected from alcohol, ether, phenyl, amino, amido, thiol, carboxylic acid and carboxylic acid ester groups are modified by replacing one or more of these functional groups by a lipophilic group selected from those of the formula: RCOO—, RCONH—, RCOS—, RCH2O—, RCH2NH—, —COOCH2R, —CONHCH2R and —SCH2R, wherein R is a lipophilic moiety selected from cis-8-heptadecenyl, trans-8-heptadecenyl, cis-10-nonadecenyl and trans-10-nonadecenyl.

Abstract: The present invention provides compositions and methods for the solubilization of poorly soluble drugs such as triterpenes like betulinic acid and/its derivatives in pharmaceutically acceptable liquid vehicles that avoid use of potentially toxic solvents that are often used for the solubilization of poorly soluble drugs. In the compositions of this invention the drugs remain physically and chemically stable and can be administered intravascularly without undue toxicity from undissolved drug and/or from the solvent vehicles at a drug dose meant to be effective to exhibit clinically significant anticancer activity.

Abstract: The invention provides a process for the isolation of 2-deoxy ecdysterone from Zoanthus sp process comprising the steps (a) preparing crude methanol extract of Zoanthus sp., (b) subjecting the crude methanol extract to fractionation using petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, chloroform, n-butanol and mixtures thereof to yield a fraction, (c) subjecting the active fraction to flash chromatography over silica gel to obtain partially purified active compound, and (d) subjecting the active subfraction obtained from step (c) above to gel permeation chromatography to obtain the active pure compound.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods for treating inflammatory conditions, including but not limited to, inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, and proctitis), other noninfectious, inflammatory conditions of the GI tract (microscopic colitis, allergic eosinophilic gastroenteritis, food allergies, pill induced esophagitis, celiac disease, recurrent polyps, and hemorrhoids), and psoriasis, using progesterone or progesterone analogs such as medroxyprogesterone acetate.

Abstract: The invention provides a method of using pregnadienones and pregnadienols represented by the structural formula (I): containing at least one olefinic bond in or on their D-ring for the treatment of hyperlipidemic and hyperglycemic conditions in mammals wherein X═OH or O and the olefinic bonds are at 4(5); 5(6); 16(17); or 17(20) or various combinations, and wherein the compounds contain at lest one olefinic bond in or on their D-ring. The method comprises administering an effective amount of said compounds to recipient mammals.

Abstract: A formulation and methods for inducing sustained regional local anesthesia in a patient comprising a substrate comprising a local anesthetic and an effective amount of a biocompatible, biodegradable, controlled release material prolonging the release of the local anesthetic from the substrate to obtain a reversible local anesthesia when implanted or injected in a patient, and a pharmaceutically acceptable, i.e., non-toxic, non-glucocorticoid augmenting agent effective to prolong the duration of the local anesthesia for a time period longer than that obtainable from the substrate without the augmenting agent.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions and methods for preventing the development of epithelial ovarian cancer by administering compounds in an amount capable of increasing TGF-&bgr; expression in the ovarian epithelium. HRT and OCP regimens comprising such compositions and methods are disclosed.

Abstract: This invention provides a method of contraception which comprises administering to a female of child bearing age for 23-25 consecutive days, a first phase combination of a progestin at a daily dosage of 40-500 &mgr;g trimegestone, 250 &mgr;g-4 mg dienogest, or 250 &mgr;g-4 mg drospirenone, and an estrogen at a daily dosage equivalent in estrogenic activity to 10-20 &mgr;g ethinyl estradiol for 3-8 days beginning on day 1 of the menstrual cycle, wherein the same dosage of the progestin and estrogen combination is administered in each of the 3-8 days, a second phase combination of a progeslin at a daily dosage of 40-500 &mgr;g trimegestone, 250 &mgr;g-4 mg dienogest, or 250 &mgr;g-4 mg drospirenone, and an estrogen at a daily dosage equivalent in estrogenic activity to 10-20 &mgr;g ethinyl estradiol, for 4-15 days beginning on the day immediately following the last day of administration of the first phase combination, wherein the same dosage of the progestin and estrogen combination is administered in each of

Abstract: The invention provides finely divided, substantially crystalline particles of budesonide characterized in that they are substantially smooth and having a BET value of from 1 to 4.5 m2/g, a process for their preparation, a pharmaceutical composition comprising said particles, the use of said particles in the treatment of and in the manufacture of a medicament for use in the treatment of respiratory disorder, and a method of treatment of respiratory disorders by administration of said particles to a host in need of such treatment.

Abstract: Methods of treating or preventing ophthalmic, otic, and nasal infections and attendant inflammation are described. The methods utilize ophthalmic, otic, and nasal compositions containing a new class of antibiotics (e.g. trovafloxacin). The compositions also contain one or more anti-inflammatory agents (e.g. dexamethasone). The compositions are utilized to treat ophthalmic, otic, and nasal conditions by topically applying the compositions to the affected tissues.

Abstract: A dry powder formulation for treatment of pulmonary conditions, via inhalation, includes an effective amount of formoterol or a salt or solvate thereof, in a dry powder form, an effective amount of fluticasone, in a dry powder form, and an excipient. A method for preparing a physically stable dry powder formulation for inhalation includes the steps of micronizing a first active polar drug, a second active non-polar drug, and a polar excipient. The second non-polar active drug is first blended with the excipient to form an intermediate mixture. The intermediate mixture is then blended with the first active polar drug. The increased separation of the polar drug and polar excipient stabilizes the formulation.

Abstract: The present invention in various embodiments provides methods of treating stroke and conferring protection on a population of cells associated with ischemia in a subject following an ischemic event, comprising: (a) providing an estrogen compound; and (b) administering the effective amount of the compound over a course that includes at least one dose within a time that is effectively proximate to the ischemic event, so as to confer protection on the population of cells. Novel methods are provided for the delivery of an estrogen compound. Examples of ischemic events treatable according to the invention are cerebrovascular disease or stroke, subarachnoid subhemorrhage, myocardial infarct, surgery and trauma. A method of treating ischemic damage utilizing hormones that are non-sex hormones is also provided. A method of treating stroke with ent-17&bgr;-estradiol, and a method of synthesis, and compounds produced from the synthesis are provided.

Abstract: The invention provides finely divided, substantially crystalline particles of budesonide characterized in that they are substantially smooth and having a BET value from 1 to 4.5 m2/g, process for their preparation, a pharmaceutical composition comprising said particles, the use of said particles in the treatment of and in the manufacture of a medicament for use in the treatment of a respiratory disorder, and a method of treatment of respiratory disorders by administration of said particles to a host in need of such treatment.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods of conferring protection on a population of cells associated with ischemia in a subject following an ischemic event, comprising: (a) providing an estrogen compound; and (b) administering the effective amount of the compound over a course that includes at least one dose within a time that is effectively proximate to the ischemic event, so as to confer protection on the population of cells. Novel methods are provided for the delivery of an estrogen compound. Examples of ischemic events treatable according to the invention are cerebrovascular disease or stroke, subarachnoid subhemorrhage, myocardial infarct, surgery and trauma. A method of treating ischemic damage utilizing non-sex hormones is also provided.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods of conferring protection on a population of cells associated with ischemia in a subject following an ischemic event, comprising: (a) providing an estrogen compound; and (b) administering the effective amount of the compound over a course that includes at least one dose within a time that is effectively proximate to the ischemic event, so as to confer protection on the population of cells. Novel methods are provided for the intravenous administration of an estrogen compound. Examples of ischemic events treatable according to the invention are cerebrovascular disease or stroke, subarachnoid subhemorrhage, myocardial infarct, surgery and trauma. A method of treating ischemic damage utilizing non-sex hormones is also provided.

Abstract: The invention comprises methods for conferring a cytoprotective effect on a population of cells, such as providing a polycyclic phenolic compound in a physiologically acceptable formulation, and administering the formulation in an effective dose to the population of cells.

Abstract: This invention describes the new 17&agr;-fluoroalkyl steroids of general formula I as well as their physiologically compatible salts with acids, and for —CO2R9 radicals with R9 meaning hydrogen as well as their physiologically compatible salts with bases. The new compounds have an extraordinarily strong antigestagenic action and are suitable for the production of pharmaceutical preparations.