Abstract: A process for obtaining the apolar extract comprises: (a) extracting the rhizomes with an organic solvent; (b) filtration and evaporation to dryness of the extract; (c) dissolution of the oleoresin obtained in hot conditions, precipitation while allowing to cool down and filtration of the solid; (d) drying and recrystallizing the solid in order to obtain a product having a purity in curcuminoids higher than 90%. Obtaining the polar extract comprises: (a′) extraction of the rhizomes with water at 50-70° C. and (b′) filtration and evaporation of the water. Application of the compositions and preparations as catchers of free radicals and antiageing agents, as well as reducing agents to reduce the plasma levels of lipid peroxides in human beings are disclosed.

Abstract: A topically applied composition capable of treating subcutaneous tissue comprising an alkali metal hypohalite (AMH) (preferably, sodium hypochlorite) and a conventional skin lotion. The skin lotion serves both as a carrier and as an antidrying agent for the AMH. The AMH penetrates through the skin's pores and lymph nodes into the subcutaneous tissue. The AMH stimulates the immune system to alleviate, and sometimes cure, inflammation, aches, pains, and other symptoms caused by microbial (e.g., viral, bacterial, fungal and parasitic) infection, arthritis, hemorrhoids, allergies, etc . . .

Abstract: This invention relates to an intra-articular preparation for the treatment of arthropathy, which comprises microcapsules of (a) a high-molecular substance, which has biodegradability and biocompatibility, and (b) a drug. When applied directly to a joint area, this preparation can achieve a high drug concentration at the target area, can inhibit occurrence of general side effect, and can maintain drug efficacy over a long term. The preparation can therefore alleviate the burden on the patient.

Abstract: Pharmaceutical applications of a chemodenervating agent reduce pain by altering release of pain and inflammation-mediating autocoids, with a duration of action between 12-24 weeks. The limiting factor in dosing for this application is weakness and paralysis created by higher doses of the chemodenervating pharmaceutical. This weakness and paralysis is mediated by action of the neurotoxin component of the chemodenervating pharmaceutical. The invention described herein represents a novel mechanism and pharmaceutical formulation which eliminates the neurotoxin component of the chemodenervating pharmaceutical, while retaining the cytotoxin component which provides an essential bioeffect for the relief of pain and inflammation. The invention allows for improvement in administering the pharmaceutical agent for the reduction of pain and/or inflammation without causing muscular weakness and paralysis.

Abstract: Peptides that are capable of suppressing autoimmune arthritis are disclosed. The polypeptides described by the present invention which are capable of suppressing autoimmune arthritis in mammals include analogues of CII 245-270. The peptides do not provoke a material immunogenic response from T cells, and thus are useful therapeutic agents for suppressing autoimmune arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, spondylo arthritis, relapsing polychondritis and other connective tissue diseases. A method of surpressing autoimmune arthritis in mammals is also provided by the present invention.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods and compositions for treating skin disorders. The present invention is easily administered and can be used for both humans and animals. The compositions of the present invention comprise borate compounds and provide relief from skin disorder symptoms and lesions. Additionally, the present invention can be used to provide long term maintenance of symptom-free skin.

Abstract: Topical gelled compositions comprising an optional drug dispersed within a polymer matrix, methods of producing the same and treatments with the complex.

Abstract: The present invention is concerned with the use of individual administration forms of an erythropoietin preparation and a physiologically compatible iron preparation corresponding to an equivalent amount of 1-40 mg of iron ions for the production of a pharmaceutical combination preparation for the treatment of rheumatic diseases.

Abstract: A novel topical formulation for delivery of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is characterized by enhanced transdermal absorption and efficacy. A two phase liquid composition has aqueous and oil phases, the oil phase having a relatively high concentration of the NSAID to enhance transdermal absorption and efficacy when incorporated into the topical anti-inflammatory formulation. The two phase liquid composition preferably contains, in addition to an NSAID, at least one melting point depressing agent. A preferred topical anti-inflammatory composition includes S(+)-ibuprofen, thymol, and ethyl alcohol or isopropyl alcohol.

Abstract: Methods for the diagnosis and treatment of articular disorders comprising the use of fluorocarbons are disclosed. The methods provide for the introduction of a fluorocarbon into an articular region to replace or augment natural synovial fluid. The introduced fluorocarbons, which may be in various forms including liquids, gels or emulsions, provide articular lubrication and cushioning which is effective for the treatment of disorders such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Additionally, the methods of the present invention may be used to provide high resolution articular images, reduce articular inflammation and introduce bioactive agents to the articular region.

Abstract: Peptides for suppressing autoimmune arthritis by disrupting formation of trimolecular complexes which stimulate T cells.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of creatine compounds for treating or preventing a metabolic disorder related to body weight control such as obesity, and it's associated diseases in a patient experiencing said disorder. The creatine compounds which can be used in the present method include (1) analogues of creatine which can act as substrates or substrate analogues for the enzyme creatine kinase; (2) compounds which can act as inhibitors of creatine kinase; (3) compounds which can modulate the creatine transporter (4) N-phosphocreatine analogues bearing transferable or non-transferable moieties which mimic the N-phosphoryl group. (5) compounds which modify the association of creatine kinase with other cellular components.

Abstract: The present invention provides compositions comprising the ingredients of plants of species of the genera Stephania, Coix, Pinellia, Prunus, Phellodendron, Sophora, Tetrapanax, Stemona, Glycyrrhiza, Tripterygium, Forsythia and Siegesbeckia, wherein such compositions have analgesic, antipyretic, and antiinflammatory properties. The present invention also provides methods of using such compositions for treating various conditions and diseases, including joint swelling, joint pain, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Abstract: This invention relates to the composition and method of treating arthritis, repairing of articular joint surfaces and the relief of symptoms associated with arthritis. The composition comprises a nitric oxide synthase inhibitor and amino sugars. The nitric oxide synthase inhibitor reduces the level of nitric oxide, the free radical believed responsible for the degradation of articular cartilage. Amino sugars are the building blocks of articular cartilage and have anti-inflammatory actions.

Abstract: A bacterin including effective immunizing amounts of two non-crossprotective isolates of inactivated Borrelia burgdorferi, an adjuvant in an amount effective to enhance the immunogenicity of the inactivated Borrelia burgdorferi isolates and a suitable carrier is provided herein. The bacterin may also contain a third non-crossprotective isolate. A bacterin including effective immunizing amounts of an antigenic subunit derived from a first Borrelia burgdorferi isolate and a second, non-crossprotective Borrelia burgdorferi isolate, an adjuvant in an amount effective to enhance the immunogenicity of the antigenic subunits and a suitable carrier is also provided. The bacterin may also contain an effective immunizing amount of an antigenic subunit of a third Borrelia burgdorferi.

Abstract: The present invention provides a novel dithiocarbamamte disulfide dimer useful in various therapeutic treatments, either alone or in combination with other active agents. In one method, the disulfide derivative of a dithiocarbamate is coadministered with an agent that inactivates (or inhibits the production of) species that induce the expression of nitric oxide synthase to reduce the production of such species, while, at the same time reducing nitric oxide levels in the subject. In another embodiment, free iron ion levels are reduced in a subject by administration of a disulfide derivative of a dithiocarbamate(s) to scavenge free iron ions, for example, in subjects undergoing anthracycline chemotherapy. In another embodiment, cyanide levels are reduced in a subject by administration of a disulfide derivative of a dithiocarbamate so as to bind cyanide in the subject. In a further aspect, the present invention relates to compositions and formulations useful in such therapeutic methods.

Abstract: Mammalian genes and proteins, designated cytokine synthesis inhibitory factors (CSIFs now known as Interleukin-10 (IL-10)), are provided which are capable of inhibiting the synthesis of cytokines associated with delayed type hypersensitivity responses, and which, together with antagonists, are useful in treating diseases associated with cytokine imbalances, such as leishmaniasis and other parasitic infections, and certain immune disorders including MHC associated autoimmune diseases caused by excessive production of interferon-&ggr;.

Abstract: A therapeutic composition having plantain and aloe vera constituents is useful in the treatment of the symptoms of arthritis and other afflictions. The therapeutic composition may have only plantain and aloe vera constituents, wherein the plantain constituent is in a range of approximately 57% to 61% by weight of the therapeutic composition and the aloe vera constituent is in a range of approximately 39% to 43% by weight of the therapeutic composition. The therapeutic composition may have other constituents, such as herbal tinctures, added for various purposes, in which case, the plantain constituent is in a range of approximately 51% to 58% by weight of the therapeutic composition, the aloe vera constituent is in a range of approximately 37% to 39% by weight of the therapeutic composition, and the other constituent is in the range of approximately 5% to 10% by weight of the therapeutic composition.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method for treating inflammation or inflammatory disease, bacterial infection, arthritis and stroke in an animal or mammal, which comprises the steps of administering an effective amount of a pADPRT inhibitory compound to said animal or mammal.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, there are provided therapeutically effective compounds comprising an amphipathic carboxylate of the formula R—COOH, or a salt or an ester or amide of such compound, where R designates a saturated or unsaturated alkyl chain of 10-24 carbon atoms, one or more of which may be replaced by heteroatoms, where one or more of said carbon or heteroatom chain members optionally forms part of a ring, and where said chain is optionally substituted by a hydrocarbyl radical, heterocyclyl radical, lower alkoxy, hydroxyl-substituted lower alkyl, hydroxyl, carboxyl, halogen, phenyl or (hydroxy-, lower alkyl-, lower alkoxy-, lower alkenyl- or lower alkinyl)-substituted phenyl, C3-C7 cycloalkyl or (hydroxy-, lower alkyl-, lower alkoxy-, lower alkenyl- or lower alkinyl)-substituted C3-C7 cycloalkyl wherein said amphipathic carboxylate is capable of being endogenously converted to its respective coenzyme A thioester.

Abstract: D-mannoside-6-phosphate compounds having anti-inflammatory activity are disclosed, and use thereof in treating inflammatory diseases, particularly cell-mediated inflammatory diseases.

Abstract: The invention concerns new guanidine derivatives of formula (I), methods of preparing them and their use in drugs containing such compounds.

Abstract: Novel compositions containing at least one biologically active component derived from peat or similar composition, methods for their preparation and therapeutic uses for a variety of diseases, injuries, and conditions, including wound healing, pain, itch, inflammation, abnormal cell proliferation, or infections caused by fungal, bacterial, rickettsial or viral agents, psoriasis, allergic and other dermatitis, pruritis, eczema, actinic keratosis and similar conditions. In addition, the compositions can be used as diuretics, antiarrhythmics, and cardiac-stimulating agents, as well as for the treatment of mammalian diseases and disorders, including multiple drug resistance, cancers, asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, pain, wound healing, fungal disorders, and other inflammatory disorders. The compositions are derivable from peat or peat-related substances and may alternatively be synthetically produced.

Abstract: This invention provides pharmaceutical compositions comprising polymeric matrices, especially those comprising IL-6 as an active ingredient. Specific novel poly(ethylene carbomate) polymers are also provided for more general use as matrix materials in sustained release compositions containing pharmacologically active compounds, as are methods of using of IL-6 for treatment of conditions mediated by IL-1 and/or TNF&agr;, e.g., certain autoimmune and inflammatory conditions, as well as septic shock.

Abstract: This invention provides esters of propofol (2,6,-diisoprophenol). The propofol esters are soluble in water and metabolize rapidly to propofol in the body. The propofol esters are useful as pro-drugs for the same indications as propofol. This invention also provides methods of treating neurodegenerative diseases by administering as effective amount of propofol.

Abstract: The present invention relates to novel compounds that are useful for inhibition and prevention of cell adhesion and cell adhesion-mediated pathologies. This invention also relates to pharmaceutical formulations comprising these compounds and methods of using them for inhibition and prevention of cell adhesion and cell adhesion-mediated pathologies. The compounds and pharmaceutical compositions of this invention can be used as therapeutic or prophylactic agents. They are particularly well-suited for treatment of many inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.

Abstract: Method for enhancing the immune system of a patient by orally administering to the patient safflower seeds or an extract of safflower seeds in combination with a pharmaceutically acceptable vehicle.

Abstract: An herbal composition which can be used to alleviate the symptoms associated with hormonal imbalance in women contains supercritical extracts of ginger, rosemary and evening primrose oil, and either regular or supercritical (preferably regular) extracts of black cohosh, dong quai, schizandra berry, chaste tree berry and rosemary. The herbal composition can be administered orally, topically or parenterally. In addition to promoting hormonal balance, the herbal composition also promotes normal bone growth by inhibiting the 5-lipoxygenase enzyme and sustains warmth and normal fluids for healthy sexual functioning. Furthermore, the herbal composition contains organic anti-aging constituents that inactivate free radicals, thereby providing antioxidant activity.

Abstract: A compound of formula I or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof in which R1 and R2 are independently H or methyl (for example N,N-dimethyl-1-[1-(4-chlorophenyl)cyclobutyl]-3-methylbutyl amine hydrochloride optionally in the form of its monohydrate) is used for treating osteoarthritis or gout.

Abstract: This invention provides a method of treating an animal with pyrophosphate gout or osteoarthritis comprising administering an effective amount of a calcium antagonist, thereby reducing calcium pyrophosphate crystal deposition in the animal.

Abstract: The invention provides compounds of formula as described in the claims, or an optical isomer, diastereomer or enantiomer thereof, or a pharmaceutically-acceptable salt, or biohydrolyzable amide, ester, or imide thereof are useful as inhibitors of metalloproteases. Also disclosed are pharmaceutical compositions and methods of treating diseases, disorders and conditions characterized by metalloprotease activity using these compounds or the pharmaceutical compositions containing them.

Abstract: A therapeutic composition comprising oregano oil, laurel oil, and myrtle oil useful in alleviating pain and discomfort associated with arthritis, migraines, bronchitis, soft tissue injuries, muscle aches and pains and neck and back pains and strains in humans, as well as upper respiratory, joint and shin ailments in animals.

Abstract: This invention relates to an intra-articular preparation for the treatment of arthropathy, which comprises microcapsules of (a) a high-molecular substance, which has biodegradability and biocompatibility, and (b) a drug. When applied directly to a joint area, this preparation can achieve a high drug concentration at the target area, can inhibit occurrence of general side effect, and can maintain drug efficacy over a long term. The preparation can therefore alleviate the burden on the patient.

Abstract: A description is given of new pharmaceutical compositions containing cyclosporine, combined with a carrier comprising at least a derivative of &agr;-glycerophosphoric acid, such as &agr;-glycerophosphorylcholine, &agr;-glycerophosphorylserine, &agr;-glycerophosphorylethanolamine and &agr;-glycerophosphoryl-myo-inositol, which allow cyclosporine bioavailability to significantly increase.

Abstract: Conformationally constrained compounds which mimic the secondary structure of reverse-turn regions of biologically active peptides and proteins are disclosed. Such reverse-turn mimetics have utility in the treatment of cell adhesion-indicated diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, atherosclerosis, asthma and inflammatory bowel disease.

Abstract: The invention describes compositions and methods for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. The compositions comprise insoluble, native collagen Type II in a particular form in combinations with other active agents, including glucosamine, chondroitin, ascorbate, boron and magnesium. Also described are methods for producing particulated insoluble native collagen Type II.

Abstract: Methods for treating a connective tissue disorder by introducing at least one gene encoding a product into at least one target cell of a mammalian host for use in treating the mammalian host are disclosed. These methods include employing recombinant techniques to produce a vector molecule containing the DNA sequence encoding for the product and infecting the target cell of the mammalian host using the vector. The injection can be done in vivo, by directly injecting the vector into the host, or can be done in vitro by transfecting a population of cultured target cells with the vector and transplanting them each into the host. Nonviral means can also be used to introduce the DNA sequence to the host. Administration of more than one gene of interest results in an enhanced therapeutic benefit. Also disclosed is a method for treating a connective tissue disorder by introducing at least one gene encoding a product into at least one target cell of a joint of a host for use in treating multiple joints of the host.

Abstract: The subject invention involves compounds having the structure: wherein the C.sub..alpha. --N.sub..beta. and C.sub.5 -C.sub.6 bonds are independently single or double bonds, R1 is selected from alkyl, aryl, and heterocycle; R2-R13 are independently selected from hydrogen and other substituents; and pharmaceutically-acceptable salts thereof. The subject invention also involves pharmaceutical compositions containing such compounds, and methods for treating or preventing diseases and disorders using such compounds.

Abstract: An antirheumatic agent comprising diethyl L-lysylcromoglycate of the following formula ##STR1## or a nontoxic salt thereof as an active ingredient. This compound has an anti-inflammatory action and immunomodulating action, is absorbed by oral administration to be delivered efficiently to local sites, and is associated with fewer side effects, so that it serves well as an antirheumatic agent that can be administered orally.

Abstract: A method for preventing or treating autoimmune diseases (excluding type I diabetes) by administering an insulin resistance improving substance as an active ingredient.

Abstract: There is disclosed a novel amino glycol derivatives of L-N.sup.6 -(1-iminoethyl)lysine, pharmaceutical compositions containing these novel compounds, and to their use in therapy, in particular their use as nitric oxide synthase inhibitors.

Abstract: This invention is directed to a dietary regimen and a unique combination of nutritional supplements and a method. More specifically, this invention is directed to a unique combination of nutritional supplements which provides symptomatic relief from arthritis. The unique combination of nutritional supplements of this invention is believed to function by both increasing the available (effective blood level) of anti-inflammatory agents and promotion of the healing/regenerative process in the effected joints, thus, producing unexpected and lasting symptomatic relief from the debilitating effects of both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Abstract: The present invention provides compounds that inhibit the association of platelet-derived growth factor and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase. The present invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions that contain a compound that inhibits the association of platelet-derived growth factor and phosphatidylinosital 3-kinase, and methods of treating cancer, restenosis, arthritis, dermatitis, atherosclerosis, vein graft intimal hyperplasia, neointimal hyperplasia of vascular smooth muscle and psoriasis using compounds that inhibit the association of platelet-derived growth factor and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase.

Abstract: This invention describes the new 17-difluoromethylene-estratrienes of general formula I ##STR1## in which R.sup.1 is a hydrogen atom or a C.sub.1 -C.sub.10 alkyl group,R.sup.5 is a methyl or ethyl group, andR.sup.2 is a hydrogen atom or a C.sub.1 -C.sub.10 alkyl group in .alpha.- or .beta.-position,R.sup.3 is a hydrogen atom or a C.sub.1 -C.sub.10 alkyloxy group in .alpha.- or .beta.-position,R.sup.4 is a hydrogen atom in .alpha.- or .beta.-position, and A, B, D, E and G each is a hydrogen atom, and optionally at least one of substituent pairsG and R.sup.2, R.sup.2 and R.sup.4, R.sup.4 and A, A and R.sup.3, B and D, D and E is a double bond.

Abstract: A transcutaneous therapeutic formulation comprising marijuana and a carrier for the treatment of pain, inflammation, arthritis and related disorders in humans and animals.

Abstract: The application concerns a method of identifying compounds that can be used to inhibit undesired human CD4.sup.+ T cell immune responses by identifying compounds that block the interaction of CD4 and class II MHC gene products and a method of treatment which comprises administering such an identified compound. The compounds that inhibit undesired human CD4.sup.+ T cell immune responses can be used to treat disease such as multiple sclerosis and to prevent graft rejection and graft versus host disease. More specifically, the application concerns compounds having molecular weights between about 500 and 150 that bind to the GFCC'C" portion of the D1 domain of human CD4 lymphocyte cell surface antigen.

Abstract: The invention relates to new phenylamidine derivatives, processes for preparing them and their use as pharmaceutical compositions.

Abstract: Iodinated fatty acid esters, iodinated fatty acids and fluid pharmaceutical-grade stable derivatives thereof are produced by iodohydrination in an organic medium using alkylsilylated derivatives, such as trimethylsilyl chloride or trimethylchlorosilane, that react with an alkaline iodide such as sodium iodide, whereafter hydroiodic acid is formed in situ by exposure to water and the hydroiodic acid is reacted with fatty acid esters and particularly rapeseed oil fatty acid methyl esters that may be used as a biofuel for gasoline engines to provide a low-cost product, and are used therapeutically, in particular for treating goitre linked to iodine deficiency.

Abstract: Novel compounds of formula (1) together with their salts and solvates have a number of uses in medicine, in particular as central muscle relaxants.

Abstract: This invention is a method and composition for the inhibition of VCAM-1, and in particular for the treatment of cardiovascular or inflammatory disease, including atherosclerosis, that includes the administration of an effective amount of an ester of probucol.