Abstract: The present invention relates to hydrogels, in particular gels for use on wounds. The invention provides a gel which is better able to maintain viscosity and gel integrity when exposed to wound exudates, for example. A hydrogel comprising a poloxamer is provided. Further provided is a hydrogel comprising a cross-linked gellant, and water wherein the hydrogel comprises a poloxamer and has the capacity to absorb at least 50% further water in addition to the water already present. Suitable gellants are pharmaceutically acceptable, cross-linked, hydrophilic polymers. Hydrogels of the present invention are useful in medicine, or therapy and are in particular useful in application to epithelial lesions, especially wounds, such as accidental or surgical wounds.

Abstract: Hydrogels containing poloxamers are capable of absorbing more water than other hydrogels, while retaining gel integrity for longer, and are useful as occlusive dressings.