Abstract: Ocular and cerebral blood flow are enhanced by the administration of (?) erythro isomer of ?-methyl epinephrine, a C1 to C8 aliphatic ester of ?-methyl epinephrine, ?-methyl norepinephrine, a C1 to C8 aliphatic ester of ?-methyl norepinephrine, or a pharmacologically acceptable acid addition salt thereof.

Abstract: A pneumatic pressure probe is disclosed which provides rapid and accurate measurement of fluid pressure in an organ across a membrane but without pressurizing the organ itself. The pneumatic pressure probe includes a sensor head movably mounted by means of a hollow shaft to a handle that defines a pressure chamber. The sensor head defines a venting chamber within which is situated a thrust nozzle that communicates with the pressure chamber through the hollow shaft. Gas discharging from the thrust nozzle pressurizes the venting chamber and applies minimal force to an area of the epithelium across which the fluid pressure is determined. The pressure in the venting chamber is transmitted to the pressure chamber through the thrust nozzle and is monitored by means of a pressure transducer.

Abstract: Compositions for treating ocular hypertension by topical administration containing .alpha.-methyl epinephrine, .alpha.-methyl norepinephrine, their C.sub.1 -C.sub.8 alkanoyl diesters and the pharmacologically acceptable acid addition salts thereof are disclosed.

Abstract: A cup for use with a vacuum apparatus to modify intraocular pressure by applying a distorting force to the sclera is in the form of a rigid thick-walled hollow cone with beveled base edges dimensioned to fit the curvature of the scleral surface. The inside and outside dimensions of the base are chosen to minimize patient discomfort and the potential for damage to the eye and to promote ease of application.

Abstract: Ocular hypertension can be treated by the topical administration of ophthalmic compositions that contain as the active ingredient an .alpha.-methyl derivative of epinephrine or norepinephrine.

Abstract: Helmintic infections such as filariasis are effectively treated by topical application of a composition which comprises a dermatologically acceptable inert carrier suitable for application to human skin and having dispersed therein an anthelmintically effective but non-toxic quantity of a piperazine derivative having the general formula ##STR1## or a corresponding physiologically tolerable acid addition salt thereof. In the foregoing formula, R.sup.1 can be hydrogen or an alkyl radical containing 1 to 8 carbon atoms, and R.sup.2 and R.sup.3 can be alike or different and are members of the group consisting of hydrogen and alkyl radicals containing 1 to 8 carbon atoms with the proviso that at least one of the R.sup.2 and R.sup.3 groups is an alkyl radical.