Abstract: The use of bis-amines to enhance the antimicrobial activity of pharmaceutical compositions is described. The bis-amines are particularly useful for enhancing the antimicrobial activity of aqueous ophthalmic compositions, such as artificial tears or ocular lubricants, and solutions for disinfecting contact lenses.

Abstract: Alkylpolypropyleneoxide amidotriamines having antimicrobial activity are described. The compounds are useful as antimicrobial preservatives in various types of pharmaceutical compositions. Ophthalmic compositions containing these compounds as disinfecting agents or preservatives are also described.

Abstract: The use of organic buffers to enhance the antimicrobial activity of aqueous pharmaceutical compositions is described. The buffers have tri-hydroxy functional groups and terminal acid groups, and are zwitterionic at physiological pH conditions. The most preferred buffer is tricine. The invention is particularly directed to the use of tricine to enhance the antimicrobial activity of ophthalmic compositions, such as solutions for disinfecting contact lenses and artificial tear compositions.

Abstract: Water-soluble borate-polyol complexes are useful as buffers and/or antimicrobials in aqueous ophthalmic compositions, including those containing polyvinyl alcohol. These compositions have greater antimicrobial activity than comparable compositions containing typical borate buffers and unexpectedly increase the antimicrobial efficacy of other antimicrobial agents when used in combination. In addition, use of the borate-polyol complexes avoids the incompatibility problem typically associated with the combination of borate buffer and polyvinyl alcohol; therefore, the compositions disclosed herein may also contain polyvinyl alcohol.