Abstract: Biocompatible intraocular implants include a steroid and a polymer associated with each other to facilitate release of the steroid into an eye for a period of time greater than about two months. The steroid may be associated with a biodegradable polymer matrix, such as a matrix of a two biodegradable polymers. Or, the steroid may be associated with a polymeric coating having one or more openings effective to permit the steroid to be released into an external environment. The implants may be placed in an eye to treat one or more ocular conditions. The steroid is released from the implant for more than about two months, and may be release for more than several years.

Abstract: A bioerodible composition for delivery of a bioactive agent is the reaction product of a reaction mixture which includes an oxidized dextran solution, and a mixture of solids containing a dihydrazide, a bioactive agent, and optionally a pH adjusting agent in an amount sufficient to achieve a pH of the reaction mixture of 6 or less. The composition may include a release agent for the controlled release of the bioactive agent from the composition. The composition may be administered to a body site in need of the same by providing a first aliquot portion of a reaction mixture which includes the reactants and a bioactive agent. A kit which includes a double syringe respectively containing the first and second aliquot portions of the reaction mixture may be provided so that the same may be mixed just prior to use.

Abstract: Biocompatible intraocular implants include an alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist and a polymer associated with the alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist to facilitate release of the alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist into an eye for an extended period of time. The alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist may be associated with a biodegradable polymer matrix, such as a matrix of a two biodegradable polymers. The implants may be placed in an eye to prevent the occurrence of one or more ocular conditions, or to reduce one or more symptoms of an ocular condition, such as an ocular neurosensory disorder and the like.

Abstract: Biocompatible intraocular implants include a tyrosine kinase inhibitor and a biodegradable polymer that is effective to facilitate release of the tyrosine kinase inhibitor into an eye for an extended period of time. The therapeutic agents of the implants may be associated with a biodegradable polymer matrix, such as a matrix that is substantially free of a polyvinyl alcohol. The implants may be placed in an eye to treat or reduce the occurrence of one or more ocular conditions.

Abstract: This invention describes the use of polymerizable surfactants as comonomers in forming ophthalmic devices such as contact lenses, intraocular lenses, corneal implants, etc.

Abstract: Diseases and conditions associated with tissues of the body, including but not limited to tissues in the eye, can be effectively treated, prevented, inhibited, onset delayed, or regression caused by administering therapeutic agents to those tissues. Described herein are liquid formulations which deliver a variety of therapeutic agents, including but not limited to rapamycin, to a subject for an extended period of time; liquid formulations which form a non-dispersed mass when placed in an aqueous medium of a subject; non-dispersed mass-forming liquid formulations which form a gel or gel-like substance in an aqueous medium; liquid formulations, comprising a therapeutic agent and a plurality of polymers; and methods for delivering therapeutic agents to a subject for an extended period of time using the liquid formulations.

Abstract: Medical devices having a plurality of nanoparticles disposed over a surface of the medical device. The nanoparticles have a core comprising a therapeutic agent and a shell surrounding the core, wherein the shell comprises a metal. A barrier layer is disposed over the nanoparticles. The barrier layer is water-permeable and comprises a metal that may be different from the metal used in the nanoparticle shells. In certain embodiments, the metal in the barrier layer undergoes galvanic corrosion. Also disclosed are medical device having a reservoir containing a therapeutic agent, with nanoparticles and a barrier layer being disposed over the reservoir; and medical devices having multiple barrier layers and multiple reservoirs containing therapeutic agents.

Abstract: The present invention provides implants comprising a therapeutic drug and a polymer containing polylactic acid (PLA) and optionally polyglycolic acid (PGA). The present invention also provides methods of maintaining a therapeutic level of a drug in a subject, releasing a therapeutic drug at a substantially linear rate, and treating schizophrenia and other diseases and disorders, utilizing implants of the present invention.

Abstract: A jig and a cooling fluid injection tool are provided for use in the correction of corneal shape of an eyeball. Correction of the eyeball takes place while the cornea is warmed. The jig includes a shape retention part of a sucking disc configuration having an inner surface side that contacts the eyeball and a grip part formed on an outer surface side of the shape retention part. An inner surface-sided cornea contacting section of the shape retention part is flattened and a cooling fluid injection hole passing through the grip part is formed in the center of the shape retention part with a diameter large enough for a wearer to see outside.

Abstract: Personal care compositions comprising esters of 1,3-propanediol and acceptable carriers are provided. The esters can have at least 3% biobased carbon, and the compositions can further comprise 1,3-propanediol that is biologically-derived. Also provided are processes for producing personal care compositions comprising esters of 1,3-propanediol and acceptable carriers. The processes comprise providing biologically produced 1,3-propanediol, contacting the 1,3-propanediol with organic acids, which produces the esters, recovering the esters, and incorporating the esters into personal care formulations. Also provided are processes of making a personal care composition comprising providing an ester of 1,3 propanediol and mixing the ester with an acceptable carrier to form a personal care composition.

Abstract: The present invention provides a sustained release, biodegradable intraocular latanoprost implant for reducing elevated intraocular pressure in an individual in need thereof. The implant can be configured as a film (e.g., a rolled film) or extruded filament, either of which can be inserted into the eye of the individual to provide for extended release of latanoprost for several days. Upon insertion into the eye, a rolled film may unroll to provide a film having a high surface area to volume ratio for drug diffusion.

Abstract: Biocompatible intraocular implants include a steroid and a polymer associated with each other to facilitate release of the steroid into an eye for a period of time greater than about two months. The steroid may be associated with a biodegradable polymer matrix, such as a matrix of a two biodegradable polymers. Or, the steroid may be associated with a polymeric coating having one or more openings effective to permit the steroid to be released into an external environment. The implants may be placed in an eye to treat one or more ocular conditions. The steroid is released from the implant for more than about two months, and may be release for more than several years.

Abstract: Biocompatible intraocular implants include an alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist and a polymer associated with the alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist to facilitate release of the alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist into an eye for an extended period of time. The alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist may be associated with a biodegradable polymer matrix, such as a matrix of a two biodegradable polymers. The implants may be placed in an eye to prevent the occurrence of one or more ocular conditions, or to reduce one or more symptoms of an ocular condition, such as an ocular neurosensory disorder and the like.

Abstract: A drug delivery system (DDS) comprised of segmented biodegradable implants sized and suitable for implantation in an ocular region or site and methods for treating ocular conditions. The segmented implants provide an extended release of an active agent at a therapeutically effective amount for a period of time between 50 days and one year, or longer, and permit the DDS to have segments that possess individual and different drug release characteristics.

Abstract: Biocompatible intraocular microspheres include a tyrosine kinase inhibitor and a biodegradable polymer that is effective to facilitate release of the tyrosine kinase inhibitor into the vitreous of an eye for an extended period of time. The therapeutic agents of the microspheres can be associated with a biodegradable polymer matrix, such as a matrix that is substantially free of a polyvinyl alcohol. The microspheres can be placed into an eye to treat or reduce the occurrence of one or more ocular conditions.

Abstract: A delivery system that includes a bone growth promoting material encapsulated within a water absorptive gelatinizable covering is used to promote bone growth in order to repair a bone defect and/or strengthen a weakened bone region. The delivery system may be shaped and sized in order to fit within a bleeding wound (e.g. one that is formed in the gingiva when a tooth is extracted). The covering may be formed of a gelatinizable gauze that forms a gel-like material when moistened with water. The delivery system is contained within a moisture resistant package prior to use. Alternatively, the delivery system comprises a bone growth promoting material and thickening agent contained within a syringe that, upon adding water, form a viscous gel or stiff putty. A polymerizable resin may be placed over the bone growth composition after placement on a bone to form a protective barrier layer.

Abstract: Biocompatible intraocular implants include a steroid and a polymer associated with each other to facilitate release of the steroid into an eye for a period of time greater than about two months. The steroid may be associated with a biodegradable polymer matrix, such as a matrix of a two biodegradable polymers. Or, the steroid may be associated with a polymeric coating having one or more openings effective to permit the steroid to be released into an external environment. The implants may be placed in an eye to treat one or more ocular conditions. The steroid is released from the implant for more than about two months, and may be release for more than several years.

Abstract: Ocular inserts including a cylindrical body, a lumen and a hydrophilic polymer and strips thereof are suitable for contact with an eye of a subject suffering from an eye disorder. While in contact with an eye, the ocular inserts may be used for releasing various agents, including pharmaceutically active agents, and effecting a treatment of one or more eye disorders.

Abstract: A method to provide a therapeutic agent to an eye of a patient by implanting or inject a device that stably fits a particular location or position in the eye. The method thus provides agent inside the eye for a longer duration of agent release over a space-occupying area inside the eye.

Abstract: The present invention relates to drug delivery systems comprising ocular implant, which include organic molecules, capable of modulating tyrosine kinase signal transduction in order to regulate, modulate and/or inhibit abnormal cell proliferation, in combination with a polymer, which polymer serves to control, modify, modulate and/or slow the release of the therapeutic component into the environment of the eye in which said composite is placed.

Abstract: A drug delivery system (DDS) comprised of segmented biodegradable implants sized and suitable for implantation in an ocular region or site and methods for treating ocular conditions. The segmented implants provide an extended release of an active agent at a therapeutically effective amount for a period of time between 50 days and one year, or longer, and permit the DDS to have segments that possess individual and different drug release characteristics.

Abstract: The present invention provides implants comprising a therapeutic drug and a polymer containing polylactic acid (PLA) and optionally polyglycolic acid (PGA). The present invention also provides methods of maintaining a therapeutic level of a drug in a subject, releasing a therapeutic drug at a substantially linear rate, and treating schizophrenia and other diseases and disorders, utilizing implants of the present invention.

Abstract: A method, device, and system for easier, consistent, and comfortable delivery of therapeutic agents to the front of the eye.

Abstract: This invention describes the use of polymerizable surfactants as comonomers in forming ophthalmic devices such as contact lenses, intraocular lenses, corneal implants, etc.

Abstract: A composition comprising a polymer that comprises oxidated hyaluronic acid cross-linked by a dihydrazide is disclosed. The polymer is a hydrogel exhibiting the following properties: a) transparent and colorless; and b) transforming from a liquid state into a gel-matrix at 37° C. These characteristics make it useful as a vitreous humor substitute.

Abstract: Biocompatible intraocular implants include a steroid and a polymer associated with each other to facilitate release of the steroid into an eye for a period of time greater than about two months. The steroid may be associated with a biodegradable polymer matrix, such as a matrix of a two biodegradable polymers. Or, the steroid may be associated with a polymeric coating having one or more openings effective to permit the steroid to be released into an external environment. The implants may be placed in an eye to treat one or more ocular conditions. The steroid is released from the implant for more than about two months, and may be release for more than several years.

Abstract: The present invention relates to polymeric compositions useful in the manufacture of biocompatible medical devices. More particularly, the present invention relates to certain cationic monomers capable of polymerization to form polymeric compositions having desirable physical characteristics useful in the manufacture of ophthalmic devices. The polymer compositions comprise polymerized fluorinated polyether monomer end-capped with ethylenically unsaturated cationic hydrophilic groups.

Abstract: Disclosed are novel methods of treatment for retinal diseases and conditions including age-related macular degeneration, genetic-based retinal degenerations and retinal detachment. A novel glycan binding protein thought to be a cell surface receptor has been discovered in the retina. The retinal glycan binding receptor is shown to play an important role in promoting assembly of outer segment (OS) membranes by the photoreceptor cells of the eye, a process that is essential for vision. Based on the finding that certain sugars can bind with very high affinity to the retinal glycan receptor and stimulate its function, the invention provides novel therapeutic agents for treatment of retinal diseases that are multivalent N-linked glycans. Preferred pharmaceutical compositions in accordance with the present invention comprise active agents having the general formula: (Gal-GlcNAc)n-Man3-GlcNAc2, where n is 1-4.

Abstract: Biocompatible coatings for medical devices are disclosed. Specifically, polymer coatings designed to control the release of bioactive agents from medical devices in vivo are disclosed wherein the solubility parameters of polymers and drugs are closely matched to control elute rate profiles. The present application also discloses providing vascular stents with controlled release coatings and related methods for making these coatings.

Abstract: Methods for reducing or preventing transplant rejection in the eye of an individual are described, comprising: a) performing an ocular transplant procedure; and b) implanting in the eye a bioerodible drug delivery system comprising an immunosuppressive agent and a bioerodible polymer.

Abstract: The invention provides biodegradable implants sized for implantation in an ocular region and methods for treating medical conditions of the eye. The implants are formed from a mixture of hydrophilic end and hydrophobic end PLGA, and deliver active agents into an ocular region without a high burst release.

Abstract: Methods for reducing or preventing transplant rejection in the eye of an individual are described, comprising: a) performing an ocular transplant procedure; and b) implanting in the eye a bioerodible drug delivery system comprising an immunosuppressive agent and a bioerodible polymer.

Abstract: Ophthalmically therapeutic materials, such as liquid-containing compositions and polymeric drug delivery systems, include a therapeutic component that includes an Glucocorticoid Derivative which, upon delivery to the posterior segment of a mammalian eye, does not significantly diffuse to the anterior segment of said eye. Methods of making and using the present materials are also described.

Abstract: Porous microperforators (210A), preferably in an array of multiple perforators are employed for delivery of a drug, where the micro-perforators may dissolve in situ. Suitable micro-perforators may include multiple layers of dissolvable materials to effect sequential drug delivery. In further aspects, contemplated micro-perforators may employ a diagnostic device in which a detector layer or detector is operationally coupled to the micro-perforators.

Abstract: Methods for reducing or preventing neovascularization or edema in the eye by implanting in the eye a bioerodible drug delivery system comprising an immunosuppressive agent and a bioerodible polymer.

Abstract: The invention provides biodegradable implants sized for implantation in an ocular region and methods for treating medical conditions of the eye. The implants are formed from a mixture of hydrophilic end and hydrophobic end PLGA, and deliver active agents into an ocular region without a high burst release.

Abstract: The invention provides a controlled release bioactive agent delivery device for treatment of an eye that includes a body member having a direction of extension, a longitudinal axis along the direction of extension, and a proximal end and a distal end, wherein at least a portion of the body member deviates from the direction of extension, and a polymeric coated composition in contact with a surface of the body member, the polymeric coated composition including a first polymer, a second polymer, and a bioactive agent. The first polymer and the second polymer are hydrophobic, and the body member has a length such that, upon placement of the device at an implantation site within a posterior segment of an eye, the device does not enter a central visual field of the eye. The invention also provides methods method of delivering bioactive agent to a posterior region of an eye.

Abstract: The invention provides a controlled release bioactive agent delivery device that includes a body member having a direction of extension, a longitudinal axis along the direction of extension, and a proximal end and a distal end, wherein at least a portion of the body member deviates from the direction of extension, and a polymeric coated composition in contact with the body member, the polymeric coated composition including a first polymer, a second polymer, and a bioactive agent, wherein the first polymer comprises polyalkyl(meth)acrylate, aromatic poly(meth)acrylate, or a combination of polyalkyl(meth)acrylate and aromatic poly(meth)acrylate, and wherein the second polymer comprises poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate). The invention also provides methods of delivering a bioactive agent to a patient in a controlled release manner, as well as methods of making a controlled release bioactive agent delivery device.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a pulsatile ophthalmic peri-corneal drug delivery device. The device includes an annular body and a mechanism for releasing multiple separate and distinct doses of a therapeutic composition over an extended period of time.

Abstract: A collagen corneal shield for placement on the outer surface of the eye for protection of the eye, for delivery of drugs to the eye, or for both protection and drug delivery to the eye, functions without obstructing vision. The shield has a first, central portion comprising non-crosslinked collagen capable of rapid decomposition in the presence of enzymes in the tears, and a second portion comprising crosslinked collagen which decomposes slowly in the presence of enzymes in the tears so that it remains on the eye for a period of time longer than the first portion. The first portion of the shield covers the central portion of the cornea and the second portion of the shield extends outward from the first portion. As a result of decomposition of the first portion the corneal shield becomes a ring or washer shape around the central portion and at least a portion of the cornea is no longer covered by the shield so that vision is not obstructed.

Abstract: The invention provides implantable sustained release bioactive agent delivery devices that include a body member having a direction of extension, a longitudinal axis along the direction of extension, and a proximal end and a distal end, wherein at least a portion of the body member deviates from the direction of extension; and a polymeric coated composition in contact with a surface of the body member, the polymeric coated composition including a first polymer, a second polymer, and a bioactive agent. The polymeric coated composition is formulated to provide controlled release of bioactive agent over time when introduced into physiological conditions. Methods of preparing implantable devices configured and formulated to provide controlled release of bioactive agent are also provided.

Abstract: A biodegradable, bioabsorbable medical device with a coating for capturing progenitor endothelial cells in vivo and delivering a therapeutic agent at the site of implantation. The coating on the medical device is provided with a biabsorbable polymer composition such as a bioabsorbable polymer, copolymer, or terpolymer, and a copolymer or terpolymer additive for controlling the rate of delivery of the therapeutic agent.

Abstract: The subject is cross-linked polymer matrices, which are used as active substance supports and can be applied locally or parenterally in human or animal bodies. The cross-linked polymer matrices are in particular self-dissolving cross-linked polymer matrices.

Abstract: Drug delivery devices, and methods of delivering pharmaceutically active agents to a target tissue within a body using such devices, are disclosed. One drug delivery device includes a body having an internal surface for disposing on a target tissue and a well having an opening to the internal surface. An inner core comprising a drug containing portion and an expandable material is disposed in the well.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for delivery of pigment epithelium derived factor (PEDF) to the eye utilizing encapsulated PEDF-secreting cells and related methods for the treatment and prevention of ophthalmic diseases and disorders.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the design and composition of a depot implant for optimal delivery of growth factors to treat bone avascular necrosis, in that such depot implant is constructed to be in a cylinder (rod) or sphere shape and have a natural or synthetic polymer scaffold with or without impregnated calcium phosphate particles. The density of the depot is higher than a typical BMP sponge carrier to facilitate its implantation and slower release of the growth factor. The scaffold is such that it has adequate porosity and pore size to facilitate growth factor seeding and diffusion throughout the whole of the bone structure resulting in increased new blood vessel growth and density in the avascular necrotic bone. In addition, the shape of the depot implant allows for delivery through a cannula or large bore needle.

Abstract: This invention provides for biocompatible and biodegradable syringeable liquid, implantable solid, and injectable gel pharmaceutical formulations useful for the treatment of systemic and local disease states.

Abstract: A biodegradable and biocompatible nontoxic polymeric composition is provided which includes a base material such as a crystallizable polymer, copolymer, or terpolymer, and a copolymer or terpolymer additive. Medical devices manufactured from the composition are also provided.

Abstract: Methods for reducing or preventing transplant rejection in the eye of an individual are described, comprising: a) performing an ocular transplant procedure; and b) implanting in the eye a bioerodible drug delivery system comprising an immunosuppressive agent and a bioerodible polymer.

Abstract: Use of a biological material containing: e) a three-dimensional matrix based on a hyaluronic acid derivative and optionally f) chondrocytes and/or mesenchymal cells partially or completely differentiated towards chondrocytes for the preparation of a graft to be surgically implanted into a joint cartilage damaged by or to be protected against a degenerative and/or inflammatory pathology.