Abstract: The present invention provides improved intravaginal drug delivery devices, i.e., intravaginal rings, useful for the prophylactic administration of dapivirine in combination with either an antimicrobial compound or a contraceptive to a human. The present invention also provides methods of blocking DNA polymerization by an HIV reverse transcriptase enzyme, methods of preventing HIV infection in a female human, methods of treating HIV infection in a female human, methods of preventing unintended pregnancy in a female human, and methods of preparing intravaginal rings.

Abstract: The disclosure provides biomedical devices comprising indicator agents sensitive to the environment of use, methods of using same to enhance adherence to a treatment or usage regimen, and systems for monitoring compliance of use of the biomedical device. The biomedical device may be an intravaginal ring comprised of biocompatible polymeric material having indicator agent incorporated therein capable of producing a detectable change in response to a stimulus within the vaginal environment.

Abstract: A tampon and delivery system for a pharmaceutical, holistic or medicinal component, includes: (1) a tampon having a generally cylindrical shape including a leading end and a cylindrical outer surface; (2) an outer delivery sheath applied to at least a portion of the cylindrical outer surface of the tampon, distal from the leading end (and preferably leaving the leading end exposed), where the outer delivery sheath comprises a formulation including (a) a water soluble polymer film carrier and (b) a pharmaceutical, holistic or medicinal component; and (3) an applicator containing the tampon and applied delivery sheath. Methods for preparation of the delivery system and methods of use are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention provides nutritional compositions that are employed as oral supplementation to the human diet. The compositions of the present invention provide for supplementation to the diet of the cancer patient, as well as preventative dietary supplementation aimed at supporting the human immune system for those not currently suffering from cancer. The present invention is comprised of specific combinations of selected forms selenium, chromium, and molybdenum in c combination with a fish oil.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a composition for intravaginal and/or for internal mucosal application, comprising an effective amount of a sulfated polysaccharide, one or more of a natural quaternary polymer, a quaternary molecular compound, a metalloproteinase inhibitor, one or more anti-inflammatory agent, an acid pH control buffering system or any combination thereof, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. The invention is further related to a method of treating or alleviating vaginal infection, vaginal dryness, vaginal or vulvo vaginal atrophy, vaginal itching, dyspareunia, vaginal or vulvar pain, vaginal or perivaginal inflammation or for promoting vaginal or wound healing, vaginal atrophy/dryness caused by radiotherapy, chemotherapy and/or hormonal treatment and decreased vaginal boundary lubrication or a disease or condition associated therewith or of improving vaginal boundary lubrication.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a fertility-enhancing composition for human male fertility therapy and a method for using the same to improve or enhance human male fertility. The nutritional supplement composition of the invention includes an effective amount of L-carnitine, coenzyme Q10, vitamin B12, N-acetyl L-cysteine, and grape seed extract.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for oral administration of a liquid containing an active substance to a subject for improved absorption into the subject's bloodstream. It includes the steps of providing a delivery device containing the liquid and having a mouthpiece for directing the liquid in a defined direction during delivery; directing the mouthpiece toward a localized area of the subject's mouth being especially suitable for relatively increased uptake and relatively faster onset of action of the active substance; and delivering a measured amount of the liquid directly to the area using the device. Also disclosed is a spray device that includes a container capable of holding a liquid containing an active substance, and a mouthpiece constructed to dispense the liquid in a defined direction and directly to a localized area of a subject's mouth, the localized area being the oral vestibule.

Abstract: The present invention provides novel pharmaceutical compositions containing triphenylethylene derivative compounds, and methods of using the composition for treatment of symptoms associated with atrophic vaginitis. The pharmaceutical compositions are prepared for the vaginal administration of triphenylethylene derivative compounds in single or combination therapies. Preferably, the triphenylethylene derivative is tamoxifen.

Abstract: An edible oral film strip dosage form containing an unpalatable acidic active pharmaceutical ingredient, particularly ketoprofen, and an ion exchange resin as a primary taste masking agent, along with an optional alkaline agent and further optionally containing one or more secondary taste masking agents is provided. The edible oral film strip dosage matrix is formed from at least one water soluble or miscible polymer(s). The optional secondary taste masking ingredients include one or more of flavoring agent(s), sweetener(s), cooling sensation agent(s), and taste receptor blocker(s). The inventive dosages minimize or completely mask the bitterness, burning sensation and throat irritation associated with many acidic active pharmaceutical ingredients. Methods for preparing the inventive edible oral film strip dosage forms are disclosed, as well as their method of administration.

Abstract: This invention relates to an externally applied ointment that aids in relieving irritation, pain or mild inflammation of the skin or mucous membranes associated with hemorrhoids and the method of using such ointment lotion. The formulation of the present invention contains phenylephrine HCl, lidocaine grape skin/seed/leaf extract and aloe plants extract.

Abstract: The present invention provides topical compositions and methods for administering tamoxifen citrate while minimizing the incidence and or severity of adverse drug experiences associated with tamoxifen therapy. In one aspect, these compositions and methods provide a lower plasma concentration of tamoxifen metabolites, such as 4-hydroxytamoxifen and N-desmethyltamoxifen, which is presumed to be contributing at least in part to some of the adverse drug experiences, while maintaining sufficient tamoxifen as the sole active agent to benefit a subject with tamoxifen therapy.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods, compositions and kits for neutralizing alkaline hair. The present invention is also directed to methods, compositions and kits for straightening human hair. The methods comprise neutralizing the hair with a hair neutralizing composition comprising at least one fatty acid. The compositions comprise neutralizing compositions comprising at least one fatty acid. The kits comprise an alkali hair relaxer or components for preparing such a relaxer and the hair neutralizing compositions.

Abstract: Hydrogel lenses are infused with a drug for the treatment of posterior segment disease. The lenses are placed in contact with the subject's cornea. Drugs can be passively released from the hydrogel and can migrate around the globe of the eye to the posterior segment.

Abstract: The present invention provides a hair graft comprising (a) tissue engineered skin comprising a tissue engineered epidermal layer, a tissue engineered dermal layer, and hair follicle progenitor cells and (b) a scaffold. The invention also provides methods of making and using the hair grafts of the present invention.

Abstract: A fiber-reinforced composite ring for the controlled release of at least one bioactive agent includes a biocompatible matrix reinforced with absorbable/biodegradable fibers capable of providing the mechanical properties needed for inserting and maintaining the ring in a body cavity for a desired period of time. Such ring system as can be used for the intravaginal, intraperitoneal, and subcutaneous delivery of at least one bioactive agent, including those used as contraceptives, antimicrobial agents, and/or antiviral agents, as well as those for the treatment of cancer.

Abstract: An intravaginal drug delivery device comprises a device body comprising a hydrophobic carrier material having at least one channel defining at least one opening to the exterior of said device body, said at least one channel being adapted to receive at least one drug-containing insert; at least one drug-containing insert positioned in said at least one channel, said drug-containing insert capable of releasing a pharmaceutically effective amount of at least one drug suitable for intravaginal administration and containing about 1% to about 70% of at least one water-soluble release enhancer, both the drug and the water-soluble release enhancer dispersed in an insert carrier material; wherein said hydrophobic carrier material and said insert carrier material may be the same or different; and wherein said at least one drug-containing insert is exposed on said exterior of said device body when said intravaginal drug delivery device is in use.

Abstract: The subject invention provides a drug delivery system comprising at least one compartment consisting of (i) a drug-loaded thermoplastic polymer core, (ii) a drug-loaded thermoplastic polymer intermediate layer and (iii) a non-medicated thermoplastic polymer skin covering the intermediate layer, wherein said intermediate layer is loaded with (a) crystals of a first pharmaceutically active compound and with (b) a second pharmaceutically active compound in dissolved form and wherein said core is loaded with said second compound in dissolved form.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a vaginal suppository comprising an inert vehicle and lactic acid or a salt thereof for the treatment and/or prophylaxis of disorders in the urogenital tract. It also relates to the use of such a suppository for the production of a medicament for the treatment and/or prophylaxis of disorders in the urogenital tract as well as to a method for the treatment and/or prophylaxis of disorders in the urogenital tract.

Abstract: A hydrophilic matrix is disclosed which comprises: a) at least one polyacrylic acid derivative in preferred amounts of 0.5-40%, b) at least one cellulose ether in preferred amounts of 30-90% and c) at least one disintegrant in preferred amounts of 2-50%, with respect to the weight of the matrix. This matrix is used in combination with at least one pharmaceutically acceptable active principle for manufacturing solid bioadhesive controlled release formulations for the treatment of vaginal disorders, such as vulvovaginal candidiasis, bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis. According to a preferred embodiment, the matrix is used in amounts of about 5-60% and the active principle in amounts of about 2-70%, with respect to the weight of the formulation.

Abstract: The subject invention provides a drug delivery system comprising at least one compartment consisting of (i) a drug-loaded thermoplastic polymer core, (ii) a drug-loaded thermoplastic polymer intermediate layer and (iii) a non-medicated thermoplastic polymer skin covering the intermediate layer, wherein said intermediate layer is loaded with (a) crystals of a first pharmaceutically active compound and with (b) a second pharmaceutically active compound in dissolved form and wherein said core is loaded with said second compound in dissolved form.

Abstract: Disclosed are compositions in the form of a bioadhesive gel that adheres to the mucous membranes, in particular the vaginal mucosa, for the application of active ingredients and/or principles, comprising hydroxyethylcellulose as the only gelling agent.

Abstract: The invention relates to coating of suppositories containing free unsaturated fatty acid, fatty acid ethyl ester and fatty acid monoglyceride that are susceptible to oxidative degradation. The coating retards oxidative degradation of unsaturated fatty acids and gives the suppository a non-oily and smooth surface. The coating will enhance the shelf-life of the suppository and allow their storage at room temperature for extended time period. The coating may or may not contain medicament such as local anesthetic or steroid. According to this invention chemically unstable fatty acids in coated suppositories can be used to stimulate the process of defecation or to treat disorders such as hemorrhoids, bacterial infections, viral infections and inflammations, as well as against fissura ani and pruritus ani. Furthermore, coating suppositories, that contain high concentrations of free fatty acids, can reduce acid induced rectal irritation.

Abstract: Formulations have been developed which assist individuals having an addiction such as smoking to reduce or quit engaging in the addictive behavior. Representative behaviors include smoking, excessive alcohol or food ingestion, drug addiction, and ingestion of caffeine or junk food providing quick “highs”. The formulations assist the smoker to become dissatisfied with smoking, until he or she willingly gives up the habit or at least cuts down on the number of cigarettes smoked per day as an initial step towards quitting in the future. The formulations can also be used in conjunction with other known formulations, such as nicotine gum or patch. The formulations contain hydrophilic polymers, for example, polyethylene glycol (PEG) alone or in combination or polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) (also known as povidone or polyvidone alone or in combination.), sweeteners and/or flavorings, viscosity modifiers/binders, and pH or buffering agents.

Abstract: Transluminal drug delivery method and device embodiments can include a urethral suppository formulated to prevent or treat diseases of the urethra and surrounding organs, such as interstitial cystitis or urethritis, by enhancing the absorption of a therapeutic agent of the suppository into body tissues without adversely affecting the natural defense mechanisms of these tissues. Adverse effects on the glycosaminoglycan (GAG) barrier can be mitigated or eliminated by the presence of a suitable polysaccharide in the suppository.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of easing childbirth using a composition having a lubricant effect for use in particular during human vaginal delivery. The methods comprise applying a bioadhesive composition comprising (a) a polyacrylic acid, (b) a water-soluble thickener and (c) a humectant and (d) optionally water.

Abstract: This invention provides a spermicidally and virucidally effective, vaginally applicable formulation, having the following approximate composition of essential ingredients: at least one benzalkonium chloride, in an amount from 0.05 to 0-0.2%; at least one spermicide selected from the group consisting of nonoxynols in an amount of from 0.05-12%, octoxynol-9 in an amount of from 0.05-4%, and triclosan in an amount from 0.05-2%; a biologically acceptable emollient, in an amount from 1-5%; hydroxypropyimethyl cellulose, in an amount from 0.1-3%; sodium carbomer, in an amount from 0.1-1%; de-ionized water, making up the balance. The composition has the attributes of (a) a semi-solid, essentially clear gel consistency and appearance, and (b) the ability to maintain a presence in the human vagina in the presence of mucous secretions therein, in virucidally effective amounts, for at least 24 hours after application thereto.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a mesalamine rectal suppository designed to provide improved comfort of use. One embodiment of the invention is a mesalamine rectal suppository comprising mesalamine and one or more pharmaceutically acceptable excipients, wherein the drug load of the suppository ranges from 35% to 50%. Yet another embodiment of the invention is a mesalamine rectal suppository comprising mesalamine having a tap density ranging from about 600 to about 800 g/L (as measured by USP <616>) and a hard fat having an ascending melting point of 32 to 35.5° C. Yet another embodiment is a mesalamine rectal suppository comprising mesalamine particles and one or more pharmaceutically acceptable excipients, where the mesalamine particles have a surface area of from about 0.1 m2/g to about 2.8 m2/g (e.g., from about 0.1 m2/g to about 1.3 m2/g). Methods of preparing and methods of treatment with mesalamine suppositories are also provided.

Abstract: Effective treatments of pain and/or inflammation are provided. Through the administration of an effective amount of at least one alpha adrenergic agonist and at least one beta adrenergic agonist at or near a target site, one can reduce, prevent or treat pain and/or inflammation.

Abstract: This invention describes a partially absorbable, fiber-reinforced composite in the form of a ring, or a suture-like thread, with modified terminals for use as a controlled delivery system of at least one bioactive agent, wherein said composite comprising an absorbable fiber construct capable of providing time-dependent mechanical properties of a biostable elastomeric matrix containing an absorbable microparticulate ion-exchanger to modulate the release of the bioactive agent(s) for a desired period(s) of time at a specific biological site; this can be a vaginal canal, peritoneal cavity, scrotum, prostate gland, an ear loop or subcutaneous tissue. Such drug delivery systems can be used for the local administration of at least one bioactive agent, including those used as contraceptive, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and/or antiviral agents as well as for cancer treatment.

Abstract: A biodegradable biodelivery device is disclosed. The biodelivery device is formed from a polymer comprising the reaction product of a polyol and a polyacid. When exposed to water, the polymer degrades through hydrolysis. Of particular advantage, the polymer can be formed so as to be elastic and flexible. In one embodiment, the polymer is formed into a vaginal insert. As the polymer degrades, the polymer releases acid to a vaginal environment for decreasing the pH of the environment.

Abstract: A method is provided for manufacturing a medicated tampon assembly having a tampon body, the method including applying a formulation including a therapeutic agent to a substrate to produce a plurality of dosage forms; separating one of the dosage forms from the substrate; and coupling one of the dosage forms to the tampon body. A medicated tampon assembly is provided including a dosage form including a formulation including a therapeutic agent; a substrate portion separated from a substrate, wherein the substrate portion is coupled to the dosage form; and a tampon body having a distal end, wherein the substrate portion is coupled to the distal end of the tampon body.

Abstract: Disclosed are compositions for inhibiting transmission of a sexually transmitted infection that contain one or more polyanionic microbicides, such as carrageenans, including lambda carrageenan, as well as water-soluble metal salts and specified antiretroviral agents comprising NNRTIs and NRTIs. Also disclosed are methods for making and using the compositions.

Abstract: The subject invention provides a drug delivery system comprising at least one compartment consisting of (i) a drug-loaded thermoplastic polymer core, (ii) a drug-loaded thermoplastic polymer intermediate layer and (iii) a non-medicated thermoplastic polymer skin covering the intermediate layer, wherein said intermediate layer is loaded with (a) crystals of a first pharmaceutically active compound and with (b) a second pharmaceutically active compound in dissolved form and wherein said core is loaded with said second compound in dissolved form.

Abstract: The present invention provides a process for making an edible film having a substantially uniform distribution of components, which includes the steps of combining a water-based film polymer solution and a slurry-type mixture comprising a water-active component and a solvent; mixing the polymer solution and slurry-type mixture for about 10 minutes or less; dispensing the mixed solution and slurry-type mixture to form a film; and drying the film to evaporate the water and solvent. Films made by the process are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a non-hormonal, biocompatible, and biodegradable intravaginal device for the delivery of spermiostatic, spermicidal and anti-infectious agents. The present invention also relates to methods of contraception using such a device, as well as the prevention and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases and vaginal infections through the application of the device.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a non-hormonal, biocompatible, and biodegradable intravaginal device for the delivery of spermiostatic, spermicidal and anti-infectious agents. The present invention also relates to methods of contraception using such a device, as well as the prevention and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases and vaginal infections through the application of the device.

Abstract: An aqueous nitroimidazole composition comprises metronidazole, tinidazole or a combination thereof at a concentration greater than the solubility of the free base form of the nitroimidazole in water at 20° C., and a nitroimidazole crystallization-inhibiting amount of at least one organic acid. The organic acid preferably is a lower alkyl carboxylic acid (e.g., acetic acid), a polybasic acid (e.g., citric acid, tartaric acid, malic acid, polyacrylic acid, and the like), or a combination thereof. The composition can further include a thickening agent, to form a gel. The composition is free from organic co-solvents, water-soluble vitamins, and cyclodextrins; and free from nitroimidazole crystals at an ambient temperature of about 20° C. Methods of preparing the composition are also described.

Abstract: Drug delivery compositions which are suitable for vaginal administration for the treatment of diseases and disorders in the urogenital tract are described. The compositions may be in the form of a tablet, liquid suspension or dispersion, dried powder, topical ointment, cream, foam, suppository, or aerosol. The drug delivery compositions are administered directly to the vagina and do not require the use of a solid device. This method of administration reduces the systematic levels of the drugs.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a mesalamine rectal suppository designed to provide improved comfort of use. One embodiment of the invention is a mesalamine rectal suppository comprising mesalamine and one or more pharmaceutically acceptable excipients, wherein the drug load of the suppository ranges from 35% to 50%. Another embodiment of the invention is a mesalamine rectal suppository comprising from about 850 to about 1150 mg mesalamine and one or more pharmaceutically acceptable excipients, wherein the total weight of the suppository ranges from about 2250 to about 2700 mg. Another embodiment of the invention is a mesalamine rectal suppository comprising from about 400 to about 600 mg mesalamine and one or more pharmaceutically acceptable excipients, wherein the total weight of the suppository ranges from about 870 to about 1715 mg.

Abstract: A vaginal insert formed from a composition that, prior to introduction to the vagina, has the physical properties of a liquid, semi-soft gel, paste, foam, or viscous material so that it can be effectively delivered to the vaginal canal. After introduction into the vagina, the composition will expand and/or solidify into a semi-solid or solid structure to substantially fill the entire “H” shaped space of the vagina and a portion of the rugal folds along the length of the vaginal canal. Upon solidifying, the composition defines an insert that, in one embodiment, is suitable for use as a tampon and, in another embodiment, is suitable for use as an incontinence device.

Abstract: A suppository delivery device that allows for the insertion of a suppository without having contact with the suppository or rectum. The suppository delivery device includes a stabilizing platform, a stabilizer to which the suppository is mounted, and a package, which protects the user's hands and fingers from the suppository and rectum and prevents germs from contacting the suppository before being inserted into the rectum.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method of treating a condition associated with an overactive bladder, comprising administering to a female an intravaginal device, comprising: (a) an annular first matrix comprising a pocket and a pocket wall, wherein the pocket wall has a uniform thickness, and wherein the pocket wall encompasses the pocket; and (b) a second matrix comprising an anticholinergic agent located in the pocket.

Abstract: The present invention provides improved intravaginal drug delivery devices, i.e., intravaginal rings, useful for the prophylactic administration of an antimicrobial compound, e.g., Dapivirine, to a human. The intravaginal rings of the invention address previous stability issues by utilizing a platinum catalyst (e.g., in the form of a platinum-siloxane complex) for the cross-linking reaction. The vaginal rings surprisingly achieve relatively high and steady release rates in vivo with a matrix ring containing a relatively small loading dose. While the matrix rings of the present invention have in vivo the steady release rates associated with reservoir rings, they are easier and less expensive to manufacture. The present invention also provides methods of blocking DNA polymerization by an HIV reverse transcriptase enzyme, methods of preventing HIV infection in a female human, methods of treating HIV infection in a female human, and methods of preparing platinum-catalyzed intravaginal rings.

Abstract: Carbohydrates, in particular mannose containing carbohydrates, are used as a promotor of cell growth. Specifically, polysaccharide hydrolysates are shown to have superior efficacy in promoting the growth of cells, synbiotic foods, prebiotics and pharmaceutical compositions containing mannose containing carbohydrates and polysaccharide hydrolysates described.

Abstract: A dihydroxyphenyl cross-linked macromolecular network is provided that is useful in artificial tissue and tissue engineering applications, particularly to provide a synthetic macromolecular network for a wide variety of tissue types. In particular, artificial or synthetic cartilage, vocal cord material, vitreous material, soft tissue material and mitral valve material are described. In an embodiment, the network is composed of tyramine-substituted and cross-linked hyaluronan molecules, wherein cross-linking is achieved via peroxidase-mediated dityramine-linkages that can be performed in vivo. The dityramine bonds provide a stable, coherent hyaluronan-based hydrogel with desired physical properties.

Abstract: Pharmaceutically acceptable hydrogel polymers of natural, recombinant or synthetic origin, or hybrids thereof, are introduced in a dry, less hydrated, or substantially deswollen state and rehydrate in a physiological environment to undergo a volumetric expansion and to affect sealing, plugging, or augmentation of tissue, defects in tissue, or of organs. The hydrogel polymers may deliver therapeutic entities by controlled release at the site. Methods to form useful devices from such polymers, and to implant the devices are provided.

Abstract: Intravaginal ring devices have multicomponent drug releasing substrates loaded with at least one bioactive agent and designed to effect contraception and/or provide means to treat and/or prevent diseases caused by infectious bacteria, fungi, virus, and retroviruses, without compromising the primary function of normally occurring, useful vaginal microflora in female patients.

Abstract: This invention generally covers a ringed-mesh intravaginal device and applicator therefore wherein the ringed-mesh comprises a composite ring comprising a flexible matrix containing one or more bioactive agent or agents and needed excipients or modulators, and the said matrix is reinforced with a fibrous construct to provided needed initial and in-use biomechanical stability. Of special application of the medicated, ringed-mesh is its use for securing contraception relying on biomechanical, pharmacological, and biochemical means.

Abstract: A dihydroxyphenyl cross-linked macromolecular network is provided that is useful in artificial tissue and tissue engineering applications, particularly to provide a synthetic macromolecular network for a wide variety of tissue types. In particular, artificial or synthetic cartilage, vocal cord material, vitreous material, soft tissue material and mitral valve material are described. In an embodiment, the network is composed of tyramine-substituted and cross-linked hyaluronan molecules, wherein cross-linking is achieved via peroxidase-mediated dityramine-linkages that can be performed in vivo. The dityramine bonds provide a stable, coherent hyaluronan-based hydrogel with desired physical properties.

Abstract: A method is provided for manufacturing a medicated tampon assembly having a tampon body, the method including applying a formulation including a therapeutic agent to a substrate to produce a plurality of dosage forms; separating one of the dosage forms from the substrate; and coupling one of the dosage forms to the tampon body. A medicated tampon assembly is provided including a dosage form including a formulation including a therapeutic agent; a substrate portion separated from a substrate, wherein the substrate portion is coupled to the dosage form; and a tampon body having a distal end, wherein the substrate portion is coupled to the distal end of the tampon body.