Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of female sterilization including delivery of a macrolide antibiotic or a pharmacologically acceptable salt of a macrolide antibiotic to the uterine cavity or fallopian tube of the female. The present invention also relates to a method of endometrial ablation including delivery of a macrolide antibiotic or a pharmacologically acceptable salt of a macrolide antibiotic to the uterine cavity of a female. The endometrial ablation effected in this manner may be used to treat the conditions of excessive menstrual bleeding or menstrual pain in women. A preferred macrolide antibiotic is erythromycin, or its pharmacologically acceptable salts.

Abstract: A method for preventing, ameliorating, and/or treating memory and other cognitive disorders associated with aging, such as Age-Associated Memory Impairment (also known as Age-Related Cognitive Decline), and other age-related impairments of, and/or changes in, cognitive function. The method comprises administering to a subject a therapeutically effective amount of a lipid-soluble thiamine or a prodrug thereof in an amount averaging from about 0.02 to about 0.5 grams per day per 70 kg body weight over a period of three months or longer.

Abstract: The invention relates to an intravaginally-dissolvable contraceptive suppository, a method of using said suppository, and an improved method of manufacturing said birth control device. The suppositories of the invention, which comprise a lyophilized foam and a contraceptive, have a dissolution time of at least about 2 hours, and up to about 24 hours, and provide superior protection against pregnancy.

Abstract: In pharmaceutics for mucosal administration containing pharmacologically active peptides or proteins and tolmetin or salts thereof exhibited very excellent effect as mucosal absorption enhancers.Furthermore, when the pharmaceutics for mucosal administration are for rectal administration, the suppository in which at least either the active ingredient, peptide or protein, or the mucosal absorption enhancer is converted to a complex with a high molecular compound dissolving in water at pH 5 or higher and together uniformly dispersed in a fatty suppository base exhibited markedly improved rectal absorbability compared with that of conventional pharmaceutics for rectal administration and at the same time increased stability of the peptide or protein which is the active ingredient.

Abstract: The invention relates to an intravaginal drug delivery device for administration to a female mammal of certain 17.beta.-oestradiol precursors at a substantially constant rate for a period of at least three weeks. The 17.beta.-oestradiol precursor is a 17.beta.-oestradiol moiety in which the, or each, hydroxyl group of the 17.beta.-oestradiol moiety is blocked by a blocking group, which blocking group is readily removed from the 17.beta.-oestradiol in vivo. The 17.beta.-oestradiol precursor must have either a solubility in liquid silicone of not less than 0.1 mg/100 ml or a standard k value of not less than 0.1 .mu.g/day/mm. The 17.beta.-oestradiol precursor must also have a solubility in distilled water of not less than 1 .mu.g/100 ml.

Abstract: The present invention describes a prepolymer of aliphatic polyoxaesters containing amines and/or amido groups having polymerizable end groups that may be used to produce surgical devices such as sutures, sutures with attached needles, molded devices, and the like.

Abstract: Methods and compositions for modulating the immune system of animals by activating macrophages to release cytokines and down-regulating their sensitivity to bacterial endotoxin and to conversion to cytotoxic phenotypes by the administration of stress response factors released by stressed bacteria.Methods and compositions for protecting the viability of liquid or dried cultures of bacteria by the administration of stress response factors released by stressed bacteria.

Abstract: A method and preparations for the treatment of vaginal yeast and other yeast infections is provided for the treatment of infections caused by candida albicans and cryptococcus neoformans. The method and preparations of the invention can also be used for other yeast and fungal infections including systemic, mucosal and cutaneous caused by candida and cryptococcus. The vaginal antiyeast and antifungal preparations include, in addition to suppositories and mouth washes, troches, lotions, creams, tablets and capsules containing gentian preparations as an active ingredient obtained from the, plant Radix gentianae Longdancao other active ingredients which may also be present are American Radix Ginseng, Radix Scutellariae Basica Lensis and Fructus Gardeniae Jasminoidis. For systemic fungal infections gentian preparations from the plant Radix gentianae Longdancao are taken orally in the form of lozenges, tablets, capsules or in solution form for gargling or swallowing.

Abstract: This invention pertains to the vaginal delivery of pharmacologically active agents and to polymeric formulations that allow for a prolonged release of the active agents in the vaginal environment. More specically the invention pertains to compositions for the delivery of drugs intravaginally comprising a drug or a plurality of drugs to be delivered and a thermoplastic graft copolymer, said graft copolymer being the reaction product of a polystyrene macromonomer having an ethylenically unsaturated functional group and at least one hydrophilic monomer having an ethylenically unsaturated functional group.

Abstract: Osmotically driven drug delivery devices with walls of porous hydrophobic material as the sole diffusion-limiting wall component are disclosed. Despite pores which are considerably larger than the molecular dimensions of osmotically active species in the interior of the device, despite pores which by their hydrophobic character do not permit the passage of liquid water, and despite the absence of a cellulosic semi-permeable membrane, the devices absorb water by osmosis without loss of the osmotically active species, and function in a manner analogous to osmotic pumps of the prior art. By permitting the use of hydrophobic substances as the wall material, the invention permits the device to be constructed entirely from biodegradable materials.

Abstract: An intravaginal drug delivery device for prolonged release of an active ingredient comprising a biocompatible polymer matrix containing an active ingredient to be released and an effective amount of at least one fatty acid ester and a method of inducing contraception in female warm-blooded animals, including humans.

Abstract: The invention relates to an oxidation inhibitor coating for high-melting metals selected from the group of molybdenum, tungsten, tantalum and niobium and/or alloys thereof. The oxidation inhibitor coating comprises 1 to 14% by weight boron, 0.1 to 4% by weight carbon and the balance silicon.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved intravaginal preparation containing a physiologically active peptide, which comprises a physiologically active peptide, a sucrose fatty acid ester and an organic acid with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or diluent, by which the physiologically active peptide can be absorbed safely and efficiently.

Abstract: A surgical dressing consisting of a film which carries an adhesive layer wherein the film has a hydration rate of at least 0.1 g/in.sup.2 /min.; becomes saturated when in contact with water in 3 minutes or less and absorbs at least its own weight of water. The film comprises a polyethylene oxide and a polymer or polymers selected from an ether based polyurethane and a polyether block amide. The dressing finds special use as a IV catheter site cover.

Abstract: Disclosed is a subdermally implantable drug-delivery device, which contains: a central core extending in an axial direction and having an outer surface and opposing ends, which core includes a matrix of a pharmaceutically effective amount of a subdermally administrable drug substantially uniformly dispersed in a polymeric base material; an intermediate polymeric layer overlying the outer surface of the central core; and an outer polymeric layer overlying the intermediate layer, wherein the intermediate layer controls the rate of diffusion of the drug from the central core to the outer layer. In preferred embodiments, the subdermally administrable drug is a contraceptive agent such as the 16-methylene-17-.alpha.-acetoxy-19-norprogesterone-progestin; the polymeric base material and the outer polymeric layer each contain a polydimethylsiloxane such as Silastic.RTM.; and the intermediate layer contains a porous material such as cellulose.

Abstract: Micro-encapsulated lactobacilli bacteria are orally administered to mammals, including humans, to treat or prevent antibiotic associated or other chronic or acute diarrhea. Micro-encapsulated lactobacilli bacteria are topically administered to the skin to treat or prevent recurrent skin infections, and are administered intra-vaginally to treat or prevent vaginal yeast infections.

Abstract: Vaginal application of cysteamine, cystamine, phosphocysteamine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof is effective for contraception.

Abstract: Pharmaceutical compositions comprising a calcitonin and a polyglycolysed glyceride and a method of enhancing the transdermal or transmucosal absorption of calcitonin in a mammal are disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention describes a crosslinked aliphatic polyoxaesters containing amines and/or amido groups and blends thereof with other polymers that may be used to produce surgical devices such as sutures, sutures with attached needles, molded devices, and the like. The crosslinked aliphatic polyoxaesters of the present invention is formed from an aliphatic polyoxaester having a first divalent repeating unit of formula I:?O--C(O)--C(R.sub.1)(R.sub.2)--O--(R.sub.3)--O--C(R.sub.1)(R.sub.2)--C(O)-- !Iand a second repeating unit of the formula:?--O--R.sub.12 --!.sub.U, XVIand optionally a third repeating unit with a formula selected from the group consisting of:?--O--R.sub.4 --!.sub.A, II?--O--R.sub.5 --C(O)--!.sub.B, III(?--O--R.sub.5 --C(O)!.sub.P --O--).sub.L G XIand combinations thereof wherein R.sub.12 contains an internal amine or internal amide group wherein the aliphatic polyoxaester has been crosslinked.

Abstract: Monilial Vulvovaginitis is treated by application of a composition containing one or more substances which inhibit glucose transfer into cells and cell metabolism. The composition of the invention is conveniently combined with a suitable carrier such as a non-aqueous gel and other therapeutically useful components.

Abstract: The present invention describes a new crossslinkable and crosslinked aliphatic polyoxaesters and blends thereof that may be used to produce hydrogels, surgical devices such as sutures, sutures with attached needles, molded devices, and the like. The invention also contemplates a process for producing these polyesters. The crosslinked aliphatic polyoxaesters of the present invention are formed from an aliphatic polyoxaester a first divalent repeating unit of formula I:?O--C(O)--C(R.sub.1) (R.sub.2)--O--(R.sub.3)--O--C(R.sub.1) (R.sub.2)--C(O)--! Iand a second repeating unit selected from the group of formulas consisting of:?--O--R.sub.4 --!.sub.A, II?--O--R.sub.5 --C(O)--!.sub.B, IIIand(?--O--R.sub.5 --C(O)!.sub.P --O--).sub.L G XIand combinations thereof. These aliphatic polyoxaesters may be blended with other polymers which are preferably biocompatible.

Abstract: A method of preparing a device of a selected material to have pores and pore interconnections of predetermined sizes and shapes includes the steps of forming a selectively removable open-celled porous mold form of particles which adhere to one another, with the particles corresponding to the predetermined pore sizes and shapes, and interconnections between the particles which bind them together in the form in which the connections correspond to the predetermined sizes and shapes of the pore connections. Also included are the steps of filling the vacancies between the particles and connections of the form with the selected material, and then removing the form to leave the selected material. The resulting device is at least partly porous, the pores and pore interconnections corresponding in size and shape to the particles and connections respectively.

Abstract: This invention relates to the use of L-acylcarnitine for the preparation of a drug and a technique for relieving the disease symptoms appearing in AIDS by administering an L-acylcarnitine. The invention furthermore relates to a drug for this purpose, characterized in content by L-acylcarnitine as active principle. The preferred L-acylcarnitine is L-acetylcarnitine.

Abstract: This invention relates to a novel method of manufacturing a lyophilized suppository composition wherein said suppository is made in situ in an applicator cartridge.

Abstract: The invention relates to a muco-adherent, soluble device for administering active ingredients, a method of using said device, and an improved method of manufacturing said device using a continuous, enclosed mixing device capable of operating under pressure. The devices of the invention, which comprise a lyophilized foam and an active ingredient, have a dissolution time of at least about 8 hours, and preferably at least about 24 hours, and can provide for the sustained and/or controlled release of an active ingredient for up to about 24 hours.

Abstract: The present invention describes aliphatic polyoxaesters containing amines and/or amido groups and blends thereof with other polymers that may be used to produce surgical devices such as sutures, sutures with attached needles, molded devices, and the like. The aliphatic polyoxaesters of the present invention have a first divalent repeating unit of formula I:[O--C(O)--C(R.sub.1)(R.sub.2)--O--(R.sub.3)--O--C(R.sub.1)(R.sub.2)--C(O)-- ]Iand a second repeating unit of the formula:[--O--R.sub.12 --].sub.u, XVIand optionally a third repeating unit with a formula selected from the group consisting of:[--O--R.sub.4 --].sub.A, II[--O--R.sub.5 --C(O)--].sub.B, III([--O--R.sub.5 --C(O)].sub.P --O--).sub.L G XIand combinations thereof wherein R.sub.12 contains an internal amine or internal amide group.

Abstract: The present invention describes an aliphatic polyoxaamide polymer and blends thereof that may be used to produce surgical devices such as sutures, sutures with attached needles, molded devices, and the like. The aliphatic polyoxaamide of the present invention have a first divalent repeating unit of formula I:[X--C(O)--C(R.sub.1) (R.sub.2)--O--(R.sub.3)--O--C(R.sub.1) (R.sub.2)--C(O)--] Iand a second repeating unit selected from the group of formulas consisting of:[--Y--R.sub.17 --].sub.T, I[--O--R.sub.5 --C(O)--].sub.B, and III([--O--R.sub.9 --C(O)].sub.P --O--) XIand combinations thereof, wherein X and Y are selected from the group consisting of --O-- and --N(R)--, provided both X and Y are not both --O-- and may be blended with a second polymer that is preferably biocompatable.

Abstract: Zinc(II) complexes and methods relating thereto are disclosed. The zinc(II) complexes comprise a zinc(II) ion complexed by a multi-dentate ligand. Methods of this invention include the use of the zinc(II) complexes as anti-viral agents and/or as anti-inflammatory agents. Methods of this invention also include inhibition of viral infection, as well as inhibiting transmission of sexually transmitted diseases. Exemplary zinc(II) complexes include zinc(II):neocuproine (2:1) and zinc(II):bathocuproine disulfonic acid (2:1).

Abstract: Micro-encapsulated lactobacilli bacteria are orally administered to mammals, including humans, to treat or prevent antibiotic associated or other chronic or acute diarrhea. Micro-encapsulated lactobacilli bacteria are topically administered to the skin to treat or prevent recurrent skin infections, and are administered intra-vaginally to treat or prevent vaginal yeast infections.

Abstract: Micro-encapsulated lactobacilli bacteria are orally administered to mammals, including humans, to treat or prevent antibiotic associated or other chronic or acute diarrhea. Micro-encapsulated lactobacilli bacteria are topically administered to the skin to treat or prevent recurrent skin infections, and are administered intra-vaginally to treat or prevent vaginal yeast infections.

Abstract: The present invention describes aliphatic polyoxaesters containing amines and/or amido groups and blends thereof with other polymers that may be used to produce surgical devices such as sutures, sutures with attached needles, molded devices, and the like. The aliphatic polyoxaesters of the present invention have a first divalent repeating unit of formula I:[O--C(O)--C(R.sub.1)(R.sub.2)--O--(R.sub.3)--O--C(R.sub.1)(R.sub.2)--C(O)-- ]Iand a second repeating unit of the formula:[--O--R.sub.12 --].sub.U, XVIand optionally a third repeating unit with a formula selected from the group consisting of:[--O--R.sub.4 --].sub.A, II[--O--R.sub.5 --C(O)--].sub.B, III([--O--R.sub.5 --C(O)].sub.P --O--).sub.L G XIand combinations thereof wherein R.sub.12 contains an internal amine or internal amide group.

Abstract: The present invention describes a new aliphatic polyoxaesters that is bioabsorbable and may be used to produce surgical devices such as sutures, sutures with attached needles, molded devices, and the like. The invention also contemplates a process for producing these polyesters. The aliphatic polyoxaesters of the present invention have a first divalent repeating unit of formula I:[O--C(O)--C(R.sub.1)(R.sub.2)--O--(R.sub.3)--O--C(R.sub.1)(R.sub.2)--C(O)-- ]Iand a second repeating unit selected from the group of formulas consisting of:[--O--R.sub.4 --].sub.A, II[--O--R.sub.5 --C(O)--].sub.B, and III([--O--R.sub.5 --C(O)].sub.P --O--).sub.L G XIand combinations thereof.

Abstract: Micro-encapsulated lactobacilli bacteria are orally administered to mammals, including humans, to treat or prevent antibiotic associated or other chronic or acute diarrhea. Micro-encapsulated lactobacilli bacteria are topically administered to the skin to treat or prevent recurrent skin infections, and are administered intra-vaginally to treat or prevent vaginal yeast infections.

Abstract: The present invention describes a new aliphatic polyoxaesters and blends thereof that may be used to produce surgical devices such as sutures, sutures with attached needles, molded devices, and the like. The invention also contemplates a process for producing these polyesters. The aliphatic polyoxaesters of the present invention have a first divalent repeating unit of formula I:[O--C(O)--C(R.sub.1)(R.sub.2)--O--(R.sub.3)--O--C(R.sub.1l)(R.sub.2)--C(O)- -] Iand a second repeating unit selected from the group of formulas consisting of:[--O--R.sub.4 --].sub.A, II[--O--R.sub.5 --C(O)--].sub.B, and III([--O--R.sub.5 --C(O)].sub.P --O--).sub.L G XIand combinations thereof. These aliphatic polyoxaesters may be blended with other polymers which are preferably biocompatable.

Abstract: The present invention describes an aliphatic polyoxaamide polymer and blends thereof that may be used to produce surgical devices such as sutures, sutures with attached needles, molded devices, and the like. The aliphatic polyoxaamide of the present invention have a first divalent repeating unit of formula I:[X--C(O)--C(R.sub.1)(R.sub.2)--O--(R.sub.3)--O--C(R.sub.1)(R.sub.2)--C(O)-- ]Iand a second repeating unit selected from the group of formulas consisting of:[--Y--R.sub.17 --].sub.T, I[--O--R.sub.5 --C(O)--].sub.B, and II([--O--R.sub.9 --C(O)].sub.P --O--).sub.L G XIand combinations thereof, wherein X and Y are selected from the group consisting of --O-- and --N(R)--, provided both X and Y are not both --O-- and may be blended with a second polymer that is preferably biocompatable.

Abstract: The present invention describes a new aliphatic polyoxaesters that is bioabsorbable and may be used to produce surgical devices such as sutures, sutures with attached needles, molded devices, and the like. The invention also contemplates a process for producing these polyesters. The aliphatic polyoxaesters of the present invention have a first divalent repeating unit of formula I:[O--C(O)--C(R.sub.1) (R.sub.2)--O--(R.sub.3)--O--C(R.sub.1)(R.sub.2)--C(O)--] Iand a second repeating unit of the formula:[--O--R.sub.12 --].sub.U, XVIand optionally a third repeating unit with a formula selected from the group consisting of:[--O--R.sub.4 --].sub.A, II[--O--R.sub.5 --C(O)--].sub.B, III([--O--R.sub.5 --C(O)].sub.P,--O--).sub.L G XIand combinations thereof wherein R.sub.12 contains an internal amine or internal amide group.

Abstract: A virucidal, spermicidal vaginal gel consisting essentially of povidone iodine having a povidone to iodine ratio of about 15:1 or higher containing from about one percent to about twenty percent low molecular weight povidone having a molecular weight of about 20 kd or lower, the gel having a viscosity such that a conical body drawn from a body of the same does not visibly slump at 37C. for a period of at least one minute and a method of preventing sexual transmission of disease and preventing pregnancy using the same are disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention teaches that relatively low levels of serum progesterone, 1 to 6 ng/ml, may be used to prevent endometrial cancer. The vaginal delivery of progesterone using a cross-linked polycarboxylic polymer produces this low serum progesterone level while also providing the full secretory transformation of the endometrium, indicating the efficacy of the progesterone. Such low levels of serum progesterone will decrease the risk of breast cancer experienced by women undergoing hormone replacement therapy ("HRT") and minimize the potential of other undesirable progesterone associated side effects.

Abstract: A dissolvable element containing an agent material is used for local administration of the agent material in an internal body area. The dissolvable element is made of dissolvable polymer material and/or complex carbohydrate material which are food grade materials and have selected dissolving properties, such that it remains in substantially solid form before use, and dissolves due to human body temperatures and moisture during use to release the agent material in a desired timed release and dosage. As a contraceptive, the dissolvable element is preferably a film made of polyvinyl alcohol, polyethylene oxide, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose and/or carboxymethyl cellulose. The dissolvable element may be formed as a laminate of different film layers for compound release properties, or it may be ground into particles and incorporated in a tampon or suppository. The dissolvable element may be foamed as a means for increasing its dissolution rate.

Abstract: A vaginal suppository or other type of vaginal pessary such as cream, foam or ointment, which contains as its active ingredients at least one pharmaceutically acceptable, topically safe antimicrobial agent, such as an agent selected from the group of benzalkonium chloride, cetylpyridinium chloride, chlorhexidine gluconate and povidone iodine, imidiazolidinyl urea and diazolidinyl urea and a viable colony of micro-encapsulated lactobacilli bacteria. The viable lactobacilli are included in the suppository in micro encapsulated form, which protects the bacteria during storage of the suppository from the action of the bacteriocidal agent. When exposed to the vaginal milieu the micro encapsulation breaks down sufficiently to release the lactobacili bacteria. The lactobacilli bacteria serve to maintain or re-establish a healthy lactobacilli based flora on the vaginal wall, and excrete hydrogen peroxide and other bactericidins which suppress abnormal flora conditions that promote infections.

Abstract: The present invention describes a new aliphatic polyoxaesters that is bioabsorbable and may be used to produce surgical devices such as sutures, sutures with attached needles, molded devices, and the like. The invention also contemplates a process for producing these polyesters. The aliphatic polyoxaesters of the present invention have a first divalent repeating unit of formula I:[O--C(O)--C(R.sub.1)(R.sub.2)--O--(R.sub.3)--O--C(R.sub.1)(R.sub.2)--C(O)-- ]Iand a second repeating unit selected from the group of formulas consisting of: ##STR1## and combinations thereof.

Abstract: This invention is directed to oral parenteral and intestinal vaccines and eir use against diseases caused by enteropathogenic organisms using antigens encapsulated within biodegradable-biocompatible microspheres.

Abstract: Provided by the invention are methods and compositions for increasing the growth rate and feed efficiency of turkeys by administration of an effective amount of 5-alpha-dihydrotestosterone or biocompatible derivatives such as alkanoic acid ester derivatives, as an implant.

Abstract: A dissolvable element containing an agent material is used for local administration of the agent material in an internal body area. The dissolvable element is made of dissolvable polymer material and/or complex carbohydrate material which are food grade materials and have selected dissolving properties, such that it remains in substantially solid form before use, and dissolves due to human body temperatures and moisture during use to release the agent material in a desired timed release and dosage. As a contraceptive, the dissolvable element is preferably a film made of polyvinyl alcohol, polyethylene oxide, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose and/or carboxymethyl cellulose. The dissolvable element may be formed as a laminate of different film layers for compound release properties, or it may be ground into particles and incorporated in a tampon or suppository. The dissolvable element may be foamed as a means for increasing its dissolution rate.

Abstract: The pharmaceutical, vaginal applicable preparation is characterized in that it contains, homogeneously sub-divided, at least one in water soluble poly-vinyl alcohol, at least one component A, selected from the group consisting of wetting agents, non-ionic surface active agents and dispersing agents, as well as at least one active component B for the local treatment of sexually transmissible or transmitted, respectively, diseases, and/or for vaginal infections, and occasionally one or more auxiliary agent(s), and in that it is in the form of a film having a thickness of the layer of from 0.05 to 0.5 mm, especially from 0.06 to 0.2 mm, preferably from 0.07 to 0.15 mm.

Abstract: The invention relates to an intravaginally-dissolvable contraceptive suppository, a method of using said suppository, and an improved method of manufacturing said birth control device. The suppositories of the invention, which comprise a lyophilized foam and a contraceptive, have a dissolution time of at least about 2 hours, and up to about 24 hours, and provide superior protection against pregnancy.

Abstract: Compositions and methods which are effective to prevent symptoms of loss of ovarian function (e.g., in oophorectomized women) over a period of time are described, consisting essentially of an effective amount of an estrogenic composition and an effective amount of an androgenic composition. The levels of estrogens and androgens employed are sufficient to reduce bone mineral density loss and minimize other side effects observed after oophorectomy, and at such low doses as to minimize any adverse impact on the patient's long-term prognosis or (in the case of testosterone) result in additional side effects.

Abstract: Compositions and methods which are effective to inhibit conception and to treat benign gynecological disorders for extended periods of time are described, wherein an effective amount of a gonadotropin hormone releasing hormone composition and an effective amount of an estrogenic composition are provided over a first period of time, in addition to a progestogen and optionally an androgenic composition. According to one protocol, the progestogen is provided for a second, shorter period of time; the progestogen is provided at a higher level for at least 5 to about 20 days, and then at a lower level for the remainder, if any, of the second period of time. In an alternative protocol, the progestogen is provided at a lower level substantially throughout the period of administration of gonadotropin hormone releasing hormone composition and estrogenic composition. An effective amount of the androgenic hormone is optionally provided over the first period of time.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to the use of antiviral compounds having the following generalized structure: ##STR1## wherein R is 2H or .dbd.O; R' is OH, H, or COOH (single substitution); and R" is OH, H, or alkyl; and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof as therapeutic substances having antiviral activity against human cytomegalovirus ("HCMV") and for treating diseases caused by HCMV. Dimeric forms of the forgoing antiviral compounds having antiviral activity against HCMV are also disclosed. Pharmaceutical compositions containing the disclosed antiviral compounds are disclosed for topical and systemic administration.

Abstract: Acyl-Carnitine in pharmaceutical formulations provides therapeutic and preventive antiviral action against HSV, CMV, VZV, HIV and others.