Abstract: The present invention comprises and utilizes methods and compositions for treating hyperimmune reactions in the eye. Compositions comprising antibodies to gamma interferon alone and in combination with other drugs are described. Also disclosed in the invention are methods of applying a composition comprising interferon gamma antibodies topically to the eye to treat hyperimmune reactions, such as transplant rejection, uveitis, autoimmune diseases of the eye, and ocular disorders incidental to or connected with autoimmune diseases.

Abstract: Multi-purpose solutions for contact lens care provide substantial lens wearer/user comfort and/or acceptability, with minimal, if any, corneal epithelial punctate fluorescein staining. Such solutions may include an aqueous liquid medium; an antimicrobial component comprising polyquarternium-1 and a hexamethylene biguanide polymer having a number average molecular weight in the range of from about 4,000 to about 45,000; a surfactant component, preferably a poly(oxyethylene)-poly(oxypropylene) block copolymer surfactant, in an effective amount; a buffer component in an effective amount; a viscosity-inducing component, preferably selected from cellulosic derivatives, in an effective amount; and a tonicity component in an effective amount. Such solutions have substantial performance, comfort and acceptability benefits, which, ultimately, lead to ocular health advantages and avoidance of problems caused by contact lens wear.

Abstract: The invention relates to a plastically deformable implant for inserting into bodily orifices of the human or animal body. Implants of this type are used, for example, in ophthalmology, in particular, as vitreous body or lens replacements and in dentistry, for example, for filling extraction cavities in jaw-bones. Known implants, however, are not suitable for long-term use. The invention aims to provide a deformable plastic implant which also has a long-term application. This is achieved by the fact that the implant consists of a gel which is not sealed, containing fluorocarbon and which is directly introduced into the natural, or artificially created bodily orifice.

Abstract: A method for improving the integrity of the corneal epithelium by introducing into the eye an effective amount of a ophthalmically compatible retinoid sufficient to enhance the integrity of the corneal epithelium.

Abstract: The present invention provides an agent for treating a dry eye, which contains a macrolide compound such as FK506.

Abstract: Disclosed are carrageenan-based transitional viscoelastics that will induce little or no IOP spike when left in the eye at the close of surgery thereon. Drug delivery systems for delivering therapeutic agents during post-operative recovery stages are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention encompasses a solid dose delivery vehicle for ballistic administration of a bioactive material to subcutaneous and intradermal tissue, the delivery vehicle being sized and shaped for penetrating the epidermis. The delivery vehicle further comprises a stabilizing polyol glass loaded with the bioactive material and capable of releasing the bioactive material in situ. The present invention further includes methods of making and using the solid dose delivery vehicle of the invention.

Abstract: Ophthalmic compositions include an ophthalmically acceptable carrier component, for example, an aqueous-based carrier, and a plurality of polyanionic component portions having different molecular weights. In one embodiment, the polyanionic component includes a first polyanionic component portion having a first molecular weight; and a second polyanionic component portion having a different second molecular weight. Each of the first and second polyanionic component portions is present in an amount effective to provide lubrication to an eye when the composition is administered to an eye. Methods of making and using such compositions are also disclosed.

Abstract: The use of low molecular weight amino alcohols in ophthalmic compositions is described. These compounds have been found to enhance the efficacy of anti-microbial preservatives.

Abstract: The use of amidoamines to treat or prevent infections attributable to Acanthamoeba and fungi is described. The amidoamines are highly effective against both Acanthamoeba and fungi, and are less toxic to delicate tissues that may become infected with these types of microorganisms (e.g., the cornea).

Abstract: A flat strip of supporting material, such as filter paper, having marked reference locations on each of one or more legs, for delivering controlled quantities of one or more agents to the adnexa of the eye simultaneously upon dispensing a liquid to the strip at the appropriate reference location.

Abstract: A tear replacement solution that contains at least one water-soluble fluorosurfactant, water and a non-polar component, preferably in gel form, and a method for the external treatment for the eye of an mammal by applying the tear replacement solution to the eye, preferably by placing in the conjunctival sac.

Abstract: These objects and others may be accomplished with the present invention, the first embodiment of which provides an oil-in-water nanoemulsion, which includes: an oily phase dispersed in an aqueous phase; (i) at least one amphiphilic lipid selected from the group including nonionic amphiphilic lipids, anionic amphiphilic lipids, and combinations thereof; and (ii) at least one water-soluble nonionic polymer selected from the group including homopolymers and copolymers of ethylene oxide; polyvinyl alcohols; homopolymers and copolymers of vinylpyrrolidone; homopolymers and copolymers of vinylcaprolactam; homopolymers and copolymers of polyvinyl methyl ether; neutral acrylic homopolymers and copolymers; C1–C2 alkyl celluloses and their derivatives; C1–C3 alkyl guar; C1–C3 hydroxyalkyl guar; and combinations thereof; wherein a ratio of the weight of the oily phase to the weight of the amphiphilic lipid (i) ranges from 1.

Abstract: Cleaning compositions for contact lenses are described. The compositions contain multifunctional anionic surfactants that include at least two hydrophilic dissociating head groups. The multifunctional surfactants described (e.g., LED3A) possess both surface active and chelating properties, and have been found to be particularly effective in removing protein deposits from contact lenses.

Abstract: The invention relates to a plastically deformable implant for inserting into bodily orifices of the human or animal body. Implants of this type are used, for example, in ophthalmology, in particular, as vitreous body or lens replacements and in dentistry, for example, for filling extraction cavities in jaw-bones. Known implants, however, are not suitable for long-term use. The invention aims to provide a deformable plastic implant which also has a long-term application. This is achieved by the fact that the implant consists of a gel which is not sealed, containing fluorocarbon and which is directly introduced into the natural, or artificially created bodily orifice.

Abstract: The present compositions advantageously treat hyperemia with substantially no added irritation to the eye. In one embodiment, the compositions include an ophthalmically acceptable carrier component, a vasoconstrictor component in an amount effective to treat hyperemia when the composition is administered to an eye, and a polyanionic component in an amount effective to provide lubrication to an eye when the compositions are administered to the eye.

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: A formulation containing one or more biologically active substances dissolved, dispersed, emulsified, or suspended within a vehicle of one or more citric acid esters and/or citric acid ethers. Methods for making and using are disclosed, as are kits for administration of the pharmaceutical formulation.

Abstract: The use of low molecular weight amino alcohols in ophthalmic compositions is described. These compounds have been found to enhance the efficacy of anti-microbial preservatives.

Abstract: The invention refers to the use of a lacrophyl preparation containing lysozyme, tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane, if desired other lacrophyl components, preferably ascorbic acid and/or citric acid and/or ethylenediamine-tetraacetic acid, in the rest distilled water for the dissolution of an active substance being insoluble or only slightly soluble in water or physiological saline, for preparing eye-drops, and/or in case of eye-drops containing an active substance to adjust optionally an active substance medium appropriate to the composition of the native tear and for the microbiological protection of the medium.

Abstract: Multi-purpose solutions for contact lens care provide substantial lens wearer/user comfort and/or acceptability, with minimal, if any, corneal epithelial punctate fluorescein staining. Such solutions may include an aqueous liquid medium; an antimicrobial component comprising polyquarternium-1 and a hexamethylene biguanide polymer having a number average molecular weight in the range of from about 4,000 to about 45,000; a surfactant component, preferably a poly(oxyethylene)-poly(oxypropylene) block copolymer surfactant, in an effective amount; a buffer component in an effective amount; a viscosity-inducing component, preferably selected from cellulosic derivatives, in an effective amount; and a tonicity component in an effective amount. Such solutions have substantial performance, comfort and acceptability benefits, which, ultimately, lead to ocular health advantages and avoidance of problems caused by contact lens wear.

Abstract: This invention effects a change in the accommodation of the human lens affected by presbyopia through the use of various reducing agents that change accommodative abilities of the human lens, and/or by applying energy to affect a change in the accommodative abilities of the human lens. This invention both prevents the onset of presbyopia as well as treats it. By breaking and/or preventing the formation of bonds that adhere lens fibers together causing hardening of the lens, the present invention increases the elasticity and distensibility of the lens and/or lens capsule.

Abstract: A highly specific and easily purified form of hyaluronidase is described for use in ophthalmic treatments. The enzyme, from Streptomyces hyalurolyticus is specific for hyaluronidase and carries out an elimination reaction that results in the production of double bonds at the nonreducing end of hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronidase from Streptomyces hyalurolyticus has a higher activity than comparable enzymes from other species. The enzyme is now capable of being purified in what is essentially a protease-free form making it applicable to medical treatments. The use of this source of hyaluronidase in ophthalmic treatments is now made possible by its high activity, specificity for hyaluronidase and purity.

Abstract: The present invention encompasses a solid dose delivery vehicle for ballistic administration of a bioactive material to subcutaneous and intradermal tissue, the delivery vehicle being sized and shaped for penetrating the epidermis. The delivery vehicle further comprises a stabilizing polyol glass loaded with the bioactive material and capable of releasing the bioactive material in situ. The present invention further includes methods of making and using the solid dose delivery vehicle of the invention.

Abstract: The present invention provides an agent for treating a dry eye, which contains a macrolide compound such as FK506.

Abstract: Selective PDE-IV inhibitors are useful for treating dry eye disorders and other disorders requiring the wetting of the eye.

Abstract: The present invention comprises and utilizes methods and compositions for treating hyperimmune reactions in the eye. Compositions comprising antibodies to gamma interferon alone and in combination with other drugs are described. Also disclosed in the invention are methods of applying a composition comprising interferon gamma antibodies topically to the eye to treat hyperimmune reactions, such as transplant rejection, uveitis, autoimmune diseases of the eye, and ocular disorders incidental to or connected with autoimmune diseases.

Abstract: Ophthalmic ointments for treating infective eye diseases which are particularly effective against infective eye diseases caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) or methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis (MRSE) and contain as the active ingredient from 0.01 to 5.0% of vancomycin hydrochloride. Compared with intravenous administration, topical administration of these ophthalmic ointments is accompanied with no problem of the occurrence of side effects such as renal toxicity and thus enables the maintenance of a therapeutically effective concentration.

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.

Abstract: An aqueous-based sprayable composition comprises a therapeutic or palliative agent, water and a mixture of microcrystalline cellulose and alkali metal carboxyalkylcellulose. In one embodiment, the composition is a non-Newtonian nasal spray exhibiting a very rapid viscosity recovery upon removal of shear forces.

Abstract: The object of the present invention is to find new effects of natriuretic peptides in an ophthalmological field. The present invention provides eyedrops for promoting lacrimal secretion or for treating keratoconjunctival disorders containing the natriuretic peptide as active ingredient. The natriuretic peptides are atrial natriuretic peptides (ANP), brain natriuretic peptides (BNP) and C-type natriuretic peptides (CNP). Typical examples of the keratoconjunctival disorder are dry eye, corneal erosion and corneal ulcer.

Abstract: Aqueous nasal spray compositions comprising a medicament and an aqueous carrier comprising water soluble polymers selected from the group consisting of polyvinylpyrrolidone and mixtures thereof.

Abstract: A method for improving the integrity of the corneal epithelium by introducing into the eye an effective amount of a ophthalmically compatible retinoid sufficient to enhance the integrity of the corneal epithelium.

Abstract: Disclosed are ophthalmic compositions comprising ketotifen and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, as well as methods for making such compositions.

Abstract: A magnetic fluid is provided comprising a block copolymer stabilizer, magnetic particles and a fluid polysiloxane medium. The stabilizer comprises an anchor block which chelates magnetic metal particles, and at least one end block which is compatible with the polysiloxane medium.

Abstract: The invention disclosed herein relates to biochemical methods for the elimination of corneal collagen fiber disorganization to improve vision. Disorganization of corneal collagen fibers is seen in corneal scars, corneal opacification and corneal haze. In addition, the invention relates to biochemical methods for the elimination of corneal collagen fiber disorganization resulting from accidental traumatic injury to the cornea and from refractive surgery for such as radial keratotomy (RK), photorefractive keratectomy (PRK), and laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) so as to improve visual acuity and quality of vision.

Abstract: Ocular implant devices for the delivery of a therapeutic agent to an eye in a controlled and sustained manner. Dual mode and single mode drug delivery devices are illustrated and described. Implants suitable for subconjunctival placement are described. Implants suitable for intravitreal placement also are described. The invention also includes fabrication and implementation techniques associated with the unique ocular implant devices that are presented herein.

Abstract: Antimicrobial compositions containing one or more topically active antibiotics (e.g., Natamycin) and one or more amidoamines are described. The amidoamines enhance or supplement the antimicrobial activity of natamycin or other topically active antibiotics. The compositions are particularly useful in treating or preventing fungal infections of the eye, ear, nose and throat, as well as sterilizing these tissues prior to surgery or other medical procedures.

Abstract: Compositions useful for improving effectiveness of alpha-2-adrenergic agonist components include carrier components, alpha-2-adrenergic agonist components, solubility enhancing components which aid in solubilizing the alpha-2-adrenergic agonist components. In one embodiment, the alpha-2-adrenergic agonist components include alpha-2-adrenergic agonists. In another embodiment, the solubility enhancing components include carboxymethylcellulose.

Abstract: Optically transparent, high water content, hydrogel polymeric materials and photoablatable inlays fabricated therefrom are described herein. The preferred hydrogel polymeric materials have a refractive index of 1.30 or above in the hydrated state and a water content of approximately 60 percent or greater by weight. The preferred hydrogel polymeric materials likewise show no signs of cracking or haze following clinical ablation.

Abstract: A method and composition for treating a dry eye condition by topically applying to the eye surfaces an emulsion forming a tear film that acts to lubricate the eye and to inhibit evaporation therefrom. The emulsion is constituted by water in which is dispersed a mixture that includes a phospholipid, a non-polar oil, a non-toxic emulsifying agent and a polar lipid that imparts a net positive charge to the film that is distributed throughout the film, causing the film to be electrostatically attracted to the anionic surface of the eye whereby the film adheres thereto and cannot be washed away. Includable in the mixture is a non-soluble therapeutic agent, such as cyclosporin which is effective against an eye disease and is delivered to the eye by the film.

Abstract: The components of this invention are chosen because of their complementarity for the prevention or treatment of diseases caused by the herpes simplex virus. L-Lysine favorably increases the physiologic immunomodulation necessary for defense against this virus. Zinc improves and maintains a normal immune response. 2-Deoxy-2-D-glucose and heparin sodium alter the surface interaction between the herpes virus and the cell, preventing fusion and infectivity. N-Acetyl-L-cysteine increases glutathione levels thereby creating a thiol redox barrier to the virus at the cell membrane. Quercetin reduces intracellular replication of the herpes virus and viral infectivity. Ascorbate, in concert with copper and D-&agr;-tocopherol, provides an antioxidant defense against the herpes virus, which tends to lose latency during period of oxidative, free radical excess. Selenium and quercetin also participate in reducing various oxidative stresses.

Abstract: An improved method of sterilizing the field of surgery prior to an ophthalmic surgical procedure is described. The invention eliminates the need for painful and potentially traumatic injections of antibiotics by utilizing sustained release compositions which allow the antibiotics contained therein to penetrate deeply into the eye, thereby ensuring a sterile field of surgery during intraocular surgical procedures. The compositions may also be utilized to prevent post-surgical infections.

Abstract: A new composition set and a kit for use by intraocular operations, preferably cataract operations. The composition set comprises a first and a second viscoelastic agent, e.g. sodium hyaluronate, containing an anaesthetic, e.g. lidocaine hydrochloride. Hereby a simplified operation and anaesthesia is achieved while at the same time the risk of complications and discomfort on the patient are reduced.

Abstract: An ophthalmic solutions that are broad ranged and effective in low concentrations relative to state of the art systems. In particular it has been found that ophthalmic solutions comprising 0.00001 to about 1.0 percent by weight of a nucleotide, a nucleoside or a purine or pyrimidine base; 0.00001 to about 0.05 percent by weight a cationic, polymeric preservative display an effective preservative capacity, and an increased capacity over state-of-the-art preservative systems.

Abstract: Solutions useful to clean contact lenses include a surfactant component in an effective amount; and a viscosity inducing component, preferably selected from cellulosic derivatives and more preferably hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose, in an effective amount. Such solutions, which may include one or more additional components, have substantial contact lens cleaning benefits which, ultimately, lead to ocular health advantages and avoidance of problems caused by contact lens wear.

Abstract: An ophthalmic composition particularly in the form of eye-drops suitable for the treatment of diseases of the eye and surrounding areas. The composition contains a cyclosporin and a surfactant selected from polyoxyethylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyethylene alkylphenyl ethers and polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers, or mixtures thereof.

Abstract: The present invention relates to sustained release and long residing opthalmic formulation having thermosensitivity, mucoadhesiveness, hydro gel properties and small particle size. The said formulation comprises micelle solution of random block co-polymer having a hydrophobic component and a hydrophillic component of general formula —(X+Y+Z-)m, and at least one hydrophobic drug with the block co-polymer solution. The invention also provides a process of preparing said formulation.

Abstract: Self-preserved nasal, inhalable and topical ophthalmic preparations and medications which destroy, inhibit or therapeutically significantly limit microbial growth within said preparations or medications. The nasal, inhalable, and topical ophthalmic preparations and medications are mildly buffered and maintain a stable pH at pH 3.5 or lower.

Abstract: A method of staining an ocular structure, the structure being a human or other mammalian eye or portion thereof, the method comprising staining the ocular structure with either indigotindisulfonate, Patent Blue V, Sulphan Blue, tolonium chloride, or Evans Blue. Ocular structures of particular interest are the anterior lens capsule and the vitreo-retinal interface.