Abstract: In order to prevent conception and/or the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STD's) one or more lectins capable of binding sperm and/or the pathogenic microorganisms responsible for STD's are administered to the vagina prior to sexual intercourse. The lectins immobilize the sperm to render them incapable of fertilization and also bind to the microorganisms to render them non-pathogenic or to the cells to prevent infection by the microorganisms. Lectins can also be administered to treat sexually transmitted vaginal infections. The invention also encompasses a device for to be placed in the vault of the vagina which comprises a ring which surrounds the cervix and a membrane spanning the central aperture of the ring to prevent the direct contact of ejaculate with the cervical tissues. The device is impregnated or coated with lectins and releases them into the vaginal environment over a period of time.

Abstract: A stable personal lubricant composition containing at least one water soluble polyhydric alcohol, a water soluble polymer derived from cellulose, tocopherol or a tocopherol derivative, an emulsifier and water.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods for the sterilization of a male mammal wherein a composition comprising a biocompatible polymer, a biocompatible solvent, and a contrast agent is delivered to the vas deferens of the male mammal.

Abstract: In order to prevent conception and/or the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STD's) one or more lectins capable of binding sperm and/or the pathogenic microorganisms responsible for STD's are administered to the vagina prior to sexual intercourse. The lectins immobilize the sperm to render them incapable of fertilization and also bind to the microorganisms to render them non-pathogenic or to the cells to prevent infection by the microorganisms. Lectins can also be administered to treat sexually transmitted vaginal infections.The invention also encompasses a device for to be placed in the vault of the vagina which comprises a ring which surrounds the cervix and a membrane spanning the central aperture of the ring to prevent the direct contact of ejaculate with the cervical tissues. The device is impregnated or coated with lectins and releases them into the vaginal environment over a period of time.

Abstract: Skin care compositions comprising an oil-in-water emulsion base containing retinoids and possessing good physical and chemical stability. More particularly, said skin care compositions contain (a) an emulsifier system selected from the group consisting of: (i) a mixture of glyceryl stearate and polyethylene glycol 100 stearate; (ii) cetearyl alcohol and cetearyl glucoside; (iii) a mixture of a polyethylene glycol ethers of stearyl alcohol; and (iv) a mixture of sorbitan stearate and polysorbate 60; (b) a co-emulsifier selected from the group consisting of cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol and mixtures thereof; (c) an oil phase present in the amount of from about 5 to about 20 percent by weight of the total emulsion composition which contains (i) a light, dry absorbable oil and (ii) substantive, emollient oils or waxes, wherein the light, dry absorbable oil and the substantive oil or wax are present in a ratio of from about 1:3 for about 10:1.

Abstract: The invention is directed to the control of cellular autophagy, cellular agglutination and the immobilization of motile cells. Such control is useful in, for example, the treatment of cancer, contraception, termination of pregnancy, removal of pathogenic organisms and removal of any abnormal cellular growth (malignant or otherwise); as a diagnostic and analytical tool whereby cell structure can be studied and testing could be undertaken for the presence (and subsequent analysis) of pathogenic and non-pathogenic organisms; and in the manufacture of biochemicals whereby certain cells must be destroyed or otherwise contained. From surface analysis of normal and abnormal cells, specific receptors on abnormal cells which are either not present on normal cells or are only present in significantly reduced numbers can be identified. Alkaloids and other pharmaceutically acceptable compounds are preferentially recognized by the abnormal cells, and which bind thereto and subsequently destroy.

Abstract: This invention relates to personal lubricant compositions that are at least between three and eighteen times more lubricious than the compositions known previously. The compositions of this invention contain one or more polyhydric alcohols, one or more water-soluble polymers derived from cellulose, water and, optionally, preservatives and alkali metal or alkaline earth metal bases. The compositions of this invention can provide a vehicle for delivering medicaments for contraception and for the treatment and prevention of disease. This invention also relates to methods of using the personal lubricant compositions of this invention.

Abstract: A method of identifying highly fecund males in which an isotonic, buffered liquid test specimen of semen is layered on top of a barrier medium that inhibits net movement (migration) of less mobile sperm into the barrier medium. Differences in mobility of populations of sperm among test subjects have been found to predict whether a male will be highly fecund or not. Sperm migration into the barrier medium is quantitated, for example by analyzing the barrier medium in a spectrophotometer or a photometer after sperm migration is allowed to occur. Alternatively, a collection member coated with a sperm binding protein may be placed below the barrier medium, and the number of sperm that bind to the collection member quantitated after incubation. The invention also includes a device for incubating the barrier medium at a physiologic temperature for a sufficient period of time to allow the highly mobile sperm to migrate into the barrier medium.

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 order to prevent conception and/or the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STD's) one or more lectins capable of binding sperm and/or the pathogenic microorganisms responsible for STD's are administered to the vagina prior to sexual intercourse. The lectins immobilize the sperm to render them incapable of fertilization and also bind to the microorganisms to render them non-pathogenic or to the cells to prevent infection by the microorganisms. Lectins can also be administered to treat sexually transmitted vaginal infections. The invention also encompasses a device for to be placed in the vault of the vagina which comprises a ring which surrounds the cervix and a membrane spanning the central aperture of the ring to prevent the direct contact of ejaculate with the cervical tissues. The device is impregnated or coated with lectins and releases them into the vaginal environment over a period of time.

Abstract: In order to prevent conception and/or the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STD's) one or more lectins capable of binding sperm and/or the pathogenic microorganisms responsible for STD's are administered to the vagina prior to sexual intercourse. The lectins immobilize the sperm to render them incapable of fertilization and also bind to the microorganisms to render them non-pathogenic or to the cells to prevent infection by the microorganisms. Lectins can also be administered to treat sexually transmitted vaginal infections. The invention also encompasses a device for to be placed in the vault of the vagina which comprises a ring which surrounds the cervix and a membrane spanning the central aperture of the ring to prevent the direct contact of ejaculate with the cervical tissues. The device is impregnated or coated with lectins and releases them into the vaginal environment over a period of time.

Abstract: An aqueous foamable composition is provided having a delayed foaming action on expulsion from a pressurized container. The composition comprises a major amount of water, a water-immiscible liquefied gas foaming agent, at least one foam-stabilizing and emulsifying surfactant, and a water-soluble polymer. The composition is particularly useful for rectal or vaginal administration of pharmaceuticals.

Abstract: A novel formulation having anti-viral and spermicidal properties has been developed. The formulation contains lipid vesicles having an outer bilayer formed of a non-ionic amphiphile, a surfactant such as having spermicidal and/or anti-viral activity, an oil and a sterol. The selection of the components making the vesicle is such that the formulation provides rapid spermicidal or anti-viral activity. The formulation and methods of the invention are particularly useful in the mucous membranes such as the vaginal tract and has been tested against viruses such as HIV and Vaccinia.

Abstract: The present invention provides a composition and use of a composition comprising a bioadhesive cross-linked polycarboxylic acid polymer formulation that enables the use of relatively low mounts of anti-STD infectants, such as N-9, to be used to prevent infection by STDs without causing the irritation to genital tissue that often accompanies higher doses of anti-STDs. The bioadhesive polymer maintains greater contact between the anti-STD agent and the infectant for a much greater period of time, enabling a lower concentration to act longer on the infectant, when compared to currently-available commercial applications containing N-9. Such delivery will enable a safe and non-irritating decrease in the risk of infection with STDs, including HIV.

Abstract: Improved contraceptive compositions are disclosed which comprise a spermicide or virucide, a polymeric delivery component and optionally a cosmetic ingredient. The improvement is directed to the use of certain hydrophobically modified polysaccharides as the polymeric delivery component. Quite advantageously, the hydrophobically modified polysaccharides of the present invention can alter sperm motility. Moreover, the hydrophobically modified polysaccharides can provide reduced irritation potential when used in combination with spermicides such as, for example, nonoxynol-9, which may reduce the potential for infection of sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV and herpes.

Abstract: Methods for inhibiting fertilization in warm-blooded animals are disclosed. The methods generally comprise administering to the animal an effective amount of a composition comprising a protein that forms a covalent complex with acrosin, and a physiologically acceptable carrier or diluent. Suitable proteins for use in the methods include members of the serpin family of proteins, such as alpha-1-antitrypsin.

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 present invention relates to a contraceptive for use by a male. The contraceptive consists of a copolymer of styrene maleic anhydride which is prepared by the step of irradiation at a dose of 0.2 to 0.24 megarad for every 40 gms. of the copolymer. The contraceptive consists of an injectable fluid of said copolymer and pure dimethyl sulphoxide.

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 composition which is a contraceptive with potent anti-HIV activity. The composition is a high energy coprecipitate of nonoxynol-9 oligomers, polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and iodine or PVP-I and shows a pronounced synergistic, anti-HIV effect between the compounds of the composition. A method of obtaining a contraceptive and anti-HIV environment in a female comprising administering to said female an effective amount of a high energy coprecipitate.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of medical treatment for a medical condition in a mammal. In this method, a pharmacologically effective amount for treatment of the condition of a trioxolane or a diperoxide of a non-terpene unsaturated hydrocarbon is applied to the mammal. The invention also provides methods of modulating the immune system in a mammal, of treating inflammation of a tissue in a mammal, and of treating bacterial, fungal, protozoal and viral infections in a mammal.

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 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: A pharmaceutical composition for use in the transdermal administration of a medicament to both humans and animals, which composition comprises at least ingredients (1) and (2) of the following ingredients (1), (2) and (3), namely: (1) an effective amount of a medicament adapted for transdermal administration; (2) a transdermally transporting effective amount of a carrier for the medicament, which carrier is selected from semisolids and liquids at ambient temperatures, and which carrier comprises at least one compound selected from esters of C.sub.8-24 fatty acids, pharmaceutically acceptable aliphatic polyhydroxy compounds and non-volatile paraffins; (3) an optional medicament selected from antiinflammatory agents and antihistamines, effective to mitigate any skin-incompatibility characteristic which may otherwise be present. Administration is preferably by means of a matrix which comprises a porous, absorbent, perforate and flexible laminar solid support, having the composition absorbed thereon.

Abstract: The present invention provides compositions, articles and methods for inactivating viruses present in whole blood and other body fluids. The method comprises contacting the body fluids with an effective amount of an antiviral compound. Blood bags, vacuum blood tubes, condoms, spermicidal jellies and vaginal lubricants containing effective amounts of the antiviral compounds are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to spermicidal coating compositions for coating latex materials containing one or more spermicidal agents, more particularly based on Nonoxinol-9, and one or more organopolysiloxane compounds in which the spermicidal agents are soluble.

Abstract: Contraceptive devices which are effective for extended periods of time are described, in the form of means for releasing an effective amount of a gonadotropin hormone releasing hormone composition and means for releasing an effective amount of an estrogenic hormone over a first period of time, and means for releasing an effective amount of a progestogen for a second period of time, the second period of time being substantially shorter than and running simultaneously with a portion of the first period of time. The gonadotropin hormone releasing hormone composition is selected from gonadotropin hormone releasing hormone, gonadotropin hormone releasing hormone analogues, gonadotropin hormone releasing hormone agonists, gonadotropin hormone releasing hormone antagonists and mixtures thereof. Contraceptive methods employing the devices are also described.

Abstract: There is provided a means for reversible fertility control for prevention of pregnancy in female mammals for several months through the use of neem oil or its components, applied locally to the uterus. There is also provided a spermicidal composition containing neem oil or its components in combination with reetha extract as a vaginal cream.

Abstract: Bioadhesive pharmaceutical carrier consisting essentially of a polymer blend of sodium carboxymethyl cellulose and xanthan gum or sodium alginate. The invention also provides for a method of control releasing a pharmaceutical active comprising incorporating an active into the bioadhesive pharmaceutical carrier. The invention is particularly adaptable for oral use and teething gels.

Abstract: Balanced pH, thermo-irreversible gels are ideal vehicles for drug delivery to a body cavity of a mammal. The gels contain a mixture of a polyoxyalkylene block copolymer or polyether together with an ionic polysaccharide which is thermo-irreversibly gelled in the presence of a counter-ion.

Abstract: This invention is directed to a delivery system and a method useful for the treatment of benign ovarian secretory disorders in female mammals by administering an LHRH composition. The method comprises administering during the entire follicular phase of the menstrual cycle, beginning at the time of menses, an LHRH composition and sufficient levels of an estrogenic steriod to counteract the possibility of side effects which may develop during prolonged therapy with LHRH. Following the follicular phase, at the beginning of the luteal phase, and for the entire course of the luteal phase, the LHRH/estrogenic steroid combination administered during the follicular phase, in combination with a physiological amount of progestational steroid, is administered.

Abstract: A prophylactic agent for controlling venereal diseases. As an active microbicidal component, the agent has an ammonium compound having hydrolyzable ester group.

Abstract: Pharmaceutical compositions comprising a combination of a polymeric biguanide and a spermicidal surfactant, useful for contraceptive purposes, for their spermicidal or sperm-immobilizing effect, and contraceptive methods and devices using them.The polymeric biguanide is preferably a compound as described in U.K. Patent Specification No. 702,268 or a bisbiguanide as described in U.K. Patent Specification No. 705,838 or 1,095,902, but especially chlorhexidine. The spermicidal surfactant may be derived from ethylene oxide, preferably a condensate of nonylphenol and ethylene oxide, and especially with 9 to 11 molecular proportions thereof.To avoid short-lived activity, the compositions are preferably made substantially free from anions (notably halide ions and especially chloride ions) which cause deactivation, apparently by reducing the solubility of the active ingredients.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for providing long lasting contraceptive protection comprising a mixture of a contraceptive effective amount of spermicidal agent, a polymeric gum, a dispersing agent, and a water miscible polyethylene glycol polymer suppository base; and mammalian contraceptive methods utilizing the compositions of the invention in suppository form to provide up to 12 hours of contraceptive protection after initial insertion of the suppository.

Abstract: A personal lubricant which is not contraceptive, does not impede sperm motility and may contain healing ingredients.

Abstract: A medical device for the transdermal delivery of an active agent through sensitive intact skin is provided. The device comprises a matrix containing the drug having reinforcing means, preferably in the form of a fabric, embedded in the upper surface of the matrix. The matrix is formed of an agent permeable material which is tacky but does not adhesively bond to the skin. The device is sufficiently flexible and deformable that the combination of tackiness, flexibility, and deformation permits the device to be maintained in agent transmitting relationship upon skin at such sensitive areas as the scrotum, labia, breast, or penis, for example. In certain embodiments, the skin distal surface is provided with a layer of an agent impermeable material to reduce transfer of the agent from the patient to others.

Abstract: A transdermal delivery system for the administering of ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel, in combination, utilizing a polymer matrix having the drug formulation along with a permeation enhancer dispersed throughout.

Abstract: A medical device for the transdermal delivery of an active agent through sensitive intact skin is provided. The device comprises a matrix containing the drug having reinforcing means, preferably in the form of a fabric, embedded in the upper surface of the matrix. The matrix is formed of an agent permeable material which is tacky but does not adhesively bond to the skin. The device is sufficiently flexible and deformable that the combination of tackiness, flexibility, and deformation permits the device to be maintained in agent transmitting relationship upon skin at such sensitive areas as the scrotum, labia, breast, or penis, for example. In certain embodiments, the skin distal surface is provided with a layer of an agent impermeable material to reduce transfer of the agent from the patient to others.

Abstract: A transdermal therapeutic system using a subsaturated matrix is provided having improved approved release characteristics. Reinforcing means preferably in the form of a fabric are embedded in the upper surface of the subsaturated matrix. At least a portion of the reinforcing means is selected such that the active agent to be delivered to the skin has a solubility, C.sub.r therein which is lower than the initial solubility C.sub.o of the agent in the matrix. In addition, the relationship between the diffusion coefficients of the agent in the matrix D.sub.m and the portion of reinforcing means D.sub.r and the solubilities is given by the relationship: D.sub.r .multidot.C.sub.r <D.sub.m .multidot.C.sub.o. In operation the agent dissolved in the reinforcing means acts as a secondary reservoir improving the release characteristics of the system. Specific embodiments of the invention are particularly adapted for scrotal and labial delivery of drugs such as testosterone and progesterone.

Abstract: Plant extracts are employed to provide a menses inducing composition for topical application. Common commercially available fenugreek seeds and commercially available ginger are mixed in a preferred range of ratios and combined in a dry powder form for topical application to the outside of the abdomen of the female to induce menses.

Abstract: A solid sustained release dosage form is disclosed comprising a gel matrix containing HPMC and a major amount of a plasticizer therefor into which gel matrix is reversibly dispersed a pharmaceutically active agent.

Abstract: Polyvalent metal salts of 2-mercaptopyridine-N-oxide which are made into fine powder in which particles having a size below 0.2 micron are contained in amounts not smaller than 50 wt %.Preparing process of the above and antibacterial compositions comprising the above are also disclosed.When the finely powdered polyvalent metal salts of 2-mercaptopyridine-N-oxide are incorporated into shampoo or rinse compositions, dispersion stability of the salts is remarkably improved with the enhanced adsorbability of the particles on the skin and hair, thus antibacterial and dandruff-removing actions owing to the salts are further improved.

Abstract: Conditioning of the vaginal tract for sexual activity, by a method including adjusting and controlling its surface pH, with soluble means for accomplishing such conditioning. The specified conditioning favors increased duration of sexual intercourse, as is often desired, and is compatible here with such diverse goals as favoring or discouraging conception. Normally the human vagina is strongly acidic, which may render intercourse with some males unduly brief. Through this invention the vaginal pH is increased about several pH units, by applying thereto a capsule, tablet, or suppository containing an alkalizer, to be released upon dissolution, so that the surface of the vaginal tract nears and preferably reaches or somewhat exceeds a neutral pH of 7 for a desired period of time. Thereafter, the vagina is enabled to return to its normally acidic condition, or is preferably actively returned thereto by subsequent release of an acidifier from such topically applied means.

Abstract: Single piece capsules, produced, filled and sealed in a single operation, also known as soft shell capsules, having a special foam wall structure, obtained by a microdispersion of a gas in an aqueous mixture of dry gelatin and one or more plasticizers.The capsules are formed by processing, on soft shell capsule manufacturing machines, foamed ribbons, cast from a film forming mixture obtained by a microdispersion of a gas in an aqueous mixture of gelatin and one or more plasticizers; optionally with the inclusion of a coloring agent, an opacifying agent, a foam stabilizer, a gelatin extender, a preservative, a flavoring agent, a sweetening agent, or a drug.By a suitable choice of the gas proportion in the capsule wall and its microdispersion level, it is possible, within certain limits, to control the capsule wall disintegration speed and its opacity.

Abstract: A disposable, spermicide-releasing intravaginal contraceptive barrier formed from a homogeneous blend mixture of a thermoplastic polymer, a water-soluble polymer and a spermicide which is released at a controlled rate sufficient to provide contraceptive action for a period of up to 48 hours and methods of making the same.

Abstract: Systems and their methods of preparation and use that release an active agent in a controlled manner for an extended period in a vaginal cavity environment. The systems are capable of delivering the active agent for periods greater than three hours at a predictable rate to a predetermined site, the vaginal cavity.

Abstract: The use of N-(6 aminohexyl)-5-chloro-1-naphthalenesulfonamide, N-(6 aminohexyl)-5-chloro-2-naphthalenesulfonamide, N-(6 aminohexyl)-5-bromo-2-naphthalenesulfonamide as a vaginal contraceptive is disclosed. The invention may be implemented by incorporating the drug in a known method such as jelly, foam, or suppository introduction means prior to intercourse.

Abstract: The use of N-phenyl-1-naphthylamine as a vaginal contraceptive is disclosed. The invention may be implemented by incorporating the drug in a known method such as jelly, foam, or suppository introduction means prior to intercourse.

Abstract: The use of 9-anthroylcholine as a vaginal contraceptive is disclosed. The invention may be implemented by incorporating the drug in a known method such as jelly, foam, or suppository introduction means prior to intercourse.

Abstract: The use of 8-anilino-1-naphthalenesulfonate as a vaginal contraceptive is disclosed. The invention may be implemented by incorporating the drug in a known method such as jelly, foam, or suppository introduction means prior to intercourse.