Abstract: The invention is a gel composition for delivery to a breast milk duct prior to surgical excision of breast tissue including cancerous lesions. The invention also provides methods of mapping all or nearly all of a breast milk duct prior to surgical excision of breast tissue, and method of identifying part or all of a breast duct or ducts as a surgical aide to a breast surgeon. Kits to support these methods and including these compositions are also provided.

Abstract: A method is provided for increasing the permeability of skin or mucosal tissue to topically or transdermally administered pharmacologically or cosmeceutically active agents. The method involves use of a specified amount of a hydroxide-releasing agent, the amount optimized to increase the flux of the active agent through a body surface while minimizing the likelihood of skin damage, irritation or sensitization. Topically applied formulations and drug delivery devices employing hydroxide-releasing agents as permeation enhancers are provided as well.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to ophthalmic compositions containing a gelling amount of a combination of galactomannan polysaccharides and borates. The compositions gel or partially gel upon administration to the eye. The present invention also discloses methods of topical ophthalmic administration of the compositions to the eye.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and composition for destroying or inhibiting proliferation of microbes using oxidative fluorinator compounds. Fluoride salts that do not dissociate completely in aqueous solutions, such as tri- or tetravalent transition metal fluorides, inert gas fluorides, or tri- or tetravalent rare earth fluorides, are effective antimicrobial agents even at levels up to about 20 ppm, when used alone or in conjunction with a strong oxidizer.

Abstract: A hydrogel formed by adding an anion having a molecular weight of 90 or more to an aqueous dispersion of a cationic amphiphile comprising a linear or branched alkyl group having 10 or less carbon atoms in a hydrophobic moiety. The hydrogel has a network having a bilayer-membrane, nano-fiber structure and undergoes a reversible gel-sol transformation.

Abstract: Agonists of chlorine/potassium channel receptor, for example taurine, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), isoguvacin, isonipecotic acid, 4,5,6,7-tetrahydroisoxazolo-(5,4-c)pyrid-3(2H)-one, a benzodiazepine, steroids, and cromakalim, pinacidil, nicorandil and minoxidil, are well suited for treating sensitive human skin and are especially useful for treating/eliminating skin itching, pruritus, tautness, tingling and/or erythema.

Abstract: An improved stick preparation is provided which is made up of at least two separate phases and at least one phase contains spherical polymer particles which can contain a pigment. The particles provide smoothness to the preparation and can be used to provide an interesting visual appearance to the stick.

Abstract: A method is provided for increasing the permeability of skin or mucosal tissue to a topically or transdermally administered pharmacologically or cosmeceutically active peptide, polypeptide or protein. The method involves use of a specified amount of a hydroxide-releasing agent, the amount optimized to increase the flux of the peptide, polypeptide or protein through a body surface while minimizing the likelihood of skin damage, irritation or sensitization. Formulations and drug delivery devices employing hydroxide-releasing agents as permeation enhancers are provided as well.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to gel compositions useful in the preparation of medicated gel products. Such medicated gel products are suitable for use in the treatment of anorectal disorders such as hemorrhoids. Also disclosed is a method for the treatment of such anorectal disorders using the claimed medicated gel products.

Abstract: A method is provided for increasing the permeability of skin or mucosal tissue to transdermally administered oxybutynin. The method involves use of a specified amount of a hydroxide-releasing agent, the amount optimized to increase the flux of the drug through a body surface while minimizing the likelihood of skin damage, irritation or sensitization. Formulations, drug delivery systems and methods of treatment are provided as well.

Abstract: A method is provided for increasing the permeability of skin or mucosal tissue to transdermally administered androgenic drugs. The method involves use of a specified amount of a hydroxide-releasing agent, the amount optimized to increase the flux of the androgenic drug through a body surface while minimizing the likelihood of skin damage, irritation or sensitization. Formulations and drug delivery systems for co-administering a hydroxide-releasing agent with an androgenic drug are provided as well.

Abstract: A method is provided for increasing the permeability of skin or mucosal tissue to transdermally administered steroid drugs. The method involves use of a specified amount of a hydroxide-releasing agent, the amount optimized to increase the flux of the drug through a body surface while minimizing the likelihood of skin damage, irritation or sensitization. Formulations and drug delivery systems for co-administering a hydroxide-releasing agent with a steroid drug are provided as well. Optimally, the steroid drugs are a combination of an estrogen and progestin that may be administered in female hormone replacement therapy, to provide female contraception, and the like.

Abstract: A particulate glucomannan gel is produced by swelling a glucomannan-rich flour with water in the presence of ethanol, treating the swollen particles with an alkali to form gelled particles followed by drying. The dried gel particles are incorporated into hygenic or cosmetic preparations as a deposit-cleaning agent.

Abstract: Methylphenidate or other drugs are provided in a formulation for oral administration that releases the drug in two or more pharmacokinetic spikes, by combining different release forms in a single formulation. In a preferred embodiment for methylphenidate, the first pharmacokinetic spike is achieved by the release of taste-masked methylphenidate which is not enterically coated, while a second pharmacokinetic spike is achieved by the release of methylphenidate in a finely divided form from enterically coated pellets or microparticles formulated for rapid release following dissolution of the enteric coating. A critical aspect of the formulation is the inclusion of excipients that create a burst release following the initial rapid release and uptake. The formulation can be administered as a paste, jelly, suspension, or fast dissolving wafer. To manipulate the dose, the formulation can be provided, for example, as a paste packaged in a tube similar to those used to dispense toothpaste.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical preparation for the treatment of wounds and ulcers in humans and animals and a method of preparation of the same are provided here. The composition consists of an alcoholic extract of Huangqin, Huanglian, Huangbai, Opuntia, Dilong, and &bgr;-sitosterol (from Soybean extract), in a vegetable oil-wax base, from where the alcohol is essentially removed by evaporation. The composition is used as a topical ointment for the treatment of wounds in its preferred embodiment. Wounds, in particular those occurring in the skin as second and third degree burns, stasis ulcers, trophic lesions, such as decubitus ulcers, diabetic ulcers, surgical wounds, severe cuts, diaper rash, cracked nipples and abrasions which are commonly resistant to the natural healing process, may be treated with this composition.

Abstract: 10-Hydroxy-2-decenoic acid compounds, particularly the 10-hydroxydec-2-enoates, are well suited for promoting desquamation of human skin and/or stimulating epidermal renewal and thus combating intrinsic and/or extrinsic cutaneous aging.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to the development of pharmaceutical compositions which provide for sustained release of biologically active polypeptides. More specifically, the invention relates to the use of thermosensitive, biodegradable hydrogels, consisting of a block copolymer of poly(d,l- or l-lactic acid)(PLA) or poly(lactide-co-glycolide)(PLGA) and polyethylene glycol (PEG), for the sustained delivery of biologically active agents, such as leptin.

Abstract: A gel composition for use in etching the surfaces of teeth in preparation for prophylaxis, repair, or restoration, comprising an aqueous solution of an effective quantity of an acid; and a colloidal silica sol, wherein the silica portion of the sol comprises from about 3 to about 20 weight percent of the total etchant composition.

Abstract: The proliferation of uterine fibroid leiomyoma cells is inhibited by certain Fibroid Cell Growth Inhibitor (FGI) agents. The pharmacological doses of these FGI agents in the milieu of uterine fibroid cells can be made high enough to not only inhibit proliferation, but to also causes cell death. Non-invasive or minimally invasive, non-systemic delivery methods are used to deliver the FGI agent to the milieu of the target fibroid leiomyoma cell population, thereby avoiding the disadvantages and side effects of surgical and systemic hormonal therapy interventions in the treatment of uterine fibroids. The FGI agents are substrates that are normally present or are well tolerated in the human body. The efficacy of the FGI agents appears to be related to their ability to moderate the Protein Kinase C and Mitogen Activated Protein Kinase pathways. Specific FGI agents shown to be useful to inhibit growth or proliferation of uterine fibroid cells include: &agr;-tocopherol, &agr;-tocopherol succinate, and troglitazone.

Abstract: The present invention relates, in general, to methods of treating disorders of the eye, and, in particular, to methods of preventing or treating elevated eye pressure and glaucoma. The invention further relates to compounds and compositions suitable for use in such methods.

Abstract: An aqueous gel in unit dose form and suitable for topical delivery of clonidine and comprising clonidine, a water-gelling amount of a pharmaceutically acceptable gelling agent and having a pH value in the range of about 6 to about 8.5. Clonidine is present in an amount in the range of about 0.05 to about 3.5 milligrams per unit dose and at a concentration in the range of about 0.01 to about 0.5 weight percent.

Abstract: This invention relates to an apparatus and method of drug delivery on a human body surface. The formulation comprises a drug, a conversion agent capable of converting the formulation from a less solid phase to a coherent, soft, solid phase, and a vehicle medium or carrier for the drug and conversion agent. The drug formulation is applied to this human body surface in its less than solid phase and is subsequently converted to a soft solid phase while the drug is being delivered through the human body surface. After delivery of the drug is complete, the soft solid formulation can be removed or peeled from the body surface as a coherent solid formulation. The drug formulation provides control over drug delivery rates and allows the formulation to be removed without leaving a messy, residual formulation on the body surface.

Abstract: A cataplasm comprising crosslinked polymer gel containing vitamin C or a derivative thereof and a support, wherein the gel is formed by crosslinking a polymer with two kinds of substances selected from magnesium aluminometasilicate, dried aluminum hydroxide gel and aluminum chloride is prepared.

Abstract: A solid composition for topical application comprising, in an aqueous phase, a gelling system comprising (i) gellan gum, (ii) at least one other hydrocolloid chosen from the group formed by xanthan gum, carboxymethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, methylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, agar-agar, carrageenans, alginates, carob gum, guar gum, gum arabic, karaya gum, gum tragacanth, ghatti gum, pectins, gelatin, caseinates and hydroxypropylguar, and (iii) at least one amphiphilic polymer comprising at least one fatty chain and at least one hydrophilic unit.

Abstract: The invention relates to a stable fumagillin formulation and to the method of use thereof in treating and/or combating intestinal infections.

Abstract: The invention concerns a cosmetic composition comprising in a cosmetically acceptable aqueous or hydroalcoholic medium, an aqueous dispersion of insoluble styling polymer particles, resulting in a mean fixing energy of styling material after drying on the keratinous fibers less than 200 microjoules in a fixing test. The invention is applicable to hair lacquers.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to gel compositions useful in the preparation of medicated gel products. Such medicated gel products are suitable for use in the treatment of anorectal disorders such as hemorrhoids. Also disclosed is a method for the treatment of such anorectal disorders using the claimed medicated gel products.

Abstract: Topical gelled compositions comprising a drug which causes vasodilation, and optionally prostaglandin E1, dispersed within a polymer matrix, and methods of treating sexual dysfunction, including both male and female sexual dysfunction, using said compositions.

Abstract: Methods are provided for forming hydrogel barriers in situ that adhere to tissue and prevent the formation of post-surgical adhesions or deliver drugs or other therapeutic agents to a body cavity. The hydrogels are crosslinked, resorb or degrade over a period of time, and may be formed by free radical polymerization initiated by a redox system or thermal initiation, or electrophilic-nucleophilic mechanism, wherein two components of an initiating system are simultaneously or sequentially poured into a body cavity to obtain widespread dispersal and coating of all or most visceral organs within that cavity prior to gelation and polymerization of the regional barrier. The hydrogel materials are selected to have a low stress at break in tension or torsion, and so as to have a close to equilibrium hydration level when formed.

Abstract: A gel system comprising propylene glycol alginate and basic aluminum acetate salt. Also, disclosed is a personal care formulation comprising a room deodorant gel employing said gel system.

Abstract: A range of products and methods are based on a creamy base of cream, artificial cream, thickened cream, cream cheese, mixtures thereof and mixtures with compatible incidental ingredients, the creamy base being aerated while cold and intimately mixed with a hot aqueous gelatin solution typically around 80° C. and providing 1-3% gelatin in the mixed product and the overrun in the aeration being typically in the range of 10-40%. Various further components are included or introduced with further processing selected from methods including heating the product with a further component to boiling point whereby de-aeration and enhanced shelf life is found in the resultant product. An alternative method is where flavor components are added prior to de-aeration. Another application is as a carrier for a pharmaceutical agent which is incorporated into the creamy base and protected with the gelatin matrix, a powder being formed ready for packaging in pharmaceutical doses.

Abstract: Aging and sagging subcutaneous muscles are treated by first applying a composition containing at least one acetylcholine precursor and/or at least one compound exhibiting catecholamine activity to the overlying skin area, and then electronically stimulating the overlying skin area using electrical pulses in amounts sufficient to cause the subcutaneous muscles to contract. Preferred compositions contain from about 1% to about 10%, more narrowly from about 0.25% to about 5% by weight of an alkanolamine such as dimethylaminoethanol, the calcium salt of 2-aminoethanol phosphate or mixtures thereof and about from about 1% to about 10%, more narrowly from about 1% to 5% by weight of a compound exhibiting catecholamine activity such as tyrosine. Preferred electronic muscle stimulating devices deliver electrical pulses via electrodes in the fingertips of a compact device that fits on the hand.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a biodegradable hydrogel comprising bonds which are hydrolysable under physiological conditions. More particularly, the hydrogel consists of two interpenetrating polymer networks interconnected to one another through hydrolysable spacers. In addition, the invention relates to a method for the preparation of a hydrogel, wherein macromolecules, e.g., polymers which contain bonds which are hydrolysable under physiological conditions, are cross-linked in an aqueous solution.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a group of related lipid molecules, and methods for their use, that maybe used to treat inflammation and certain inflammation related diseases. The group of related lipid molecules are capable of inhibiting certain enzyme systems including phospholipase A2, and cyclooxygenase-2. The group of related lipid molecules of the invention may be characterized by specific structural characteristics, or by specific biological activity, including inhibition of the previously listed enzymes.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to viscoelastic systems comprising a combination of a galactomannan polysaccharide containing composition and borate containing composition. The two compositions gel or partially gel upon combination. The present invention also discloses methods of using the systems during surgery and, in particular, eye surgery.

Abstract: Antimicrobial/pharmaceutical preparations (e.g., solutions, gels, ointments, creams, sustained release preparations, etc.) which comprise chlorite (e.g., a metal salt of a chlorite) in combination with a peroxy compound (e.g., hydrogen peroxide), and methods for using such preparations for disinfection of articles or surfaces (e.g., contact lenses, counter tops, etc.), antisepsis of skin or other body parts, prevention or deterrence of scar formation and/or treatment and prophylaxis of dermal (i.e., skin or mucous membrane) disorders (e.g., wounds, burns, infections, cold sores, ulcerations, psoriasis, acne, or other scar-forming lesions).

Abstract: Contact lens care compositions for the treatment of hard contact lenses are disclosed. The compositions are useful for rinsing, cleaning, disinfecting and storing of hard contact lenses. The compositions contain an unique gelling system involving galactomannan polysaccharides and borates to allow for the conditioning of the lens when it is reinserted in the eye of the user. Methods of using these compositions are also disclosed.

Abstract: Pharmaceutical compositions for the delivery of pharmacologically active proteins are provided by the present invention. The compositions of the present invention comprise a polymeric matrix having thermal gelation properties in which is incorporated a discrete suspension of at least one biologically active macromolecular polypeptide which retains greater than 90 percent of its biological activity. Furthermore, the concentration of the macromolecular polypeptide is greater than 0.5 percent by weight of the composition.

Abstract: A topical ointment pharmaceutical composition that uses a lipophilic base, a pharmaceutical active and, dispersed in the base, from about 1% to about 50% by weight of the total composition of hydrogenated non-melted castor oil in powder form. The result of using hydrogenated non-melted castor oil in powder form is a surprising pharmaceutical elegance perceived to be smoother in texture and more spreadable than an ointment made by melting the hydrogenated castor oil.

Abstract: The present invention includes a cosmetic formulation. The cosmetic formulation comprises a plurality of spheres having a first desiccated volume and having a second hydrated volume. The hydrated volume is greater than the desiccated volume.

Abstract: An anhydrous skin treatment composition is provided which includes a crosslinked siloxane elastomer gel of specific yield point, a skin conditioning agent and a volatile siloxane. Inclusions of the select elastomers provide improved uniform distribution of the pigments.

Abstract: An organic solvent based cosmetic remover composition gelled to a viscosity of 25 to 500,000 centipoise with a synthetic metal silicate gelling agent.

Abstract: One aspect of the invention relates to anti-viral composition containing at least one zinc compound and at least one phenolic antioxidant (and optionally other ingredients such as at least one analgesic) at least one hydrocarbyl containing compound, and water. Another aspect of the invention relates to a method of treating lesionous symptoms of a viral infection involving applying an effective amount of the zinc containing anti-viral composition to the lesions.

Abstract: A method is described for preparing a fluid pharmaceutical composition which allows the controlled release of at least one active substance. The method involves mixing a therapeutically effective amount of at least one active substance, from 3 to 55% by weight of phospholipid, from 16 to 72% by weight of pharmaceutically acceptable solvent, and from 4 to 52 % by weight of fatty acid. The composition has a property of gelling instantaneously in the presence of an aqueous phase.

Abstract: A topical skin protectant formulation containing a barrier cream and an active moiety for protecting warfighters and civilians against all types of harmful chemicals, specifically chemical warfare agents (CWAs). The topical skin protectant offers a barrier property and an active moiety that serves to neutralize chemical warfare agents into less toxic agents.

Abstract: A topical skin protectant formulation containing a barrier cream and a reactive moiety for protecting warfighters and civilians against all types of harmful chemicals, specifically chemical warfare agents (CWA's). The topical skin protectant offers a barrier property and a reactive moiety that serves to neutralize chemical warfare agents into less toxic agents.

Abstract: The present invention provides for the treatment of an individual suffering from infections from herpes virus or human papilloma virus by utilizing a cromolyn compound. The treatment includes the use of a corticosteroid or L-lysine that can be administered separately or in combination.

Abstract: A method of improving DNA repair and reducing DNA damage and for reducing mutation frequency in skin for the purpose of reducing consequences of exposure to solar or ultraviolet radiation is disclosed. The methods comprise administering to the skin a composition containing deoxyribonucleosides in concentrations sufficient to enhance DNA repair or reduce mutation frequency in a vehicle capable of delivering effective amounts of deoxyribonucleosides to the necessary skin cells.

Abstract: A fluid pharmaceutical composition is described which allows the controlled release of at least one active substance. The composition comprises a therapeutically effective amount of at least one active substance, from 3 to 55% by weight of phospholipid, from 16 to 72% by weight of pharmaceutically acceptable solvent, and from 4 to 52% by weight of fatty acid. The composition has a property of gelling instantaneously in the presence of an aqueous phase.

Abstract: Novel pharmaceutically/cosmetically-active aromatic polyenic compounds have the structural formula (I): and are useful for the treatment of a wide variety of disease states, whether human or veterinary, for example dermatological, rheumatic, respiratory, cardiovascular, bone and ophthalmological disorders, as well as for the treatment of mammalian skin and hair conditions/disorders.