Abstract: A wound treatment apparatus for treatment of surface wounds with a bandage system configured to control the environment adjacent the wound. The apparatus includes a bandage configured to cover a wound and provide a seal about the perimeter of the wound and cavity over the wound. A fluid supply conduit and a fluid drainage conduit are each in communication with the cavity. A nebulizer is coupled to the supply conduit to supply medicinal fluid to the wound. A waste receptacle is coupled to the drainage conduit to remove the fluid away from the wound.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a novel process of making N-isopropyl acrylamide (NiPAm) polymers based upon the reaction of poly(acrylic acid) and N-isopropylamine. The disclosed method of the present invention uses polyacrylic acid as a starting material to synthesize NiPAm polymers. In one embodiment, the present invention discloses a condensation reaction of an intermediate salt to form homopolymers, copolymers and terpolymers of N-isopropyl acrylamide (NiPAm) with acrylic acid and/or alkyl acrylates in a molten state, which is adaptable to a continuous reactive extrusion process. Binder compositions, water-dispersible products and thermoformable articles containing the NiPAm polymers are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention provides medical articles having a fluid control film component which comprise a sheet having microchannels that permit directional flow of a liquid. Articles incorporating the fluid control film include: wound dressings, wound drains, tympanostomy fluid wicks, intravenous access site dressings, drug delivery dressings, and sweat collection patches.

Abstract: The present invention relates to absorbent articles including non-aqueous compositions for protecting the barrier function of the skin. The compositions can be applied to the bodyfacing surfaces of absorbent articles so that the compositions come into contact with the skin. The compositions of the invention have improved stability on the bodyfacing surfaces after processing. The compositions of the invention provide several benefits including prevention and alleviation of skin irritations associated with the use of absorbent articles. The compositions can include emollients, viscosity enhancers and anionic polymers.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions and absorbent articles including compositions for protecting the skin barrier. The compositions can be applied to the bodyfacing surfaces of absorbent articles so that the compositions come into contact with the skin. The compositions of the invention have improved stability on the bodyfacing surfaces after processing. The compositions of the invention provide several benefits including prevention and alleviation of skin irritations associated with the use of absorbent articles. The compositions can include hydrophilic solvents, high molecular weight polyethylene glycols, fatty alcohols, fatty acids and extracted botanical actives.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions and absorbent articles including compositions for protecting the skin barrier. The compositions can be applied to the bodyfacing surfaces of absorbent articles so that the compositions come into contact with the skin. The compositions of the invention have improved stability on the bodyfacing surfaces after processing. The compositions of the invention provide several benefits including prevention and alleviation of skin irritations associated with the use of absorbent articles. The compositions can include hydrophilic solvents, high molecular weight polyethylene glycols, fatty alcohols, fatty acids and decoupling polymers.

Abstract: An article containing a liquid pervious topsheet coated with a lotion composition is disclosed. The lotion composition provides a skin benefit and/or reduces the adherence of BM to the skin of the wearer, thereby improving the ease of BM clean up. The lotion composition applied to the article in a nonuniform manner, preferably such there are regions on the article's topsheet that are not coated with lotion.

Abstract: A blood circulation-promoting powdery material, a blood circulation-promoting attachment sheet and a blood circulation-promoting attachment sheet set for promoting blood circulation is provided. The powdery material comprises a distillate recovered from the distillation of pyroligneous acid as the principal component. The blood circulation-promoting attachment sheet includes the powdery material placed in a bag-shape sheet with air permeability; and the blood circulation-promoting attachment sheet set includes a bag-shape sheet containing the powdery material with an adhesive material and air permeability provided on one face of the attachment sheet.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the discovery that biocompatible anionic polymers can effectively inhibit fibrosis, scar formation, and surgical adhesions. The invention is predicated on the discovery that anionic polymers effectively inhibit invasion of cells associated with detrimental healing processes, and in particular, that the effectiveness of an anionic polymer at inhibiting cell invasion correlates with the anionic charge density of the polymer. Thus the present invention provides a large number of materials for use in methods of inhibiting fibrosis and fibroblast invasion. Anionic polymers for use in the invention include but are not limited to natural proteoglycans, and the glycosaminoglycan moieties of proteoglycans. Additionally, anionic carbohydrates and other anionic polymers may be used. The anionic polymers dextran sulfate and pentosan polysulfate are preferred. In a more preferred embodiment, dextran sulfate, in which the sulfur content is greater than about 10% by weight, may be used.

Abstract: The present invention relates to articles, such as a personal care product, having (i) a topsheet having a body-facing surface, said topsheet having a medicinal composition pattern applied to a region of the body-facing surface of the topsheet in an effective amount and wherein said pattern comprises individual segments having at least one dimension less than about 4 millimeters (extending in the MD and CD plane); and (ii) an absorbent material positioned adjacent the topsheet. In a further aspect, the article may further include a backsheet, which is desirably liquid-impervious, and which is positioned adjacent the absorbent material and opposite the topsheet. The present invention is also directed to a process for making said absorbent articles.

Abstract: The invention relates to an artificial skin based on a copolymer of a polyalkylene glycol and an aromatic polyester, which skin has a thickness between 50 and 2000 &mgr;m, and which skin has an upper and a lower side, both having a macroporosity between 10% and 95%.

Abstract: A kit having pre-made activated charcoal and gauze poultices or compresses, provided in at least three sizes, and designed for specific applications to the human body. One poultice is designed for oral use and placed between the cheek and gum. It is a linen/gauze pouch enclosing a layer of powdered charcoal (about ⅓ teaspoon). Another poultice is about 2″×2″ for a treating a spot, such as a sting or snake-bite and has a layer of powdered charcoal between linen/gauze layers. A third poultice is about 3″×5″ in size for wounds.

Abstract: For application of active substances to a wound surface a porous padding (12) is provided upon the wound (10), which is sealingly covered over with a foil (14). A fluid active substance is introduced into the padding (12) via a supply line (22) and is then suctioned out of the padding (12) via a removal line (26). Closure mechanisms (32, 34) control the introduction of the active substance and the suctioning off of the active substance in the manner, that the active substance after being introduced remains for a predetermined dwell time in the padding (12), before it is suctioned off. After the suctioning off the vacuum in the padding (12) is maintained for a certain time period, before renewed introduction of the active substance. The opening of the closure mechanisms (32, 34) are temporally controlled to occur slowly.

Abstract: A device for non-invasively correcting a human external ear is disclosed. The device comprises a flat fixture with an adhesive for sticking the fixture together with two fold parts on an ear which is folded about a folding line along a zone which is to be corrected with a permanent deformation. The fixture can be fixed on the ear easily and conveniently. In attached state, it is hardly visible, and the patient does not feel the fixture as something unpleasant and irritating to wear. The fixture can advantageously be used for correcting a small child's jug-ear which particularly easily can be given a permanent shape within the first few weeks after birth where the concentration of oestradiol is highest.

Abstract: The subject invention is directed to the prevention of elastic fiber injury by administering HA or any other polysaccharide or carbohydrate moiety that binds to and coats elastic fibers, thereby preventing enzymes, oxidants, or other injurious agents from contacting and damaging these fibers. The method may be used to prevent elastic fiber damage which occurs to the skin and blood vessels as a consequence of aging, to the uterus during pregnancy, and in diseases such as pulmonary emphysema, aortic aneurysm, and joint disease. The treatment is intended for humans and a variety of other mammals. The polysaccharide or carbohydrate moiety may be administered orally, cutaneously, subcutaneously, intravenously, intratracheally, or by any other route deemed efficacious. It may be administered alone or in combination with another polysaccharide or carbohydrate moiety, with or without a carrier such as saline solution, DMSO, alcohol or water.

Abstract: A method for covering an open wound by contacting the wound with a cellulosic bandage having a calculated amount of PHMB applied to the bandage. The cellulosic bandage can be prepared by providing at least one rolled beam of cellulosic material onto a perforated drum, inserting the beam of material into an enclosed vessel, adding PHMB into the vessel, and circulating the PHMB for a predetermined period of time.

Abstract: A single pad for providing both an anesthetic and an antiseptic for an injection site. The pad includes a first layer of material, a second layer of material, a third layer of material, an antiseptic solution, and an anesthetic solution. The second layer of material overlays the first layer of material. The third layer of material overlays the second layer of material. The antiseptic solution impregnates the first layer of material and cleans the injection site. The anesthetic solution impregnates the third layer of material, anesthetizes the injection site, and is used by merely turning the pad over after the antiseptic solution has been applied.

Abstract: The invention relates to a drainage system to be used with an open wound, which system consists of a block of a porous, moisture-absorbing material, which is connected to a tube or hose, which is in turn connected to a suction unit, which porous material is covered with a foil, wherein an element consisting of a plate-shaped member is provided on the porous, moisture-absorbing material, said plate-shaped member being provided on the upper side with a partially open thickening for placing or inserting the tube or hose, which thickening is provided on the underside with one or more openings, which open into and cooperate with openings in the plate-shaped member. The invention furthermore relates to said element and to a method of using the drainage system.

Abstract: A blend of one or more crosslinked polymers or copolymers prepared from an olefinically unsaturated polymerizable carboxylic or anhydride monomer and at least one high molecular weight essentially linear polymer prepared from an olefinically unsaturated polymerizable carboxylic acid monomer. The blend is neutralized to typically a low pH, and generally contains a noncovalent, e.g. ionic, crosslinking agent, and a cure rate modifier. The hydrogel blend is capable of containing a large amount of water, has good tack, good adhesion, and can be utilized as an application vehicle having a backing thereon as well as containing various substances such as personal care compounds, pharmaceuticals, active ingredients, and the like.

Abstract: A device for mixing and ejecting a multi-component reactive mixture, which will not clog after a single and subsequent uses, is disclosed. The device has a cylindrical mixing space defined by upper, lower, and side walls. There are two entry ports into the mixing space defined by and tangent to the side wall. Two fluid component sources are fluidly connected to the entry ports and are pressurized such that two fluids, which react with each other, separately enter the mixing space. The side wall of the mixing space imparts a rotational motion to the fluids, which causes the fluids to thoroughly mix together before being ejected out through the exit orifice in either a spray or stream form. A valve stem may be provided, which is configured and dimensioned to substantially occupy the mixing space and to seal the two entry ports when it is in the closed position.

Abstract: A pad for preventing and/or retarding the appearance of and/or for treating facial wrinkles and particularly wrinkles of the upper lip. The pad includes a plurality of segments of tissue stacked on top of each other. The segments have a longer dimension of from about one to about six inches and a shorter dimension of from about one-quarter to about three-quarters of an inch.

Abstract: Provided is a sheet, of which the surface to be in contact with the skin of a wearer has a mixture layer. The mixture layer includes (a) an oily ingredient which is liquid or semi-solid at 25° C., and (b) an ester compound of dextrin with a fatty acid.

Abstract: A superior skin barrier enhancing body facing material, such as a body side liner on an absorbent article, can be made by applying, on the outer surface of the body facing material, a lipid-enriched hydrophobic composition comprising a natural fat or oil, a sterol or sterol derivative, an emulsifying surfactant, a humectant, an emollient, a wax, and a viscosity enhancer, and thereafter resolidifying the composition to form a distribution of solid composition on the outer surface of the body facing material.

Abstract: A sterile nonstick compress having an open-mesh flexible fabric, the fabric including yarns which are coated with a cohesive and nonstick gel so as to leave the meshes essentially unobstructed, the gel being formed from a highly plasticized hydrophobic elastomeic matrix having a dispersion of hydrophilic particles of a hydrocolloid.

Abstract: A patch for transdermal administration of drugs through controlled release system, consisting essentially of: A) a flexible backing layer; B) an adhesive layer comprising: an adhesive pressure sensitive adhesive polymeric matrix, a cohesion improver, a tackifier agent, a combination of permeation enhancers consisting of a first component which is a saturated fatty acid or fatty alcohol represented by the formula CH3—(CH2)n—COOH or CH3—(CH2)n—CH2OH respectively, in which n is an integer from 6 to 16, and of a second component which is a monounsaturated fatty acid or fatty alcohol represented by the formula CH3—(CnH2(n−1))—COOH or CH3—(CnH2(n−1))—CH2OH respectively, in which n is an integer from 8 to 22, with the provision that the chain lenght of the first component is different from that of the second component, C) a protective liner, which is removed at the moment of use.

Abstract: The present invention provides a pressure sensitive skin adhesive comprising: (a) a copolymer of one or more alkyl(meth)acrylates containing 4 to 12 carbon atoms in the alkyl group and one or more hydrophilic monomers; (b) a mixture of penetration enhancers comprising: (i) an alkyl ester of an aliphatic monocarboxylic acid containing 1 to 5 carbon atoms in the alkyl group (ii) an alkyl pyrrolidone and (iii) an alkane polyol (c) a therapeutically effective amount of diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. Further provided is a transdermal drug delivery device containing the pressure sensitive skin adhesive.

Abstract: An absorbent pack for absorbing body fluids is provided. The absorbent pack includes an absorbent member and an enclosure assembly that surrounds the absorbent member. Apertures are formed in the enclosure member to permit body fluid to pass therethrough and be absorbed by the absorbent member. The enclosure assembly is made of a material that avoids unwanted adherence between the absorbent pack and a patient's skin or other body tissue. The enclosure assembly has a size to allow the absorbent member to expand without being impeded when it absorbs body fluid. A retention member can be joined to an anterior end of the absorbent member to assist in the removal of the absorbent pack from a body cavity. A cap member can be joined to the anterior end in order to avoid the possibility of separation of the anterior end from remaining portions of the absorbent member when the absorbent pack is removed from a body cavity.

Abstract: A sustained/immediate acting ketoprofen patch. A moisture permeable backing, a moisture non-permeable primer, a moisture high-permeable drug layer containing ketoprofen and a skin adhesion layer controlling release of a drug solution are piled up. An ethyl acetate soluble acrylic/rubber adhesive is coated onto a silicon coated paper, dried and transfer coated onto the backing to form the primer. The drug layer is formed by coating a drug solution onto a silicon coated paper, drying and transfer coating onto the primer. The skin adhesion layer is formed by coating a mixture of a solution prepared by dissolving an emulsifier in ethyl acetate and acrylic adhesive, drying and transfer coating onto the drug layer. The ketoprofen patch has a drug release controlling function and a good adhesion strength. The drug transferring effect through the skin is good.

Abstract: A hydrogel wound dressing which is highly absorptive, contours to a wound site and maintains the wound in a moist state to promote healing thereof.

Abstract: An improved process for manufacturing transdermal drug delivery devices and devices made therefrom. The invention provides a heat equilibration process for the manufacture of drug delivery devices which eliminates the need to preload the body contacting layer with a drug. The method has particular application in the manufacture of transdermal drug delivery devices including a drug reservoir comprising drug in excess of saturation.

Abstract: An adhesive agent for application to human or animal skin, preferably for use in connection with ostomy or incontinence appliances, comprises a pressure sensitive adhesive and optionally additives conventionally used in adhesives of this kind and parts of or extracts from Aloe vera. Such adhesive prevents or alleviates skin problems.

Abstract: A transdermal therapeutic system for the release of active substances to a substrate is characterized by the structure of the system comprising a substrate (1) provided with a separating layer (2), a film layer (3) comprising the active substance, and a protective layer (4) provided with a nonstick finish, the separating layer (2) consisting of a material whose bond to the film layer (3) may be abolished. By means of printing methods, such systems having small application thickness and high flexibility can be manufactured, it being possible to provide a substrate that has been rendered adhesive as an alternative to the substrate/separating layer-complex. A printing method limiting the active substance-containing region to the application site reduces disposal problems.

Abstract: An absorbent article, such as a diaper, containing leg cuffs coated with a lotion composition is disclosed. The lotions disclosed in the present invention minimize the abrasion between the cuffs and skin in the area where the cuffs contact the wearer's skin, resulting in less skin irritation. The lotion compositions also reduce the adherence of BM to the skin of the wearer, thereby improving the ease of BM clean up. The lotion composition comprises a plastic or fluid emollient such as mineral oil or petrolatum, an immobilizing agent such as a fatty alcohol or paraffin wax to immobilize the emollient on the surface of the diaper leg cuffs, and optionally a hydrophilic surfactant to improve the processability and/or stability of the lotion compositions. Because the emollient is substantially immobilized on the surface of the leg cuff, less lotion is required to impart the desired therapeutic or protective lotion coating benefits.

Abstract: An insert for a bra, wherein the insert adaptable to the inner shape of the cup comprises at least one zone storing an active ingredient and delivering to the skin, and at least one breathing compensation zone, wherein the zones selectively deliver active ingredients only or act in a compensating manner, or carry out both functions simultaneously.

Abstract: A patch test plaster having at least one active substance receptacle arranged on a backing film, having a highly elastic backing film which is made of polymeric material, is impermeable to liquid water but permeable to water vapour, and is releasibly connected on the surface facing away from the skin to a supporting sheet and is provided on the surface facing the skin with an adhesive layer which is in turn covered by an at least two-part detachable protecting layer before application of the plaster, is characterized in that the protecting layer has a hinge-like connection on two opposite edges to the supporting sheet.

Abstract: A chemical signal-impermeable mask is positioned in the electrolyte flow such that the mask is between a source of chemical signal and a working electrode which senses the chemical signal transported from the source (e.g., by diffusion). The configuration of the mask is such that the mask prevents substantially all chemical signal transport from the chemical signal source having a radial vector component relative to a plane of the mask and the catalytic face of the working electrode, thus allowing primarily only chemical signal transport that is substantially perpendicular to the place of the mask and the catalytic surface of the working electrode. By reducing or eliminating chemical signal radial transport toward the working electrode, the mask thus significantly reduces or eliminates edge effects. By substantially reducing edge effects created by radial transport of chemical signal, it is possible to obtain a more accurate measurement of the amount (e.g.

Abstract: An absorbent, composite fibre comprising a matrix of from 10% to less than 50% of water insoluble alginate having dispersed therein at least 40% of another polysaccharide.

Abstract: An improved polyurethane is prepared by reacting a diol, an organic diisocyanate and a carboxylic acid with a critical selection of the amount of water in the reaction mixture. The polyurethane has improved adhesion, hydrophilicty and strength. The polymer has improved feel, and washability. Solutions of the polymer have low viscosity in aqueous solutions.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the discovery that biocompatible anionic polymers can effectively inhibit fibrosis, scar formation, and surgical adhesions. The invention is predicated on the discovery that anionic polymers effectively inhibit invasion of cells associated with detrimental healing processes, and in particular, that the effectiveness of an anionic polymer at inhibiting cell invasion correlates with the anionic charge density of the polymer. Thus the present invention provides a large number of materials for use in methods of inhibiting fibrosis and fibroblast invasion. Anionic polymers for use in the invention include but are not limited to natural proteoglycans, and the glycosaminoglycan moieties of proteoglycans. Additionally, anionic carbohydrates and other anionic polymers may be used. The anionic polymers dextran sulfate and pentosan polysulfate are preferred. In a more preferred embodiment, dextran sulfate, in which the sulfur content is greater than about 10% by weight, may be used.

Abstract: Optically pure S(+) flurbiprofen, which is substantially free of the R(-) enantiomer, is a potent analgesic for relieving pain and inflammation in humans and animals. A method and composition is disclosed utilizing the optically pure S(+) enantiomer of flurbiprofen for treating pain and inflammation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the discovery that biocompatible anionic polymers can effectively inhibit fibrosis, scar formation, and surgical adhesions. The invention is predicated on the discovery that anionic polymers effectively inhibit invasion of cells associated with detrimental healing processes, and in particular, that the effectiveness of an anionic polymer at inhibiting cell invasion correlates with the anionic charge density of the polymer. Thus the present invention provides a large number of materials for use in methods of inhibiting fibrosis and fibroblast invasion. Anionic polymers for use in the invention include but are not limited to natural proteoglycans, and the glycosaminoglycan moieties of proteoglycans. Additionally, anionic carbohydrates and other anionic polymers may be used. The anionic polymers dextran sulfate and pentosan polysulfate are preferred. In a more preferred embodiment, dextran sulfate, in which the sulfur content is greater than about 10% by weight, may be used.

Abstract: Pressure sensitive adhesive compositions for use in transdermal drug delivery systems comprising an adhesive composition which is tolerant to plasticization by cutaneous penetration enhancers contained in the transdermal drug formulation are disclosed. Specifically, the pressure sensitive adhesive composition of the present invention comprises an acrylic copolymer prepared from (i) at least 40% by weight of th total monomer composition of alkyl acrylate monomers with a Tg of -90 to 0.degree. C., (ii) 0-15% by weight of the total monomer composition of monomers with a Tg of 0 to 250.degree. C., and (iii) 10-60% by weight of the total monomer composition of substituted acrylamides or methacrylamides having the structural formula: ##STR1## wherein R.sub.1 is H or CH.sub.3,R.sub.2 is H or CH.sub.3, andR.sub.3 is (a) CH.sub.3,(b) C(CH.sub.3).sub.2 --(CH.sub.2).sub.n --CH.sub.3 where n is 0 through 17, or(c) substituents of the formula: ##STR2## where m is 0 through 10, and optionally(iv) at least 0.

Abstract: A machine for manufacturing adhesive dressings having an adhesive support, absorbing material compresses laying on the support and a protective layer, includes a cutting element for cutting compresses to a desired size and placing them at the desired intervals onto the adhesive layer. The cutting element includes a first cylindrical counter roll that has a smooth surface and a second roll acting on the first roll. The second roll has projecting sectors, alternated with recessed sectors, provided with at least a transversal cutting knife for cutting the absorbing tape by compressing the same against the counter roll. The tape is drawn during the synchronous rotation of the rolls by the projecting sectors cooperating with the surface of the counter roll.

Abstract: A dressing comprising a body facing layer of a thermoplastic adhesive and a carrier film and an absorbent material, the dressing having in itself an outwardly facing convex surface and an inwardly facing concave surface, wherein the dressing comprises a first area facing the wound or skin, the area having essentially three-dimensional geometry and optionally a second area, the first area preferably comprising a hydrocolloid adhesive and a carrier film, and the second area essentially showing adhesive properties and preferably comprising a carrier film and a hydrocolloid adhesive and wherein the adhesive in one or both areas is optionally covered by one or more layers to be removed before use.

Abstract: The invention relates to sheet-like absorbents for water and aqueous solutions, containing at a defined distributionA) at least one water-swellable synthetic and/or natural superabsorbent polymer, andB) at least one water-soluble synthetic and/or natural polymeras a matrix of sheet-like design wherein the superabsorbent component A) is integrated or fixed. The sheet-like absorbents have an increased absorptive capacity for water and aqueous liquids, particularly under load. They are manufactured by forming a sheet-like matrix from the water-soluble synthetic and/or natural polymers B) and providing same with said water-swellable synthetic and/or natural superabsorber A), e.g., by applying a solution of matrix B) on a surface, sprinkling same with component A), and drying the sheet-like structure thus obtained.

Abstract: A debridement pad is provided having fibrinolysin enzyme, desoxyribonuclease enzyme and cellulosic material in the form of a lyophilized sponge-like pad. Placement of the pad over an open wound produces a gel which has a protective effect and which releases the enzymes directly into the wound. The pad may also contain antibiotic agents.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the discovery that biocompatible anionic polymers can effectively inhibit fibrosis, scar formation, and surgical adhesions. The invention is predicated on the discovery that anionic polymers effectively inhibit invasion of cells associated with detrimental healing processes, and in particular, that the effectiveness of an anionic polymer at inhibiting cell invasion correlates with the anionic charge density of the polymer. Thus the present invention provides a large number of materials for use in methods of inhibiting fibrosis and fibroblast invasion. Anionic polymers for use in the invention include but are not limited to natural proteoglycans, and the glycosaminoglycan moieties of proteoglycans. Additionally, anionic carbohydrates and other anionic polymers may be used. The anionic polymers dextran sulfate and pentosan polysulfate are preferred. In a more preferred embodiment, dextran sulfate, in which the sulfur content is greater than about 10% by weight, may be used.

Abstract: The invention concerns a pharmaceutical composition for transdermal administration, characterized in that it comprises:a) optionally, a polymeric release matrix capable of forming a flexible film after drying, chosen from cellulose polymers or copolymers or vinylpyrrolidone/vinyl acetate copolymersb) an active principlec) a promoter of transcutaneous absorption of the active principled) a physiologically acceptable non-aqueous solvent capable of dissolving the release matrix, the active principle and the transcutaneous absorption promoter and also capable of being rapidly removed by evaporation on contact with the skin.

Abstract: An improved process for manufacturing transdermal drug delivery devices and devices made therefrom. The invention provides a heat equilibration process for the manufacture of drug delivery devices which eliminates the need to preload the body contacting layer with a drug. The method has particular application in the manufacture of transdermal drug delivery devices including a drug reservoir comprising drug in excess of saturation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the discovery that biocompatible anionic polymers can effectively inhibit fibrosis, scar formation, and surgical adhesions. The invention is predicated on the discovery that anionic polymers effectively inhibit invasion of cells associated with detrimental healing processes, and in particular, that the effectiveness of an anionic polymer at inhibiting cell invasion correlates with the anionic charge density of the polymer. Thus the present invention provides a large number of materials for use in methods of inhibiting fibrosis and fibroblast invasion. Anionic polymers for use in the invention include but are not limited to natural proteoglycans, and the glycosaminoglycan moieties of proteoglycans. Additionally, anionic carbohydrates and other anionic polymers may be used. The anionic polymers dextran sulfate and pentosan polysulfate are preferred. In a more preferred embodiment, dextran sulfate, in which the sulfur content is greater than about 10% by weight, may be used.