Abstract:
There is disclosed block and graft copolymers which, in one embodiment, contain both a temperature-sensitive polymer component and a pH-sensitive polymer component, and the use of such copolymers for topical drug delivery to a treatment area. The block and graft copolymers may be physically mixed with one or more drugs to form a copolymer-drug mixture. This mixture may be applied to the treatment as solid particles suspended in a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, or as a liquid which gels upon contact with the treatment area. Upon contact with the treatment area, the pH-sensitive polymer component hydrates and swells, thereby causing release of the drug from the mixture. In addition, such hydration and swelling causes the pH-sensitive polymer component to adhere to the tissue of the treatment area, thus prolonging contact time. The temperature-sensitive polymer component resists hydration and swelling of the mixture, thereby imparting a sustained and controlled release of the drug to the treatment area. In another embodiment of this invention, bloc and graft copolymers, and hydrogels thereof, are disclosed having broad industrial applicability.
Abstract:
Compositions and methods for treating ocular pain are disclosed. In particular, the invention discloses compositions and methods of using kappa opioid agonists topically for the prevention or alleviation of ocular pain.
Abstract:
The invention provides pharmaceutical compositions containing calpain inhibitors and methods of using these calpain inhibitors to prevent or ameliorate ocular neural tissue disease or damage.
Abstract:
An infusion sleeve having a two-piece body. The first piece is conical in shape and is attached to the handpiece by conventional methods. The distal end of the first piece contains a series of annular grooves. The second piece is tubular in shape and contains an annular rim or lip on the proximal end that interlocks within the annular grooves on the first piece.
Abstract:
Compositions containing DP-agonist and FP-agonists prostaglandin agonists and methods of their use in treating glaucoma or ocular hypertension are disclosed.
Abstract:
A surgical handpiece holder for use in protecting a surgical handpiece during storage or autoclaving, and providing a template for the storage of excess handpiece wire is disclosed.
Abstract:
Compositions containing an ophthalmically acceptable, modified enzyme exhibiting a low pI and methods involving the combined use of these compositions with a polymeric antimicrobial agent, are disclosed for the simultaneous cleaning and disinfecting of contact lens.
Abstract:
Compositions containing an ophthalmically acceptable enzyme of high purity and integrity in a liquid medium and methods involving the use of these compositions for cleaning a contact lens, and in combination with an antimicrobial agent for the simultaneous cleaning and disinfecting of contact lens are disclosed.
Abstract:
The use of TGF- beta 3 to reduce the formation of scar tissue as a result of trauma to the cornea of the eye is described. The invention is particularly directed to the use of TGF- beta 3 to reduce the formation of scar tissue in connection with ophthalmic surgical procedures involving the cornea, such as laser irradiation of the cornea. A composition containing TGF- beta 3 is applied to the site of the trauma to alter the production and composition of extracellular matrix synthesized by fibroblasts, and thereby reduce the formation of scar tissue and consequent impairment of vision.