Smooth muscle chemical pacemaker
First Claim
1. A porous biocompatible matrix comprising an interspersed neuroactive agent forming a shaped solid element, wherein the neuroactive agent has a therapeutic effect on a disorder associated with smooth muscle function in an organ peripheral to the central nervous system and wherein the concentration of the neuroactive agent is about 1 to 30% by weight of the element, so that localized drug delivery to those in need thereof is provided through a thin film of fluid which forms when the matrix is contacted with an organ surface in vivo.
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Accused Products
Abstract
Methods and articles of manufacture are provided for treating disorders of smooth muscle function in organ systems. A treatment element comprises a biocompatible polymer matrix loaded with a neuroactive substance. The device is placed in contact with the targeted organ system in a manner effecting a therapeutic effect on the smooth muscle function of the organ system.
30 Citations
23 Claims
- 1. A porous biocompatible matrix comprising an interspersed neuroactive agent forming a shaped solid element, wherein the neuroactive agent has a therapeutic effect on a disorder associated with smooth muscle function in an organ peripheral to the central nervous system and wherein the concentration of the neuroactive agent is about 1 to 30% by weight of the element, so that localized drug delivery to those in need thereof is provided through a thin film of fluid which forms when the matrix is contacted with an organ surface in vivo.
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10. A system for localized drug delivery to those in need thereof, comprising:
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a porous biocompatible matrix comprising an interspersed neuroactive agent forming a shaped solid element, wherein the neuroactive agent has a therapeutic effect on a disorder associated with smooth muscle function in an organ peripheral to the central nervous system and wherein the concentration of the neuroactive agent is about 1 to 30% by weight of the element; and an impermeable, biocompatible layer covering a first portion of the solid element to expose a permeable second portion of the solid element;
so that when the second permeable portion is contacted with a moist surface in vivo a thin film of fluid transports the neuroactive agent through the exposed second portion of the solid element. - View Dependent Claims (11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23)
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Specification