Pharmaceutical compositions for demodex related blepharitis and eyelid crusting

Abstract

Formulation of ectoparasiticidal and antibiotic “compositions into pharmaceutical compositions useful for the treatment of eyelid inflammation, in particular demodex related blepharitis and eye crusting.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD[0001]The present invention relates to the formulation of ectoparasiticidal and antibiotic compositions into topical pharmaceutical compositions useful for the treatment of eyelid inflammation, in particular demodex related blepharitis and eyelid crusting. This invention also relates to a topical pharmaceutical composition suitable for the treatment of mammalian ectoparasites.DESCRIPTION OF BACKGROUND AND / OR RELATED AND / OR PRIOR ART[0002]Blepharitis represents one of the most common anterior segment disorders encountered in ophthalmology. Blepharitis produces a red-rimmed appearance at the margins of the eyelids. It affects both the upper and lower eyelids. Blepharitis tends to recur and can become chronic.[0003]Blepharitis is inflammation usually involving the part of the eyelid where the eyelashes grow. The eyes can eventually become red, itchy and irritated, with dandruff-like crusts appearing on the eyelashes (also known as “crusting”). It may also result in loss ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0054]The following examples are merely illustrative, and not limitative of the remainder of the disclosure in any way whatsoever. These examples are illustrative of the effectiveness of the invention.

[0055]Several patients had itching in the eyes and crusting around the eyelids. The presence of demodex mites was then confirmed. The confirmation was done by gently pulling on the eyelashes, and then transferring the presenting demodex mites onto a piece of cellophane tape. The said cellophane tape was then affixed onto a microscope slide. These demodex mites were viewed at 100 times of magnification, and counted to determine the mite density per lash follicle.

[0056]In treating the affected patients, the eyelids were first cleaned with hot compresses and a clean towel to remove all crusts and debris. The cream or ointment was then applied directly onto the affected area, by using a clean finger or a cotton-tipped applicator. The cream or ointment covered the entire eyelashes and roots.

[0057]The cream or ointment was left on the affected area for the entire night, and then washed away in the morning. This process was repeated on a nightly basis, for a month. The patients were then re-assessed for the presence of demodex mites, and no demodex mites were found on the eyelash roots of any patients. Before the treatment, many patients experienced itching on the eyelid margins. These patients were free of any symptoms, at the 1-month follow up.

[0058]Some cases were treated solely with ivermectin. However, these studies also demonstrate the necessity of antibiotics, in some cases.

Problems solved by technology

It may also result in loss of lashes.

Despite the prevalence of blepharitis in both presentation and contribution to ocular conditions, there is little data on how eye care practitioners treat the disease.

However, these treatments frequently fail to eradicate the demodex parasite and the infestation persists.

Tea tree oil treatments, however, suffer from several disadvantages.

Tea tree oil can easily lead to eye irritation and cause stinging sensations.

Even a small amount will induce tearing, if it reaches the ocular surface.. Due to the reflex tearing, dilution occurs and efficacy is reduced.

However, this is an expensive medication regimen and requires repeated dosing.