EO-BO Block Copolymer and Galactomannan Ophthalmic Compositions
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current ophthalmic compositions lack effective viscoelastic and interfacial properties for contact lens disinfection and rewetting, particularly in terms of viscosity enhancement and lipid deposition prevention.
Innovation Solution
The combination of ethyleneoxide butyleneoxide (EO-BO) block copolymers with galactomannans like guar or its derivatives in ophthalmic compositions, which synergistically increase viscosity and provide desirable viscoelastic and interfacial properties, enhancing their suitability for contact lens disinfection and rewetting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If galactomannan is used alone in ophthalmic compositions, then the composition provides basic viscosity and stability, but the viscoelastic and interfacial properties are insufficient for effective contact lens disinfection and rewetting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines galactomannan with EO-BO block copolymer to create a composite polymer system. The galactomannan provides baseline viscosity and stability, while the EO-BO copolymer contributes hydrophobic amphiphilic properties that form elastic layers at interfaces. This composite approach synergistically enhances viscoelastic and interfacial properties, improving contact lens disinfection and rewetting effectiveness without requiring complex multi-component formulations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the hydrophobicity parameter of the EO-BO block copolymer by adjusting the butyleneoxide unit content. This parameter change optimizes the elasticity of the solution and enhances the formation of elastic layers at the air-water interface and contact lens surface, thereby improving the overall performance for disinfection and rewetting applications.
2Reliability
If EO-BO block copolymer is used alone in aqueous solution, then the composition forms elastic layers at the air-water interface, but the viscosity enhancement is insufficient for effective contact lens disinfection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges galactomannan and EO-BO block copolymer into a single composition system. The galactomannan contributes to viscosity enhancement while the EO-BO copolymer forms elastic interfacial layers. Their combination creates a synergistic effect where both polymers work together to provide both viscosity enhancement and interfacial elasticity, which are both necessary for effective contact lens disinfection.
Solution Approach 2:
The composite polymer system combines the viscosity-providing properties of galactomannan with the interfacial-active properties of EO-BO copolymer. This composite approach ensures that the composition achieves both sufficient viscosity for disinfection effectiveness and proper interfacial elasticity for contact lens compatibility.
3Strength
If the butyleneoxide unit is modified to change hydrophobicity, then the elasticity of the solution is improved, but the formulation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent systematically adjusts the butyleneoxide unit content in the EO-BO block copolymer to optimize the hydrophobicity parameter. This parameter change directly controls the elasticity of the solution and the formation of elastic layers at interfaces. By optimizing this single parameter within a specific range, the patent achieves enhanced elasticity without requiring complex multi-parameter formulation adjustments.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The EO-BO and galactomannan compositions exhibit improved viscosity and interfacial properties, effectively preventing lipid deposition and enhancing tear film stability, making them well-suited for ophthalmic applications such as contact lens disinfection and dry eye treatment.
Implementation Method 1
Ethyleneoxide butyleneoxide block copolymers are very hydrophobic amphiphiles in aqueous solutions. At an air-water interface these nonionic surfactants form elastic layers that can provide a cushioning effect for contact lenses when used in ophthalmic solutions.
Implementation Method 2
At an air-water interface these nonionic surfactants form elastic layers that can provide a cushioning effect for contact lenses
Implementation Method 3
The galactomannan and EO-BO compositions of the present invention have desirable viscoelastic and interfacial properties that make them well suited for ophthalmic applications
Implementation Method 4
by modifying the hydrophobicity (changing the butyleneoxide unit) of EO-BO block copolymers in solution, advantageous changes in the elasticity of such solutions can occur
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a
Figure 2b
AI summary
The present invention relates to compositions comprising ethyleneoxide butyleneoxide block copolymers and a galactomannan such as guar. The compositions are particularly well suited for ophthalmic applications such as contact lens disinfection and rewetting. Methods for the treatment of dry eye using the compositions of the present invention are also contemplated.