Mannitol Topical Formulation for Cutaneous Nerve Pain
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current topical pain relievers often cause severe systemic side effects or unpleasant localized sensations, and there is a need for alternatives that are effective without these issues, particularly for conditions involving cutaneous nerves.
Innovation Solution
A topical pain relief composition comprising mannitol between 15 and 90% by weight, combined with excipients such as propylene glycol, isopropyl palmitate, and other emollients, emulsifiers, and penetration enhancers, allowing for transdermal delivery and absorption through the skin.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If oral pain relievers are used, then pain relief is achieved, but severe systemic side effects occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by formulating mannitol as a topical composition that acts locally at the site of pain rather than systemically. The composition is applied directly to the skin over the painful area, allowing mannitol to be absorbed locally and provide pain relief without causing widespread systemic side effects associated with oral medications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by incorporating mannitol into a topical formulation vehicle (cream, gel, or lotion) that serves as a mediator between the mannitol and the skin. This formulation vehicle enables controlled delivery and absorption of mannitol through the skin, facilitating local action while minimizing systemic exposure and associated harmful effects.
2Reliability
If topical NSAIDs are used, then localized pain relief is achieved, but severe side effects occur from absorption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by altering the active ingredient from conventional NSAIDs to mannitol, changing the pharmacological parameters of the topical formulation. This parameter change results in a different mechanism of action (osmotic diuretic and free radical scavenging properties of mannitol versus anti-inflammatory properties of NSAIDs) that provides pain relief without the gastrointestinal and renal side effects associated with NSAID absorption.
3Reliability
If counterirritant topical pain relievers are used, then pain distraction is achieved, but unpleasant burning and stinging sensations occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful burning and stinging sensations caused by counterirritants like capsaicin into a beneficial effect by using mannitol, which provides pain relief through its osmotic and antioxidant properties without creating unpleasant sensations. The formulation leverages mannitol's ability to reduce intracellular water retention and scavenge free radicals to achieve pain distraction without the harmful sensory effects of traditional counterirritants.
4Reliability
If mannitol is administered intravenously or subcutaneously, then pain relief is achieved, but topical administration has not been explored
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies another dimension by transitioning from parenteral administration (intravenous or subcutaneous injections) to topical administration through the skin. This dimensional change in the route of administration allows for non-invasive delivery of mannitol, providing the same pain relief benefits through a different, more convenient, and less invasive pathway that has not been previously explored.
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 mannitol-based composition provides rapid and sustained pain relief lasting from two hours to 48 hours with minimal adverse effects, effectively targeting TRPV1 receptors and treating various conditions associated with cutaneous nerves, including pain, itching, and autoimmune disorders.
Implementation Method 1
Mannitol is a sugar alcohol with the formula C6H8(OH)6. It reduces intracellular water retention and also has free radical scavenging properties.
Implementation Method 2
Mannitol is a sugar alcohol with the formula C6H8(OH)6. It reduces intracellular water retention and also has free radical scavenging properties.
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein are topical pain compositions comprising between 15 and 90% mannitol, for use in the treatment of pain, itch and other cutaneous nerve conditions. The resulting compositions may be in the form of creams, gels, lotions, ointments, foams, suppositories, and sprays.