Vaginal Probiotic Formulation with Boric Acid
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current treatments for urogenital infections and inflammatory conditions, such as vaginitis, have high recurrence rates and significant side effects, and there is a need for improved compositions and methods to treat and prevent these conditions effectively.
Innovation Solution
A vaginal probiotic product formulation containing dried viable Lactobacillus cells, boric acid, and antioxidants, such as vitamin E and vitamin C, in a carrier like maltodextrin, is administered intravaginally to restore normal vaginal flora, reduce pathogen growth, and alleviate symptoms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If antimicrobial treatments (antibiotics and antifungal agents) are used to treat urogenital infections, then the infection is treated, but the recurrence rate is high and side effects are common
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful effect of pathogen overgrowth into a beneficial outcome by using probiotics to restore healthy vaginal flora. The formulation contains Lactobacillus cells that produce lactic acid, creating an acidic environment that inhibits pathogen growth. This approach transforms the treatment focus from killing pathogens to restoring the natural protective microbiome, thereby reducing recurrence and minimizing side effects associated with conventional antimicrobials
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the pH parameter of the vaginal environment by introducing Lactobacillus cells that produce lactic acid. This parameter change creates an acidic environment (pH < 4.5) that is unfavorable for pathogen growth while being beneficial for maintaining vaginal health. The boric acid component further enhances this pH modulation effect, providing a sustainable environment that prevents infection recurrence without the need for continuous antimicrobial treatment
2Reliability
If conventional antimicrobial treatments are used, then urogenital infections are treated, but the quality of life is lowered due to discomfort and medical complications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the vaginal environment to treat itself by restoring the natural protective flora. The Lactobacillus cells in the formulation multiply and produce lactic acid, creating a self-sustaining acidic environment that continuously inhibits pathogen growth. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for ongoing external antimicrobial intervention, thereby reducing discomfort and improving quality of life while maintaining treatment effectiveness
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 formulation effectively relieves symptoms of vaginitis, reduces the occurrence of urogenital infections, and maintains vaginal health by creating an environment unfavorable for pathogen growth, with boric acid acting as a bacteriostatic and fungistatic agent and Lactobacillus cells promoting a healthy pH balance.
Implementation Method 1
Lactobacillus cells promoting a healthy pH balance
Implementation Method 2
boric acid acting as a bacteriostatic and fungistatic agent
Implementation Method 3
one or more antioxidants (e.g., vitamin E and/or vitamin C)
Data Source
AI summary
A formulation for vaginal administration comprising an effective amount of a composition of dried Lactobacillus cells and boric acid, with a carrier. The composition can include one or more antioxidants. Optionally, the composition is in a unit dosage form. Also provided are methods for making and using the composition.