This invention relates to substantially anhydrous warming, non-toxic and nonirritating lubricating compositions containing polyols and preferably an insulating agent. The invention also relates to methods of using such compositions for lubrication, administration of active ingredients and for preventing or treating dysmenorrhea.

Description of the Invention

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The compositions and methods of this invention relate to warming lubricant compositions that are non-toxic and non-irritating and that can be used as personal lubricants designed to come into contact with the skin or mucosa. When mixed with water, the compositions of this invention increase in temperature or generate warmth. This has a soothing effect on the tissues to which these compositions are applied.

The compositions of this invention may be applied to the skin or mucous membranes, preferably the vaginal or oral mucosa. The compositions of this invention are preferably substantially anhydrous and preferably contain at least one polyol.

We theorize that, when the polyols contained in the compositions of this invention come into contact with water or body moisture in humans, they react with the ambient water molecules to cause an increase in temperature or generate warmth, thus having a soothing effect on the tissues to which these compositions are applied.

Surprisingly, and contrary to the general belief that polyols in compositions are irritating to the mucosa, compositions of this invention containing such polyols have been found to be non-irritating. In fact, these compositions are very mild to the skin and mucous membranes. The compositions of this invention are soothing when applied to oral mucous membranes and may function to relieve minor irritation of the mouth and throat.

The combination of polyols in the compositions of this invention may also be used as a vehicle to solubilize otherwise insoluble drugs, including, but not limited to, antifungals, antibacterials, antivirals, analgesics, anti-inflammatory steroids, contraceptives, local anaesthetics, hormones and the like.

The compositions of this invention optionally also preferably contain an insulating agent which functions to preserve the temperature increase by maintaining the heat within the composition after it has been applied to the skin or mucosa. More preferably, honey may be utilized as an insulating agent.

This invention also relates to methods of enhancing intimacy by applying the compositions of this invention topically as a personal lubricant or intimacy-enhancing composition. The methods of this invention may also relate to use of the compositions of this invention to mucosal surfaces, including vaginal and buccal surfaces, as a massage medium and in other uses as set forth below.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The compositions of this invention are substantially anhydrous, preferably containing less than about 20% water, more preferably containing less than about 5% water and, most preferably, containing less than about 3% water.

Preferably, the compositions of this invention contain at least one polyol. Preferably, the polyol is a polyhydric alcohol, and more preferably, the compositions of this invention contain at least two polyhydric alcohols. Polyethylene glycol (hereinafter, "PEG") ethers may also be used, including PEG ethers of propylene glycol, propylene glycol stearate, propylene glycol oleate and propylene glycol cocoate and the like. Specific examples of such PEG ethers include PEG-25 propylene glycol stearate, PEG-55 propylene glycol oleate and the like. Preferably the polyhydric alcohol portion of the compositions of this invention one or more polyhydric alcohols such as alkylene glycols and others selected from the following group: glycerin, propylene glycol, butylene glycol, hexalene glycol or polyethylene glycol of various molecular weight and the like and/or combination thereof. More preferably, the compositions of this invention contain a polyethylene glycol; most preferably, the polyethylene glycol may be selected from the following group: polyethylene glycol 400 or polyethylene glycol 300. Polypropylene glycol of various molecular weights may also be used. PEGylated compounds such as peptide or protein derivatives obtained through PEGylation reactions may also be used. In addition, block copolymers of PEG's may be used, such as (ethylene glycol)-block-poly(propylene glycol)-block-(polyethylene glycol), poly(ethylene glycol-ran-propylene glycol) and the like. The compositions of this invention should contain polyols in an amount from about 80% to about 98% by weight of the composition.

The compositions of this invention may optionally and preferably also contain an insulating agent. More preferably, the insulating agent should be honey or esters of isopropyl alcohol and saturated high molecular weight fatty acids such as myristic or palmitic acid, e.g., isopropyl myristate and isopropyl palmitate. The insulating agent should be present in the compositions of this invention in an amount of from about 1% to about 5% by weight of the composition. However, other filler-type agents may be utilized that can assist in retaining heat, such as materials with high bulk properties or materials that raise resistance to heat loss, known to those of skill in the art. Such materials may include aluminosilicates (for example, clay, zeolites and the like), alkyl celluloses and other cellulose derivatives and other like materials know to those of skill in the art.

Surprisingly, the compositions of this invention actually increase in temperature upon exposure to moisture from the skin or mucosa, without causing undue irritation or harm to the skin or mucosal surfaces. This distinguishes them from previously-known products that merely conveyed the sensation of warming by causing irritation to the topical surface to which they were applied.

This warming characteristic is brought about by the exothermic release of energy generated upon exposing the compositions of this invention to water. As set forth below in Example 6, the amount of energy released by the compositions of this invention, and in turn the potential temperature increases, upon exposure to water may be calculated or measured in accordance with the procedures set forth therein. Preferably, the temperature increase of the compositions of this invention range from the minimum perceptible temperature increase to no more than would be perceived as a "burning" sensation to the skin or mucosa, thus causing irritation or insult to the skin or mucosa. Such a temperature might be about 40.degree. F. or more.

Preferably, the amount of energy released (hereinafter, "Energy Release Index") by solubilizing the compositions of this invention is from about 11 to about 28 mJ/mg (milliJoules per milligram). The associated preferred temperature rise range is at least about 5.degree. C. (about 9.degree. F.). More preferably, the temperature increase is from about 7.degree. C. or about 13.degree. F. and no more than about 12.degree. C. or about 22.degree. F. Gel-type embodiments of the compositions of this invention preferably effect a temperature increase from at least about 13.degree. F. upward, preferably up to about 31.degree. F. Jelly-type embodiments of the compositions of this invention preferably effect a temperature increase from at least about 7.degree. F. and may effect a temperature increase up to about 27.degree. F. However, this range may vary depending upon the composition.

The compositions of this invention are unexpectedly self-preserving and may not require a preservative. However, a preservative may be added to impart an additional guarantee against microbial growth. A preservative may be selected from preservatives known to those of skill in the art, including, but not limited to, one or more of the following: methylparaben, benzoic acid, sorbic acid, gallic acid, propylparaben or the like. The preservative may be present in the compositions of this invention in an amount from about 0.01% to about 0.75% by weight of the composition.

The compositions of this invention may also preferably contain an ester. More preferably, the ester is a fatty acid ester. Most preferably, the ester may include, but is not limited to: isopropyl stearate, isopropyl myristate, isopropyl palmitate, isopropyl laurate and the like. Most preferably, the ester is isopropyl myristate.

The compositions of this invention may contain one or more water-soluble cellulose-derived polymers, gums, chitosans or the like. Such polymers contribute to the viscosity and bioadhesiveness of the compositions of this invention. Preferably, such cellulose-derived polymers are hydroxyalkylcellulose polymers. More preferably, the hydroxyalkylcellulose polymer is hydroxypropylcellulose or Klucel.RTM., available commercially from Hercules Incorporated, Wilmington, Del.

The polyols used in the compositions of this invention are theorized to be useful as warming and heat-generating agents. Honey functions as an insulating agent, protecting the compositions from becoming too cold. The ester, preferably a fatty acid ester, functions as an emollient and lubricant. The cellulose polymer is useful as a viscosity building agent. The compositions of this invention are unique in that they lubricate, warm and soothe the tissues of the user, especially the oral and vaginal mucous membranes, without conveying a feeling of cold. Moreover, they are smooth and lubricating.

The compositions of this invention may be a liquid, a semi-solid, or a solid depending upon the particular intended use thereof. The compositions of this invention may also be formulated into soft or hard gelatin capsules, suppositories and impregnated into fabrics or polymers.

The compositions of this invention may be used as personal lubricants which convey a feeling of warmth. The feeling of warmth generated by the compositions of this invention is soothing to the skin or mucous membranes where they are applied. The compositions of the invention also possess a sweet and pleasant taste, which is of particular benefit when these compositions are used orally.

The compositions of this invention may also be used as personal moisturizers, which convey a feeling of warmth when applied to vaginal or oral mucosa. The feeling of warmth generated by the compositions of this invention is soothing to the skin or mucous membranes where they are applied. The compositions of this invention also possess a sweet and pleasant taste, which is of particular benefit when these compositions are used orally. This warming effect has been found to enhance intimacy and increase pleasure during intimate activities. Flavors and fragrances that enhance different senses and promote relaxation or intimacy may also be added to the compositions of this invention to enhance their effect, both in improving intimacy and in creating a feeling of relaxation. The compositions of this invention may also be used as a massage "oil" which imparts warming sensation to the skin as it is applied to the skin during massage.

The compositions of this invention may also be used as moisturizers which convey a feeling of warmth and relieve vaginal dryness or dry mouth. They may also be utilized to moisturize dry and scaly skin, and to provide an ameliorating effect for frostbite on extremities over-exposed to the cold.

The compositions of this invention may also be used as a vehicle to deliver medication or other treatment agents to biomembranes including, but not limited to, hormones, antimicrobial or antifungal agents and the like. The antifungal agents is preferably an azole or imidazole, including but not limited to, miconazole, econazole, terconazole, saperconazole, itraconazole, butaconazole, clotrimazole, tioconazole, fluconazole and ketoconazole, vericonazole, fenticonazole, sertaconazole, posaconazole, bifonazole, oxiconazole, sulconazole, elubiol, vorconazole, isoconazole, flutrimazole and their pharmaceutically acceptable salts and the like. Other antifungal agents may include an allylamine or one from other chemical families, including but not limited to, ternafine, naftifine, amorolfine, butenafine, ciclopirox, griseofulvin, undecyclenic acid, haloprogin, tolnaftate, nystatin, iodine, rilopirox, BAY 108888, purpuromycin and their pharmaceutically acceptable salts.

Another embodiment of the invention are compositions for vulvovaginal use containing one or more antibiotics. The antibiotic may be chosen from the group including, but not limited to, metronidazole, clindamycin, tinidazole, ornidazole, secnidazole, refaximin, trospectomycin, purpuromycin and their pharmaceutically acceptable salts and the like.

Another embodiment of the compositions of this invention include compositions for vulvovaginal use containing one or more antiviral agents. Antiviral agents may preferably include, but are not limited to, immunomodulators, more preferably imiquimod, its derivatives, podofilox, podophyllin, interferon alpha, reticolos, cidofovir, nonoxynol-9 and their pharmaceutically acceptable salts and the like.

Still other embodiments of the compositions of this invention are compositions that include one or more spermicides. The spermicides may preferably include, but are not limited to, nonoxynol-9, octoxynol-9, dodecaethyleneglycol monolaurate, Laureth 10S, and Methoxypolyoxyethyleneglycol 550 Laurate and the like.

Still other embodiments of the compositions of this invention are compositions containing antimicrobial agents. The antimicrobial agents may preferably include, but are not limited to, chlorohexidine gluconate, sodium polystyrene sulfonate, sodium cellulose sulfate, silver particles of micro- and sub-micrometer sizes, silver salts and other antibacterial agents known to the art.

Yet other embodiments of the compositions of this invention are compositions that may include local anesthetics. The local anesthetics may preferably include, but are not limited to, benzocaine, lidocaine, dibucaine, benzyl alcohol, camphor, resorcinol, menthol and diphenylhydramine hydrochloride and the like.

Compositions of the invention may also include plant extracts such as aloe, witch hazel, chamomile, hydrogenated soy oil and colloidal oatmeal, vitamins such as vitamin A, D or E and corticosteroids such as hydrocortisone acetate.

Another embodiment of the compositions and methods of this invention include compositions for vulvovaginal use containing one or more hormones for treating a decrease in estrogen secretion in the woman in need of estrogen replacement such as women with vaginal atrophy. The hormones may preferably include, but are not limited to, estrogen selected from the group consisting of estradiol, estradiol benzoate, estradiol cypionate, estradiol dipropionate, estradiol enanthate, conjugated estrogen, estriol, estrone, estrone sulfate, ethinyl estradiol, estrofurate, quinestrol and mestranol.

Another embodiment of the compositions and methods of this invention include compositions for vulvovaginal use containing one or more analgesics and/or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents for treating dysmenorrhea or menstrual cramping. The analgesics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents may preferably include, but are not limited to, aspirin, ibuprofen, indomethacin, phenylbutazone, bromfenac, fenamate, sulindac, nabumetone, ketorolac, and naproxen and the like.

In another embodiment of the compositions and methods of this invention, the compositions may be useful for treating female sexual dysfunction by themselves as they may serve to increase blood flow to areas on which they are applied by increasing temperature thereon. Alternatively, they may contain agents known to those of skill in the art to treat female sexual dysfunction (including different aspects of female sexual dysfunction such as female sexual arousal disorder, hypoactive sexual desire disorder, orgasmic disorder and the like) as well as those that treat dyspareunia and/or vaginismus, or vulvodynia and to relieve pain upon intercourse. Such agents include hormones such as estrogen, prostaglandin, testosterone; calcium channel blockers, cholinergic modulators, alpha-adrenergic receptor antagonist, beta-adrenergic receptor agonists, camp-dependent protein kinase activators, superoxide scavengers, potassium channel activators, estrogen-like compounds, testosterone-like compounds, benzodiazepines, adrenergic nerve inhibitors, HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, smooth muscle relaxants, adenosine receptor modulators and adenylyl cyclase activators. Such agents include phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors and the like. The compositions of the invention may also contain vasodilators such as methyl nicotinate, histamine hydrochloride and very small non-irritating amounts of methyl salicylate.

Yet another embodiment of the compositions and methods of this invention include compositions for oral and vulvovaginal use relates to a method of enhancing the absorption of active agents from the applied compositions into the mucosal membrane by increasing the composition and mucosal tissue temperature via interaction of the polyols in the compositions and moisture on the mucosa and subsequently released heat.

Yet another embodiment of the compositions of this invention include compositions for vulvovaginal use relates to compositions and methods for preventing and/or treating dysmenorrhea by intravaginal warming or heating. Preferably, the composition heats the intravaginal area to a temperature preferably between about 37.degree. C. and about 42.degree. C., more preferably between about 38.degree. C. and about 41.degree. C. The compositions of invention for use in such a method may optionally contain active agents such as analgesics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents for dysmenorrhea treatment. The composition of the invention may be administered directly into the vagina by an applicator, or be impregnated into vaginal devices such as tampon for intravaginal applications.

The compositions of this invention may be manufactured as a coating of a tampon, or dispersing throughout the absorbent tampon material, or enclosed inside as a core of a tampon. The compositions of this invention for the warming tampon for preventing and/or treating dysmenorrhea preferably include a mixture of polyethylene glycols of various molecular weights produced by The Dow Chemical Company (Midland, Mich.) under the trade names of CARBOWAX SENTRY PEG 300 NF, CARBOWAX SENTRY PEG 400 NF, CARBOWAX SENTRY PEG 600 NF, CARBOWAX SENTRY PEG 900 NF, CARBOWAX SENTRY PEG 1000 NF, CARBOWAX SENTRY PEG 1450 NF, CARBOWAX SENTRY PEG 3500 NF, CARBOWAX SENTRY PEG 4000 NF, CARBOWAX SENTRY PEG 4600 NF, and CARBOWAX SENTRY PEG 8000 NF. The compositions of this invention for dysmenorrhea prophylaxis and treatment may contain one or more water-soluble cellulose-derived polymers and gums that form gels around the polyhydric alcohols such as glycerin, propylene glycol and polyethylene glycols thus reducing the dissolution of the polyhydric alcohols, prolonging the salvation heat release, and regulating the elevated temperature in the preferred temperature range.
 

Claim 1 of 11 Claims

1. A substantially anhydrous lubricant composition comprising at least one polyhydric alcohol, which increases in temperature by at least about 5.degree. C. upon exposure to moisture and which has an Energy Release Index of at least about 11 mJ/mg and wherein said polyhydric alcohol is selected from the group consisting of: glycerin, alkylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, PEGylated compounds, block copolymers comprising polyalkylene glycol and a mixture thereof and wherein said polyethylene glycol is selected from the group consisting of polyethylene glycol 300, polyethylene glycol 400 and a mixture thereof and further comprising an insulating agent having high bulk properties selected from the group consisting of honey, isopropyl myristate and isopropyl palmitate.

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