AU2013203462B2 - Ophthalmic compositions comprising povidone-iodine - Google Patents

Abstract

A composition comprising: a) povidone-iodine in a concentration between 0.01% and 10% by weight, and b) an anti-inflammatory, a steroid, or a combination of an anti-inflammatory and a steroid.

Description

gFFHALMlC COMPOSITIONS COMPRISING POVIDONE-IODINE

Ibis application is a divisional lorn parent application 200722^305 the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Background Of The Invention

Infectious conjunctivitis is an ophthalmic disorder characterised by inflammation of the conjunctiva seconds^ to invasion of f microbe. Microbes capable of causing conjunctivitis in humans include bacteria (including Mycobacteria sp), viruses, fungi, or amoebae; Current treatment for bacterial conjunctivitis consists of antibiotic drops; Because antibiotic drops are ineffective against viral conjunctivitis, treatment of such infections consists only of relieving symptoms. Treatments for .fungi and amoeba conjunctivitis consist of a small selection of medications whiCh lacks anti-bacterial or anti-viral activity and which, in addition, is toxic to the ocular surface,

Diagnosis of the various causative agents such as bacteria, virus, or fimgus, in infectious conjunctivitis is not economically feasible because accurate diagnosis requires sophisticated laboratory culture not easily integrated into the average healthcare practice. Because accurate diagnosis is impractical, most conjunctivitis is presumed to be bacterial without culturing and is treated with antibiotics. Antibiotic treatment is suboptimal because it is ineffective against viral or fungal conjunctivitis.

The use of sfotoids is approached cautiously in the setting of ocular infection. While steroids can have the benefit of reducing the severity of the inflammation in an acute infection, they are also known to increase susceptibility to certain infections.

Topical corticosteroids are routinely used to control· ocular Inflammation, Their mechanism of action involves the inhibition of the immune response and the subsequent tissue destruction that exuberant inflammation may cause. Corticosteroid has the undesirable side effect of limiting the body's intrinsic ability to fight infection. In fact, inopportune steroids usage can worsen the course of an infection secondary to mycobacteria, virus, or fungus. Thus, the use of a combined antimicrobial-steroid medication in ocular infections is recommended only under careful observation of a trained ophthalmologist because of these significant risks. In fact, TobradexR (Alcon), the most commonly prescribed combination ophthalmic antimicrobial-steroid drug, specifically lists ‘viral disease of the cornea and conjunctiva, mycobacteria infection, and fungal infection’ as absolute contraindications to its use. Clearly, these combination drugs were not intended to be used in the face of infectious conjunctivitis in which bacterial infection cannot be confirmed.

In summary, there is currently no ophthalmic antimicrobial drug with broad activity against all the causes of conjunctivitis or keratitis, and there is currently no approved antimicrobial/steroid, or antimicrobial/non steroidal anti-inflammatory combination drug that can be safely used in infectious conjunctivitis or keratitis that can potentially be viral or fungal in origin.

The discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles and the like is included in this specification solely for the purpose of providing a context for the present invention. It is not suggested or represented that any or all of these matters formed part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the present invention as it existed before the priority date of each claim of this application.

Where the terms "comprise", '"comprises", "comprised" or "comprising" are used in this specification (including the claims) they are to be interpreted as specifying the presence of the stated features, integers, steps or components, but not precluding the presence of one or more other features, integers, steps or components, or group thereof.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to a first embodiment of the invention, there is provided an ophthalmic composition comprising: a) povidone-iodine in a concentration between 0.01% and 10% by weight, and b) a steroid, wherein the steroid is loteprednol etabonate and salts thereof, and wherein after a period of one month after mixing the steroid and povidine-iodine to form the composition, the steroid concentration is at least 90% by weight of the steroid starting concentration.

According to a second embodiment of the invention, there is provided a method for treating and/or prophylaxis of an eye disorder or a microorganism infection of at least one tissue of the eye comprising the step of administering one or more doses of an ophthalmic composition of the first embodiment to said eye.

The invention is a composition comprised of povidone-iodine 0.01%-10% (weight/weight or weight/volume) combined with an anti-inflammatory medication, a steroid, or a combination of both anti-inflammatory and a steroid. In a preferred embodiment, the povidone-iodine (PVP-I) is between 0.1% and 2.5%, between 0.5 and 2%, between 0.75 and 2%, between 0.8 and 2%, between 09.9 and 2%, between 1% and 2% or between 1% and 1.5%. In another embodiment, the total weight of the PVP-I, anti-inflammatory and steroid is between 0.1% and 4.5%. This solution is useful in the treatment of infections of the conjunctiva and cornea. The broad spectrum of povidone-iodine would allow this combination to be used in cases of ocular conjunctival or corneal infection caused by mycobacteria, viruses, fungi, and amoeba; this is in distinction to currently available combination antimicrobial-steroid ophthalmic compositions, which are contraindicated in the aforementioned infections. Additionally the solution will be useful in the infectious prophylaxis and inflammatory control of patients recovering from recent ophthalmic surgery. There are no currently available antimicrobial/anti- inflammatory or antimicrobiai/steroid combinations useful fbr viral, fungal, mycobacterial and amoebic infections in the post-operative period.

One embodiment of the invention is directed to an ophthalmic composition suitable for topical administration to an eye, effective for treatment and/or prophylaxis of a microorganism infection or a disorder of at least one tissue of the eye. Prophylaxis may be, for example, prophylaxis from infection following surgery, prophylaxis from infection after bilth for the newborn, or prophylaxis from accidental contact with contaminating material. Accidental contact With contaminating material may occur, for example, luring surgery or during food processing. The composition comprises povidone-iodine ip a concentration between 0.01% to 10%, and an anti-inflammatory» a steroid, or a combination thereof.

The mammalian eye can be divided mto two main segments; die anterior segment and the posterior segment, The anterior segment is the front third of the eye that includes the tissues in front of the vitreous humor; the cornea, iris, ciliary body, and lens. Within the anterior segment are two fluid-filled spaces; the anterior chamber and the posterior chamber. The anterior chamber is located between the posterior surface of the pomea 0·β· the corneal endothelium) and the iris.

The posterior chamber is located between the iris and the'front face of the vitreous: The posterior segment is the back two-thirds of the eye that includes the anterior hyaloid membrane and all tissues behind it: the vitreous humor, retina, choroid, and optic nerve. In some animals, the retina contains h reflective layer (the tapetum lucidum) which increases the amount of light each photosensitive cell perceives, allowing the animal to see better under low light conditions.

It was surprising to discover that die formulations of povidone-iodine combined With steroids, when present in a suitable pH range, eliminated the undesired irritating effect of PVP-I to the eye: The invention provides pH stable aqueous suspensions of water-insoluble drugs that remain in such a state even after extended periods of storage. ,

In a preferred embodiment, the ophthalmic composition contains povidone-iodine at a concentration between 0.1% and 2*5% by weight, or more preferably, between 0.5% and 2% by weight. In another preferred embodiment, the ophthalmic composition has a total weight of povidone-iodine, an anti-inflammatory, a steroid of between 0.1% to 2.5% (weight to volume, or weight to weight) or between |»1% to 4.5%.

The steroid of the ophthalmic composition may be at a concentration of between 0.01 and 10%, In a preferred embodiment, the steroid is at a concentration of between 0.05 and 2%. ·

The ophthalmic composition may further comprise (1) a topical anesthetic which relieves pain (2) a penetration enhancer which enhances the penetration of povidone-iodine into the tissues of the eye (this may be a topical anesthetic) (3) an antimicrobial preservative, which* for example, may be at a concentration of about 0.001% to 1.0% by weight; (4) a co-solvent or a nonionic surface agent - surfactant, which, for example, may be about 0 01% to 2% by weight; (5) viscosity increasing agent, which, for example, may be about 0.01% to 2% by weight; and (6) a suitable ophthalmic vehicle.

The ophthalmic composition may be in the form of a solution, a suspension, an emulsion, an ointment; a cream, a gel, dr a controlled-release/sustain-release vehicle. For example,, the composition may be'':iri: the form of a cCntact lens solution, eyewash, eyedrop, and the like.

The ophthalmic composition may be used for treatment and/or prophylaxis of a microorganism infection. The microorganism may he a bacterium, a virus, a fungus, of an amoeba; a parasite, or a combination thereof The bacteria may be a mycobacterium. Further, die solution pay be used to treat or for prophylaxis of disorders such as conjunctivitis, comeal abrasion, ulcerative infectious keratitis, epithelial keratitis, stromal keratitis and herpesvirus-related keratitis.

Forexample, the ophthalmic composition may comprise the following; 0.5 to 2% (w/w) polyvinppyrrolidinorte-iodine complex; 0.05 to 2% (w/w) steroid; 0.(8)5% to 0.02% (w/w) EDTA (ethylenedianunetetraacetic acid); 0.01 to 0.5% (w/w) Sodium chloride; 0.02 to 0.1% (W/w) tyloxapol; 0.5% to 2% (w/w) sodium sulfate; «id 0.1 to 0,5% (w/w) hydroxyethylcelMose; at pH range from 5 to 7. More specifically, the ophthalmic composition may comprise the following: 1.0% (w/w) polyvinylpyrrolidinone-iodine complex; 0.1% (w/w) steroid; 0.01% (w/w) EDTA dehydrate; 0.3% (w/w) sodium chloride salt; 0,05% (w/w) tyloxapol; 1.2% (w/w) sodium sulfate; and 0,25% (w/w) hydroxyethylcellulose; at pH range from 5.5 to 6.5. Ih one embodiment, the composition consists essentially of 0.5 to 2% (w/w) polyvinylpyrrolidinone-iodine complex; 0*05 to 2% (w/w) steroid; 0.005% tp 0.02% (w/w) EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid); 0.01 to 0.5% (w/w) sodium chloride; 0.02 to 0.1% (w/w) tyloxapol; 0.5% to 2% (w/w) sodium sulfate; and 0.1 to 0.5% (w/w) hyfooxyefoyloellulose; at pH range from S to 7. In another embodiment» the composition consists essentially of 1.0% (w/w) polyvinylpyrrolidinone-iodme complex; 0.1% (w/w) steroid; 0.01% (w/w) EDTA disodium salt; 0 3% (w/w) sodium chloride salt; 0^05% (w/w) tyloxapol; 1.2% (w/w) sodium sulfate; and 0.25% (w/w) hydroxyetfaylcellulose; at pH range from 5.5 to 6.5. v: It is known, of course, that EDTA can be in many forms such as a free acid, disodium, or tetrasodium salts. The steroid may be dexamethasone, prednisolone or prednisone. These steroids may be in their sodium phosphate form (e.g., dexamethasone sodium· phosphate, prednisolone sodium phosphate, or prednisone sodium phosphate) ©r acetate form (e.g., dexamethasone acetate, prednisolone acetate, or prednisone acetate). Prednisolone is an active metabolite of prednisone and it is understood that prednisone may be used instead of prednisolone.

In a preferred embodiment, the ophthalmic composition .retains at least 90% of its PVP-I and at least 90% of its steroid after 1 month, 2 months, 3 months, 6 months or i year after it is manufactured. This can be accomplished, at least, by producing the Ophthalmic composition according to foe formula listed above (e.g, previous two paragraphs). This stability is maintained even when the composition is stored at room temperature in a lighted indoor environment of 100 lux to 1000 lux. In one preferred embodiment, foe composition is an aqueous solution.

In another embodiment, the invention is directed to a method for treating and/or prophylaxis of an eye disorder or a microorganism infection of at least one tissue of the eye comprising the step of administering one of more doses of an ophthalmic composition, discussed above, to the eye. The eye disorder may be, for example, a microorganism infection of at least one tissue of the eye, conjunctivitis, comeal abrasion» ulcerative infectious keratitis, epithelial keratitis; stromal keratitis and herpesvirus-re!ated keratitis. The microorganism may be a bacteria (e.g,, mycobacteria), virus, fungi, or amoebae.

In the method; the treatment may comprise administering a solution, of foe invention where the sum of the povidone-iodine, foe anti-inflammatory, and foe steroid is between 0.001 mg to 5 mg per lose, iurfoer, foe dose volume may be between 10 microliteis to 200 microliters or between 50 microliters tp 80 microliters; about one drop per eye. Administration may be between 1 to 24 times a day, between 2 to 4 times a day or between 2 to 24 times a day. .......\..............

In one embodiment, the method further comprises a step Of Storing the solution for at least one month, art least two months, at least three months, at least six months, or at least one year before it is administered. The stomp may be in a clear bottle (a container that does not substantially block light) in a lighted environment. A lighted environment may be,· for example, an indoor lighted environment with about 100 lux to 1000 lux of light,

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In a preferred embodiment, the compositions of the present invention are administered topically, The dosage range is 0.001 to 5.0 mgfpet eye; wherein the cited mass figures represent the sum of the three components: anti-inflammatory, povidone-iodine and topical anesthetic. Dosage for one eye is understood to be about one drop of solution. Ope drop of solution may be between 10 pi to 200 μ), between 20 pi and 120 pi, or between about 50 μ! (microliters) to about 80 pi of solution or any values in between. For example, dispensers such as pipettors can dispose fluid drops from at least 1 pi to 300 pi and any value in between. · .

In a preferred embodiment, the solution may be administered as art eye drop using any of the many types of eye drop dispensers on foe market. Although not required, the container for foe compositions of foe invention may be dear, translucent, and opaque and may contain other properties or combination of properties such as being glass lined, tamper proof, packaged in single or few dose aliquots, and a combination thereof.

Povidone-iodine has the following chemical structure!

Suitable anti-inflamm atones for the compositions and methods of the invention include, at least, foe following: ketotifen fomarate, diclofenac sodium, flurbiprofen sodium, ketorlac tromethamine, suprofen, celecoxib, naproxen, rofecoxib, or a derivative or combination thereof.

Ketorolac (also called ketorlac, or ketorolac tromethamine) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drag (NSAJD) in the family of propionic acids.

Statable steroids for the compositions and methods of the invention include, at least; dexamethasone, dexamethasone alcohol, dexamethasone sodium phosphate, fluromethalone acetate, fluromethalone alcohol, lotoprendol etabonate, medrysone, prednisolone, prednisone, prednisolone acetate, prednisolone sodium phosphate, rimexolone, hydrocortisone, hydrocortisone acetate, Iodoxamide tromethamine, or a derivative or combination thereof. It is , understood, for any of the chemicals of this disclosure, that the Chemicals may be in various modified forms such as acetate forms, and sodium phosphate forms, sodium salts» and die like.

Dexamethasone has the following chemical structure:

It is known that any of the reagents mentioned anywhere in this disclosure may be in chemically equivalent forms such as salts* hydrides, esters and Other modifications of the basic chemical. For example, dexamethasone in any of the compositions and methods of the invention may be replaced with any of its derivatives, including esters and salts thereof Example? of such derivatives melude, at least, Dexamethasone-17-acetate (CAS RN: 1177-87-3), Dexamethasone Disodium Phosphate (CAS RN: 2392-39-4), Dexamethasone Valerate (GAS RN: 14899-36-6), Dexamethasone-21 -isonicotinate (CAS RN: 2265-64-7), Dexamethasone Paltmtate (CAS RN: 33755-46-3), Dexamethasone Propionate (GAS RN: 55541-30-5), Dexamethasone Aceforate (GAS RN: 83880-70-0), Dexamethasone-21-galactoside (CAS RN: 92901-23-0), dexamethasone |l-thiopivalate, dexamethasone 21 -thiopentanoate, dexamethasone 21 -thiol-2-methyl-butanoate, dexamethasone 21 -thiol~3~methyl-butanoate, dexamethasone 21-thiohexanoate, dexamethasone 21 -thiol-4-methyl-pentanoate, dexamethasone 21 -thiol-3,3-diraethyl-butanoate, dexamethasone 21-thiol-2-ethyl-butanoate, dexamethasone 21-tHiooctanoate, dexamethasone 2I-thiol-2-ethy]-hexanoate, dexamethasone 21-thiononanoate, dexamethasone 21-tSiodecanoate, dexamethasone 21 -p-fluorothiobenzoate or a combination thereof. Dexamefoasone derivatives ire alio described in US patent 4,177,268.

Suitable topical anesthetics for the compositions and methods of the invention include, at least, proparacaine, lidocaine, tetracaine or a derivative iff combination thereof.

The compositions of the present invention can be administered as solutions, suspensions, emulsions (dispersions), gels, creams, or ointments in a suitable ophthalmic vehicle..

In any of the compositions of this disclosure for topical administration, such as topical administration to the eye, the mixtures are preferably formulated as 0.01 to 2.0 percent by weight solutions in water at a pH of 5.0 to 8,0 (figures relate to combined presence of povidone-iodine * and dexamethasone). This pH range may |e achieved by the addition of buffers to the solution.

We have found that, surprisingly* the formulation of the present invention is stable in buffered solutions. That is, there is no adverse interaction between the buffer and the iodine or other Component that would cause the composition to be unstable. While the precise regimen is left to foe discretion of the clinician, it is recommended that the resulting solution be topically applied , by placing one drop in each eye I to 24 times daily. For example, the solution may be applied 1, 2, 4,6, 8, 12, 18 or 24 times 4 day.

Antimicrobial Preservative

As m optional ingredient* suitable antimicrobial preservative may be added to prevent . multi-dose package contamination. Such agents may include bensalkoniura chloride, foirnerosal, chlorobutanol, methyl paraben, propyl paraben, phenyiefoyl alcohol, EDTA, sorbic acid, Onamer M, other agents known to those skilled in the art, or a combination (hereof. Typically such preservatives are employed at a level of from 0.001% to 1.0% by weight,

Co-Solvants/Surfactnnts

The compositions of the invention may contain an optional co-solvent. The solubility of foe components of foe present compositions may be enhanced ly a surfactant or other appropriate co-solvent in foe composition. Such co-solvents/surfactants include polysorbate 20, 60, and 80, polyoxyethylene/polyoxypropylene surfactants (e.g, Plutonic f~68, F-84 and P-103), cyclodextrin, tyloxapol, other agents known to those skilled in foe art* or a combination thereof Typically such co-solvents are employed at a level of from 0a01% to 2% by weight ,

Hie compositions of the invention may contain an optional viscosity agent - that is, an agent that can increase viscosity. Viscosity increased above that of simple aqueous solutions may be desirable to increase ocular absorption of the active compound, to decrease variability in dispensing the formulation, to decrease physical separation of components of a suspension or emulsion of the formulation and/or to otherwise improve the ophthalmic formulation. Such . viscosity builder agents include as examples polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, methyl • cellulose, hydroxy propyl methylcellulose, hydroxyethyi cellulose, earboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxy propyl cellulose, other agents known to those skilled in foe art, or a combination . thereof Such agents are typically employed at a level of from 0.01% to 2% by weight, * > aeJormuMan _ -¾ ·

Ihe folowing two reaction® must be considered for the chemistry of PVP-·! in. aqueous * solutions: · • ·· a. PVP-I2 *=^=£s PVP + I2 · * ‘ ’ • b. pvp-Hij pvp + if + if

Hie affinity of free iodine |li| for reaction with -OH, -SH and -NH functional groups is well described in foe literature and forms foe basis for the anti-microbial activity of iodine* containing solutions (Rackur H. J. Hasp. Infect., 1985; 6: 13-23, and references therein). Dexamethaspne p^-Pluoro-ΙΙβ, 17, 21-trihydroxy~16a-rnethylpregna-l, 4-diene-3, 2Q~dione) eontains three such moieties (~OH) at the 11, 17 and 21 positions. A person in the field would conclude that these hydroxyl groups would be prone to covalent substitution reactions by foe free iodine generated in the solution equilibrium reaction described above for PYP-I2.

Ip deriving foe present formulations, experiments of combinations of various antiinflammatories and PVP-I, or steroids and PVP-I, were performed. It was Observed that most formulations were unsuccessful because of foe rapid reaction between PVP-I and the added reagent (anti-inflammatory or steroid). Some of these unsuccessful formulations are described elsewhere in this disclosure. Particularly, the limiting factor for lower concentrations of PVP-I solutions stability and efficacy as a microbicidal.

It is thus an aspect of the present indention to discover novel formulation of combinations of PVP-I and an anti-inflammatory to solve three: problems of stability, efficacy and non-irritating to the eye. We have found, unexpectedly, that a 1% PVP-I solution is effective fef treatment of infection or prophylaxis of infections when combine# with dexamethasone. The literature has previously indicated that while 1 % PVP-I is desirable^ the side effects of ocular administration precluded its use. The undesirable side effects include pain and irritation. it was surprising to discover that the solution of PVP-I and dexamethasone remains stable for many months. Based on the stability data disclosed, we conjecture that the compositions of the invention may be stable for years - although experiments are still ongoing at this point. It is a further unexpected result that the reaction of dexamethasone and PVP-I does not proceed to any appreciable extent at room temperature* in light or dark, over time. Unexpectedly the reaction between the free iodine in soimiohsand the hydroxyl groups present Oi the dexamethasone molecule as Compounded in pur formulation does not proceed·

Due to the high propensity of oxidative potential of PVP-I, the resulted stable combination of PVP-I and dexamethasone is unexpected for the average worker/sci entist/physician in this field. It was observed when the concentration of PVP-I is larger then 0.5%, a stable combination formulation can be achieved. Surprisingly, it was fonnd that 0.3% PVP-I combination with dexamethasone was much less stable. This is once again unexpected because the lower concentrations of iodine are expected to he less reactive and hence, less destructive to either parts. After 8 weeks, the available iodine in the combination (0,3% PVP-I initially) decreased by 20%, Though 0,1% diluted PVP-I has the strongest antimicrobial activity (Gottardi W J. Ηοψ, infeet, 1985; 6(Suppl): 1-11) our data showed we need at least 0,5% PVP-I in combination with dexamethasone to sho# the best antimicrobial activity. We;have observed PVP-I reacted with Ketorolac (a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory) rapidly and the Ketorolac was completely consumed and the available iodine in the PVP-I complex was reduced significantly depending on the ratio between Ketorolac and PVP-I. The combination of PVP-I and dexamethasone sodium phosphate also proved to be less successful bpt also useful. We observed some dissociation of PVP-I complex to an unknown polymeric complex in the UV spectra and the iodine reduction is around 5:% after 12 weeks. It was further observed that PVP-I reacts immediately with proparacaine and releases free iodine rapidly.

Surprisingly, the eombtoation formulation has contributed to the stability of diluted PVP-I solution. The available iodine of a 0.625% povidone-iodine solution was 91% at 25 “C and 98% at 4 °C after 5 weeks storage, respectively· (Jryo Yakugaku 2003, 29(1), 62-65). Our data showed that our formulation stabilized the diluted PVP-I solution. After 8 weeks at room temperature, the available iodine in solutions with 0.5% and 1% PVP-I were over 99%,

The use of topical steroids alone is contraindicated in suspected viral and fungal infections of the human eye. Furthermore the use of combination anti-baeterial/steroid solutions is contraindicated in the setting of suspected viral infection. There are no steroid-containing solutions described that are Safe .for use in the human eye in the setting of presumed viral or 4 fungal infection. It is therefore unexpected to the authors and others in die field that a steroid-containing solution would be of use in the treatment of an acute yiral or fungal ocular infection. A potent anti-inflammatory steroid allows the temperance of the potentially devastating ocular immune response in the setting of an active infection. However, due to ‘the antiseptic (antibacterial, antiviral, and antifiingai, am|protozoai) power of PVP-I, the compound is useable in the setting of active infection without the risk of worsening the infection. This unique property (poly-antimicrobicide and potent anti-inflammatory) is a significant improvement over all other ocular antibiotics and anti-inflammatory.

Although a topical steroid is of tremendous benefit in the treatment of ocular inflammation, its use Is fraught with risks, Topical steroids applied to the eye act by a Variety of Well described genomic and non-genomic mechanisms to reduce the production of constituent proteins of the inflammatory cascade, decrease vascular permeability, decrease the production of pro-inftammalory cytokines, decrease the potency of soluble inflammatory factors, inhibit the production of acute phase proteins, decrease leukocyte migration and increase the Stability of cell membranes. Through ail of these mechanisms^ topically applied steroids can reduce toe local concentrafions of activated products toxic to toe eye including the gelatinase, collaginase and raatrixmetalloproteinase families of proteins. With this reduction in potentially toxic substances comes the increased risk of prolonged infection and potential infection. If the topical steroid is given in combination with an appropriate antimicrobial (i.e. and antibacterial for bacterial infection* an antiviral for viral infection, an antifungal for fungal infection) its risk can be mduced andN* eliminated. The usual practicing ophthalmologist cannot reliably distinguish the causative agent in most cases of acute external eye infection in a time frame relevant to the prescription of treatment. Thus the beneficial effects one may gain from the prompt use of topical steroids are delayed or eliminated entirely as the clinician either waits for culture results or more likely delays treatment indefinitely, The novel combination of a polymicrobicidal effective against bacteria, viruses and fungi and a topical steroid eliminates this risk and allows the immediate control of inflammation and eradication of pathogen. In our view, this is the most preferred embodiment of die present invention.

We also noted that the other components in our preferred composition appear to further stabilize the formulation. That is, the EDTA, sodium chloride, tyloxapol, sodium sulfate and hydroxyethylcellulose appear to have additional beneficial effects of further stabilizing the ., composition. -

The invention has been described herein by reference to certain preferred embodiments. However, as obvious variations thereon will become apparent to those sldlled in the art, the • invention is not to he considered as limited thereto. All patents, patent applications, and * references cited anywhere is hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. · . ·

Examples

Throughout this section the letter ,SA" ip a sample name refers to Povpone-Iodine complex f‘PVP-F% A00 refers to PVP-I at 0.0%, A03 refers to PVP-I at 0.3%, AOS refers to PVP-I at 0.5%, A10 refers to PVP-I at 1.0%, A15 refers to PVP-I at 1.5%, A20 refers to PVP-i at 2.0%, A40 refers to PVP-I at 4.0% and so on.

Similarly, the letter “B, C, D, K, P” in a sample name refers to dexameihasone, dexamethasone sodium phosphate, prednisolone sodium phosphate, ketorolac (also called ketorlac) and proparacame, respectively. BOG refers to dexamethasone at 0,0%, B01 refers to dexamethasone at 0.1%, CO 1 refers to dexamethasone sodium phosphate at 0.1%, 001 refers fe prednisolone sodium phosphate at 0.1%, KOI refers to ketorolac at 0.1%, and POOS refers to proparacaine at 0.08%, and so on.

Amount (wt, %)

Povidone-Iodine (PVP-ί) 0.0 to 4.0 S

Dexamethasone, Micronized, USP i 0.1

EDTA, USP (ME

Sodium Chloride, USP 0.3

Sodium Sulfate, USP 1.2

Tyloxapol, USP 0Λ5

Hydroxyethylcellulose 0.2S

Sulfuric Acid and/or

Sodium hydroxide q.s. for pH adjustment to 5.7-6.0

Sterile water, USP < qss. to 100

Experimental procedures:

In a lOOOmL beaker was added 400g sterile water, hydroxyethylcellulose (2.25g, 0.25% w/w) was added under vigorous stirring with an overhead stirTer, Sodium chloride (2.7Qg, 0.3% w/w) was slowly added while dissolving, followed by addition of EDTA (0,Q9g, 0.01% w/w) and sodium sulfate (10.% 1.2%>w/w). After stirring for 10 minutes, tyloxapol (0.45g, 0.05% w/w) dissolved m water was transferred into the above solution. The reaction mixture was stirred for 1 Hour and q.s. to 540 g with sterile water and was stirred for another 10 minutes to give “bulk solution 1.” 60g each of the bulk solution 1 was transferred into two !25mL beakers, and povidone-iodine complex (Q.5g, l.Sg) was added into the respective solution while stirring. The pH value was adjusted to the range of 5.7 to 6d) by addition of sodium hydroxide or sulfuric acid mid q.s. the suspensions to 100g with sterile water to give control samples ADSB00 and A15BO0, respectively

The remaining 417g of the bulk solution 1 was added dexamethasone (0,7g, 0.1% W/W) and homogenized fbr 5 minutes and then q.s. to 420g to give bulk solution 2. 60g each Of the bulk solution 2 was transferred into seven 125mL beakers, and poyi done-iodine complex (0.0¾ QJg, OJg, l.Og, 1.5¾ 2Jg, and 4.0g) was added into the respective solution While stirring. The pH value was adjusted to the range from 5.7 to 6.0 by addition of sodium hydroxide or sulfuric acid and q,s, the suspensions to 100g with sterile water to give samples A0QBOI, A03B01, A05B01, A10B01, A15B01, A20B01 and A40B01, respectively. The LC-MS spectra of all samples confirmed the finding that there was ho reaction between PVP-I arid dexamethasone at ail. The dexamethasone (MH* ™ 392.9) peak has not been altered to other miss peaks.

In a similar manner» solutions of A00C01, A03C01, A05C01, A10C01, A15C01, A0QD01, A63D0I, AO5D01, A10DOI, A15D01, AOOKOl, A05K01, AlOKOl, and ΑΙ5Κ0Ϊ were produced,.

The LC-MS spectra Of A05C01, A1OC01, and A15C01 confirmed die dexamethasone phosphoric acid (MH* ** 472,9) peak. The LC-MS spectra of A05D01, A10D01, and A15D01 confirmed the prednisolone phosphoric acid (MH* = 440.9) peak.

However, the LC-MS experiments of A05K01 and A1GK01 confirmed the finding of reaction between PVP-I and ketorolac tromethamine, For A05K01, there was a small amount of ketorolac left in the sample (MH* =3 256.1). the major peak is· MH* *= 381.9. For A10K01 and A1SK01, there was no ketorolac left an| has converted to a new compound (ΜΗ* ~ 381.9) completely. . · LC-MS experiments of A00B01P008 (control), A05B01P008 and AlOBDlPpS confirmed the finding of reaction between PVP-I and proparacaine. For the control, two peaks: MH* = 295.1 (proparacaine) and MH* “ 392# (dexamethasone) were observed in the LC-MS spectrum. Comparing A05B01P008 with A10B01P008, the proparacaine peak (MB*- — 295,1) relative to the dexamethasone peak (MH* “ 392.9) became much smaller, which suggests povidone iodine reacted with proparacaine.

Amount (wti %) PVP-I 0.0tol.5 A Λ

Dexamethasone, Micronized, USP 0.1

Proparacaine hydrochloride, USP 0.08% EDTA, USP 0.01

Sodium Chloride, USP ' 6.3

Sodium Sulfate, USP 1.2

Tyloxapol, USP 0 05

Hydroxyethylcellulose 0,25

Sulfuric Acid and/or

Sodium hydroxide q.s. for pH adjustment to 5.7-5.9

Sterile water, USP q,s. to 100

In a 4QQraL beaker was added lOOg sterile watery hydroxyethylcellulose (0.75g, 0.25% w/w) was added under vigorous stirring with an ARROW overhead stirrer. Sodium chloride (Q.9g, 0.3% w/w) was slowly added while dissolving, followed by addition of EDTA (0.03g, 0.01% w/w), sodium sulfate (3.6g, 1.2% w/w) and proparacaine hydrochloride salt (Q.24g, 0.08% w/w) sequentially. After stirring for 10 minutes, tyloxapol (0.15g, 0.05% w/w) dissolved in water was transferred into the above solution. The reaction mixture was stirred for 1 hour arid dexamethasone (0.3g, 0.1% w/w) was prided and homogenized for 10 minutes and then q.s. to ||0g with sterile water to give foe bulk solution 5. 60g each of the bulk solution 5 was transferred into four 125mL beakers, and povidone-iodine complex (O.Og, 0.5g, l.Og) was added into the respective solutions while stirring. The pH value was adjusted to around 5,8 by addition of sodium hydroxide or sulfuric acid and q.s. foe solution to lOOg to afford samples A00B01P008, A05B01P008i and A10B01P008,·

During foe production of these samples, strong smell of iodine was observed. It Was speculated that PVP-I reacted with proparacaine very rapidly. The speculation was confirmed by LC-MS spectra, the dexamefoason© and proparacaine peaks m foe combination samples with' PVP-I became very small or even disappeared,

Stabllltyofilie Solutions

The amount of titratable iodine in the solutions was determined by titradon method after various week of sample storage at room temperature.

Titration Method: 5pL of each sample was transferred into a 125 ml, beaker by pipette^ and lmL of 1% (w/v) starch indicator solution was added. The solution was titrated with 0.0025N sodium thiosulfate solution until the blue color disappeared completely. The volume of sodium thiosulfate solution used was determined,

Titratable Iodine (mg) = V |mL, volume used for titration) * 12,69 (mg/mL)/2 The calculated titratable iodine (mg) is listed in Table 1.

Table 1. Stability Data Summary (Available Iodine)

The data of concentration of PVP-iodine alter weeks of storage at room temperature, either at dark or light, have suggested dial stable combination formulations have been achieved for PVP-iodine combinations with dexamethasone, or dexamethasone sodium phosphate, or prednisolone sodium phosphate. The 0.3% (wt.%) PVP-I combination with dexamethasone is less stable than those of above 0.5% PVP-iodine combinations with dexamethasone, which have less than 5% alteration of the available iodine concentration alter 8 weeks.

Date has also suggested PVP-I reacted with ketorolac tromethamine. At 0.5% PVP-I in the sample after five weeks, there was no fifrafable iodine left. At 1,5% and 1.5% of PVP-I in the samples, the titfatable iodine was depleted significantly at 58.8% and 36.3%, respectively.

Stability test of Dexamethasone in the sample using HPLC

The USP method was performed The concentration of dexamethasone data is tabulated in chart form below in Table 2:

Table2.

HPLC spectra have shown that there were no new peaks appearing compared with standard controls. The spectra suggested that there was no reaction between PVP-Todine and dexamethasone at all.

S^ility.test^JJ3^m^as<me_Sodium Phosphate in the sample using HILO

The USP method was performed, The concentration data of dexamethasone sodium phosphate is tabulated in chart form below in Tlble 3. AG5C01 (1 day), A10C01, AI5C01 (3 days) in 40 °C oven.

Table!;

HPLC spectra have shown that there was a new peak appearing in the samples off AffOCQl and A15C01 compared with Standard controls and A05C01. The concentrations of > dexamethasone sodium phosphate were altered more than 10% m the samples of A10C01 and AISC01.

In another experiment, we have Sound, surprisingly, that eye drops off the following formulation: 0.5 to 2% (w/w) poi>vinylpyrroiidmone-iodin9 complex; 0.05 to 0.2% (w/w) steroid; 0.005% to 0.02% (w/w) EDTA; 0.0.1 to 0.5% (w/w) sodium chloride; 0.02 to. 0 1% (w/w) tyloxapol; 0.5% to 2% (w/w) sodium sulfate; and 0.1 to 0.5% (w/w) hydroxyethylceliulose; wherein said sterpt| is dexamethasone, prednisolone, prednisone, or acetate forms thereof, or sodium phosphate forms thereof were stable for 1 month, 3 months and up to 6 months. Based on data gathered so far, such a solution appears to be capable of storage of up to at least 1 year from lie date for manufacturer. Stability is defined as a deviation in concentration of the major components (PVP-I and Steroid) by less than 10% over a period of time» This, the PVP-I was not reduced to less than 90% over the period of 1 months 3 mouths; and 6 months while the solution is in storage and based on our data at 6 months, it appears that the solution would be stable for at least one year. Storage conditions was at room temperature, in clear bottles, in indoor lighting of 100 to 1000 lux of incandescent and/or fluorescent lighting.

The stability may be attributed to the unique combination of PVP-I and dexamethasone, prednisolone, prednisone (including acetate forms and sodium phosphate forms of these steroids). We have additionally found that the other reagents (EDTA, sodium chloride^ tyloxapol, sodium sulfate; and hydroxyethylcelMose) When present, further contributed to stability.

We have found, when comparing various formulations during development, that PVP-I confers a number of advantages in the formulation, Briefly, PVP-I formulations have the following improved properties compered to an iodine solution: (1) less Imitating to the skin and eye, (2) washable» (3) increased stability, (4) increased stability in Sight, (5) Sow systemic toxicity, (6) less side effects. Also, based on current knowledge, PVP-I is neutral with respect to scar tissue formation.

Example 4. Antimicrobial Assays

Solutions of PVP-iodine combinations with various anti-inflammatory steroids were tested for antimicrobial activity against common pathogenic bacteria, yeast, fungi arid viruses. The broth inoculation method of Antimicrobial Assays (USP) was used to conduct the efficacy test of the treatment of various concentrations of the solutions of PVP~iodine combinations against pure ocular isolates. It was found that foe concentrations of PVP-iodine from 0.03% can dose-dependently produce the suppressing effects on microbial growth. The antimicrobial effects can be further supported by completely eliminating all species tested within 72 hours of inoculating treatment with 0.03% solution. The optimal efficacy of antimicrobial effects can be achieved at concentrations above 0.5%. Above the concentrations, the solution can effectively kill and eliminate all species tested even under a condition of immediate contact without further inoculation. For example^ a solution of 1% PVP-iodine and 0,1% dexamethasone (wt%) was found to kill on contact Pseudomonas aeuroginosa, Proieps mirabilis, Serratia maracescens, Siaphylococcous aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Methiciiin Resistant StapAylpcocms Aureus, Klebsiella pmummide, Candida parapsilosis, Candida albicans and ApergiUusMiger, Hie results clearly demonstrated the efficacy of the solutions on eliminating microbial growth,

Example 5. AdenovSrusTestiiig

Solutions of PVP-iodine combinations with dexamethasone were tested for antiviral activity against human adenovirus. A 0,5 mL aliquot of each test and control .article Was combined with 0 5 mL of virus stock in a sterile tube. The tubes were then incubated at 37°C for 30 minutes. A00BO1 was used as tie positive control. Hank’s Balanced Salt Solution (HBSS) was used as the negative control. Immediately fbHowing incubation the test and control articles were titrated for infectious HAdVr4,

Table 4. Antiviral Activity

Following a 30 rmniite incubation of the test articles with virus, AOOBOl had no effect on virus infectiviiy, but compounds AIQB01, A15B01 and A20B01 resulted in complete inactivation of the virus.

Exa mule 6. Hu man Eve Irrigation Studies

All volunteers were examined before testing and found to have healthy eyes with no Signs of disease; 1.0% PVP-iodlne solution alone was made and tried in 15 healthy volunteers. Side effects of treatment were immediately reported. The side effects found included mild pain, discomfort, tearing, and redness. This is consistent because the literature has previously indicated that 1% PVP-iodine is unsuitable for use because of irritation that is unacceptable to the patient (e.g,, U.S. Patent 5,126,127). From the reported side effects, it is clear that a regiment of multiple applications to the volunteers would be intolerable.

The solution of A10B0|, containing 1% PVP-I and 0.1% dexamethasone, was tested by seven healthy volunteers. Administration was by eye drop, It was surprisingly found that the solution was tolerable to the eye (does not bum) and was comfortable at a tenge of pH, Specifically, the formulation of pH 5.9 formulation is comfortable upon instillation into the eye.

One person used the solution as an eye drop four times a day for a period of 3 days with no adverse side effects. Other pH values, such as pH 6 to $, ere obtainable either by adjusting the pH alone, with a suitable chemical such as sulfuric acid or sodium hydroxide, or by tile addition of a suitable buffer.

All volunteers were examined by physicians immediately after the trial period arid in iurther follow-up examinations after a period of time. Further, volunteers were contacted by physicians at one month, two months and three months after trial and no adverse effects were reported for any Of the volunteers.

Claims (23)

1. The claims defining the invention are as follows:

   1. An ophthalmic composition comprising: a) povidone-iodine in a concentration between 0.01% and 10% by weight, and b) a steroid, wherein the steroid is loteprednol etabonate and salts thereof, and wherein after a period of one month after mixing the steroid and povidine-iodine to form the composition, the steroid concentration is at least 90% by weight of the steroid starting concentration.
2. 2. The composition of claim 1, wherein said povidone-iodine is in a concentration between 0.1% and 2.5% by weight.
3. 3. The composition of any one of claims 1 or 2 wherein said steroid is in a concentration of between 0.01% and 10% by weight.
4. 4. The composition of claim 3, wherein said steroid is in a concentration of between 0.05% and 2% by weight.
5. 5. The composition of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein said composition further comprises a topical aesthetic which relieves pain.
6. 6. The composition of claim 5, wherein said topical anesthetic is selected from the group consisting of proparacaine, lidocaine, tetracaine and a combination thereof.
7. 7. The composition of any one of claims 1 to 6 wherein said composition further comprises a penetration enhancer which enhances the penetration of povidone-iodine into body tissue.
8. 8. The composition of any one of claims 1 to 7 wherein said composition further comprises an antimicrobial preservative.
9. 9. The composition of claim 8 wherein said antimicrobial preservative is selected from the group consisting of benzalkonium chloride, thimerosal, chlorobutanol, methyl paraben, propyl paraben, phenylethyl alcohol, EDTA, sorbic acid, Onamer M and a combination thereof.
10. 10. The composition of claim 8 or claim 9 wherein said antimicrobial preservative is at a concentration of about 0.001% to 1.0% by weight in said solution.
11. 11. The composition of any one of claims 1 to 10 wherein said composition further comprises a co-solvent/surfactant.
12. 12. The composition of claim 11 wherein said co-solvent/surfactant is selected from the group consisting of polysorbate 20, polysorbate 60, polysorbate 80, Pluronic F-68, Pluronic F-84, Pluronic P-103, cyclodextrin, tyloxapol and a combination thereof.
13. 13. The composition of claim 11 or claim 12 wherein said co-solvent/surfactant is at a concentration of about 0.01 % to 2% by weight in said composition.
14. 14. The composition of any one of claims 1 to 13 wherein said composition further comprises viscosity increasing agent.
15. 15. The composition of claim 14 wherein said viscosity increasing agent is selected from the group consisting of polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, methyl cellulose, hydroxy propyl methylcellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxy propyl cellulose, and a combination thereof.
16. 16. The composition of claim 14 or claim 15 wherein said viscosity increasing agent is at a concentration of about 0.01% to 2% by weight in said solution.
17. 17. The composition of any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein said composition is in the form of a solution, suspension, emulsion, ointment, cream, gel, or a controlled-release/sustain-release vehicle.
18. 18. The composition of any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein said composition is effective for treatment and/or prophylaxis of a microorganism infection or a disorder of at least one tissue of the eye.
19. 19. The composition of claim 18, wherein said microorganism is selected from the group consisting of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and amoebae.
20. 20. The composition of any one of claims 1 to 19 wherein said composition is an aqueous solution.
21. 21. A method for treating and/or prophylaxis of an eye disorder or a microorganism infection of at least one tissue of the eye comprising the step of administering one or more doses of an ophthalmic composition of any one of claims 1 to 20 to said eye.
22. 22. A composition according to claim 1, substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to any one of the Examples.
23. 23. A method according to claim 21, substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to any one of the Examples.