COMPOSITION FOR THE TREATMENT OR PREVENTION OF INFECTIONS AND INFLAMMATIONS

Abstract

This invention relates to compositions for use in the treatment or prevention of bacterial, viral or fungal infections and inflammations in the mouth. The invention further relates to compositions for use in the treatment or prevention of infections and inflammations of the skin or mucous membranes caused by HSV 1 and HSV 2 and bacterial superinfections.

Claims

1. (canceled)

2. Method of treating or preventing bacterial or fungal infections and inflammations in the month, the method comprising administering a composition (III) to a subject, wherein the composition (III) is obtainable by mixing compositions (I) and (II), wherein composition (I) is obtainable by: preparing a mixture of: (a) glycerol; (b) one or more cellulose thickeners, preferably carboxymethyl cellulose; and (c) optionally one or more gums selected from xanthan gum, carrageenan, chicle gum (from sapodilla), guar gum, gum arabic, acacia gum, sodium alginate and tragacanth gum, and by adding to said mixture: (d) one or more cations C.sup.t+; (e) one or more anions derived from halogenoxides according to the general formula [XO.sub.v].sup.−; and (f) water, with the proviso that no sorbitol is added, wherein C is a metal from group 1 or 2 of the periodic system, t=1 or 2, X is a halogen atom and v=1-4, wherein composition (II) is obtainable by: preparing a mixture of: (g) glycerol; (h) one or more cellulose thickeners, preferably carboxymethyl cellulose; and (i) one or more gums selected from xanthan gum, carrageenan, chicle gum (from sapodilla), guar gum, gum arabic, acacia gum, sodium alginate and tragacanth gum, and by adding to said mixture: (j) one or more oxygen donors, wherein an oxygen donor comprises a cation C.sup.t+ and an anion according to the general formula [Z.sub.yO.sub.x].sup.s−; and (k) water, with the proviso that no sorbitol is added, herein C is a metal from group 1 or 2 of the periodic system, Z is chosen from the elements boron, manganese, carbon, sulfur, phosphorous, calcium and magnesium, and wherein O is the element oxygen, y=0-4, x=1-9, s=1-6 and t=1 or 2.

3. The method of treatment or prevention according to claim 1, wherein the bacterial or fungal infections and inflammations in the mouth are chosen from the group consisting of gingivitis, parodontitis and peri-implantitis.

4. (canceled)

5. A method of treatment or prevention of infections and inflammations of the skin or mucous membranes caused by HSV 1, HSV 2 or viruses acting through the same mechanism, said treatment or prevention comprising administering a composition (III) to a subject, wherein composition (III) is obtainable by mixing compositions (I) and (II), wherein composition (I) is obtainable by: preparing a mixture of: (a) glycerol; (b) one or more cellulose thickeners, preferably carboxymethyl cellulose; and (c) optionally one or more gums selected from xanthan gum, carrageenan, chicle gum (from sapodilla), guar gum, gum arabic, acacia gum, sodium alginate and tragacanth gum, and by adding to said mixture: (d) one or more cations C.sup.t+; (e) one or more anions derived from halogenoxides according to the general formula [XO.sub.v].sup.−; and (f) water, with the proviso that no sorbitol is added, wherein C is a metal from group 1 or 2 of the periodic system, t=1 or 2, X is a halogen atom and v=1-4, wherein composition (II) is obtainable by: preparing a mixture of: (g) glycerol; (h) one or more cellulose thickeners, preferably carboxymethyl cellulose; and (i) one or more gums selected from xanthan gum, carrageenan, chicle gum (from sapodilla), guar gum, gum arabic, acacia gum, sodium alginate and tragacanth gum, and by adding to said mixture: (j) one or more oxygen donors, wherein an oxygen donor comprises a cation 0+ and an anion according to the general formula [Z.sub.yO.sub.v].sup.s−; and (k) water, with the proviso that no sorbitol is added, herein C is a metal from group 1 or 2 of the periodic system, Z is chosen from the elements boron, manganese, carbon, sulfur, phosphorous, calcium and magnesium, and wherein O is the element oxygen, y=0-4, x=1-9, s=1-6 and t=1 or 2.

6. The method of treatment or prevention according to claim 5, wherein the infections and inflammations of the skin or mucous membranes caused by HSV 1 and HSV 2 are primary infections of the skin or mucous membranes which are followed by secondary bacterial or fungal infections.

7. The method of treatment or prevention according to claim 5, wherein the infections and inflammations of the skin or mucous membranes related to HSV 1 and HSV 2 are chosen from the group consisting of eczema and psoriasis.

8. The method of treatment or prevention according to claim 5, wherein the infections and inflammations of the skin or mucous membranes caused by viruses acting through the same mechanism as HSV 1 and HSV 2 is mouth ulcer.

9. The method of treatment or prevention according to claim 1, wherein the mixture of compositions (I) and (II) is allowed to react for at least 2 hours, preferably for a period of between 3 and 12 hours, even more preferably for a period of between 6 and 8 hours, before composition (III) is administered to the subject in need thereof.

10. The method of treatment or prevention according to claim 1, wherein the one or more anions derived from halogenoxides according to the general formula [XO.sub.v].sup.− in composition (I) are chosen from the group consisting of perchlorate, chlorate, chlorite, hypochlorite, perioidate, iodate, iodite, hypoiodite, perbromate, bromate, bromite and hypobromite.

11.-12. (canceled)

13. The method of treatment or prevention according to claim 1, wherein the anion according to the general formula [Z.sub.vO.sub.x].sup.s− in the one or more oxygen donors of composition (II) is chosen from the group consisting of perborate, metaborate, orthoborate, hypoborate, pyroborate, tetraborate, persulfate, peroxide, permanganate, percarbonate, perphosphate, and hydrates thereof.

14. (canceled)

15. The method of treatment or prevention according to claim 1, wherein Z is carbon and the anion according to the general formula [Z.sub.vO.sub.x].sup.s− in the one or more oxygen donors of composition (II) is percarbonate.

16. The method of treatment or prevention according to claim 1, wherein composition (III) is combined with one or more pharmaceutical acceptable carriers and/or pharmaceutical acceptable additives before composition (III) is administered to the subject in need thereof.

17.-19. (canceled)

20. The method of treatment or prevention according to claim 1, wherein composition (III), optionally combined with one or more pharmaceutical acceptable carriers and/or pharmaceutical acceptable additives, takes the form of a liquid or a solid, particularly a powder, an aqueous solution, an aqueous dispersion, a gel, a mousse, a spray, a soap, a shampoo, a paste, a pocket-injection-gel an unguent or an ointment.

21. (canceled)

22. The method of treatment or prevention according to claim 1, wherein the one or more gums selected from xanthan gum, carrageenan, chicle gum (from sapodilla), guar gum, gum arabic, acacia gum, sodium alginate and tragacanth gum, preferably xanthan gum, are mandatory ingredients in composition (I) and (II).

23. The method of treatment or prevention for use according to claim 1, wherein composition (II) comprises xanthan gum.

24. The method of treatment or prevention according to claim 5, wherein the mixture of compositions (I) and (II) is allowed to react for at least 2 hours, preferably for a period of between 3 and 12 hours, even more preferably for a period of between 6 and 8 hours, before composition (III) is administered to the subject in need thereof.

25. The method of treatment or prevention according to claim 5, wherein the one or more anions derived from halogenoxides according to the general formula [XO.sub.v].sup.− in composition (I) are chosen from the group consisting of perchlorate, chlorate, chlorite, hypochlorite, perioidate, iodate, iodite, hypoiodite, perbromate, bromate, bromite and hypobromite.

26. The method of treatment or prevention according to claim 5, wherein the anion according to the general formula [Z.sub.vO.sub.x].sup.s− in the one or more oxygen donors of composition (II) is chosen from the group consisting of perborate, metaborate, orthoborate, hypoborate, pyroborate, tetraborate, persulfate, peroxide, permanganate, percarbonate, perphosphate, and hydrates thereof.

27. The method of treatment or prevention according to claim 5, wherein Z is carbon and the anion according to the general formula [Z.sub.vO.sub.x].sup.s− in the one or more oxygen donors of composition (II) is percarbonate.

28. The method of treatment or prevention according to claim 5, wherein composition (III) is combined with one or more pharmaceutical acceptable carriers and/or pharmaceutical acceptable additives before composition (III) is administered to the subject in need thereof.

29. The method of treatment or prevention according to claim 5, wherein composition (III), optionally combined with one or more pharmaceutical acceptable carriers and/or pharmaceutical acceptable additives, takes the form of a liquid or a solid, particularly a powder, an aqueous solution, an aqueous dispersion, a gel, a mousse, a spray, a soap, a shampoo, a paste, a pocket-injection-gel an unguent or an ointment.

30. Method of treatment or prevention according to claim 5, wherein the one or more gums selected from xanthan gum, carrageenan, chicle gum (from sapodilla), guar gum, gum arabic, acacia gum, sodium alginate and tragacanth gum, preferably xanthan gum, are mandatory ingredients in composition (I) and (II).

31. Method of treatment or prevention according to claim 5, wherein composition (II) comprises xanthan gum.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0073] In a first aspect, a kit of parts comprising compositions (I) and (II) in separate containers is provided, wherein composition (I) is obtainable by: [0074] preparing a mixture of: [0075] (a) glycerol; [0076] (b) one or more cellulose thickeners, preferably carboxymethyl cellulose; and [0077] (c) optionally one or more gums selected from xanthan gum, carrageenan, chicle gum (from sapodilla), guar gum, gum arabic, acacia gum, sodium alginate and tragacanth gum, and by adding to said mixture: [0078] (d) one or more cations C.sup.t+; [0079] (e) one or more anions derived from halogenoxides according to the general formula [XO.sub.v].sup.−; and [0080] (f) water, [0081] with the proviso that no sorbitol is added, [0082] wherein C is a metal from group 1 or 2 of the periodic system, t=1 or 2, X is a halogen atom and v=1-4,
wherein composition (II) is obtainable by: [0083] preparing a mixture of: [0084] (g) glycerol; [0085] (h) one or more cellulose thickeners, preferably carboxymethyl cellulose; and [0086] (i) optionally one or more gums selected from xanthan gum, carrageenan, chicle gum (from sapodilla), guar gum, gum arabic, acacia gum, sodium alginate and tragacanth gum, and by adding to said mixture: [0087] (j) one or more oxygen donors, wherein an oxygen donor comprises a cation C.sup.t+ and an anion according to the general formula [Z.sub.yO.sub.x].sup.s−; and [0088] (k) water, [0089] with the proviso that no sorbitol is added, [0090] wherein C is a metal from group 1 or 2 of the periodic system, Z is chosen from the elements boron, manganese, carbon, sulfur, phosphorous, calcium and magnesium, and [0091] wherein O is the element oxygen, y=0-4, x=1-9, s=1-6 and t=1 or 2,
for use in the treatment or prevention of bacterial or fungal infections and inflammations in the mouth, said treatment or prevention comprising mixing compositions (I) and (II) and administering the mixture of compositions to a subject.

[0092] In a second aspect, a composition (III) obtainable by mixing compositions (I) and (II) is provided, wherein composition (I) is obtainable by: [0093] preparing a mixture of: [0094] (a) glycerol; [0095] (b) one or more cellulose thickeners, preferably carboxymethyl cellulose; and [0096] (c) optionally one or more gums selected from xanthan gum, carrageenan, chicle gum (from sapodilla), guar gum, gum arabic, acacia gum, sodium alginate and tragacanth gum, and by adding to said mixture: [0097] (d) one or more cations C.sup.t+; [0098] (e) one or more anions derived from halogenoxides according to the general formula [XO.sub.v].sup.−; and [0099] (f) water, [0100] with the proviso that no sorbitol is added, [0101] wherein C is a metal from group 1 or 2 of the periodic system, t=1 or 2, X is a halogen atom and v=1-4,
wherein composition (II) is obtainable by: [0102] preparing a mixture of: [0103] (g) glycerol; [0104] (h) one or more cellulose thickeners, preferably carboxymethyl cellulose; and [0105] (i) optionally one or more gums selected from xanthan gum, carrageenan, chicle gum (from sapodilla), guar gum, gum arabic, acacia gum, sodium alginate and tragacanth gum, and by adding to said mixture: [0106] (j) one or more oxygen donors, wherein an oxygen donor comprises a cation C.sup.t+ and an anion according to the general formula [Z.sub.yO.sub.x].sup.s−; and [0107] (k) water, [0108] with the proviso that no sorbitol is added, [0109] wherein C is a metal from group 1 or 2 of the periodic system, Z is chosen from the elements boron, manganese, carbon, sulfur, phosphorous, calcium and magnesium, and [0110] wherein O is the element oxygen, y=0-4, x=1-9, s=1-6 and t=1 or 2,
for use in the treatment or prevention of bacterial or fungal infections and inflammations in the mouth, said treatment or prevention comprising administering composition (III) to a subject.

[0111] The first aspect can also be worded as a method of treatment or prevention of bacterial or fungal infections and inflammations in the mouth, said treatment or prevention comprising mixing said compositions (I) and (II) and administering the mixture of compositions to a subject.

[0112] The second aspect can also be worded as a method of treatment or prevention of bacterial or fungal infections and inflammations in the mouth, said treatment or prevention comprising administering said composition (III) to a subject.

[0113] An example of fungal infections and inflammations that can be treated are infections and inflammations caused by Candida.

[0114] In a preferred embodiment, the bacterial or fungal infections and inflammations in the mouth are chosen from the group consisting of gingivitis, periodontitis and peri-implantitis.

[0115] In a third aspect of the invention, a kit of parts comprising compositions (I) and (II) in separate containers is provided, wherein composition (I) is obtainable by: [0116] preparing a mixture of: [0117] (a) glycerol; [0118] (b) one or more cellulose thickeners, preferably carboxymethyl cellulose; and [0119] (c) optionally one or more gums selected from xanthan gum, carrageenan, chicle gum (from sapodilla), guar gum, gum arabic, acacia gum, sodium alginate and tragacanth gum, and by adding to said mixture: [0120] (d) one or more cations C.sup.t+; [0121] (e) one or more anions derived from halogenoxides according to the general formula [XO.sub.v].sup.−; and [0122] (f) water, [0123] with the proviso that no sorbitol is added, [0124] wherein C is a metal from group 1 or 2 of the periodic system, t=1 or 2, X is a halogen atom and v=1-4,
wherein composition (II) is obtainable by: [0125] preparing a mixture of: [0126] (g) glycerol; [0127] (h) one or more cellulose thickeners, preferably carboxymethyl cellulose; and [0128] (i) optionally one or more gums selected from xanthan gum, carrageenan, chicle gum (from sapodilla), guar gum, gum arabic, acacia gum, sodium alginate and tragacanth gum, and by adding to said mixture: [0129] (j) one or more oxygen donors, wherein an oxygen donor comprises a cation C.sup.t+ and an anion according to the general formula [Z.sub.yO.sub.x].sup.s−; and [0130] (k) water, [0131] with the proviso that no sorbitol is added, [0132] wherein C is a metal from group 1 or 2 of the periodic system, Z is chosen from the elements boron, manganese, carbon, sulfur, phosphorous, calcium and magnesium, and [0133] wherein O is the element oxygen, y=0-4, x=1-9, s=1-6 and t=1 or 2,
for use in the treatment or prevention of infections and inflammations of the skin or mucous membranes caused by HSV 1, HSV 2 or viruses acting through the same mechanism, said treatment or prevention comprising mixing compositions (I) and (II) and administering the mixture of compositions to a subject.

[0134] In a fourth aspect of the invention, a composition (III) obtainable by mixing compositions (I) and (II) is provided, wherein composition (I) is obtainable by: [0135] preparing a mixture of: [0136] (a) glycerol; [0137] (b) one or more cellulose thickeners, preferably carboxymethyl cellulose; and [0138] (c) optionally one or more gums selected from xanthan gum, carrageenan, chicle gum (from sapodilla), guar gum, gum arabic, acacia gum, sodium alginate and tragacanth gum, and by adding to said mixture: [0139] (d) one or more cations C.sup.t+; [0140] (e) one or more anions derived from halogenoxides according to the general formula [XO.sub.v].sup.−; and [0141] (f) water, [0142] with the proviso that no sorbitol is added, [0143] wherein C is a metal from group 1 or 2 of the periodic system, t=1 or 2, X is a halogen atom and v=1-4,
wherein composition (II) is obtainable by: [0144] preparing a mixture of: [0145] (g) glycerol; [0146] (h) one or more cellulose thickeners, preferably carboxymethyl cellulose; and [0147] (i) optionally one or more gums selected from xanthan gum, carrageenan, chicle gum (from sapodilla), guar gum, gum arabic, acacia gum, sodium alginate and tragacanth gum, and by adding to said mixture: [0148] (j) one or more oxygen donors, wherein an oxygen donor comprises a cation C.sup.t+ and an anion according to the general formula [Z.sub.yO.sub.x].sup.s−; and [0149] (k) water, [0150] with the proviso that no sorbitol is added, [0151] wherein C is a metal from group 1 or 2 of the periodic system, Z is chosen from the elements boron, manganese, carbon, sulfur, phosphorous, calcium and magnesium, and [0152] wherein O is the element oxygen, y=0-4, x=1-9, s=1-6 and t=1 or 2,
for use in the treatment or prevention of infections and inflammations of the skin or mucous membranes caused by HSV 1, HSV 2 or viruses acting through the same mechanism, said treatment or prevention comprising administering composition (III) to a subject.

[0153] The third aspect can also be worded as a method of treatment or prevention of infections and inflammations of the skin or mucous membranes caused by HSV 1, HSV 2 or viruses acting through the same mechanism, said treatment or prevention comprising mixing said compositions (I) and (II) and administering the mixture of compositions to a subject.

[0154] The fourth aspect can also be worded as a method of treatment or prevention of infections and inflammations of the skin or mucous membranes caused by HSV 1, HSV 2 or viruses acting through the same mechanism, said treatment or prevention comprising administering said composition (III) to a subject.

[0155] In a preferred embodiment, the infections and inflammations of the skin or mucous membranes caused by HSV 1 and HSV 2 are primary infections of the skin or mucous membranes which are followed in a lot of cases by secondary bacterial or fungal infections.

[0156] In another preferred embodiment, the infections and inflammations of the skin or mucous membranes related to HSV 1 and HSV 2 are chosen from eczema and psoriasis.

[0157] In still another preferred embodiment, the infection and inflammation of the skin or mucous membranes caused by viruses acting through the same mechanism as HSV 1 and HSV 2 is mouth ulcer.

[0158] Mixing of compositions (I) and (II) preferably takes place using a non-metal mixing device.

[0159] The metals C in the cations C.sup.t+ of compositions (I) and (II) are chosen independently. Both compositions can however contain the same metal C.

[0160] Preferred examples of cation C.sup.t+ are Na.sup.+, K.sup.+, Mg.sup.2+, Ca.sup.2+ and Mn.sup.2+.

[0161] The one or more anions derived from halogenoxides according to the general formula [XO.sub.v].sup.− in composition (I) are preferably chosen from the group consisting of perchlorate, chlorate, chlorite, hypochlorite, perioidate, iodate, iodite, hypoiodite, perbromate, bromate, bromite and hypobromite, more preferably the anion according to the general formula [XO.sub.v].sup.− is hypochlorite.

[0162] As will be appreciated by the skilled person, the one or more cations C.sup.t+ and one or more anions [XO.sub.v].sup.− are added to composition (I) in the form of one or more salts C.sup.t+[XO.sub.v].sub.t.sup.−. A very preferred salt that can be applied in composition (I) is sodium hypochlorite. Salts are preferably added to composition (I) as an aqueous solution.

[0163] The anion according to the general formula [Z.sub.yO.sub.x].sup.s− in the one or more oxygen donors of composition (II) is preferably chosen from the group consisting of perborate, metaborate, orthoborate, hypoborate, pyroborate, tetraborate, persulfate, peroxide, permanganate, percarbonate, perphosphate and hydrates thereof.

[0164] In a preferred embodiment, composition (II) comprises one oxygen donor, Z is boron and the anion according to the general formula [Z.sub.yO.sub.x].sup.s− in the oxygen donor is chosen from the group consisting of perborate, metaborate, orthoborate, hypoborate, pyroborate and tetraborate.

[0165] In another preferred embodiment, composition (II) comprises one oxygen donor, Z is boron and the anion according to the general formula [Z.sub.yO.sub.x].sup.s− is perborate tetrahydrate.

[0166] As will be appreciated by the skilled person, the cations C.sup.t+ and anions according to the general formula [Z.sub.yO.sub.x].sup.s− are added to composition (II) in the form of salts C.sup.t+.sub.s/t[Z.sub.vO.sub.x].sup.s−, such as sodium percarbonate, magnesium peroxide, sodium percarbonate, potassium percarbonate, calcium percarbonate, sodium perborate trihydrate and sodium perborate tetrahydrate.

[0167] Very preferred salts that can be applied in composition (II) are sodium percarbonate, sodium perborate trihydrate and sodium perborate tetrahydrate.

[0168] In a very preferred embodiment, composition (II) comprises one oxygen donor, wherein the oxygen donor is added as the salt sodium perborate tetrahydrate.

[0169] In a very preferred embodiment, composition (II) comprises one oxygen donor, wherein Z is carbon and wherein the anion according to the general formula [Z.sub.vO.sub.x].sup.s− is percarbonate. Most preferably, composition (II) comprises one oxygen donor, wherein the oxygen donor is added as the salt sodium percarbonate. Salts are preferably added to composition (II) as an aqueous solution.

[0170] The inventor has found that it is essential that in the preparation of compositions (I) and (II), glycerol and the one or more cellulose thickeners, preferably carboxymethyl cellulose, are mixed first and that subsequently the remaining ingredients are added. Using this procedure sufficient active oxygen can be formed that is furthermore stabilized in the matrix of the formulation.

[0171] The inventor has established that adding the one or more gums selected from xanthan gum, carrageenan, chicle gum (from sapodilla), guar gum, gum arabic, acacia gum, sodium alginate and tragacanth gum has an unexpected advantageous effect on the stabilization of active oxygen in the mixture of combined compositions (I) and (II) or in composition (III). Accordingly, in an embodiment, the one or more gums selected from xanthan gum, carrageenan, chicle gum (from sapodilla), guar gum, gum arabic, acacia gum, sodium alginate and tragacanth gum is or are mandatory ingredients in composition (I) and/or (II) as defined herein. In a very preferred embodiment, the gum is xanthan gum. In a preferred embodiment, the one or more gums selected from xanthan gum, carrageenan, chicle gum (from sapodilla), guar gum, gum arabic, acacia gum, sodium alginate and tragacanth gum is or are only mandatory ingredients in composition (II) as defined herein. The amount of the one or more gums selected from xanthan gum, carrageenan, chicle gum (from sapodilla), guar gum, gum arabic, acacia gum, sodium alginate and tragacanth gum in the combined compositions (I) and (II) or in composition (III) is preferably between 0.01 and 10 wt %, based on the total weight of combined compositions (I) and (II) or composition (III), preferably between 0.01 and 0.1 wt %, such as 0.025 wt %.

[0172] In another preferred embodiment, the mixture of compositions is allowed to rest and react for a period of at least 2 hours, more preferably for a period between 3 and 12 hours, even more preferably for a period between 6 and 8 hours, before the mixture is administered to a subject in need thereof.

[0173] In another preferred embodiment, the mixture of compositions (I) and (III) is allowed to rest and react for a period of at least 2 hours, more preferably for a period of between 3 and 12 hours, even more preferably for a period of between 6 and 8 hours, at a temperature between 4 and 20° C., before the mixture of compositions (I) and (III) or before composition (III) is administered to a subject in need thereof.

[0174] If composition (III) or the mixture of compositions (I) and (II) is not directly administered after mixing compositions (I) and (II) or after allowing compositions (I) and (II) to react for the preferred periods indicated herein before, composition (III) or the mixture of compositions (I) and (II) is preferably kept at a temperature between 4 and 20° C., for example in a refrigerator.

[0175] Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is hypothesized that the one or more anions derived from halogenoxides in composition (I) react with glycerol in the presence of water. The thickener of the cellulose type, preferably carboxymethyl cellulose, is used to slow down the reaction by increasing the viscosity of composition (I) and to keep active oxygen stabilized in the matrix of the formulation.

[0176] Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is hypothesized that the one or more oxygen donors in composition (II) react with glycerol.

[0177] When mixed, compositions (I) and (II) react with each other resulting in active oxygen, i.e. oxygen ions. This active oxygen causes oxidation of the envelope and the double-stranded DNA chain of HSV viruses such that the HSV virus is effectively oxidized and no further replication can take place. The combined compositions (composition (III) or the mixture of compositions (I) and (II)) can also be used to prevent HSV infections or infections that have the same mechanism, because any virus particles remaining after a first infection, can be effectively oxidized prior to possible contact with damaged skin or mucous membranes. In a similar way, the combined compositions have bactericidal and fungicidal activity through inactivation of anaerobic bacteria and fungi by oxidation. Hence, the combined compositions can be used to prevent or treat bacterial or fungal infections/inflammations in the mouth.

[0178] In another preferred embodiment, composition (III) or the mixture of compositions (I) and (II) as prepared or defined hereinbefore, is combined with one or more pharmaceutical acceptable carriers and/or pharmaceutical acceptable additives before composition (III) or the mixture of compositions (I) and (II) mixture is administered to a subject in need thereof. The use of pharmaceutical acceptable carriers may be advantageous in applying composition (III) or the mixture of compositions (I) and (II) to the inflammation in the oral cavity, onto the genital area or onto the skin. Preferred examples of pharmaceutical acceptable carriers and/or pharmaceutical acceptable additives are binders, thickeners, stabilizers, flavourings, perfumes and aromas, vitamins such as vitamin A and E, and co-enzymes such as Q10.

[0179] The one or more pharmaceutical acceptable carriers and/or pharmaceutical acceptable additives can however also be added to the compositions (I) and (II) before mixing them.

[0180] Examples of suitable stabilizers are sodium citrate, sodium fluoride, sodium hydroxide or citric acid.

[0181] Examples of suitable binders are glycerol and gums such as gum arabic and xanthan gum. A preferred binder is glycerol.

[0182] Additional thickeners may be added to increase the viscosity of the product. The amount needed depends on the desired viscosity of or the physical form of the composition to be administered. Examples of additional thickeners that can be applied are celluloses, or gums like xanthan gum or gum arabic.

[0183] Composition (III) or the mixture of composition (I) and composition (II), optionally combined with one or more pharmaceutical acceptable carriers and/or pharmaceutical acceptable additives as defined hereinbefore, can take the form of a liquid or a solid, particularly a powder, an aqueous solution, an aqueous dispersion, a gel, a mousse, a spray, a soap, a shampoo, a paste, a pocket-injection-gel an unguent or an ointment.

[0184] In an embodiment, composition (I) and composition (II) are mixed in amounts of 0.1 to 50 wt. % of composition (I) and 50 to 99.9 wt. % of composition (II), wherein the combined compositions (I) and (II) constitute 100 wt. %. In a preferred embodiment, composition (I) and composition (II) are mixed in amounts of 2 to 10 wt. % of composition (I) and 90 to 98 wt. % of composition (II), wherein the combined compositions (I) and (II) constitute 100 wt. %.

[0185] In an embodiment, the viscosity of the composition (III) or the mixture of composition (I) and composition (II), optionally combined with one or more pharmaceutical acceptable carriers and/or pharmaceutical acceptable additives as defined hereinbefore, is between 1 mPa.Math.s and 500 Pa.Math.s, wherein the viscosity is measured with a rheometer with a plate-plate geometry and a gap distance of 0.5 mm at a temperature of 25° C.

[0186] In a particular embodiment, the treatment or prevention as defined hereinbefore comprises administering composition (III) or the mixture of composition (I) and composition (II), optionally combined with one or more pharmaceutical acceptable carriers and/or pharmaceutical acceptable additives as defined hereinbefore, by applying composition (III) or the mixture of composition (I) and composition (II) 1 to 8 times a day to the infected or inflamed areas.

[0187] In another preferred embodiment, the treatment or prevention of mouth ulcers as defined hereinbefore encompasses administering composition (III) or the mixture of composition (I) and composition (II), optionally combined with one or more pharmaceutical acceptable carriers and/or pharmaceutical acceptable additives as defined hereinbefore, by applying composition (III) or the mixture of composition (I) and composition (II) in the form of a mouthwash, a spray or an intraoral plaster to mouth ulcers in the oral area related to HSV, bacteria or fungi, or mixed infections of a first viral infection followed by a secondary bacterial of fungal infection.

[0188] In still another preferred embodiment the treatment or prevention of gingivitis, periodontitis or peri-implantitis as defined hereinbefore encompasses administering composition (III) or the mixture of composition (I) and composition (II), optionally combined with one or more pharmaceutical acceptable carriers and/or pharmaceutical acceptable additives as defined hereinbefore, by applying composition (III) or the mixture of composition (I) and composition (II) in the form of a toothgel or an anti-inflammative toothpaste to the oral area.

[0189] In still another preferred embodiment the treatment or prevention of fungal inflammations as defined hereinbefore encompasses administering composition (III) or the mixture of composition (I) and composition (II), optionally combined with one or more pharmaceutical acceptable carriers and/or pharmaceutical acceptable additives as defined hereinbefore, by applying composition (III) or the mixture of composition (I) and composition (II) in the form of a mouthwash to the oral area.

[0190] In a preferred embodiment, the composition (III) or the mixture of composition (I) and composition (II), preferably combined with one or more pharmaceutical acceptable carriers, is transparent. The composition can also be coloured.

EXAMPLES

Example 1: Unguent for Treating Eczema or Psoriasis

[0191] This example describes a method for preparing an unguent for treating eczema or psoriasis. In a first step, composition (I) was prepared. This composition was prepared by mixing the compounds listed below. Glycerol and carboxymethyl cellulose were mixed first and subsequently the remaining components were mixed in. The sodium hypochlorite was added to the composition as an aqueous solution. The glycerol contained a small amount of water. This has however been taken into account in the below composition such that 9 wt % glycerol amounts to 9 wt % of 100% pure glycerol. After mixing the compounds, the resulting mixture was allowed to rest and react for about 12 hours.

Composition (I)

[0192] 9 wt. % glycerol;
0.4 wt. % sodium hypochlorite;
75 wt. % water; and
0.3 wt. % carboxymethyl cellulose

[0193] Composition (II) was prepared directly after the mixing of the compounds of composition (I). Composition (II) was prepared by mixing the compounds listed below. Glycerol and carboxymethyl cellulose were mixed first and subsequently the remaining components were mixed in. The sodium percarbonate was added to the composition as an aqueous solution. The glycerol again contained a small amount of water. This has however been taken into account in the below composition such that 9 wt % glycerol amounts to 9 wt % of 100% pure glycerol. After mixing the compounds, the resulting mixture was allowed to rest and react for about 12 hours.

Composition (II)

[0194] 9 wt. % glycerol;
0.2 wt. % sodium percarbonate;
75.5 wt. % water; and
0.3 wt. % carboxymethyl cellulose.

[0195] Subsequently, composition (I) and composition (II) were combined and mixed. The resulting mixture was allowed to rest and react for about 12 hours.

[0196] In a further step, the following ingredients were added to the mixture of composition (I) and (II) (the amounts of the below ingredients are added twice such that composition (I) and the further ingredients result in 100 wt. % and such that composition (II) and the further ingredients result in 100 wt. %):

Further Ingredients

[0197] 9 wt. % cetiol;

4 wt. % Dermofeel BGC (Evonik);

[0198] 0.2 wt. % citric acid; and

2 wt. % Sepigel 305.

[0199] After thorough mixing with a non-metal mixing device for 120 minutes, the unguent for treating eczema or psoriasis was obtained.

Example 2: Treatment of Atopic Eczema and Psoriasis

[0200] In a four-week application test, 20 patients with atopic eczema were treated with the unguent according to Example 1. Under clinical-dermatological circumstances, positive results were obtained. For 30% of the patients a healing of 100% was observed for 30% of the patients 50-80% healing, and for 40% of the patients 25-45% healing, wherein the healing percentages concern healing of the initially infected surface.

Example 3: Treatment of Psoriasis

[0201] In a half year application test, 100 patients with psoriasis were treated with the unguent according to Example 1 and were observed. About 85% of the patients achieved good to excellent results, meaning that they had 80 to 100% less infected surface of the skin than before the treatment.

Example 4: Mouthwash

[0202] This example describes a method for preparing a mouthwash. The compositions (I) and (II) were prepared as described in Example 1 by mixing the compounds listed below.

Composition (I)

[0203] 10 wt. % glycerol;
0.6 wt. % sodium hypochlorite;
84.6 wt. % water; and
0.3 wt. % carboxymethyl cellulose.

Composition (II)

[0204] 10 wt. % glycerol;
0.6 wt. % sodium percarbonate;
84.6 wt. % water; and
0.3 wt. % carboxymethyl cellulose.

[0205] Subsequently, composition (I) and composition (II) were combined and mixed. The resulting mixture was allowed to rest and react for about 12 hours.

[0206] In a further step, the following ingredients were added to the mixture of composition (I) and (II) (the amounts of the below ingredients are added twice such that composition (I) and the further ingredients result in 100 wt. % and such that composition (II) and the further ingredients result in 100 wt. %):

Further Ingredients

[0207] 2 wt. % castor oil;
2 wt. % sodium citrate;
0.1 wt. % citric acid; and
0.4 wt. % aroma RV 35641 peppermint.
After thorough mixing with a non-metal mixing device for 120 minutes, the mouthwash was obtained.

Example 5: Gel for the Prevention of HSV 1 Infections/Inflammations

[0208] A gel was prepared analogous to the unguent of Example 1 and the mouthwash of Example 4. The overall composition of the ingredients used to prepare the gel was as follows:

17 wt. % glycerol;
5 wt. % silica;
2 wt. % sucrose;

3 wt. % Blanose 7LF;

[0209] 1.5 wt. % sodium percarbonate;
1.5 wt. % sodium hypochlorite;
1 wt. % sodium gluconate;
1 wt % citric acid;
0.05 wt % aroma;

2 wt. % PEG-32; and

[0210] 65.95 wt. % water.

[0211] Twenty people (patients) going into a situation in which they normally got HSV 1 infections/inflammations due to dry skin or excessive sunshine, such as during winter sport or summer vacation, were selected. These patients applied the gel 6 times a day to the infected/inflamed areas. Positive results were obtained for all twenty patients. These patients were able to prevent getting HSV 1 infections/inflammations on the treated areas during a longer period of time.

Example 6: Mouthwash for the Treatment or Prevention of Fungal Infections

[0212] The mouthwash of Example 4 was shown to inhibit the growth of a range of fungi, e.g. dermatophytes and Candida species when using the mouthwash 3-6 times a day.

Example 7: Toothgel

[0213] A toothgel was prepared analogous to the unguent of Example 1 and the mouthwash of Example 4. The overall composition of the ingredients used to prepare the toothgel was as follows:

64 wt. % glycerol;
0.4 wt. % magnesium sulfate;
0.045 wt. % sodium fluoride;

1 wt. % Blanose CMC 12M31XP;

10 wt. % Zeodent 113

[0214] 0.4 wt. % sodium percarbonate;
0.4 wt. % sodium hypochlorite;
0.5 wt % citric acid;
1 wt % aroma RV35640;

2 wt. % PEG-1500; and

[0215] 20.255 wt. % water.

Example 8: Toothgel for the Treatment or Prevention of Periodontitis and Peri-Implantitis

[0216] Samples of bacteria from pockets of 28 patients who suffered from periodontitis were taken. Patients were treated with the toothgel of Example 7 comprising a composition of the invention. There was also a control group which got a placebo. Before treatment samples were taken of bacteria out of the pockets of the 28 patients, after 2 weeks of treatment using the toothpaste and after 4 weeks of treatment using the toothgel.

[0217] Fungi and anaerobic bacteria were dramatically lowered. The overall bacteria-flora in the mouth was not disturbed; a new balance existed.

[0218] In another experiment, a toothgel 10 times stronger (as regards the content of active oxygen) than the toothgel of Example 7 was punt into the pockets of 33 patients after cleaning, scaling, root planning or periodontal surgery. The gel was applied by a professional once or several times in one of more sessions. After application, the gel remained in the pockets for the rest of the day. No rinsing was performed. The patients were recommended to rinse with a mouthwash similar to that of Example 4 (but 4 times stronger as regards the content of active oxygen) starting the next day after treatment for about 1-4 weeks twice a day.

[0219] Most of the anaerobic bacteria were eliminated from the oral area and the pockets by using the toothgel. Also, several fungi were eliminated or brought to low numbers. The active oxygen in the toothgel was found to oxidise the biofilm in the pockets. The oxidising formula was able to penetrate deep into the pockets. These results were achieved within a short period of time (2-6 weeks).

[0220] After the treatment, it was recommended to use products with the oxidising formula, for instance the toothgel and/or the mouthwash, for a longer period to keep new anaerobic bacteria to a low level.

[0221] A new bacteria balance in the oral area was established. With this oxygen-therapy no bacterial resistance or disturbance of healthy bacteria flora occurred.

[0222] A compound such as CHX (chlorhexidine) is not selective in eliminating bacteria in the oral area. Therefore, this compound results in disturbance and misbalance of the bacteria flora as well as growth of fungi which can cause problems in the oral cavity. Moreover, CHX can only be used for a limited period of time and CHX does not work against fungal inflammation.

[0223] The use of antibiotics causes bacterial resistance in the long term. CHX and antibiotics do not work properly against periodontitis because the molecules of CHX and antibiotics are too large to penetrate into the biofilm of the pockets. So, both CHX and antibiotics are not suitable for treatment of periodontitis.

[0224] Peri-implantitis is caused by the same bacteria as periodontitis (parodontitis). The working mechanism for treating peri-implantitis and periodontitis is the same. After 3 months of treatment with the oxidising formula, 75% of the peri-implantitis cases were clinically cured. In 75% of these peri-implantitis cases re-osseo-integration was seen.

[0225] A microbiological study proved that the use of the mouthwash had a significant influence on the bacterial composition in the pockets without tooth brushing for 1 week, i.e. by just only rinsing the mouth with the mouthwash. Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Prevotella intermedia were reduced to up to less than 5% of the original amount.

[0226] In case of extracting teeth it was very helpful to let patients rinse with a mouthwash according to the invention. For instance, in case of extracting wisdomteeth, rinsing with a mouthwash after and/or before treatment 3-6 times a day was found to be very helpful against infection and inflammation.

Example 9: Effect of Xanthan Gum on Active Oxygen

[0227] Mouthwashes in accordance with Example 4 were prepared, with xanthan gum (A) and without (B) xanthan gum. In the mouthwash with xanthan gum, the xanthan gum was added to only composition (II) in an amount of 0.025 wt. % based on the total weight of the combined compositions (I) and (II). Similarly, gels in accordance with Example 5 were prepared, with xanthan gum (C) and without (D) xanthan gum. In the gel with xanthan gum, the xanthan gum was added to only composition (II) in an amount of 0.025 wt. % based on the total weight of the combined compositions (I) and (II).

[0228] The presence of active oxygen in all formulations (A)-(D) was tested as a function of storage time at 20° C. in a closed container, using H.sub.2O.sub.2 indicator strips. Results are given in Table 1.

TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 A. % B. % C. % D. % Rec. % Rec. % Rec. % Rec. % Day O.sub.2 O.sub.2 O.sub.2 O.sub.2 A B C D 0 0.088 0.09 0.24 0.1 100 100 100 100 14 0.082 0.09 0.23 0.1 92 100 98 100 30 0.082 0.09 0.22 0.1 92 100 93 100 100 0.075 0.09 0.20 0.1 84 100 83 100 200 0.07 0.09 0.17 0.1 79 100 72 100

[0229] As can be inferred from Table 1, the addition of a gum such as xanthan gum has an unexpected advantageous effect on the stabilization of active oxygen in the mixture of combined compositions (I) and (II).

Example 10: Effect of Sorbitol on Stability and Active Oxygen

[0230] Mouthwashes in accordance with Example 4 were prepared, with sorbitol (A) and without (B) sorbitol. In the mouthwash with sorbitol, the sorbitol was added to composition (II) in an amount of 10 wt. % based on the total weight of the combined compositions (I) and (II). Similarly, gels in accordance with Example 5 were prepared, with sorbitol (C) and without (D) sorbitol. In the gel with sorbitol, the sorbitol was added to composition (II) in an amount of 10 wt. % based on the total weight of the combined compositions (I) and (II).

[0231] It was found that the gel-like structure of gel (C), with sorbitol, disappeared after 1 week storage at a temperature of 20° C. and a liquid phase was formed. Gel (D), without sorbitol, on the other hand, remained stable for a long period of time. Similarly, the mouthwash (A), with sorbitol, became more fluid after 1 week, whereas mouthwash (B), without sorbitol, remained stable. It was further observed that addition of sorbitol in both the mouthwash and the gel resulted in an unwanted rapid decrease of the amount of active oxygen.