US20210205594A1 - Methods for treating nail infections - Google Patents
Methods for treating nail infections Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20210205594A1 US20210205594A1 US17/154,617 US202117154617A US2021205594A1 US 20210205594 A1 US20210205594 A1 US 20210205594A1 US 202117154617 A US202117154617 A US 202117154617A US 2021205594 A1 US2021205594 A1 US 2021205594A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- wrap
- digit
- external surface
- nail
- desiccant
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 34
- 206010061304 Nail infection Diseases 0.000 title abstract description 4
- VYPSYNLAJGMNEJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N Silicium dioxide Chemical compound O=[Si]=O VYPSYNLAJGMNEJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims abstract description 27
- 239000000741 silica gel Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 21
- 229910002027 silica gel Inorganic materials 0.000 claims abstract description 21
- 239000002274 desiccant Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 15
- 238000012377 drug delivery Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 12
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 claims description 8
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 claims description 8
- 230000000843 anti-fungal effect Effects 0.000 claims description 6
- 239000011248 coating agent Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 238000000576 coating method Methods 0.000 claims description 4
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 4
- 230000000844 anti-bacterial effect Effects 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- DOMXUEMWDBAQBQ-WEVVVXLNSA-N terbinafine Chemical compound C1=CC=C2C(CN(C\C=C\C#CC(C)(C)C)C)=CC=CC2=C1 DOMXUEMWDBAQBQ-WEVVVXLNSA-N 0.000 claims description 2
- 229960002722 terbinafine Drugs 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000012871 anti-fungal composition Substances 0.000 claims 3
- -1 allylamines Chemical class 0.000 claims 1
- 150000003851 azoles Chemical class 0.000 claims 1
- 150000001875 compounds Chemical class 0.000 claims 1
- 150000002780 morpholines Chemical class 0.000 claims 1
- 150000004291 polyenes Chemical class 0.000 claims 1
- 150000003839 salts Chemical class 0.000 claims 1
- 206010034016 Paronychia Diseases 0.000 abstract description 5
- 210000000282 nail Anatomy 0.000 description 49
- 241000233866 Fungi Species 0.000 description 9
- 208000015181 infectious disease Diseases 0.000 description 9
- 210000004905 finger nail Anatomy 0.000 description 8
- 210000004906 toe nail Anatomy 0.000 description 8
- 238000011282 treatment Methods 0.000 description 7
- 239000002537 cosmetic Substances 0.000 description 5
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 4
- 239000006071 cream Substances 0.000 description 4
- 230000035876 healing Effects 0.000 description 4
- 206010017533 Fungal infection Diseases 0.000 description 3
- 208000031888 Mycoses Diseases 0.000 description 3
- 229940121375 antifungal agent Drugs 0.000 description 3
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000000377 silicon dioxide Substances 0.000 description 3
- 230000018044 dehydration Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000006297 dehydration reaction Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 2
- 210000004904 fingernail bed Anatomy 0.000 description 2
- 239000000499 gel Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000001225 therapeutic effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 210000003371 toe Anatomy 0.000 description 2
- VHVPQPYKVGDNFY-DFMJLFEVSA-N 2-[(2r)-butan-2-yl]-4-[4-[4-[4-[[(2r,4s)-2-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)-2-(1,2,4-triazol-1-ylmethyl)-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl]methoxy]phenyl]piperazin-1-yl]phenyl]-1,2,4-triazol-3-one Chemical compound O=C1N([C@H](C)CC)N=CN1C1=CC=C(N2CCN(CC2)C=2C=CC(OC[C@@H]3O[C@](CN4N=CN=C4)(OC3)C=3C(=CC(Cl)=CC=3)Cl)=CC=2)C=C1 VHVPQPYKVGDNFY-DFMJLFEVSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 241000894006 Bacteria Species 0.000 description 1
- SCKYRAXSEDYPSA-UHFFFAOYSA-N ciclopirox Chemical compound ON1C(=O)C=C(C)C=C1C1CCCCC1 SCKYRAXSEDYPSA-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000012024 dehydrating agents Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000002845 discoloration Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229940079593 drug Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 239000003814 drug Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000003203 everyday effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 210000002683 foot Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 239000003292 glue Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000006872 improvement Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229960004130 itraconazole Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 208000026721 nail disease Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 239000000843 powder Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000699 topical effect Effects 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M35/00—Devices for applying media, e.g. remedies, on the human body
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
- A61F13/00—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
- A61F13/00051—Accessories for dressings
- A61F13/00055—Saturation indicators
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
- A61F13/00—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
- A61F13/00051—Accessories for dressings
- A61F13/00063—Accessories for dressings comprising medicaments or additives, e.g. odor control, PH control, debriding, antimicrobic
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
- A61F13/00—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
- A61F13/06—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads specially adapted for feet or legs; Corn-pads; Corn-rings
- A61F13/064—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads specially adapted for feet or legs; Corn-pads; Corn-rings for feet
- A61F13/068—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads specially adapted for feet or legs; Corn-pads; Corn-rings for feet for the toes
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
- A61F13/00—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
- A61F13/10—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads specially adapted for fingers, hands, or arms; Finger-stalls; Nail-protectors
- A61F13/104—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads specially adapted for fingers, hands, or arms; Finger-stalls; Nail-protectors for the hands or fingers
- A61F13/105—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads specially adapted for fingers, hands, or arms; Finger-stalls; Nail-protectors for the hands or fingers for the fingers; Finger-stalls; Nail-protectors
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61K—PREPARATIONS FOR MEDICAL, DENTAL OR TOILETRY PURPOSES
- A61K31/00—Medicinal preparations containing organic active ingredients
- A61K31/13—Amines
- A61K31/135—Amines having aromatic rings, e.g. ketamine, nortriptyline
- A61K31/137—Arylalkylamines, e.g. amphetamine, epinephrine, salbutamol, ephedrine or methadone
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61K—PREPARATIONS FOR MEDICAL, DENTAL OR TOILETRY PURPOSES
- A61K31/00—Medicinal preparations containing organic active ingredients
- A61K31/33—Heterocyclic compounds
- A61K31/395—Heterocyclic compounds having nitrogen as a ring hetero atom, e.g. guanethidine or rifamycins
- A61K31/495—Heterocyclic compounds having nitrogen as a ring hetero atom, e.g. guanethidine or rifamycins having six-membered rings with two or more nitrogen atoms as the only ring heteroatoms, e.g. piperazine or tetrazines
- A61K31/496—Non-condensed piperazines containing further heterocyclic rings, e.g. rifampin, thiothixene or sparfloxacin
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M2205/00—General characteristics of the apparatus
- A61M2205/58—Means for facilitating use, e.g. by people with impaired vision
- A61M2205/583—Means for facilitating use, e.g. by people with impaired vision by visual feedback
- A61M2205/584—Means for facilitating use, e.g. by people with impaired vision by visual feedback having a color code
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M2210/00—Anatomical parts of the body
- A61M2210/08—Limbs
- A61M2210/083—Arms
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M2210/00—Anatomical parts of the body
- A61M2210/08—Limbs
- A61M2210/086—Legs
Definitions
- This invention relates to methods for treating nail infections, and, more particularly, to methods for treating fungal nail infections.
- Fungal nail infections account for nearly one-half of all nail disorders.
- a fungal nail infection occurs when a fungus attacks a fingernail, a toenail, or the nail bed (the skin under the nail). Infected nails often become thicker and begin to lift from the nail bed. It is not uncommon to see debris under the nails and discoloration of the affected area.
- patients apply drops of various remedies, morning and night, which might take up to a year to have an effect or, alternatively, ashamed.
- Plastic press on nails are presently available to cover unsightly damaged nails. But they do not treat the underlying infection, they encourage the growth of more fungus, and may even exacerbate the infection.
- Silica gel has been proven to be a safe and effective dehydrating agent especially for fungus. It has had a long history of being recommended for lockers and gym bags, etc. Silica gel has been used successfully and extensively for dehydration for fungus removal, but never from toe or fingernail infections
- the present application provides methods for treating an infected nail, the methods comprising applying a drug delivery system comprising a desiccant to an external surface of the infected nail of a patient in need thereof.
- the drug delivery system is in the form of a wrap, such as a bandage, designed to be conformable to a digit, such as a finger or a toe.
- the wrap comprises desiccant at a portion of the wrap configured to be proximal to the external surface of the infected nail when wrapped around the digit.
- the bandage may be a sock-like or thimble-like bandage.
- the bandage is removably attached to the digit, and in some embodiments at least a portion of the internal surface of the bandage is coated with an adhesive.
- the external surface of the bandage is coated with a water impermeable coating.
- the water impermeable coating may also be impregnated into the bandage.
- the desiccant is silica gel.
- the desiccant may, in some embodiments, include a moisture indicator which changes color depending on the presence of moisture.
- the wrap is configured to allow the color of the moisture indicator to be determined while the wrap is wrapped around the digit, such as by inclusion of a port or opening in the wrap.
- the desiccant is contained in a removable package.
- the desiccant can be replaced periodically, and the desiccant may be replaced with fresh or regenerated desiccant.
- an effective amount of an anti-fungal or anti-bacterial composition may be administered to the patient prior to applying the drug delivery system.
- the anti-fungal or anti-bacterial composition is administered to the external surface of the infected nail.
- the drug delivery system is in the form of a press-on prosthetic nail comprising silica gel, the prosthetic nail having an area and shape approximating the area and shape of the infected nail.
- the press-on prosthetic nail has a proximal surface configured to be proximal to the external surface of the infected nail and a distal surface configured to be distal to the external surface of the infected nail.
- the press-on prosthetic nail may, in some embodiments, be removably attached to the infected nail.
- at least a portion of the proximal surface of the press-on prosthetic nail is coated with an adhesive effective to firmly adhere the press-on prosthetic nail to the infected nail.
- the periphery of the proximal surface of the press-on prosthetic nail is coated with the adhesive.
- Some embodiments of the invention comprise a release backing in contact with the adhesive such that the release backing is peelable from the press-on prosthetic nail.
- the press-on prosthetic nail is replaced periodically.
- the distal surface of the press-on prosthetic nail is paintable with a water impermeable coating or with nail polish.
- the silica gel comprises a color changing moisture indicator.
- the press-on prosthetic nail is configured to allow the color of the moisture indicator to be assessed while the press-on prosthetic nail is adhered to the infected nail, such as by inclusion of a port, window, or opening in the press-on prosthetic nail.
- the silica gel press-on nails can be worn while the subject is in bare feet or in sandals.
- the bandages, wraps or other drug delivery systems can be worn on toes in socks and shoes.
- Silica gel is effective in destroying fungus when kept on top of the nail. Implementations including these methods can be worn throughout the-day and also, in some embodiments, provide aesthetically pleasing cosmetic coverage of the damaged nail as well. In some embodiments, therapeutic treatment of the infected nails and surfaces takes a few weeks to show some effect, instead of many months of applying drops or creams.
- Silica gel can be formed into the shape of toe or finger nails, the same way it is shaped into balls today.
- An adhesive as is used for press-on nails today, can be applied to a back surface of the press-on nail.
- silica gel discs can be affixed to or applied in conjunction with medical tape the way gauze is added to Band-Aids today.
- the adhesive to the back of the press-on silica nail can either be processed on the product or applied separately, as glue is presently optional for press-on nails today.
- Silica gel can be applied in many forms to be effective for fungal infections, including being applied as silica gel drops and creams.
- the press-on nails or bandages can be changed every day, every other day, once every several days, once every week, once every several weeks, or as desired by the user. In some embodiments this process takes weeks instead of months to cause a therapeutic and/or a cosmetic improvement.
- Silica gel can be used for other topical fungal infections in powder or cream form,
- a press on nail or gel bandage comprising silica will take away the ugliness during the healing process-which can be much shorter period than previous methods.
- the present invention more rapidly cures disfigured toe- or fingernails due to fungal infection.
- the present invention provides additional means for treating such infections.
- the present invention functions to dehydrate hard to reach fungus from under the nail, while providing cosmetic coverage during the healing process.
- the claimed invention differs from traditional treatments for infected nails. Although silica gel has been used previously for dehydration for fungus removal, to date silica gel has not been used for treatment of toe- or fingernail infections. Cosmetic coverage is an additional benefit during treatment.
- the present invention provides additional benefits as compared to traditional treatments for toe- or fingernail infections which fail to effectively dry out the infection as silica gel does. As a result, patients must hide their mangled nails, instead of healing them.
- Silica gel has previously been proven to be a safe and effective dehydrating agent-especially for fungus, and has a long history of being recommended for lockers and gym bags, etc.
- a silica press-on nail or gel bandage can hide the ugliness during the healing process, which, in some embodiments, is a much shorter period than typically seen using previous methods.
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- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Public Health (AREA)
- Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Biomedical Technology (AREA)
- Heart & Thoracic Surgery (AREA)
- Vascular Medicine (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Medicinal Chemistry (AREA)
- Epidemiology (AREA)
- Pharmacology & Pharmacy (AREA)
- Hematology (AREA)
- Anesthesiology (AREA)
- Emergency Medicine (AREA)
- Dermatology (AREA)
- Pharmaceuticals Containing Other Organic And Inorganic Compounds (AREA)
- Medicinal Preparation (AREA)
- Cosmetics (AREA)
- Inorganic Chemistry (AREA)
Abstract
Provided herein are methods for treating nail infections, in particular fungal nail infections, comprising applying a drug delivery system comprising a desiccant such as silica gel to an external surface of the infected nail.
Description
- This application is a divisional of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/603,028, filed on May 23, 2017, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/340,862, filed on May 24, 2016, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
- This invention relates to methods for treating nail infections, and, more particularly, to methods for treating fungal nail infections.
- Different kinds of fungi and bacteria can cause nail infections. Fungal nail infections account for nearly one-half of all nail disorders. A fungal nail infection occurs when a fungus attacks a fingernail, a toenail, or the nail bed (the skin under the nail). Infected nails often become thicker and begin to lift from the nail bed. It is not uncommon to see debris under the nails and discoloration of the affected area. To date, for relief of the actual infection, patients apply drops of various remedies, morning and night, which might take up to a year to have an effect or, alternatively, disappoint. Currently available options for treatment of fungal nail infections include oral antifungal drugs such as terbinafine and itraconazole, up to a year-long treatment with an antifungal nail polish called ciclopirox (Penlac), antifungal nail cream, and surgical nail removal.
- Plastic press on nails are presently available to cover unsightly damaged nails. But they do not treat the underlying infection, they encourage the growth of more fungus, and may even exacerbate the infection.
- Silica gel has been proven to be a safe and effective dehydrating agent especially for fungus. It has had a long history of being recommended for lockers and gym bags, etc. Silica gel has been used successfully and extensively for dehydration for fungus removal, but never from toe or fingernail infections
- The present application provides methods for treating an infected nail, the methods comprising applying a drug delivery system comprising a desiccant to an external surface of the infected nail of a patient in need thereof.
- The invention discussed herein comprises:
-
- 1. forming silica gel into toenail or fingernail shape with adhesive on back
- 2. forming silica gel (the size of a toenail or fingernail) onto bandage tape
- In one general aspect of the invention, the drug delivery system is in the form of a wrap, such as a bandage, designed to be conformable to a digit, such as a finger or a toe. In some embodiments the wrap comprises desiccant at a portion of the wrap configured to be proximal to the external surface of the infected nail when wrapped around the digit. The bandage may be a sock-like or thimble-like bandage. In some embodiments the bandage is removably attached to the digit, and in some embodiments at least a portion of the internal surface of the bandage is coated with an adhesive. In some embodiments, the external surface of the bandage is coated with a water impermeable coating. The water impermeable coating may also be impregnated into the bandage. In some embodiments, the desiccant is silica gel. The desiccant may, in some embodiments, include a moisture indicator which changes color depending on the presence of moisture. In some embodiments, the wrap is configured to allow the color of the moisture indicator to be determined while the wrap is wrapped around the digit, such as by inclusion of a port or opening in the wrap. In some embodiments, the desiccant is contained in a removable package. In some embodiments the desiccant can be replaced periodically, and the desiccant may be replaced with fresh or regenerated desiccant. In some embodiments an effective amount of an anti-fungal or anti-bacterial composition may be administered to the patient prior to applying the drug delivery system. In some embodiments, the anti-fungal or anti-bacterial composition is administered to the external surface of the infected nail.
- In some aspects of the invention, the drug delivery system is in the form of a press-on prosthetic nail comprising silica gel, the prosthetic nail having an area and shape approximating the area and shape of the infected nail. In some embodiments the press-on prosthetic nail has a proximal surface configured to be proximal to the external surface of the infected nail and a distal surface configured to be distal to the external surface of the infected nail. The press-on prosthetic nail may, in some embodiments, be removably attached to the infected nail. In some embodiments at least a portion of the proximal surface of the press-on prosthetic nail is coated with an adhesive effective to firmly adhere the press-on prosthetic nail to the infected nail. In some embodiments, the periphery of the proximal surface of the press-on prosthetic nail is coated with the adhesive. Some embodiments of the invention comprise a release backing in contact with the adhesive such that the release backing is peelable from the press-on prosthetic nail. In some embodiments the press-on prosthetic nail is replaced periodically. In some embodiments the distal surface of the press-on prosthetic nail is paintable with a water impermeable coating or with nail polish. In some embodiments, the silica gel comprises a color changing moisture indicator. In some embodiments the press-on prosthetic nail is configured to allow the color of the moisture indicator to be assessed while the press-on prosthetic nail is adhered to the infected nail, such as by inclusion of a port, window, or opening in the press-on prosthetic nail.
- Relationship Between the Components:
- The silica gel press-on nails can be worn while the subject is in bare feet or in sandals. The bandages, wraps or other drug delivery systems can be worn on toes in socks and shoes.
- How the Invention Works:
- Silica gel is effective in destroying fungus when kept on top of the nail. Implementations including these methods can be worn throughout the-day and also, in some embodiments, provide aesthetically pleasing cosmetic coverage of the damaged nail as well. In some embodiments, therapeutic treatment of the infected nails and surfaces takes a few weeks to show some effect, instead of many months of applying drops or creams.
- How to Make the Invention:
- Silica gel can be formed into the shape of toe or finger nails, the same way it is shaped into balls today. An adhesive, as is used for press-on nails today, can be applied to a back surface of the press-on nail. For bandage or wrap-type embodiments, silica gel discs can be affixed to or applied in conjunction with medical tape the way gauze is added to Band-Aids today.
- The adhesive to the back of the press-on silica nail can either be processed on the product or applied separately, as glue is presently optional for press-on nails today.
- Silica gel can be applied in many forms to be effective for fungal infections, including being applied as silica gel drops and creams.
- How to Use the Invention:
- A person “wears” the silica gel on their infected nail using either a cosmetic press-on nail (which can be painted with nail polish to match a manicure or pedicure) or applied using a medicated bandage/wrap, optionally while wearing shoes and socks, until the infection dries and grows out. The press-on nails or bandages can be changed every day, every other day, once every several days, once every week, once every several weeks, or as desired by the user. In some embodiments this process takes weeks instead of months to cause a therapeutic and/or a cosmetic improvement.
- Silica gel can be used for other topical fungal infections in powder or cream form,
- In some embodiments a press on nail or gel bandage comprising silica will take away the ugliness during the healing process-which can be much shorter period than previous methods.
- As stated above, in some embodiments the present invention more rapidly cures disfigured toe- or fingernails due to fungal infection. The present invention provides additional means for treating such infections.
- In some embodiments the present invention functions to dehydrate hard to reach fungus from under the nail, while providing cosmetic coverage during the healing process.
- The claimed invention differs from traditional treatments for infected nails. Although silica gel has been used previously for dehydration for fungus removal, to date silica gel has not been used for treatment of toe- or fingernail infections. Cosmetic coverage is an additional benefit during treatment.
- In some embodiments the present invention provides additional benefits as compared to traditional treatments for toe- or fingernail infections which fail to effectively dry out the infection as silica gel does. As a result, patients must hide their mangled nails, instead of healing them.
- Silica gel has previously been proven to be a safe and effective dehydrating agent-especially for fungus, and has a long history of being recommended for lockers and gym bags, etc. A silica press-on nail or gel bandage can hide the ugliness during the healing process, which, in some embodiments, is a much shorter period than typically seen using previous methods.
- Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Methods and materials are described herein for use in the present invention; other, suitable methods and materials known in the art can also be used. The materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.
- It is to be understood that while the invention has been described in conjunction with the detailed description thereof, the foregoing description is intended to illustrate and not limit the scope of the invention, which is defined by the scope of the appended claims. Other aspects, advantages, and modifications are within the scope of the following claims. It should be appreciated by those persons having ordinary skill in the art(s) to which the present invention relates that any of the features described herein in respect of any particular embodiment of the present invention can be combined with one or more of any of the other features of any other embodiments of the present application described herein, with modifications as appropriate to ensure compatibility of the combinations. Such combinations are considered to be part of the present application.
Claims (22)
1. A method for treating an infected nail of a patient in need thereof, the method comprising applying a drug delivery system comprising a desiccant to an external surface of the infected nail, wherein the drug delivery system is in the form of a wrap designed to be conformable to a digit comprising the infected nail.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the desiccant is silica gel.
3. (canceled)
4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the wrap is a bandage configured to wrap around the digit comprising the infected nail, the bandage having an internal surface configured to be proximal to an external surface of the digit and an external surface configured to be distal to the external surface of the digit.
5. The method of claim 4 , wherein the digit is a finger or a toe.
6. The method of claim 4 , wherein the bandage is a sock-like or a thimble-like bandage.
7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the wrap comprises desiccant at a portion of the wrap, the portion of the wrap configured to be proximal to the external surface of the infected nail when the wrap is wrapped around the digit.
8. The method of claim further comprising, prior to applying the drug delivery system to the external surface of the infected nail applying an effective amount of an anti-fungal or anti-bacterial composition on the patient.
9. The method of claim wherein the anti-fungal composition comprises one or more compounds selected from a group consisting of polyenes, allylamines, azoles, and morpholines, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts.
10. The method of claim 8 , wherein the antifungal composition comprises itraconzalone or terbinafine.
11. The method of claim 8 , wherein the antifungal composition is applied to the external surface of the infected nail.
12. The method of claim 1 , wherein at least a portion of the internal surface of the wrap is coated with an adhesive.
13. The method of claim 12 , wherein the wrap is removably attached to the digit.
14. The method of claim 1 , wherein the desiccant is contained in a removable package.
15. The method of claim 8 , wherein the drug delivery system is replaceable.
16. The method of claim 15 , wherein the drug delivery system is configured to be replaced daily.
17. The method of claim 1 , wherein the desiccant is fresh or regenerated desiccant.
18. The method of claim 1 , wherein the external surface of the wrap is coated with a water impermeable coating.
19. The method of claim 1 , wherein the drug delivery system further comprises a moisture indicator configured to indicate a level of moisture of the digit.
20. The method of claim 19 , wherein the wrap is configured to allow the moisture indicator to be assessed while the wrap is wrapped around the digit.
21. The method of claim 19 , wherein the wrap further comprises a port through which the moisture indicator can be assessed.
22-35. (canceled)
Priority Applications (1)
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US17/154,617 US20210205594A1 (en) | 2016-05-24 | 2021-01-21 | Methods for treating nail infections |
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US201662340862P | 2016-05-24 | 2016-05-24 | |
US15/603,028 US10926071B2 (en) | 2016-05-24 | 2017-05-23 | Methods for treating nail infections |
US17/154,617 US20210205594A1 (en) | 2016-05-24 | 2021-01-21 | Methods for treating nail infections |
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US15/603,028 Division US10926071B2 (en) | 2016-05-24 | 2017-05-23 | Methods for treating nail infections |
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US20210205594A1 true US20210205594A1 (en) | 2021-07-08 |
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US15/603,028 Active 2039-11-01 US10926071B2 (en) | 2016-05-24 | 2017-05-23 | Methods for treating nail infections |
US17/154,617 Abandoned US20210205594A1 (en) | 2016-05-24 | 2021-01-21 | Methods for treating nail infections |
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Citations (10)
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---|---|---|---|---|
FR2583636A1 (en) * | 1985-06-20 | 1986-12-26 | Meyrignac Henri | Desiccating dressing |
US5181914A (en) * | 1988-08-22 | 1993-01-26 | Zook Gerald P | Medicating device for nails and adjacent tissue |
US5181905A (en) * | 1989-11-28 | 1993-01-26 | Eric Flam | Method of monitoring the condition of the skin or wound |
US6281239B1 (en) * | 2000-04-12 | 2001-08-28 | Bradley Pharmeaceuticals, Inc. | Method of treating onychomycosis |
US6384294B1 (en) * | 2000-07-13 | 2002-05-07 | John M. Levin | Protective bandages including force-transmission-impeding members therein |
US20030050589A1 (en) * | 2000-04-06 | 2003-03-13 | Mcdevitt Jason P. | Disposable finger sleeve for appendages |
US6592889B1 (en) * | 2000-07-17 | 2003-07-15 | Southwest Technologies Inc. | Gel dressing |
US20090062714A1 (en) * | 2007-08-31 | 2009-03-05 | Jorge Mario Trujillo | Bandages for use on tips of fingers and toes |
US20110137269A1 (en) * | 2008-08-01 | 2011-06-09 | Pierre Fabre Dermo-Cosmetique | Kit for the treatment of onychomycosis |
US9480830B1 (en) * | 2013-04-16 | 2016-11-01 | Jose Azocar | Assembly for tissue oxygenation and method of use |
Family Cites Families (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US6143794A (en) * | 1998-04-17 | 2000-11-07 | Bertek Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | Topical formulations for the treatment of nail fungal diseases |
CN100421732C (en) * | 2001-09-04 | 2008-10-01 | 泰姆斯多夫药品有限公司 | Plaster for the treatment of dysfunctions and disorders of nails |
-
2017
- 2017-05-23 US US15/603,028 patent/US10926071B2/en active Active
-
2021
- 2021-01-21 US US17/154,617 patent/US20210205594A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (10)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
FR2583636A1 (en) * | 1985-06-20 | 1986-12-26 | Meyrignac Henri | Desiccating dressing |
US5181914A (en) * | 1988-08-22 | 1993-01-26 | Zook Gerald P | Medicating device for nails and adjacent tissue |
US5181905A (en) * | 1989-11-28 | 1993-01-26 | Eric Flam | Method of monitoring the condition of the skin or wound |
US20030050589A1 (en) * | 2000-04-06 | 2003-03-13 | Mcdevitt Jason P. | Disposable finger sleeve for appendages |
US6281239B1 (en) * | 2000-04-12 | 2001-08-28 | Bradley Pharmeaceuticals, Inc. | Method of treating onychomycosis |
US6384294B1 (en) * | 2000-07-13 | 2002-05-07 | John M. Levin | Protective bandages including force-transmission-impeding members therein |
US6592889B1 (en) * | 2000-07-17 | 2003-07-15 | Southwest Technologies Inc. | Gel dressing |
US20090062714A1 (en) * | 2007-08-31 | 2009-03-05 | Jorge Mario Trujillo | Bandages for use on tips of fingers and toes |
US20110137269A1 (en) * | 2008-08-01 | 2011-06-09 | Pierre Fabre Dermo-Cosmetique | Kit for the treatment of onychomycosis |
US9480830B1 (en) * | 2013-04-16 | 2016-11-01 | Jose Azocar | Assembly for tissue oxygenation and method of use |
Also Published As
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US20170340871A1 (en) | 2017-11-30 |
US10926071B2 (en) | 2021-02-23 |
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