Bi-functional co-polymer use for ophthalmic and other topical and local applications

Abstract

The invention contemplates a copolymer which is a graft or block copolymer useful to change wettability and surface characteristics of biological surfaces. Methods for use of these formulations and coatings to change wettability and sterically stabilize, and lubricate biological surfaces in a subject, for example, in the treatment of dry eye syndrome, and to prevent adherence of unwanted proteins, for example in the treatment of contact lens intolerance, are provided.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A kit comprising a contact lens in contact with a graft copolymer comprising a cationic backbone and hydrophilic side chains and an ocular pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, wherein said contact lens once removed from the kit and placed on the eye of a mammal stabilizes the tear film of said mammal over the surface of said contact lens, wherein stabilization is determined by an extension of the tear film break up time compared to the tear film break up time of a control lens not exposed to said graft copolymer.