Patent ID: 6676930
Filing Date: 2004-01-13
Classification: A61K,A61P,B82Y

Abstract:
A method of increasing and enhancing mammalian eustachian tube lumen patency and pressure equalization performance comprising administering a dose of a mixture of lipid crystals, as an aerosol, through an external airway of a mammal, said mixture being comprised of at least one lipid surfactant in an amount effective in lowering surface tension of an air/liquid interface resident upon epithelial tissue lining said lumen, at least one spreading agent in an amount effective in distributing said surfactant within said lumen and at least one propellant in which said surfactants and spreading agents are not soluble, said surfactants and said spreading agents being selected from the group consisting of sterols, lipids, fatty acids, cholesteryl esters, phospholipids, carbohydrates, and proteins, all in powder form;whereupon, when said mixture is so administered, said propellants are evaporated from said mixture as said lipid crystals come into contact with, and deposit upon the epithelial lining of the eustachian tube and form an amorphous spread film thereupon so as to reduce the opening pressure of said tube.