| abstract |
A wound dressing is provided herein for systemic administration of a physiologically- or biologically-active agent by controlled release of the agent into such wound. The wound dressing includes a substrate in the form of a fabric or cloth, at least a portion of which is cellulosic, which has been chemically modified to convert hydroxyl groups in the cellulosic portion to ionic-adsorbing sites. An ionic form of a physiologically- or biologically-active agent, namely an antibacterial agent, an antifungal agent, an analgesic agent, a tissue healant agent, a local anesthetic agent, an antibleeding agent, an enzyme or a vasoconstrictor is adsorbed in that substrate. Ionic bonds hold that agent temporarily to the substrate for controlled release therefrom in proportion to the amount of exudate in contact with the substrate. The ionic bonds are formed by adsorbing that agent on that substrate at room temperature. The ionic bonds disassociate upon contact with body exudate from wounds to which the wound dressing is applied by ion exchange with ions in the body exudate, thereby to release that agent in an amount in proportion to the amount of the exudate in contact with the substrate. |