Hydrogel with high water content and stability

Abstract

A polymer comprising hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties is provided. The polymer can be formed into a hydrogel capable of being used as a contact lens. The lens can exhibit high water content such as for example more than 70 wt.% for biocompatibility and structural stability for handling. The hydrophilic portion can be 2,3-dihydroxypropyl methacrylate (GMA) and the hydrophobic portion can be 2-methoxyethyl methacrylate (MOEMA). Additionally, the lens can also include N,N-dimethylacrylamide (NN-DMA). Lens can be prepared and formed by molding including a cast molding process or a half cast molding process.

Description

[0001] related application [0002] This application claims priority to US Provisional Application No. 60 / 978,858, filed October 10, 2007, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Background technique [0003] A hydrogel can be understood as an aqueous cross-linked polymer matrix. Hydrogels are useful in applications involving the eye, including as contact lenses. [0004] Although progress has been made in relation to hydrogels for ocular applications, there remains a need for polymers and hydrogels that provide multiple properties or a balance of properties. See, eg, US Patent No. 6,096,799 (Benz Research and Development Corp.). For example, one or more useful properties may include high water content, good hydration and dehydration characteristics, including drying rate, optical clarity, mechanical properties such as strength, and machinability. Unfortunately, attempts to gain one or more useful properties can result in the loss of one or more other use...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

In other cases, it may be difficult to find the right balance of hydration and dehydration rates

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