ASTRINGENTS

An astringent hemostatic composition comprised of a micron-sized astringent hemostatic agent microencapsulated in a biocompatible and non-allergenic hemostatic polymer soluble in body fluids. The composition may be used intraorally or dermatologically. For intraoral purposes, the preferred composition is ferric sulfate microencapsulated in ethyl cellulose material. The composition of the invention may be used in a method for effecting gingival retraction. In the method, the microencapsulated astringent hemostatic composition is introduced into the gingival sulcus and is compacted by the patient biting onto bite registration material. A plurality of different microencapsulated astringent hemostatic agents having different time-release properties may be assembled in a kit form allowing a practitioner to formulate a specific formulation designed to treat a specific injury or condition.
An astringent hemostatic composition of the invention may be used in a bandage for covering a wound. In one bandage embodiment, the gauze or sponge pad is sprayed with a biocompatible adhesive onto which a dusting of astringent hemostatic composition of the invention is applied. In a second bandage embodiment, a layer or dusting of astringent hemostatic composition of the invention is sandwiched between an upper and lower gauze or sponge layer. In a third bandage embodiment, an astringent hemostatic composition of the invention is adhered to a transdermal bandage using a biocompatible adhesive