Antimicrobial compositions and methods

Abstract

Antimicrobial compositions, especially those useful when applied topically, particularly to mucosal tissues (i.e., mucous membranes), including a fatty acid ester, fatty ether, or alkoxide derivative thereof. The compositions can also include an enhancer component, a surfactant, a hydrophobic component, and/or a hydrophilic component. Such compositions provide effective topical antimicrobial activity and are accordingly useful in the treatment and/or prevention of conditions that are caused, or aggravated by, microorganisms (including viruses).

1 . An antimicrobial composition comprising: 
 an effective amount of an antimicrobial lipid component comprising a (C8-C12)saturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C8-C12)saturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, an alkoxylated derivative thereof, or combinations thereof, wherein the alkoxylated derivative has less than 5 moles of alkoxide per mole of polyhydric alcohol; with the proviso that for polyhydric alcohols other than sucrose, the esters comprise monoesters and the ethers comprise monoethers, and for sucrose the esters comprise monoesters, diesters, or combinations thereof, and the ethers comprise monoethers, diethers, or combinations thereof;    an effective amount of an enhancer component comprising an alpha-hydroxy acid, a beta-hydroxy acid, a chelating agent, a (C1-C4)alkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aryl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aralkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)alkaryl carboxylic acid, a phenolic compound, a (C1-C10)alkyl alcohol, an ether glycol, or combinations thereof;    a surfactant;    a hydrophilic component; and    a hydrophobic component which forms the greatest portion of the composition.    
     
     
         2 . The composition of  claim 1  wherein water is present in less than 10 wt-%.  
     
     
         3 . The composition of  claim 1  wherein the antimicrobial lipid component is present in an amount of at least 0.1 wt-%.  
     
     
         4 . The composition of  claim 3  wherein the antimicrobial lipid component comprises a monoester of a polyhydric alcohol, a monoester of a polyhydric alcohol, or an alkoxylated derivative thereof, and the antimicrobial lipid component further includes 0 to 15 wt-%, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial lipid component, of a di- or tri-ester, a di- or tri-ether, alkoxylated derivative thereof, or combinations thereof.  
     
     
         5 . The composition of  claim 1  wherein the total concentration of the enhancer component relative to the total concentration of lipid component is within a range of 10:1 to 1:300, on a weight basis.  
     
     
         6 . The composition of  claim 1  wherein the total concentration of the surfactant to the total concentration of antimicrobial lipid component is within a range of 5:1 to 1:100, on a weight basis.  
     
     
         7 . The composition of  claim 1  wherein the hydrophilic component is present in an amount of 1 wt-% to 40 wt-%.  
     
     
         8 . The composition of  claim 1  wherein the hydrophobic component is present in an amount of 50 wt-% to 99 wt-%.  
     
     
         9 . The composition of  claim 1  wherein the antimicrobial lipid component comprises glycerol monolaurate, glycerol monocaprate, glycerol monocaprylate, propylene glycol monolaurate, propylene glycol monocaprate, propylene glycol monocaprylate, or combinations thereof.  
     
     
         10 . The composition of  claim 1  wherein the enhancer component comprises a carboxylic acid.  
     
     
         11 . The composition of  claim 1  wherein the enhancer component comprises an alpha-hydroxy acid.  
     
     
         12 . The composition of  claim 1  wherein the surfactant comprises a sulfonate, a sulfate, a phosphonate, a phosphate, a poloxamer, a cationic surfactant, or mixtures thereof.  
     
     
         13 . The composition of  claim 12  wherein the surfactant is selected from the group consisting of a sulfonate, a sulfate, a phosphate, and mixtures thereof.  
     
     
         14 . The composition of  claim 1  wherein the hydrophilic component comprises a glycol, a lower alcohol ether, a short chain ester, or combinations thereof, wherein the hydrophilic component is soluble in water in an amount of at least 20 wt-% at 23° C.  
     
     
         15 . The composition of  claim 1  wherein the hydrophobic component is an organic compound that is liquid, gelatinous, semisolid, or solid at 23° C. and has a solubility in water of less than 5 wt-% at 23° C.  
     
     
         16 . The composition of  claim 1  having at least 4 log reduction in test bacteria in 10 minutes.  
     
     
         17 . An antimicrobial composition comprising: 
 0.01 wt-% to 20 wt-% of an antimicrobial lipid component comprising a (C8-C12)saturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C8-C12)saturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, an alkoxylated derivative thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the alkoxylated derivative has less than 5 moles of alkoxide per mole of polyhydric alcohol; with the proviso that for polyhydric alcohols other than sucrose, the esters comprise monoesters and the ethers comprise monoethers, and for sucrose the esters comprise monoesters, diesters, or combinations thereof, and the ethers comprise monoethers, diethers, or combinations thereof;    0.01 wt-% to 20 wt-% of an enhancer component comprising an alpha-hydroxy acid, a beta-hydroxy acid, a chelating agent, a (C1-C4)alkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aryl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aralkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)alkaryl carboxylic acid, a phenolic compound, a (C1-C10)alkyl alcohol, an ether glycol, or combinations thereof;    0.1 wt-% to 10 wt-% of a surfactant;    1 wt-% to 40 wt-% of a hydrophilic component;    50 wt-% to 95 wt-% of a hydrophobic component; and    less than 10 wt-% water.    
     
     
         18 . An antimicrobial composition comprising: 
 an effective amount of an antimicrobial lipid component comprising a (C8-C12)saturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C8-C12)saturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, an alkoxylated derivative thereof, or combinations thereof, wherein the alkoxylated derivative has less than 5 moles of alkoxide per mole of polyhydric alcohol; with the proviso that for polyhydric alcohols other than sucrose, the esters comprise monoesters and the ethers comprise monoethers, and for sucrose the esters comprise monoesters, diesters, or combinations thereof, and the ethers comprise monoethers, diethers, or combinations thereof;    an effective amount of an enhancer component comprising an alpha-hydroxy acid, a beta-hydroxy acid, a chelating agent, a (C1-C4)alkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aryl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aralkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)alkaryl carboxylic acid, a phenolic compound, a (C1-C10)alkyl alcohol, an ether glycol, or combinations thereof;    a surfactant; and    a hydrophilic component;    wherein the viscosity of the composition is at least 500 cps.    
     
     
         19 . An antimicrobial composition comprising: 
 an effective amount of an antimicrobial lipid component comprising a (C8-C12)saturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C8-C12)saturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, an alkoxylated derivative thereof, or combinations thereof, wherein the alkoxylated derivative has less than 5 moles of alkoxide per mole of polyhydric alcohol; with the proviso that for polyhydric alcohols other than sucrose, the esters comprise monoesters and the ethers comprise monoethers, and for sucrose the esters comprise monoesters, diesters, or combinations thereof, and the ethers comprise monoethers, diethers, or combinations thereof;    an effective amount of an enhancer component comprising an alpha-hydroxy acid, a beta-hydroxy acid, a chelating agent, a (C1-C4)alkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aryl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aralkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)alkaryl carboxylic acid, a phenolic compound, a (C1-C10)alkyl alcohol, an ether glycol, or combinations thereof;    a surfactant;    a hydrophilic component;    a hydrophobic component; and    less than 10 wt-% water;    wherein the hydrophilic component forms the greatest portion of the composition by weight.    
     
     
         20 . An antimicrobial composition comprising: 
 an effective amount of an antimicrobial lipid component comprising a (C8-C12)saturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, an alkoxylated derivative thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the alkoxylated derivative has less than 5 moles of alkoxide per mole of polyhydric alcohol; with the proviso that for polyhydric alcohols other than sucrose, the ethers comprise monoethers, and for sucrose the ethers comprise monoethers, diethers, or combinations thereof;    an effective amount of an enhancer component comprising an alpha-hydroxy acid, a beta-hydroxy acid, a chelating agent, a (C1-C4)alkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aryl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aralkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)alkaryl carboxylic acid, a phenolic compound, a (C1-C10)alkyl alcohol, an ether glycol, or combinations thereof; and    a hydrophobic component which forms the greatest portion of the composition by weight.    
     
     
         21 . An antimicrobial composition comprising: 
 an effective amount of an antimicrobial lipid component comprising a (C8-C12)saturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, an alkoxylated derivative thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the alkoxylated derivative has less than 5 moles of alkoxide per mole of polyhydric alcohol; with the proviso that for polyhydric alcohols other than sucrose, the ethers comprise monoethers, and for sucrose the ethers comprise monoethers, diethers, or combinations thereof;    an effective amount of an enhancer component comprising an alpha-hydroxy acid, a beta-hydroxy acid, a chelating agent, a (C1-C4)alkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aryl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aralkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)alkaryl carboxylic acid, a phenolic compound, a (C1-C10)alkyl alcohol, an ether glycol, or combinations thereof; and    a hydrophilic component which forms the greatest portion of the composition;    wherein the viscosity of the composition is at least 500 cps.    
     
     
         22 . A method of preventing and/or treating an affliction caused, or aggravated by, a microbial organism on skin and/or a mucous membrane, the method comprising contacting the skin and/or mucous membrane with the antimicrobial composition of  claim 1 .  
     
     
         23 . A method of preventing and/or treating an affliction caused, or aggravated by, a microorganism on skin and/or a mucous membrane, the method comprising contacting the skin and/or mucous membrane with the antimicrobial composition of  claim 17 .  
     
     
         24 . A method of preventing and/or treating an affliction caused, or aggravated by, a microorganism on skin and/or a mucous membrane, the method comprising contacting the skin and/or mucous membrane with the antimicrobial composition of  claim 18 .  
     
     
         25 . A method of preventing and/or treating an affliction caused, or aggravated by, a microorganism on skin and/or a mucous membrane, the method comprising contacting the skin and/or mucous membrane with the antimicrobial composition of  claim 19 .  
     
     
         26 . A method of preventing and/or treating an affliction caused, or aggravated by, a microorganism on skin and/or a mucous membrane, the method comprising contacting the skin and/or mucous membrane with the antimicrobial composition of  claim 20 .  
     
     
         27 . A method of preventing and/or treating an affliction caused, or aggravated by, a microorganism on skin and/or a mucous membrane, the method comprising contacting the skin and/or mucous membrane with the antimicrobial composition of  claim 21 .  
     
     
         28 . A method of decolonizing at least a portion of the nasal cavities, anterior nares, and/or nasopharynx of a subject of microorganisms, the method comprising contacting the nasal cavities, anterior nares, and/or nasopharynx with the antimicrobial composition of  claim 1  in an amount effective to kill one or more microorganisms.  
     
     
         29 . A method of decolonizing at least a portion of the nasal cavities, anterior nares, and/or nasopharynx of a subject of microorganisms, the method comprising contacting the nasal cavities, anterior nares, and/or nasopharynx with the antimicrobial composition of  claim 17  in an amount effective to kill one or more microorganisms.  
     
     
         30 . A method of decolonizing at least a portion of the nasal cavities, anterior nares, and/or nasopharynx of a subject of microorganisms, the method comprising contacting the nasal cavities, anterior nares, and/or nasopharynx with the antimicrobial composition of  claim 18  in an amount effective to kill one or more microorganisms.  
     
     
         31 . A method of decolonizing at least a portion of the nasal cavities, anterior nares, and/or nasopharynx of a subject of microorganisms, the method comprising contacting the nasal cavities, anterior nares, and/or nasopharynx with the antimicrobial composition of  claim 19  in an amount effective to kill one or more microorganisms.  
     
     
         32 . A method of decolonizing at least a portion of the nasal cavities, anterior nares, and/or nasopharynx of a subject of microorganisms, the method comprising contacting the nasal cavities, anterior nares, and/or nasopharynx with the antimicrobial composition of  claim 20  in an amount effective to kill one or more microorganisms.  
     
     
         33 . A method of decolonizing at least a portion of the nasal cavities, anterior nares, and/or nasopharynx of a subject of microorganisms, the method comprising contacting the nasal cavities, anterior nares, and/or nasopharynx with the antimicrobial composition of  claim 21  in an amount effective to kill one or more microorganisms.  
     
     
         34 . A method of killing or inactivating microorganisms, the method comprising contacting the microorganisms with the antimicrobial composition of  claim 1  in an amount effective to kill or inactivate one or more microorganisms.  
     
     
         35 . The method of  claim 34  wherein the microorganisms comprise bacteria and the antimicrobial composition is used in an amount effective to kill one or more bacteria.  
     
     
         36 . The method of  claim 35  wherein the bacteria comprise  Staphylococcus  spp.,  Streptococcus  spp.,  Escherichia  spp.,  Enterococcus  spp., or  Pseudamonas  spp.  
     
     
         37 . The method of  claim 36  wherein the bacteria comprise  Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa , or  Streptococcus pyogenes.    
     
     
         38 . The method of  claim 34  wherein the microorganisms comprise one or more viruses and the antimicrobial composition is used in an amount effective to inactivate one or more viruses.  
     
     
         39 . The method of  claim 34  wherein the microorganisms comprise one or more fungi and the antimicrobial composition is used in an amount effective to kill one or more fungi.  
     
     
         40 . A method of killing or inactivating microorganisms, the method comprising contacting the microorganisms with the antimicrobial composition of  claim 17  in an amount effective to kill or inactivate one or more microorganisms.  
     
     
         41 . The method of  claim 40  wherein the microorganisms comprise bacteria and the antimicrobial composition is used in an amount effective to kill one or more bacteria.  
     
     
         42 . The method of  claim 41  wherein the bacteria comprise  Staphylococcus  spp.,  Streptococcus  spp.,  Escherichia  spp.,  Enterococcus  spp., or  Pseudamonas  spp.  
     
     
         43 . The method of  claim 42  wherein the bacteria comprise  Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa , or  Streptococcus pyogenes.    
     
     
         44 . The method of  claim 40  wherein the microorganisms comprise one or more viruses and the antimicrobial composition is used in an amount effective to inactivate one or more viruses.  
     
     
         45 . The method of  claim 40  wherein the microorganisms comprise one or more fungi and the antimicrobial composition is used in an amount effective to kill one or more fungi.  
     
     
         46 . A method of killing or inactivating microorganisms, the method comprising contacting the microorganisms with the antimicrobial composition of  claim 18  in an amount effective to kill or inactivate one or more microorganisms.  
     
     
         47 . The method of  claim 46  wherein the microorganisms comprise bacteria and the antimicrobial composition is used in an amount effective to kill one or more bacteria.  
     
     
         48 . The method of  claim 47  wherein the bacteria comprise  Staphylococcus  spp.,  Streptococcus  spp.,  Escherichia  spp.,  Enterococcus  spp., or  Pseudamonas  spp.  
     
     
         49 . The method of  claim 48  wherein the bacteria comprise  Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa , or  Streptococcus pyogenes.    
     
     
         50 . The method of  claim 46  wherein the microorganisms comprise one or more viruses and the antimicrobial composition is used in an amount effective to inactivate one or more viruses.  
     
     
         51 . The method of  claim 46  wherein the microorganisms comprise one or more fungi and the antimicrobial composition is used in an amount effective to kill one or more fungi.  
     
     
         52 . A method of killing or inactivating microorganisms, the method comprising contacting the microorganisms with the antimicrobial composition of  claim 19  in an amount effective to kill or inactivate one or more microorganisms.  
     
     
         53 . The method of  claim 52  wherein the microorganisms comprise bacteria and the antimicrobial composition is used in an amount effective to kill one or more bacteria.  
     
     
         54 . The method of  claim 53  wherein the bacteria comprise  Staphylococcus  spp.,  Streptococcus  spp.,  Escherichia  spp.,  Enterococcus  spp., or  Pseudamonas  spp.  
     
     
         55 . The method of  claim 54  wherein the bacteria comprise  Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidennidis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa , or  Streptococcus pyogenes.    
     
     
         56 . The method of  claim 52  wherein the microorganisms comprise one or more viruses and the antimicrobial composition is used in an amount effective to inactivate one or more viruses.  
     
     
         57 . The method of  claim 52  wherein the microorganisms comprise one or more fungi and the antimicrobial composition is used in an amount effective to kill one or more fungi.  
     
     
         58 . A method of killing or inactivating microorganisms, the method comprising contacting the microorganisms with the antimicrobial composition of  claim 20  in an amount effective to kill or inactivate one or more microorganisms.  
     
     
         59 . The method of  claim 58  wherein the microorganisms comprise bacteria and the antimicrobial composition is used in an amount effective to kill one or more bacteria.  
     
     
         60 . The method of  claim 59  wherein the bacteria comprise  Staphylococcus  spp.,  Streptococcus  spp.,  Escherichia  spp.,  Enterococcus  spp., or  Pseudamonas  spp.  
     
     
         61 . The method of  claim 60  wherein the bacteria comprise  Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidennidis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa , or  Streptococcus pyogenes.    
     
     
         62 . The method of  claim 58  wherein the microorganisms comprise one or more viruses and the antimicrobial composition is used in an amount effective to inactivate one or more viruses.  
     
     
         63 . The method of  claim 58  wherein the microorganisms comprise one or more fungi and the antimicrobial composition is used in an amount effective to kill one or more fungi.  
     
     
         64 . A method of killing or inactivating microorganisms, the method comprising contacting the microorganisms with the antimicrobial composition of  claim 21  in an amount effective to kill or inactivate one or more microorganisms.  
     
     
         65 . The method of  claim 64  wherein the microorganisms comprise bacteria and the antimicrobial composition is used in an amount effective to kill one or more bacteria.  
     
     
         66 . The method of  claim 65  wherein the bacteria comprise  Staphylococcus  spp.,  Streptococcus  spp.,  Escherichia  spp.,  Enterococcus  spp., or  Pseudamonas  spp.  
     
     
         67 . The method of  claim 66  wherein the bacteria comprise  Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa , or  Streptococcus pyogenes.    
     
     
         68 . The method of  claim 64  wherein the microorganisms comprise one or more viruses and the antimicrobial composition is used in an amount effective to inactivate one or more viruses.  
     
     
         69 . The method of  claim 64  wherein the microorganisms comprise one or more fungi and the antimicrobial composition is used in an amount effective to kill one or more fungi.  
     
     
         70 . A method of providing residual antimicrobial efficacy on a surface, the method comprising contacting the surface with the composition of  claim 1 .  
     
     
         71 . A method of providing residual antimicrobial efficacy on a surface, the method comprising contacting the surface with the composition of  claim 17 .  
     
     
         72 . A method of providing residual antimicrobial efficacy on a surface, the method comprising contacting the surface with the composition of  claim 18 .  
     
     
         73 . A method of providing residual antimicrobial efficacy on a surface, the method comprising contacting the surface with the composition of  claim 19 .  
     
     
         74 . A method of providing residual antimicrobial efficacy on a surface, the method comprising contacting the surface with the composition of  claim 20 .  
     
     
         75 . A method of providing residual antimicrobial efficacy on a surface, the method comprising contacting the surface with the composition of  claim 21 .  
     
     
         76 . A method of preventing and/or treating a subject for a common cold and/or respiratory affliction caused by a microbial infection, the method comprising contacting the subject with the composition of  claim 1  in at least a portion of the subject's respiratory system in an amount effective to kill or inactivate one or more microorganisms that cause a common cold and/or respiratory affliction.  
     
     
         77 . A method of preventing and/or treating a subject for a common cold and/or respiratory affliction caused by a microbial infection, the method comprising contacting the subject with the composition of  claim 17  in at least a portion of the subject's respiratory system in an amount effective to kill or inactivate one or more microorganisms that cause a common cold and/or respiratory affliction.  
     
     
         78 . A method of preventing and/or treating a subject for a common cold and/or respiratory affliction caused by a microbial infection, the method comprising contacting the subject with the composition of  claim 18  in at least a portion of the subject's respiratory system in an amount effective to kill or inactivate one or more microorganisms that cause a common cold and/or respiratory affliction.  
     
     
         79 . A method of preventing and/or treating a subject for a common cold and/or respiratory affliction caused by a microbial infection, the method comprising contacting the subject with the composition of  claim 19  in at least a portion of the subject's respiratory system in an amount effective to kill or inactivate one or more microorganisms that cause a common cold and/or respiratory affliction.  
     
     
         80 . A method of preventing and/or treating a subject for a common cold and/or respiratory affliction caused by a microbial infection, the method comprising contacting the subject with the composition of  claim 20  in at least a portion of the subject's respiratory system in an amount effective to kill or inactivate one or more microorganisms that cause a common cold and/or respiratory affliction.  
     
     
         81 . A method of preventing and/or treating a subject for a common cold and/or respiratory affliction caused by a microbial infection, the method comprising contacting the subject with the composition of  claim 21  in at least a portion of the subject's respiratory system in an amount effective to kill inactivate one or more microorganisms that cause a common cold and/or respiratory affliction.  
     
     
         82 . A method of decolonizing at least a portion of the nasal cavities, anterior nares, and/or nasopharynx of a subject of microorganisms, the method comprising contacting the nasal cavities, anterior nares, and/or nasopharynx with an antimicrobial composition in an amount effective to kill one or more microorganisms, wherein the antimicrobial composition comprises: 
 an effective amount of an antimicrobial lipid component comprising a (C8-C12)saturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C8-C12)saturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, an alkoxylated derivative thereof, or combinations thereof, wherein the alkoxylated derivative has less than 5 moles of alkoxide per mole of polyhydric alcohol; with the proviso that for polyhydric alcohols other than sucrose, the esters comprise monoesters and the ethers comprise monoethers, and for sucrose the esters comprise monoesters, diesters, or combinations thereof, and the ethers comprise monoethers, diethers, or combinations thereof; and    a hydrophobic component which forms the greatest portion of the composition by weight.    
     
     
         83 . The method of  claim 82  wherein the composition further comprises an effective amount of an enhancer component comprising an alpha-hydroxy acid, a beta-hydroxy acid, a chelating agent, a (C1-C4)alkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aryl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aralkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)alkaryl carboxylic acid, a phenolic compound, a (C1-C10)alkyl alcohol, an ether glycol, or combinations thereof.  
     
     
         84 . The method of  claim 83  wherein the composition further comprises a hydrophilic component.  
     
     
         85 . A method of treating a middle ear infection in a subject, the method comprising contacting the middle ear, tympanic membrane, and/or Eustachian tube with an antimicrobial composition comprising: 
 an effective amount of an antimicrobial lipid component comprising a (C8-C12)saturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C8-C12)saturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, an alkoxylated derivative thereof, or combinations thereof, wherein the alkoxylated derivative has less than 5 moles of alkoxide per mole of polyhydric alcohol; with the proviso that for polyhydric alcohols other than sucrose, the esters comprise monoesters and the ethers comprise monoethers, and for sucrose the esters comprise monoesters, diesters, or combinations thereof, and the ethers comprise monoethers, diethers, or combinations thereof; and    an effective amount of an enhancer component comprising an alpha-hydroxy acid, a beta-hydroxy acid, a chelating agent, a (C1-C4)alkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aryl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aralkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)alkaryl carboxylic acid, a phenolic compound, a (C1-C10)alkyl alcohol, an ether glycol, or combinations thereof.    
     
     
         86 . A method of treating a middle ear infection in a subject, the method comprising contacting the middle ear, tympanic membrane, and/or Eustachian tube with an antimicrobial composition comprising: 
 an effective amount of an antimicrobial lipid component comprising a (C8-C12)saturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C8-C12)saturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, an alkoxylated derivative thereof, or combinations thereof, wherein the alkoxylated derivative has less than 5 moles of alkoxide per mole of polyhydric alcohol; with the proviso that for polyhydric alcohols other than sucrose, the esters comprise monoesters and the ethers comprise monoethers, and for sucrose the esters comprise monoesters, diesters, or combinations thereof, and the ethers comprise monoethers, diethers, or combinations thereof; and    a hydrophobic component which forms the greatest portion of the composition by weight.    
     
     
         87 . The method of  claim 86  wherein the composition further comprises an effective amount of an enhancer component comprising an alpha-hydroxy acid, a beta-hydroxy acid, a chelating agent, a (C1-C4)alkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aryl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aralkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)alkaryl carboxylic acid, a phenolic compound, a (C1-C10)alkyl alcohol, an ether glycol, or combinations thereof.  
     
     
         88 . A method of treating chronic sinusitis in a subject, the method comprising contacting at least a portion of the respiratory system with an antimicrobial composition comprising: 
 an effective amount of an antimicrobial lipid component comprising a (C8-C12)saturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C8-C12)saturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, an alkoxylated derivative thereof, or combinations thereof, wherein the alkoxylated derivative has less than 5 moles of alkoxide per mole of polyhydric alcohol; with the proviso that for polyhydric alcohols other than sucrose, the esters comprise monoesters and the ethers comprise monoethers, and for sucrose the esters comprise monoesters, diesters, or combinations thereof, and the ethers comprise monoethers, diethers, or combinations thereof; and    an effective amount of an enhancer component comprising an alpha-hydroxy acid, a beta-hydroxy acid, a chelating agent, a (C1-C4)alkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aryl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aralkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)alkaryl carboxylic acid, a phenolic compound, a (C1-C10)alkyl alcohol, an ether glycol, or combinations thereof;    wherein the composition comprises less than 0.50 percent by weight (C6-C18)fatty acid.    
     
     
         89 . A method of treating chronic sinusitis in a subject, the method comprising contacting at least a portion of the respiratory system with an antimicrobial composition comprising: 
 an effective amount of an antimicrobial lipid component comprising a (C8-C12)saturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C8-C12)saturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, an alkoxylated derivative thereof, or combinations thereof, wherein the alkoxylated derivative has less than 5 moles of alkoxide per mole of polyhydric alcohol; with the proviso that for polyhydric alcohols other than sucrose, the esters comprise monoesters and the ethers comprise monoethers, and for sucrose the esters comprise monoesters, diesters, or combinations thereof, and the ethers comprise monoethers, diethers, or combinations thereof; and    a hydrophobic component which forms the greatest portion of the composition by weight.    
     
     
         90 . The method of  claim 89  wherein the composition further comprises an effective amount of an enhancer component comprising an alpha-hydroxy acid, a beta-hydroxy acid, a chelating agent, a (C1-C4)alkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aryl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aralkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)alkaryl carboxylic acid, a phenolic compound, a (C1-C10)alkyl alcohol, an ether glycol, or combinations thereof.  
     
     
         91 . A method of treating impetigo on the skin of a subject, the method comprising contacting the affected area with an antimicrobial composition comprising: 
 an effective amount of an antimicrobial lipid component comprising a (C8-C12)saturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C8-C12)saturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, an alkoxylated derivative thereof, or combinations thereof, wherein the alkoxylated derivative has less than 5 moles of alkoxide per mole of polyhydric alcohol; with the proviso that for polyhydric alcohols other than sucrose, the esters comprise monoesters and the ethers comprise monoethers, and for sucrose the esters comprise monoesters, diesters, or combinations thereof, and the ethers comprise monoethers, diethers, or combinations thereof; and    an effective amount of an enhancer component comprising an alpha-hydroxy acid, a beta-hydroxy acid, a chelating agent, a (C1-C4)alkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aryl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aralkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)alkaryl carboxylic acid, a phenolic compound, a (C1-C10)alkyl alcohol, an ether glycol, or combinations thereof.    
     
     
         92 . The method of  claim 91  wherein the composition further comprises a hydrophilic component, wherein the viscosity of the composition is at least 500 cps.  
     
     
         93 . A method of treating impetigo on the skin of a subject, the method comprising contacting the affected area with an antimicrobial composition comprising: 
 an effective amount of an antimicrobial lipid component comprising a (C8-C12)saturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C8-C12)saturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, an alkoxylated derivative thereof, or combinations thereof, wherein the alkoxylated derivative has less than 5 moles of alkoxide per mole of polyhydric alcohol; with the proviso that for polyhydric alcohols other than sucrose, the esters comprise monoesters and the ethers comprise monoethers, and for sucrose the esters comprise monoesters, diesters, or combinations thereof, and the ethers comprise monoethers, diethers, or combinations thereof; and    a hydrophobic component which forms the greatest portion of the composition by weight.    
     
     
         94 . The method of  claim 93  wherein the composition further comprises an effective amount of an enhancer component comprising an alpha-hydroxy acid, a beta-hydroxy acid, a chelating agent, a (C1-C4)alkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aryl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aralkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)alkaryl carboxylic acid, a phenolic compound, a (C1-C10)alkyl alcohol, an ether glycol, or combinations thereof.  
     
     
         95 . A method of treating and/or preventing an infection on the skin, mucosal tissue, and/or wound of a subject, the method comprising contacting the skin, mucosal tissue, and/or wound with an antimicrobial composition in an amount effective to kill or inactivate one or more microorganisms, wherein the antimicrobial composition comprises: 
 an effective amount of an antimicrobial lipid component comprising a (C8-C12)saturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C8-C12)saturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, an alkoxylated derivative thereof, or combinations thereof, wherein the alkoxylated derivative has less than 5 moles of alkoxide per mole of polyhydric alcohol; with the proviso that for polyhydric alcohols other than sucrose, the esters comprise monoesters and the ethers comprise monoethers, and for sucrose the esters comprise monoesters, diesters, or combinations thereof, and the ethers comprise monoethers, diethers, or combinations thereof;    an effective amount of an enhancer component comprising an alpha-hydroxy acid, a beta-hydroxy acid, a chelating agent, a (C1-C4)alkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aryl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aralkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)alkaryl carboxylic acid, a phenolic compound, a (C1-C10)alkyl alcohol, an ether glycol, or combinations thereof;    a hydrophilic component; and    a hydrophobic component which forms the greatest portion of the composition by weight.    
     
     
         96 . A method of treating and/or preventing an infection on the skin, mucosal tissue, and/or wound of a subject, the method comprising contacting the skin, mucosal tissue, and/or wound with an antimicrobial composition in an amount effective to kill or inactivate one or more microorganisms, wherein the antimicrobial composition comprises: 
 an effective amount of an antimicrobial lipid component comprising a (C8-C12)saturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C8-C12)saturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, an alkoxylated derivative thereof, or combinations thereof, wherein the alkoxylated derivative has less than 5 moles of alkoxide per mole of polyhydric alcohol; with the proviso that for polyhydric alcohols other than sucrose, the esters comprise monoesters and the ethers comprise monoethers, and for sucrose the esters comprise monoesters, diesters, or combinations thereof, and the ethers comprise monoethers, diethers, or combinations thereof;    an effective amount of an enhancer component comprising an alpha-hydroxy acid, a beta-hydroxy acid, a chelating agent, a (C1-C4)alkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aryl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aralkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)alkaryl carboxylic acid, a phenolic compound, a (C1-C10)alkyl alcohol, an ether glycol, or combinations thereof;    a surfactant; and    a hydrophobic component which forms the greatest portion of the composition by weight.    
     
     
         97 . A method of treating and/or preventing an infection on the skin, mucosal tissue, and/or wound of a subject, the method comprising contacting the skin, mucosal tissue, and/or wound with an antimicrobial composition in an amount effective to kill or inactivate one or more microorganisms, wherein the antimicrobial composition comprises: 
 an effective amount of an antimicrobial lipid component comprising a (C8-C12)saturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C8-C12)saturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, an alkoxylated derivative thereof, or combinations thereof, wherein the alkoxylated derivative has less than 5 moles of alkoxide per mole of polyhydric alcohol; with the proviso that for polyhydric alcohols other than sucrose, the esters comprise monoesters and the ethers comprise monoethers, and for sucrose the esters comprise monoesters, diesters, or combinations thereof, and the ethers comprise monoethers, diethers, or combinations thereof; and    a hydrophobic component which forms the greatest portion of the composition by weight.    
     
     
         98 . The method of  claim 97  wherein the composition further comprises an effective amount of an enhancer component comprising an alpha-hydroxy acid, a beta-hydroxy acid, a chelating agent, a (C1-C4)alkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aryl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aralkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)alkaryl carboxylic acid, a phenolic compound, a (C1-C10)alkyl alcohol, an ether glycol, or combinations thereof.  
     
     
         99 . A method of treating a burn, the method comprising contacting the burned area of a subject with an antimicrobial composition in an amount effective to kill or inactivate one or more microorganisms, wherein the antimicrobial composition comprises: 
 an effective amount of an antimicrobial lipid component comprising a (C8-C12)saturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C8-C12)saturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, an alkoxylated derivative thereof, or combinations thereof, wherein the alkoxylated derivative has less than 5 moles of alkoxide per mole of polyhydric alcohol; with the proviso that for polyhydric alcohols other than sucrose, the esters comprise monoesters and the ethers comprise monoethers, and for sucrose the esters comprise monoesters, diesters, or combinations thereof, and the ethers comprise monoethers, diethers, or combinations thereof; and    an effective amount of an enhancer component comprising an alpha-hydroxy acid, a beta-hydroxy acid, a chelating agent, a (C1-C4)alkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aryl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aralkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)alkaryl carboxylic acid, a phenolic compound, a (C1-C10)alkyl alcohol, an ether glycol, or combinations thereof.    
     
     
         100 . A method of treating a burn, the method comprising contacting the burned area of a subject with an antimicrobial composition in an amount effective to kill or inactivate one or more microorganisms, wherein the antimicrobial composition comprises: 
 an effective amount of an antimicrobial lipid component comprising a (C8-C12)saturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C8-C12)saturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, an alkoxylated derivative thereof, or combinations thereof, wherein the alkoxylated derivative has less than 5 moles of alkoxide per mole of polyhydric alcohol; with the proviso that for polyhydric alcohols other than sucrose, the esters comprise monoesters and the ethers comprise monoethers, and for sucrose the esters comprise monoesters, diesters, or combinations thereof, and the ethers comprise monoethers, diethers, or combinations thereof; and    a hydrophobic component which forms the greatest portion of the composition by weight.    
     
     
         101 . The method of  claim 100  wherein the composition further comprises an effective amount of an enhancer component comprising an alpha-hydroxy acid, a beta-hydroxy acid, a chelating agent, a (C1-C4)alkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aryl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aralkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)alkaryl carboxylic acid, a phenolic compound, a (C1-C10)alkyl alcohol, an ether glycol, or combinations thereof.  
     
     
         102 . A method of killing or inactivating microorganisms on the skin, mucosal tissue, and/or in a wound of a subject, the method comprising contacting the affected area with an antimicrobial composition in an amount effective to kill or inactivate one or more microorganisms, the antimicrobial composition comprising: 
 an effective amount of an antimicrobial lipid component comprising a (C8-C12)saturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C8-C12)saturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, an alkoxylated derivative thereof, or combinations thereof, wherein the alkoxylated derivative has less than 5 moles of alkoxide per mole of polyhydric alcohol; with the proviso that for polyhydric alcohols other than sucrose, the esters comprise monoesters and the ethers comprise monoethers, and for sucrose the esters comprise monoesters, diesters, or combinations thereof, and the ethers comprise monoethers, diethers, or combinations thereof; and    an effective amount of an enhancer component comprising an alpha-hydroxy acid, a beta-hydroxy acid, a chelating agent, a (C1-C4)alkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aryl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aralkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)alkaryl carboxylic acid, a phenolic compound, a (C1-C10)alkyl alcohol, an ether glycol, or combinations thereof.    
     
     
         103 . The method of  claim 102  wherein the composition further comprises a hydrophilic component, wherein the viscosity of the composition is at least 500 cps.  
     
     
         104 . A method of killing or inactivating microorganisms on the skin, mucosal tissue, and/or in a wound of a subject, the method comprising contacting the affected area with an antimicrobial composition in an amount effective to kill or inactivate one or more microorganisms, the method comprising: 
 an effective amount of an antimicrobial lipid component comprising a (C8-C12)saturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C8-C12)saturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, an alkoxylated derivative thereof, or combinations thereof, wherein the alkoxylated derivative has less than 5 moles of alkoxide per mole of polyhydric alcohol; with the proviso that for polyhydric alcohols other than sucrose, the esters comprise monoesters and the ethers comprise monoethers, and for sucrose the esters comprise monoesters, diesters, or combinations thereof, and the ethers comprise monoethers, diethers, or combinations thereof; and    a hydrophobic component which forms the greatest portion of the composition by weight.    
     
     
         105 . The method of  claim 104  wherein the composition further comprises an effective amount of an enhancer component comprising an alpha-hydroxy acid, a beta-hydroxy acid, a chelating agent, a (C1-C4)alkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aryl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aralkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)alkaryl carboxylic acid, a phenolic compound, a (C1-C10)alkyl alcohol, an ether glycol, or combinations thereof.  
     
     
         106 . A method of providing residual antimicrobial efficacy on the skin, mucosal tissue, and/or in a wound of a subject, the method comprising contacting the skin, mucosal tissue, and/or wound with an antimicrobial composition comprising: 
 an effective amount of an antimicrobial lipid component comprising a (C8-C12)saturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C8-C12)saturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, an alkoxylated derivative thereof, or combinations thereof, wherein the alkoxylated derivative has less than 5 moles of alkoxide per mole of polyhydric alcohol; with the proviso that for polyhydric alcohols other than sucrose, the esters comprise monoesters and the ethers comprise monoethers, and for sucrose the esters comprise monoesters, diesters, or combinations thereof, and the ethers comprise monoethers, diethers, or combinations thereof;    an effective amount of an enhancer component comprising an alpha-hydroxy acid, a beta-hydroxy acid, a chelating agent, a (C1-C4)alkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aryl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aralkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)alkaryl carboxylic acid, a phenolic compound, a (C1-C10)alkyl alcohol, an ether glycol, or combinations thereof; and    a surfactant and/or a hydrophilic component.    
     
     
         107 . A method of providing residual antimicrobial efficacy on the skin, mucosal tissue, and/or in a wound of a subject, the method comprising contacting the skin, mucosal tissue, and/or wound with an antimicrobial composition comprising: 
 an effective amount of an antimicrobial lipid component comprising a (C8-C12)saturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C8-C12)saturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, an alkoxylated derivative thereof, or combinations thereof, wherein the alkoxylated derivative has less than 5 moles of alkoxide per mole of polyhydric alcohol; with the proviso that for polyhydric alcohols other than sucrose, the esters comprise monoesters and the ethers comprise monoethers, and for sucrose the esters comprise monoesters, diesters, or combinations thereof, and the ethers comprise monoethers, diethers, or combinations thereof;    an effective amount of an enhancer component comprising an alpha-hydroxy acid, a beta-hydroxy acid, a chelating agent, a (C1-C4)alkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aryl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aralkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)alkaryl carboxylic acid, a phenolic compound, a (C1-C10)alkyl alcohol, an ether glycol, or combinations thereof; and    a hydrophobic component which forms the greatest portion of the composition by weight.    
     
     
         108 . A method of preventing and/or treating a subject for a common cold and/or respiratory affliction caused by a microbial infection, the method comprising contacting at least a portion of the respiratory system of a subject with an antimicrobial composition in an amount effective to kill or inactivate one or more microorganisms that cause a common cold and/or respiratory affliction; wherein the antimicrobial composition comprises: 
 an effective amount of an antimicrobial lipid component comprising a (C8-C12)saturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty acid ester of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C8-C12)saturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, a (C12-C22)unsaturated fatty ether of a polyhydric alcohol, an alkoxylated derivative thereof, or combinations thereof, wherein the alkoxylated derivative has less than 5 moles of alkoxide per mole of polyhydric alcohol; with the proviso that for polyhydric alcohols other than sucrose, the esters comprise monoesters and the ethers comprise monoethers, and for sucrose the esters comprise monoesters, diesters, or combinations thereof, and the ethers comprise monoethers, diethers, or combinations thereof; and    an effective amount of an enhancer component comprising an alpha-hydroxy acid, a beta-hydroxy acid, a chelating agent, a (C1-C4)alkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aryl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)aralkyl carboxylic acid, a (C6-C12)alkaryl carboxylic acid, a phenolic compound, a (C1-C10)alkyl alcohol, an ether glycol, or combinations thereof.    
     
     
         109 . A method of making an antimicrobial composition comprising an antimicrobial lipid component, an enhancer component, a hydrophobic vehicle, and a hydrophilic component, the method comprising: 
 dissolving the enhancer component in the hydrophilic component;    combining the hydrophobic vehicle and the hydrophilic component with the enhancer component dissolved therein with mixing to form a mixture;    optionally heating the hydrophobic vehicle to a temperature sufficient to form a pourable liquid before or after combinint it with the hydrophilic component and enhancer component;    adding the antimicrobial lipid component to the mixture; and    cooling the mixture before or after adding the antimicrobial lipid component.    
     
     
         110 . A method of making an antimicrobial composition comprising an antimicrobial lipid component, an enhancer component, and a hydrophobic vehicle, the method comprising: 
 combining the enhancer component and the hydrophobic vehicle with mixing to form a mixture;    optionally heating the hydrophobic vehicle to a temperature sufficient to make a pourable liquid before or after combining it with the enhancer component;    adding the antimicrobial lipid component to the mixture with mixing; and    cooling the mixture before or after adding the antimicrobial lipid component.