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Abstract

Polymers containing 55 to 90% of units of the formula (A): ##STR1## wherein R.sup.1 is a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group of 1 to 3 carbon atoms; and 10 to 45% of units of the formula (B) and (C): ##STR2## wherein R.sup.2 is a hydrogen group of 5 to 19 carbon atoms, for example n-C.sub.11 H.sub.23, R.sup.3 is a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group of 1 to 3 carbon atoms, R.sup.4 is a hydrocarbon group of 5 to 19 carbon atoms, for example n-C.sub.11 H.sub.23 and X.sup.- is an anion and which contain at least 10% of units of formula (C) and are free from polymeric species having a molecular weight of less than 10,000 are described. The polymers possess antimicrobial activity agains common pathogens. Isotonic aqueous solutions containing 0.002 to 0.025% of the polymer are suitable for the sterilization of contact lenses for example by immersion of the lens in the solution overnight. Hydrophilic ointments containing from 0.002 to 0.25% of the polymer are suitable for the treatment of bacterial infection of lesions of the skin such as burns and ulcers.

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