Sample records for solid self-microemulsifying drug

  1. Preparation of microcapsules with self-microemulsifying core by a vibrating nozzle method.

    PubMed

    Homar, Miha; Suligoj, Dasa; Gasperlin, Mirjana

    2007-02-01

    Incorporation of drugs in self-microemulsifying systems (SMES) offers several advantages for their delivery, the main one being faster drug dissolution and absorption. Formulation of SMES in solid dosage forms can be difficult and, to date, most SMES are applied in liquid dosage form or soft gelatin capsules. This study has explored the incorporation of SMES in microcapsules, which could then be used for formulation of solid dosage forms. An Inotech IE-50 R encapsulator equipped with a concentric nozzle was used to produce alginate microcapsules with a self-microemulsifying core. Retention of the core phase was improved by optimization of encapsulator parameters and modification of the shell forming phase and hardening solution. The mean encapsulation efficiency of final batches was more than 87%, which resulted in 0.07% drug loading. It was demonstrated that production of microcapsules with a self-microemulsifying core is possible and that the process is stable and reproducible.

  2. Controlled poorly soluble drug release from solid self-microemulsifying formulations with high viscosity hydroxypropylmethylcellulose.

    PubMed

    Yi, Tao; Wan, Jiangling; Xu, Huibi; Yang, Xiangliang

    2008-08-07

    The objective of this work was the development of a controlled release system based on self-microemulsifying mixture aimed for oral delivery of poorly water-soluble drugs. HPMC-based particle formulations were prepared by spray drying containing a model drug (nimodipine) of low water solubility and hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC) of high viscosity. One type of formulations contained nimodipine mixed with HPMC and the other type of formulations contained HPMC and nimodipine dissolved in a self-microemulsifying system (SMES) consisting of ethyl oleate, Cremophor RH 40 and Labrasol. Based on investigation by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X-ray powder diffraction, differences were found in the particle structure between both types of formulations. In vitro release was performed and characterized by the power law. Nimodipine release from both types of formulations showed a controlled release profile and the two power law parameters, n and K, correlated to the viscosity of HPMC. The parameters were also influenced by the presence of SMES. For the controlled release solid SMES, oil droplets containing dissolved nimodipine diffused out of HPMC matrices following exposure to aqueous media. Thus, it is possible to control the in vitro release of poorly soluble drugs from solid oral dosage forms containing SMES.

  3. Systematic development of design of experiments (DoE) optimised self-microemulsifying drug delivery system of Zotepine.

    PubMed

    Dalvadi, Hitesh; Patel, Nikita; Parmar, Komal

    2017-05-01

    The aim of present investigation is to improve dissolution rate of poor soluble drug Zotepine by a self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS). Ternary phase diagram with oil (Oleic acid), surfactant (Tween 80) and co-surfactant (PEG 400) at apex were used to identify the efficient self-microemulsifying region. Box-Behnken design was implemented to study the influence of independent variables. Principal Component Analysis was used for scrutinising critical variables. The liquid SMEDDS were characterised for macroscopic evaluation, % Transmission, emulsification time and in vitro drug release studies. Optimised formulation OL1 was converted in to S-SMEDDS by using Aerosil ® 200 as an adsorbent in the ratio of 3:1. The S-SMEDDS was characterised by SEM, DSC, globule size (152.1 nm), zeta-potential (-28.1 mV), % transmission study (98.75%), in vitro release (86.57%) at 30 min. The optimised solid SMEDDS formulation showed faster drug release properties as compared to conventional tablet of Zotepine.

  4. Role of Components in the Formation of Self-microemulsifying Drug Delivery Systems.

    PubMed

    Gurram, A K; Deshpande, P B; Kar, S S; Nayak, Usha Y; Udupa, N; Reddy, M S

    2015-01-01

    Pharmaceutical research is focused in designing novel drug delivery systems to improve the bioavailability of poorly water soluble drugs. Self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems, one among the lipid-based dosage forms were proven to be promising in improving the oral bioavailability of such drugs by enhancing solubility, permeability and avoiding first-pass metabolism via enhanced lymphatic transport. Further, they have been successful in avoiding both inter and intra individual variations as well as the dose disproportionality. Aqueous insoluble drugs, in general, show greater solubility in lipid based excipients, and hence they are formulated as lipid based drug delivery systems. The extent of solubility of a hydrophobic drug in lipid excipients i.e. oil, surfactant and co-surfactant (components of self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems) greatly affects the drug loading and in producing stable self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems. The present review highlighted the influence of physicochemical factors and structural features of the hydrophobic drug on its solubility in lipid excipients and an attempt was made to explore the role of each component of self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems in the formation of stable microemulsion upon dilution.

  5. Preparation and Pharmacokinetics Evaluation of Solid Self-Microemulsifying Drug Delivery System (S-SMEDDS) of Osthole.

    PubMed

    Sun, Chaojie; Gui, Yun; Hu, Rongfeng; Chen, Jiayi; Wang, Bin; Guo, Yuxing; Lu, Wenjie; Nie, Xiangjiang; Shen, Qiang; Gao, Song; Fang, Wenyou

    2018-05-29

    The study was performed aiming to enhance the solubility and oral bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drug osthole by formulating solid self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (S-SMEDDS) via spherical crystallization technique. Firstly, the liquid self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (L-SMEDDS) of osthole was formulated with castor oil, Cremophor RH40, and 1,2-propylene glycol after screening various lipids and emulsifiers. The type and amount of polymeric materials, good solvents, bridging agents, and poor solvents in S-SMEDDS formulations were further determined by single-factor study. The optimal formulation contained 1:2 of ethyl cellulose (EC) and Eudragit S100, which served as matrix forming and enteric coating polymers respectively. Anhydrous ethanol and dichloromethane with a ratio of 5:3 are required to perform as good solvent and bridging agent, respectively, with the addition of 0.08% SDS aqueous solution as poor solvent. The optimized osthole S-SMEDDS had a high yield (83.91 ± 3.31%) and encapsulation efficiency (78.39 ± 2.25%). Secondly, osthole L-SMEDDS was solidified to osthole S-SMEDDS with no significant changes in terms of morphology, particle size, and zeta potential. In vitro release study demonstrated a sustained release of the drug from osthole S-SMEDDS. Moreover, in vivo pharmacokinetic study showed that the T max and mean residence time (MRT (0-t) ) of osthole were significantly prolonged and further confirmed that osthole S-SMEDDS exhibited sustained release effect in rabbits. Comparing with osthole aqueous suspension and L-SMEDDS, osthole S-SMEDDS increased bioavailability by 205 and 152%, respectively. The results suggested that S-SMEDDS was an effective oral solid dosage form, which can improve the solubility and oral bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drug osthole.

  6. Alginate-Based Composite Sponges as Gastroretentive Carriers for Curcumin-Loaded Self-Microemulsifying Drug Delivery Systems

    PubMed Central

    Petchsomrit, Arpa; Sermkaew, Namfa; Wiwattanapatapee, Ruedeekorn

    2017-01-01

    Alginate-based composite sponges were developed as carriers to prolong the gastric retention time and controlled release of curcumin-loaded self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems (Cur-SMEDDS). Liquid Cur-SMEDDS was incorporated into a solution made up of a mixture of polymers and converted into a solid form by freeze-drying. The ratio of alginate as the main polymer, adsorbent (colloidal silicon dioxide), and additional polymers—sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (SCMC), hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC)—was varied systematically to adjust the drug loading and entrapment efficiency, sponge buoyancy, and the release profile of Cur-SMEDDS. The optimum composite sponge was fabricated from a 4% alginate and 2% HPMC mixed solution. It immediately floated on simulated gastric fluid (SGF, pH 1.2) and remained buoyant over an 8 h period. The formulation exhibited an emulsion droplet size of approximately 30 nm and provided sustained release of Cur-SMEDDS in SGF, reaching 71% within 8 h compared with only 10% release from curcumin powder. This study demonstrates the potential of alginate-based composite sponges combined with self-microemulsifying formulations for gastroretention applications involving poorly soluble compounds. PMID:28294964

  7. Preparation and in Vivo Evaluation of a Dutasteride-Loaded Solid-Supersaturatable Self-Microemulsifying Drug Delivery System

    PubMed Central

    Kim, Min-Soo; Ha, Eun-Sol; Choo, Gwang-Ho; Baek, In-Hwan

    2015-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to prepare a dutasteride-loaded solid-supersaturatable self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) using hydrophilic additives with high oral bioavailability, and to determine if there was a correlation between the in vitro dissolution data and the in vivo pharmacokinetic parameters of this delivery system in rats. A dutasteride-loaded solid-supersaturatable SMEDDS was generated by adsorption of liquid SMEDDS onto Aerosil 200 colloidal silica using a spray drying process. The dissolution and oral absorption of dutasteride from solid SMEDDS significantly increased after the addition of hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose (HPMC) or Soluplus. Solid SMEDDS/Aerosil 200/Soluplus microparticles had higher oral bioavailability with 6.8- and 5.0-fold higher peak plasma concentration (Cmax) and area under the concentration-time curve (AUC) values, respectively, than that of the equivalent physical mixture. A linear correlation between in vitro dissolution efficiency and in vivo pharmacokinetic parameters was demonstrated for both AUC and Cmax values. Therefore, the preparation of a solid-supersaturatable SMEDDS with HPMC or Soluplus could be a promising formulation strategy to develop novel solid dosage forms of dutasteride. PMID:25984604

  8. Development of a solid self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) for solubility enhancement of naproxen.

    PubMed

    Čerpnjak, Katja; Zvonar, Alenka; Vrečer, Franc; Gašperlin, Mirjana

    2015-01-01

    Comparative evaluation of liquid and solid self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems (SMEDDS) as promising approaches for solubility enhancement. The aim of this work was to develop, characterize, and evaluate a solid SMEDDS prepared via spray-drying of a liquid SMEDDS based on Gelucire® 44/14 to improve the solubility and dissolution rate of naproxen. Various oils and co-surfactants in combination with Gelucire® 44/14 were evaluated during excipient selection study, solubility testing, and construction of (pseudo)ternary diagrams. The selected system was further evaluated for naproxen solubility, self-microemulsification ability, and in vitro dissolution of naproxen. In addition, its transformation into a solid SMEDDS by spray-drying using maltodextrin as a solid carrier was performed. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to evaluate the physical characteristics of the solid SMEDDS obtained. The selected formulation of SMEDDS was comprised of Miglyol 812®, Peceol™, Gelucire® 44/14, and Solutol® HS 15. The liquid and solid SMEDDS formed a microemulsion after dilution with comparable average droplet size and exhibited uniform droplet size distribution. In the solid SMEDDS, liquid SMEDDS was adsorbed onto the surface of maltodextrin and formed smooth granular particles with the encapsulated drug predominantly in a dissolved state and partially in an amorphous state. Overall, incorporation of naproxen in SMEDDS, either liquid or solid, resulted in improved solubility and dissolution rate compared to pure naproxen. This study indicates that a liquid and solid SMEDDS is a strategy for solubility enhancement in the future development of orally delivered dosage forms.

  9. Preparation and evaluation of valsartan by a novel semi-solid self-microemulsifying delivery system using Gelucire 44/14.

    PubMed

    Zhao, Kun; Yuan, Yue; Wang, Hui; Li, Panpan; Bao, Zhihong; Li, Yue

    2016-10-01

    The aim of the present study was to develop a novel semi-solid self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) using Gelucire(®) 44/14 as oil with strong solid character to improve the oral bioavailability of poorly soluble drug valsartan. The solubility of valsartan in various excipients was determined, the pseudo-ternary phase diagram was constructed in order to screen the optimal excipients, and DSC analysis was performed to evaluate the melting point of SMEDDS. The optimal drug-loaded SMEDDS formulation was consisted of 30% Gelucire(®) 44/14 (oil), 40% Solutol(®) HS 15 (surfactant), and 30% Transcutol(®) P (cosurfactant) (w/w) with 80 mg valsartan/g excipients. The average droplet sizes of the optimized blank and drug-loaded SMEDDS formulations were 26.20 ± 1.43 and 33.34 ± 2.15 nm, and the melting points of them were 35.6 and 36.8 °C, respectively. The in vitro dissolution rate of optimal semi-solid SMEDDS was increased compared with commercial capsules, resulting in the 2.72-fold and 2.97-fold enhancement of Cmax and AUC0-t after oral administration in rats, respectively. These results indicated that the novel semi-solid SMEDDS formulation could potentially improve the oral bioavailability of valsartan, and the semi-solid SMEDDS was a desirable system than the traditional liquid SMEDDS because it was convenient for preparation, storage and transportation due to semi-solid state at room temperature and melted state at body temperature.

  10. Enhancement of lymphatic transport of lutein by oral administration of a solid dispersion and a self-microemulsifying drug delivery system.

    PubMed

    Sato, Yuki; Joumura, Tatsuru; Nashimoto, Shunsuke; Yokoyama, Sayaka; Takekuma, Yoh; Yoshida, Hideto; Sugawara, Mitsuru

    2018-06-01

    Lutein is located in the macula lutea in the human eye. Since humans cannot synthesize lutein de novo, it must be digested as food. Some studies including our previous study showed very low absorption of lutein after oral administration. These studies also suggested that the absorption route of lutein from the small intestine involves not only the blood but also the lymph. The aim of this study was to clarify the transfer of lutein into lymph and the tissue distribution after oral administration of a solid dispersion (SD) and a self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) for improvement of the absorption. We used thoracic lymph-cannulated rats. It was shown that the plasma concentrations of lutein in the SD and SMEDDS groups were increased compared with that in the powder group. The absorption of lutein after oral administration of each formulation was clearly evaluated by its cumulative amount in lymph. Our data clearly showed that lutein is transferred into the lymph stream from the small intestine. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  11. Solid formulation of a supersaturable self-microemulsifying drug delivery system for valsartan with improved dissolution and bioavailability

    PubMed Central

    Yeom, Dong Woo; Chae, Bo Ram; Kim, Jin Han; Chae, Jun Soo; Shin, Dong Jun; Kim, Chang Hyun; Kim, Sung Rae; Choi, Ji Ho; Song, Seh Hyon; Oh, Dongho; Sohn, Se Il; Choi, Young Wook

    2017-01-01

    In order to improve the dissolution and oral bioavailability of valsartan (VST), and reduce the required volume for treatment, we previously formulated a supersaturable self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SuSMEDDS) composed of VST (80 mg), Capmul® MCM (13.2 mg), Tween® 80 (59.2 mg), Transcutol® P (59.2 mg), and Poloxamer 407 (13.2 mg). In the present study, by using Florite® PS-10 (119.1 mg) and Vivapur® 105 (105.6 mg) as solid carriers, VST-loaded solidified SuSMEDDS (S-SuSMEDDS) granules were successfully developed, which possessed good flow properties and rapid drug dissolution. By introducing croscarmellose sodium (31 mg) as a superdisintegrant, S-SuSMEDDS tablets were also successfully formulated, which showed fast disintegration and high dissolution efficiency. Preparation of granules and tablets was successfully optimized using D-optimal mixture design and 3-level factorial design, respectively, resulting in percentage prediction errors of <10%. In pharmacokinetic studies in rats, the relative bioavailability of the optimized granules was 107% and 222% of values obtained for SuSMEDDS and Diovan® powder, respectively. Therefore, we conclude that novel S-SuSMEDDS formulations offer great potential for developing solid dosage forms of a liquefied formulation such as SuSMEDDS, while improving oral absorption of drugs with poor water solubility. PMID:29212229

  12. Solid formulation of a supersaturable self-microemulsifying drug delivery system for valsartan with improved dissolution and bioavailability.

    PubMed

    Yeom, Dong Woo; Chae, Bo Ram; Kim, Jin Han; Chae, Jun Soo; Shin, Dong Jun; Kim, Chang Hyun; Kim, Sung Rae; Choi, Ji Ho; Song, Seh Hyon; Oh, Dongho; Sohn, Se Il; Choi, Young Wook

    2017-11-07

    In order to improve the dissolution and oral bioavailability of valsartan (VST), and reduce the required volume for treatment, we previously formulated a supersaturable self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SuSMEDDS) composed of VST (80 mg), Capmul ® MCM (13.2 mg), Tween ® 80 (59.2 mg), Transcutol ® P (59.2 mg), and Poloxamer 407 (13.2 mg). In the present study, by using Florite ® PS-10 (119.1 mg) and Vivapur ® 105 (105.6 mg) as solid carriers, VST-loaded solidified SuSMEDDS (S-SuSMEDDS) granules were successfully developed, which possessed good flow properties and rapid drug dissolution. By introducing croscarmellose sodium (31 mg) as a superdisintegrant, S-SuSMEDDS tablets were also successfully formulated, which showed fast disintegration and high dissolution efficiency. Preparation of granules and tablets was successfully optimized using D-optimal mixture design and 3-level factorial design, respectively, resulting in percentage prediction errors of <10%. In pharmacokinetic studies in rats, the relative bioavailability of the optimized granules was 107% and 222% of values obtained for SuSMEDDS and Diovan ® powder, respectively. Therefore, we conclude that novel S-SuSMEDDS formulations offer great potential for developing solid dosage forms of a liquefied formulation such as SuSMEDDS, while improving oral absorption of drugs with poor water solubility.

  13. Self-microemulsifying smaller molecular volume oil (Capmul MCM) using non-ionic surfactants: a delivery system for poorly water-soluble drug.

    PubMed

    Bandivadeka, Mithun Mohanraor; Pancholi, Shyam Sundar; Kaul-Ghanekar, Ruchika; Choudhari, Amit; Koppikar, Soumya

    2012-07-01

    The main purpose of this work is to formulate self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) using smaller molecular oil with Atorvastatin calcium as a model drug. Solubility of the selected drug was accessed in oils and surfactants. Percent transmittance (%T) test study was performed to identify the efficient self-microemulsifying formulations. Those formulations which showed higher value for %T were evaluated for droplet size, polydispersity index, ζ potential, refractive index and cloud point measurement. Effect of drug loading on droplet size, increasing dilution in different media, thermodynamic stability and in vitro dissolution was performed to observe the performance of the selected formulation. Further cytotoxicity and permeation enhancement studies were carried out on Caco2 cell lines. Of all the oils accessed for drug solubility, Capmul MCM showed higher solubility capacity for Atorvastatin calcium. Capmul MCM was better microemulsified using combination of Tween 20 and Labrasol surfactant. Droplet size was as low as 86.93 nm with polydispersity index and ζ potential at 0.195 ± 0.011 and -7.27 ± 3.11 mV respectively. The selected undiluted formulation showed refractive index values ranging from 1.40 to 1.47 indicating the isotropicity of the formulation. The selected formulation was robust to dilution in different media and thermodynamically stable. Dissolution profile was enhanced for the selected drug as compared to marketed formulation with t85% and DE values at 10 min and 80.15 respectively. Also cytotoxicity measurement showed minimum effect with good permeation enhancing capacity. Thus our study demonstrates the use of smaller molecular oil (Capmul MCM) for developing self-microemulsifying drug delivery system for better in vitro and in vivo performance.

  14. Application of mixture experimental design to simvastatin apparent solubility predictions in the microemulsifion formed by self-microemulsifying.

    PubMed

    Meng, Jian; Zheng, Liangyuan

    2007-09-01

    Self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems (SMEDDS) are useful to improve the bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs by increasing their apparent solubility through solubilization. However, very few studies, to date, have systematically examined the level of drug apparent solubility in o/w microemulsion formed by self-microemulsifying. In this study, a mixture experimental design was used to simulate the influence of the compositions on simvastatin apparent solubility quantitatively through an empirical model. The reduced cubic polynomial equation successfully modeled the evolution of simvastatin apparent solubility. The results were presented using an analysis of response surface showing a scale of possible simvastatin apparent solubility between 0.0024 ~ 29.0 mg/mL. Moreover, this technique showed that simvastatin apparent solubility was mainly influenced by microemulsion concentration and, suggested that the drug would precipitate in the gastrointestinal tract due to dilution by gastrointestinal fluids. Furthermore, the model would help us design the formulation to maximize the drug apparent solubility and avoid precipitation of the drug.

  15. Liquid and solid self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems for improving the oral bioavailability of andrographolide from a crude extract of Andrographis paniculata.

    PubMed

    Sermkaew, Namfa; Ketjinda, Wichan; Boonme, Prapaporn; Phadoongsombut, Narubodee; Wiwattanapatapee, Ruedeekorn

    2013-11-20

    The purpose of this study was to develop self-microemulsifying formulations of an Andrographis paniculata extract in liquid and pellet forms for an improved oral delivery of andrographolide. The optimized liquid self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) was composed of A. paniculata extract (11.1%), Capryol 90 (40%), Cremophor RH 40 (40%) and Labrasol (8.9%). This liquid SMEDDS was further adsorbed onto colloidal silicon dioxide and microcrystalline cellulose, and converted to SMEDDS pellets by the extrusion/spheronization technique. The microemulsion droplet sizes of the liquid and pellet formulations after dilution with water were in the range of 23.4 and 30.3 nm. The in vitro release of andrographolide from the liquid SMEDDS and SMEDDS pellets was 97.64% (SD 1.97%) and 97.74% (SD 3.36%) within 15 min, respectively while the release from the initial extract was only 10%. The oral absorption of andrographolide was determined in rabbits. The C(max) value of andrographolide from the A. paniculata extract liquid SMEDDS and SMEDDS pellet formulations (equivalent to 17.5mg/kg of andrographolide) was 6-fold and 5-fold greater than the value from the initial extract in aqueous suspension (equivalent to 35 mg/kg of andrographolide), respectively. In addition, the AUC(0-12h) was increased 15-fold by the liquid SMEDDS and 13-fold by the SMEDDS pellets compared to the extract in aqueous suspension, respectively. The results clearly indicated that the liquid and solid SMEDDS could be effectively used to improve the dissolution and oral bioavailability that would also enable a reduction in the dose of the poorly water soluble A. paniculata extract. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  16. Development and characterization of fast-dissolving tablet formulations of glyburide based on solid self-microemulsifying systems.

    PubMed

    Cirri, Marzia; Roghi, Alessandra; Valleri, Maurizio; Mura, Paola

    2016-07-01

    The aim of this work was to develop effective fast-dissolving tablet formulations of glyburide, endowed with improved dissolution and technological properties, investigating the actual effectiveness of the Solid-Self MicroEmulsifying Drug Delivery System (S-SMEDDS) approach. An initial screening aimed to determine the solubility of the drug in different oils, Surfactants and CoSurfactants allowed the selection of the most suitable components for liquid SMEDDS, whose relative amounts were defined by the construction of pseudo-ternary phase diagrams. The selected liquid SMEDDS formulations (Capyol 90 as oil, Tween 20 as Surfactant and Glycofurol or Transcutol as CoSurfactant) were converted into Solid-SMEDDS, by adsorbing them onto Neusilin (1:1 and 1:0.8w/w S-SMEDDS:carrier), and fully characterized in terms of solid state (DSC and X-ray powder diffraction), morphological (ESEM) and dissolution properties, particle size and reconstitution ability. Finally, the 1:1 S-SMEDDS containing Glycofurol as CoSurfactant, showing the best performance, was selected to prepare two final tablet formulations. The ratio test (t10 min ratio and DE60 ratio) and pair-wise procedures (difference (f1) and similarity (f2) factors) highlighted the similarity of the new developed tablets and the marked difference between their drug dissolution profiles and those of formulations based on the micronized drug. The S-SMEDDS approach allowed to develop fast-dissolving tablets of glyburide, endowed with good technological properties and able to achieve the complete drug dissolution in a time ranging from 10 to 15min, depending on the formulation composition. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  17. Formulation development and in vitro evaluation of solidified self-microemulsion in the form of tablet containing atorvastatin calcium.

    PubMed

    Ali, Kazi Asraf; Mukherjee, Biswajit; Bandyopadhyay, Amal Kumar

    2013-11-01

    The objective of our present study was to prepare solid self-microemulsion in the form of tablet of a poorly water soluble drug, Atorvastatin calcium (ATNC) to increase the solubility, dissolution rate, and minimize the hazards experienced from liquid emulsions. Self-microemulsifying ATNC tablet was formulated mainly by using self-emulsifying base, solidifying agent silicon dioxide and sodium starch glycolate as tablet disintegrant. Self-emulsifying base containing Transcutol P, Gelucire 44/14, and Lutrol F68 with their ratios in the formulation, were best selected by solubility study and ternary phase diagram in different vehicles. Particle size of microemulsion from tablet, physical parameters of the tablet and drug content has been checked. In vitro drug release rate has been carried out in phosphate buffer medium (pH 6.8). Physicochemical characterization of the drug in the optimized formulation has been performed to check drug-excipient incompatibility, if any. Average particle diameter of the emulsions formed from the tablet was found to be below 100 nm in case of formulation F4 and F5, which indicated microemulsions has been formed. In vitro drug release from the formulations F3, F4, and F5 was found to be >90%, indicated the enhancement of solubility of ATNC compared to parent drug. Differential thermal analysis (DTA), Powder X-ray Diffraction (X-RD) and Fourier transform infra red (FTIR) study proved the identity of the drug in the optimized formulation. The tablet form of self-microemulsifying (SME) drug delivery is good for solubility enhancement.

  18. Formulation and characterization of lipid-based drug delivery system of raloxifene-microemulsion and self-microemulsifying drug delivery system

    PubMed Central

    Thakkar, Hetal; Nangesh, Jitesh; Parmar, Mayur; Patel, Divyakant

    2011-01-01

    Background: Raloxifene, a second-generation selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) used to prevent osteoporosis in postmenopausal women is administered orally in the form of a tablet. The absolute bioavailability of the drug is only 2% because of extensive hepatic first-pass metabolism. Lipid-based formulations are reported to reduce the first-pass metabolism by promoting its lymphatic uptake. Materials and Methods: In the present investigation, microemulsion and Self-Microemulsifying Drug Delivery System (SMEDDS) formulations of Raloxifene were prepared. The prepared formulations were characterized for drug loading, size, transparency, zeta potential, Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and in vitro intestinal permeability. Results: The results indicated that high drug loading, optimum size and desired zeta potential and transparency could be achieved with both SMEDDS and microemulsion. The TEM studies indicated the absence of aggregation with both the systems. The in vitro intestinal permeability results showed that the permeation of the drug from the microemulsion and SMEDDs was significantly higher than that obtained from the drug dispersion and marketed formulation. Conclusion: Lipid based formulations such as microemulsion and Self Microemulsifying drug delivery systems are expected to increase the oral bioavailability as evidenced by the increased intestinal permeation. PMID:21966167

  19. Preparation and evaluation of self-microemulsifying drug delivery system containing vinpocetine.

    PubMed

    Cui, Shu-Xia; Nie, Shu-Fang; Li, Li; Wang, Chang-Guang; Pan, Wei-San; Sun, Jian-Ping

    2009-05-01

    The main purpose of current investigation is to prepare a self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) to enhance the oral bioavailability of vinpocetine, a poorly water-soluble drug. Suitable vehicles were screened by determining the solubility of vinpocetine in them. Certain surfactants were selected according to their emulsifying ability with different oils. Ternary phase diagrams were used to identify the efficient self-microemulsifying region and to screen the effect of surfactant/cosurfactant ratio (K(m)). The optimized formulation for in vitro dissolution and bioavailability assessment was oil (ethyl oleate, 15%), surfactant (Solutol HS 15, 50%), and cosurfactant (Transcutol P, 35%). The release rate of vinpocetine from SMEDDS was significantly higher than that of the commercial tablet. Pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of SMEDDS were evaluated. It was found that the oral bioavailability of vinpocetine of SMEDDS was 1.72-fold higher as compared with that of the commercial tablet. These results obtained demonstrated that vinpocetine absorption was enhanced significantly by employing SMEDDS. Therefore, SMEDDS might provide an efficient way of improving oral bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs.

  20. Development of a solidified self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (S-SMEDDS) for atorvastatin calcium with improved dissolution and bioavailability.

    PubMed

    Yeom, Dong Woo; Son, Ho Yong; Kim, Jin Han; Kim, Sung Rae; Lee, Sang Gon; Song, She Hyon; Chae, Bo Ram; Choi, Young Wook

    2016-06-15

    To improve the dissolution and oral bioavailability (BA) of atorvastatin calcium (ATV), we previously introduced an optimized self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) using Capmul(®) MCM (oil), Tween(®) 20 (surfactant), and tetraglycol (cosurfactant). In this study, various solid carriers were employed to develop a solidified SMEDDS (S-SMEDDS): mannitol (M) and lactose (L) as water-soluble carriers, and Sylysia(®) 350 (S) and Aerosil(®) 200 (A) as water-insoluble carriers. Maximum solidifying capacities (SCmax) of water-insoluble carriers were significantly greater than those of water-soluble carriers were. The resultant powders were free flowing with an angle of repose <40° and Carr's index 5-20%, regardless of the solid carrier types. S-SMEDDS with mannitol (S(M)-SMEDDS) or lactose (S(L)-SMEDDS) had a smaller droplet size and greater dissolution than S-SMEDDS with Sylysia(®) 350 (S(S)-SMEDDS) or Aerosil(®) 200 (S(A)-SMEDDS). Following oral administration of various formulations to rats at a dose equivalent to 25mg/kg of ATV, plasma drug levels were measured by LC-MS/MS. The relative BAs (RBAs) of SMEDDS, S(M)-SMEDDS, and S(S)-SMEDDS were 345%, 216%, and 160%, respectively, compared to that of ATV suspension. Additionally, at a reduced dose of ATV equivalent to 5mg/kg, the RBAs of S(M)-SMEDDS and S(S)-SMEDDS compared to that of SMEDDS were 101% and 65%, respectively. These results suggest that S(M)-SEMDDS offers great potential for the development of solid dosage forms with improved oral absorption of drugs with poor water solubility. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  1. Enhanced oral bioavailability of felodipine by novel solid self-microemulsifying tablets.

    PubMed

    Jing, Boyu; Wang, Zhiyuan; Yang, Rui; Zheng, Xia; Zhao, Jia; Tang, Si; He, Zhonggui

    2016-01-01

    The novel self-microemulsifying (SME) tablets were developed to enhance the oral bioavailability of a poor water-soluble drug felodipine (FDP). Firstly, FDP was dissolved in the optimized liquid self-microemusifying drug delivery systems (SMEDDS) containing Miglyol® 812, Cremophor® RH 40, Tween 80 and Transcutol® P, and the mixture was solidified with porous silicon dioxide and crospovidone as adsorbents. Then after combining the solidified powders with other excipients, the solid SME tablets were prepared by wet granulation-compression method. The prepared tablets possessed satisfactory characterization; the droplet size of the SME tablets following self-emulsification in water was nearly equivalent to the liquid SMEDDS (68.4 ± 14.0 and 64.4 ± 12.0 nm); differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and powder X-ray diffractometry (PXRD) analysis demonstrated that FDP in SME tablets had undergone a polymorphism transition from a crystal form to an amorphous state, which was further confirmed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). A similar dissolution performance of SME tablets and liquid SMEDDS was also obtained under the sink condition (85% within 10 min), both significantly higher than commercial tablets. The oral bioavailability was evaluated for the SME tablets, liquid SMEDDS and commercial conventional tablets in the fasted beagle dogs. The AUC of FDP from the SME tablets was about 2-fold greater than that of conventional tablets, but no significant difference was found when compared with the liquid SMEDDS. Accordingly, these preliminary results suggest that this formulation approach offers a useful large-scale producing method to prepare the solid SME tablets from the liquid SMEDDS for oral bioavailability equivalent enhancement of poorly soluble FDP.

  2. Granulated colloidal silicon dioxide-based self-microemulsifying tablets, as a versatile approach in enhancement of solubility and therapeutic potential of anti-diabetic agent: formulation design and in vitro/in vivo evaluation.

    PubMed

    Pandey, Vikas; Gilhotra, Ritu M; Kohli, Seema

    2017-06-01

    The current research work was executed with an aim to explore and promote the potential of self-microemusifying drug delivery systems (SMEDDS) in the form of tablets, in order to enhance solubility and oral bioavailability of poorly aqueous soluble drug Repaglinide (RPG). RPG-loaded liquid SMEDDS were developed consisting Labrafil M 1944CS, Kolliphor EL and Propylene glycol, which were then characterized on various parameters. After characterization and optimization, liquid SMEDDS were converted into solid form by adsorbing on Aeroperl® 300 pharma and polyplasdone TM XL. Further, selection of suitable excipients was done and mixed with prepared solidified SMEDDS powder followed by the preparation of self-microemulsifying tablets (SMET's) wet granulation-compression method. SMET's were subjected to differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and particle X-ray diffraction (RXRD) studies, results of which indicated transformation of crystalline structure of RPG because of dispersion of RPG at molecular level in liquid SMEDDS. This was further assured by micrographs obtained from scanning electron microscope. SMET's shown more than 85% (30 min) of in vitro drug release in contrast to conventional marketed tablets (13.2%) and pure RPG drug (3.2%). Results of in vivo studies furnished that SMET's had shown marked decrease in the blood glucose level and prolonged duration of action (up to 8 h) in comparison with conventional marketed tablets and pure RPG drug. In conclusion, SMET's serves as a promising tool for successful oral delivery of poorly aqueous soluble drug(s) such as RPG.

  3. Lecithin/TPGS-based spray-dried self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems: In vitro pulmonary deposition and cytotoxicity.

    PubMed

    Ishak, Rania A H; Osman, Rihab

    2015-05-15

    The aim of the present work was to develop a new solid self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) for the pulmonary delivery of the poorly water-soluble anti-cancer drug atorvastatin (AVT). Microemulsion (ME) was first developed using isopropyl myristate (IPM), a combination of 2 biocompatible surfactants: lecithin/d-α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol succinate (TPGS) and ethanol as co-surfactant. Two types of lecithin with different phosphatidylcholine (PC) contents were compared. Phase diagram, physico-chemical characterization and stability studies were used to investigate ME region. Solid SMEDDS were then prepared by spray-drying the selected ME using a combination of carriers composed of sugars, leucine as dispersibility enhancer with or without polyethylene glycol (PEG) 6000. Yield, flow properties, particle size and in vitro pulmonary deposition were used to characterize the spray-dried powders. Reconstituted MEs were characterized in terms of morphology, particle size and size distribution. In vitro cytotoxicity study was undertaken on lung cancer cell line for the selected MEs and SD-SMEDDS formulae. Results showed that the most satisfactory MEs properties were obtained with 1:3 lecithin/TPGS, 1:1 lecithin/oil and 1:1 surfactant/co-surfactant ratios. A larger ME area was obtained with lecithin containing 100% PC compared to the less expensive lecithin containing 20% PC. By manipulating spray drying parameters, carrier composition and ratio of ME lipids to carrier, microparticles with more than 70% of respirable fraction could be prepared. The ME was efficiently recovered in simulated lung fluid even after removal of alcohol. The concurrent delivery of AVT with TPGS in solid SMEDDS greatly enhanced the cytotoxic activity on lung cancer cells. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  4. Optimized formulation of solid self-microemulsifying sirolimus delivery systems

    PubMed Central

    Cho, Wonkyung; Kim, Min-Soo; Kim, Jeong-Soo; Park, Junsung; Park, Hee Jun; Cha, Kwang-Ho; Park, Jeong-Sook; Hwang, Sung-Joo

    2013-01-01

    Background The aim of this study was to develop an optimized solid self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) formulation for sirolimus to enhance its solubility, stability, and bioavailability. Methods Excipients used for enhancing the solubility and stability of sirolimus were screened. A phase-separation test, visual observation for emulsifying efficiency, and droplet size analysis were performed. Ternary phase diagrams were constructed to optimize the liquid SMEDDS formulation. The selected liquid SMEDDS formulations were prepared into solid form. The dissolution profiles and pharmacokinetic profiles in rats were analyzed. Results In the results of the oil and cosolvent screening studies, Capryol™ Propylene glycol monocapry late (PGMC) and glycofurol exhibited the highest solubility of all oils and cosolvents, respectively. In the surfactant screening test, D-α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate (vitamin E TPGS) was determined to be the most effective stabilizer of sirolimus in pH 1.2 simulated gastric fluids. The optimal formulation determined by the construction of ternary phase diagrams was the T32 (Capryol™ PGMC:glycofurol:vitamin E TPGS = 30:30:40 weight ratio) formulation with a mean droplet size of 108.2 ± 11.4 nm. The solid SMEDDS formulations were prepared with Sucroester 15 and mannitol. The droplet size of the reconstituted solid SMEDDS showed no significant difference compared with the liquid SMEDDS. In the dissolution study, the release amounts of sirolimus from the SMEDDS formulation were significantly higher than the raw sirolimus powder. In addition, the solid SMEDDS formulation was in a more stable state than liquid SMEDDS in pH 1.2 simulated gastric fluids. The results of the pharmacokinetic study indicate that the SMEDDS formulation shows significantly greater bioavailability than the raw sirolimus powder or commercial product (Rapamune® oral solution). Conclusion The results of this study suggest the potential use of a solid SMEDDS formulation for the delivery of poorly water-soluble drugs, such as sirolimus, through oral administration. PMID:23641156

  5. Self-microemulsifiyng suppository formulation of β-artemether.

    PubMed

    Gugulothu, Dalapathi; Pathak, Sulabha; Suryavanshi, Shital; Sharma, Shobhona; Patravale, Vandana

    2010-09-01

    Parasitic diseases are of immense global significance as around 30% of world's population experiences parasitic infections. Among these, malaria is the most life-threatening disease. Various routes of administration have been explored for delivering antimalarial actives. The present investigation aims at formulating self-microemulsifying suppositories of β-artemether with faster onset of action and prolonged effect to be administered by rectal route. These were compared with conventional polyethylene glycol suppositories with respect to melting range, rheology, texture analysis, disintegration time, self microemulsification time, particle size, and drug content. In vitro drug release was studied by using USP apparatus II. Further, the suppositories were evaluated in murine model against virulent rodent malaria parasite Plasmodium berghei wherein the developed self-microemulsifying suppositories could sustain the activity (94%) for 20 days post infection. The survival of animals was also better as compared to the conventional formulation.

  6. Development of semisolid self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems (SMEDDSs) filled in hard capsules for oral delivery of aciclovir.

    PubMed

    Djekic, Ljiljana; Jankovic, Jovana; Čalija, Bojan; Primorac, Marija

    2017-08-07

    The study aimed to develop semisolid self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems (SMEDDSs) as carriers for oral delivery of aciclovir in hard hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose (HPMC) capsules. Six self-dispersing systems (SD1-SD6) were prepared by loading aciclovir into the semisolid formulations consisting of medium chain length triglycerides (lipid), macrogolglycerol hydroxystearate (surfactant), polyglyceryl-3-dioleate (cosurfactant), glycerol (hydrophilic cosolvent), and macrogol 8000 (viscosity modifier). Their characterization was performed in order to identify the semisolid system with rheological behaviour suitable for filling in hard HPMC capsules and fast dispersibility in acidic and alkaline aqueous media with formation of oil-in-water microemulsions. The optimal SMEDDS was loaded with aciclovir at two levels (2% and 33.33%) and morphology and aqueous dispersibility of the obtained systems were examined by applying light microscopy and photon correlation spectroscopy (PCS), respectively. The assessment of diffusivity of aciclovir from the SMEDDSs by using an enhancer cell model, showed that it was increased at a higher drug loading. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis indicated that the SMEDDSs were semisolids at temperatures up to 50°C and physically stable and compatible with HPMC capsules for 3 months storage at 25°C and 4°C. The results of in vitro release study revealed that the designed solid dosage form based on the semisolid SMEDDS loaded with the therapeutic dose of 200mg, may control partitioning of the solubilized drug from in situ formed oil-in-water microemulsion carrier into the sorrounding aqueous media, and hence decrease the risk for precipitation of the drug. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  7. Biowaiver extension potential and IVIVC for BCS Class II drugs by formulation design: Case study for cyclosporine self-microemulsifying formulation.

    PubMed

    Yang, Su-Geun

    2010-11-01

    The objective of this work was to suggest the biowaiver potential of biopharmaceutical classification system (BCS) Class II drugs in self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems (SMEDDS) which are known to increase the solubility, dissolution and oral absorption of water-insoluble drugs. Cyclosporine was selected as a representative BCS Class II drug. New generic candidate of cyclosporine SMEDDS (test) was applied for the study with brand SMEDDS (reference I) and cyclosporine self-emulsifying drug delivery systems (SEDDS, reference II). Solubility and dissolution of cyclosporine from SMEDDS were critically enhanced, which were the similar behaviors with BCS class I drug. The test showed the identical dissolution rate and the equivalent bioavailability (0.34, 0.42 and 0.68 of p values for AUC₀(→)₂₄(h), C(max) and T(max), respectively) with the reference I. Based on the results, level A in vitro-in vivo correlation (IVIVC) was established from these two SMEDDS formulations. This study serves as a good example for speculating the biowaiver extension potential of BCS Class II drugs specifically in solubilizing formulation such as SMEDDS.

  8. Solid Dispersion of Curcumin as Polymeric Films for Bioenhancement and Improved Therapy of Rheumatoid Arthritis.

    PubMed

    Mande, Prashant P; Bachhav, Sagar S; Devarajan, Padma V

    2016-08-01

    The aim of our study was development of advanced third generation Curcumin self microemulsifying composition solid dispersion (Cur SMEC-SD) with high drug loading, improved stability, rapid in-vitro dissolution and enhanced bioavailability for improved therapy of rheumatoid arthritis. The Cur SMEC-SD comprising polymers (KollidonVA64[KVA], Eudragits, HPMC and Soluplus) and self microemulsifying composition of surfactant:co-surfactant:oil were coated onto rapidly disintegrating inert tablet core. SDs evaluated for stability, in-vitro release and bioenhancement. Cur SMEC-SDs exhibited high Cur loading of 45% w/w and microemulsion formation with globule size (~100 nm) irrespective of polymers. Among the polymers, SD with KVA revealed exceptionally low contact angle (7°C) and rapid in-vitro release (t50%-6.45 min). No crystallization was evident as confirmed by SEM, DSC and XRD and is attributed to SMEC aided solubilization/amorphisation, and interaction of KVA with Cur seen in the FTIR spectra. Stability was confirmed as per ICH guidelines. Remarkable bioenhancement with Cur SMEC-SD was confirmed by the > four fold and a two fold compared to Cur and Cur-SD without SMEC respectively. High efficacy ~ 80% compared to Indomethacin, seen with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) induced rats coupled with no adverse toxicity. The advanced third generation Cur SMEC-SD presents a practical technological advancement and suggests Cur SMEC-SD as promising alternative for RA therapy.

  9. A Comparison between Use of Spray and Freeze Drying Techniques for Preparation of Solid Self-Microemulsifying Formulation of Valsartan and In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation

    PubMed Central

    Singh, Sanjay Kumar; Vuddanda, Parameswara Rao; Singh, Sanjay; Srivastava, Anand Kumar

    2013-01-01

    The objective of the present study was to develop self micro emulsifying formulation (SMEF) of valsartan to improve its oral bioavailability. The formulations were screened on the basis of solubility, stability, emulsification efficiency, particle size and zeta potential. The optimized liquid SMEF contains valsartan (20% w/w), Capmul MCM C8 (16% w/w), Tween 80 (42.66% w/w) and PEG 400 (21.33% w/w) as drug, oil, surfactant and co-surfactant, respectively. Further, Liquid SMEF was adsorbed on Aerosol 200 by spray and freeze drying methods in the ratio of 2 : 1 and transformed into free flowing powder. Both the optimized liquid and solid SMEF had the particle size <200 nm with rapid reconstitution properties. Both drying methods are equally capable for producing stable solid SMEF and immediate release of drug in in vitro and in vivo conditions. However, the solid SMEF produced by spray drying method showed high flowability and compressibility. The solid state characterization employing the FTIR, DSC and XRD studies indicated insignificant interaction of drug with lipid and adsorbed excipient. The relative bioavailability of solid SMEF was approximately 1.5 to 3.0 folds higher than marketed formulation and pure drug. Thus, the developed solid SMEF illustrates an alternative delivery of valsartan as compared to existing formulations with improved bioavailability. PMID:23971048

  10. Preparation and evaluation of celecoxib-loaded microcapsules with self-microemulsifying core.

    PubMed

    Homar, Miha; Dreu, Rok; Kerc, Janez; Gasperlin, Mirjana

    2009-09-01

    The purpose of this study was to prepare alginate microcapsules with a self-microemulsifying system (SMES) containing celecoxib in the core. An Inotech IE-50 R encapsulator equipped with a concentric nozzle was used to prepare the microcapsules. The encapsulated SMES was shown to increase celecoxib solubility over that of the pure drug more than 400-fold. Microcapsules prepared with a high SMES:celecoxib ratio exhibited distinct core vesicles containing liquid SMES. By modifying the SMES and including an additional chitosan coating, drug loading in the range from 12-40% could be achieved with the degree of encapsulation ranging from 60-82%. Alginate microcapsules loaded with SMES and celecoxib showed increased dissolution rate of celecoxib over that of alginate microcapsules loaded with celecoxib or of the celecoxib alone. Compared to the previous report, drug loading capacity was significantly improved, enabling the formulation of dosage forms which are of suitable size for peroral application.

  11. Characterization of naproxen-loaded solid SMEDDSs prepared by spray drying: the effect of the polysaccharide carrier and naproxen concentration.

    PubMed

    Čerpnjak, Katja; Zvonar, Alenka; Vrečer, Franc; Gašperlin, Mirjana

    2015-05-15

    The purpose of this study was to prepare solid SMEDDS (sSMEDDS) particles produced by spray-drying using maltodextrin (MD), hypromellose (HPMC), and a combination of the two as a solid carrier. Naproxen (NPX) as the model drug was dissolved (at 6% concentration) or partially suspended (at 18% concentration) in a liquid SMEDDS composed of Miglyol(®) 812, Peceol™, Gelucire(®) 44/14, and Solutol(®) HS 15. Among the sSMEDDSs tested, the MD-based sSMEDDSs (with a granular, smooth-surfaced, microspherical appearance) preserved the self-microemulsifying properties of liquid SMEDDSs and exhibited dissolution profiles similar to those of liquid SMEDDSs, irrespective of the concentration of NPX. In contrast, HPMC-based sSMEDDSs (irregular-shaped microparticles) exhibited slightly prolonged release times due to the polymeric nature of the carrier. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD), and Raman mapping analysis confirmed molecularly dissolved NPX (at 6% of drug loading), whereas at 18% NPX loading drug is partially molecularly dissolved and partially in the crystalline state. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  12. Manufacturing Solid Dosage Forms from Bulk Liquids Using the Fluid-bed Drying Technology.

    PubMed

    Qi, Jianping; Lu, Y I; Wu, Wei

    2015-01-01

    Solid dosage forms are better than liquid dosage forms in many ways, such as improved physical and chemical stability, ease of storage and transportation, improved handling properties, and patient compliance. Therefore, it is required to transform dosage forms of liquid origins into solid dosage forms. The functional approaches are to absorb the liquids by solid excipients or through drying. The conventional drying technologies for this purpose include drying by heating, vacuum-, freeze- and spray-drying, etc. Among these drying technologies, fluidbed drying emerges as a new technology that possesses unique advantages. Fluid-bed drying or coating is highly efficient in solvent removal, can be performed at relatively low temperatures, and is a one-step process to manufacture formulations in pellet forms. In this article, the status of the art of manufacturing solid dosage forms from bulk liquids by fluid-bed drying technology was reviewed emphasizing on its application in solid dispersion, inclusion complexes, self-microemulsifying systems, and various nanoscale drug delivery systems.

  13. Enhanced Oral Bioavailability of Pueraria Flavones by a Novel Solid Self-microemulsifying Drug Delivery System (SMEDDS) Dropping Pills.

    PubMed

    Guan, Qingxiang; Zhang, Guangyuan; Sun, Shilin; Fan, Hongbo; Sun, Cheng; Zhang, Shaoyuan

    2016-05-01

    To improve bioavailability of pueraria flavones (PF), a self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) dropping pills composed of PF, Crodamol GTCC, Maisine 35-1, Cremophor RH 40, 1,2-propylene glycol and polyethylene glycol 6000 (PEG6000) was developed. Particle size, zeta potential, morphology and in vitro drug release were investigated, respectively. Pharmacokinetics, bioavailability of PF-SMEDDS dropping pills and commercial Yufengningxin dropping pills were also evaluated and compared in rats. Puerarin treated as the representative component of PF was analyzed. Dynamic light scattering showed the ability of PF-SMEDDS dropping pills to form a nanoemulsion droplet size in aqueous media. The type of media showed no significant effects on the release rate of PF. PF-SMEDDS dropping pills were able to improve the in vitro release rate of PF, and the in vitro release of these dropping pills was significantly faster than that of Yufengningxin dropping pills. There was a dramatic difference between the mean value of t1/2, peak concentration (Cmax), the area of concentration-time curve from 0 to 6 h (AUC0-6 h) of PF-SMEDDS dropping pills and that of commercial Yufengningxin dropping pills. A pharmacokinetic study showed that the bioavailability of PF was greatly enhanced by PF-SMEDDS dropping pills. The value of Cmax and relative bioavailability of PF-SMEDDS dropping pills were dramatically improved by an average of 1.69- and 2.36-fold compared with that of Yufengningxin dropping pills after gavage administration, respectively. It was concluded that bioavailability of PF was greatly improved and that PF-SMEDDS dropping pills might be an encouraging strategy to enhance the oral bioavailability of PF.

  14. Comparison of a solid SMEDDS and solid dispersion for enhanced stability and bioavailability of clopidogrel napadisilate.

    PubMed

    Kim, Dong Wuk; Kwon, Min Seok; Yousaf, Abid Mehmood; Balakrishnan, Prabagar; Park, Jong Hyuck; Kim, Dong Shik; Lee, Beom-Jin; Park, Young Joon; Yong, Chul Soon; Kim, Jong Oh; Choi, Han-Gon

    2014-12-19

    The intention of this study was to compare the physicochemical properties, stability and bioavailability of a clopidogrel napadisilate (CN)-loaded solid dispersion (SD) and solid self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (solid SMEDDS). SD was prepared by a surface attached method using different ratios of Cremophor RH60 (surfactant) and HPMC (polymer), optimized based on their drug solubility. Liquid SMEDDS was composed of oil (peceol), a surfactant (Cremophor RH60) and a co-surfactant (Transcutol HP). A pseudo-ternary phase diagram was constructed to identify the emulsifying domain, and the optimized liquid SMEDDS was spray dried with an inert solid carrier (silicon dioxide), producing the solid SMEDDS. The physicochemical properties, solubility, dissolution, stability and pharmacokinetics were assessed and compared to clopidogrel napadisilate (CN) and bisulfate (CB) powders. In solid SMEDDS, liquid SMEDDS was absorbed or coated inside the pores of silicon dioxide. In SD, hydrophilic polymer and surfactants were adhered onto drug surface. The drug was in crystalline and molecularly dispersed form in SD and solid SMEDDS, respectively. Solid SMEDDS and SD greatly increased the solubility of CN but gave lower drug solubility compared to CB powder. These preparations significantly improved the dissolution of CN, but the latter more increased than the former. Stability under accelerated condition showed that they were more stable compared to CB powder, and SD was more stable than solid SMEDDS. They significantly increased the oral bioavailability of CN powder. Furthermore, SD showed significantly improved oral bioavailability compared to solid SMEDDS and CB powder. Thus, SD with excellent stability and bioavailability is recommended as an alternative for the clopidogrel-based oral formulation. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  15. Insulin-egg yolk dispersions in self microemulsifying system.

    PubMed

    Singnurkar, P S; Gidwani, S K

    2008-11-01

    Formulation of insulin into a microemulsion very often presents a physicochemical instability during their preparation and storage. In order to overcome this lack of stability and facilitate the handling of these colloidal systems, stabilization of insulin in presence of hydrophobic components of a microemulsion appears as the most promising strategy. The present paper reports the use of egg yolk for stabilization of insulin in self microemulsifying dispersions. Insulin loaded egg yolk self microemulsifying dispersions were prepared by lyophilization followed by dispersion into self microemulsifying vehicle. The physicochemical characterization of selfmicroemulsifying dispersions includes such as insulin encapsulation efficiency, in vitro stability of insulin in presence of proteolytic enzymes and in vitro release. The biological activity of insulin from the dispersion was estimated by enzyme-linked immunosorbant assay and in vivo using Wistar diabetic rats. The particle size ranged 1.023±0.316 μm in diameter and insulin encapsulation efficiency was 98.2±0.9 %. Insulin hydrophobic self microemulsifying dispersions suppressed insulin release in pH 7.4 phosphate buffer and shown to protect insulin from enzymatic degradation in vitro in presence of chymotripsin. Egg yolk encapsulated insulin was bioactive, demonstrated through both in vivo and in vitro.

  16. Lurasidone-β-cyclodextrin complexes: Physicochemical characterization and comparison of their antidepressant, antipsychotic activities against that of self microemulsifying formulation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Londhe, Vaishali Y.; Deshmane, Aishwarya B.; Singh, Sarita R.; Kulkarni, Yogesh A.

    2018-04-01

    Lurasidone hydrochloride (LHD) is an atypical antipsychotic drug has poor aqueous solubility and low bioavailability (9-19%). This study describes effect of different methods of complex formation with β-cyclodextrin (BCD) on enhancement of dissolution and on antidepressant, antipsychotic effects of LHD. Other purpose of this study is to compare pharmacodynamic effects of complexes with that of self microemulsifying drug delivery system of LHD (SMEDDS). Inclusion complexes (IC) of LHD and BCD were prepared by physical mixing (PM), kneading (KN) and spray drying (SD) in a 1:1 M ratio. These complexes were characterized by different techniques. KN and SD showing enhancement in dissolution, were compared with SMEDDS using Forced swim test (FST) and Tail suspension test (TST) for antidepressant action and Paw test for antipsychotic activity. Characterization of complexes confirmed interaction between LHD and BCD. Enhancement in dissolution is seen in following order SD > KN > PM > LHD. In all three animal models, SD, KN and SMEDDS showed statistically significant effect (p < .05) than drug alone showing enhancement in bioavailability. Complexation of LHD with BCD enhances dissolution which reflected in improvement of antidepressant and antipsychotic activity of drug. Solubility enhancement methods like complexation and self microemulsion improves pharmacodynamic activities of drug. Improvement of pharmacodynamic effect is seen in order, SD ≥ SMEDDS ≥ KN > LHD.

  17. Effects of process parameters on solid self-microemulsifying particles in a laboratory scale fluid bed.

    PubMed

    Mukherjee, Tusharmouli; Plakogiannis, Fotios M

    2012-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to select the critical process parameters of the fluid bed processes impacting the quality attribute of a solid self-microemulsifying (SME) system of albendazole (ABZ). A fractional factorial design (2(4-1)) with four parameters (spray rate, inlet air temperature, inlet air flow, and atomization air pressure) was created by MINITAB software. Batches were manufactured in a laboratory top-spray fluid bed at 625-g scale. Loss on drying (LOD) samples were taken throughout each batch to build the entire moisture profiles. All dried granulation were sieved using mesh 20 and analyzed for particle size distribution (PSD), morphology, density, and flow. It was found that as spray rate increased, sauter-mean diameter (D(s)) also increased. The effect of inlet air temperature on the peak moisture which is directly related to the mean particle size was found to be significant. There were two-way interactions between studied process parameters. The main effects of inlet air flow rate and atomization air pressure could not be found as the data were inconclusive. The partial least square (PLS) regression model was found significant (P < 0.01) and predictive for optimization. This study established a design space for the parameters for solid SME manufacturing process.

  18. Pharmacodynamic evaluation of self micro-emulsifying formulation of standardized extract of Lagerstroemia speciosa for antidiabetic activity.

    PubMed

    Agarwal, Vipin Kumar; Amresh, Gupta; Chandra, Phool

    Lagerstroemia speciosa (SEL) leaves are a popular folk medicine for diabetes treatment due to presence of corosolic acid. It has low water solubility resulting poor absorption after oral administration. Self micro-emulsified drug delivery system is the way by which we can improve the oral absorption of drug. The objective of this study was to develop the self micro-emulsifying formulation of standardized extract of SEL leaves and evaluate its pharmacodynamic performance for antidiabetic activity. The SME formulation was prepared by using sefsol-218 as oil, cremophor-EL as surfactant and transcutol-P as co-surfactant. The ratio of surfactant and co-surfactant was determined by pseudoternary phase diagram. SME formulations were characterized for dilution at different pH, self emulsification, optical clarity, globule size and thermodynamic stability. Pharmacodynamic evaluation of formulations was assessed in Wistar rats by using parameters viz. blood glucose level and serum lipid profile. SEL loaded SME formulation was successfully developed by using sefsol-218, cremophor-EL and transcutol-P with a droplet size 23.53 nm. Pharmacodynamic results showed a higher reduction in blood glucose by SME formulation than SEL without SMES respectively at 50 mg/kg dose while reduction produced at dose of 100 mg/kg was found significant and better on 15th day of study. The percentage reduction produced by SME formulation on serum lipid profile was also significant and was more prominent than SEL. This study confirms that the formulation elevates the pharmacodynamic performance of SEL approximately two fold. Copyright © 2017 Transdisciplinary University, Bangalore and World Ayurveda Foundation. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  19. Controversies with self-emulsifying drug delivery system from pharmacokinetic point of view.

    PubMed

    Chatterjee, Bappaditya; Hamed Almurisi, Samah; Ahmed Mahdi Dukhan, Ather; Mandal, Uttam Kumar; Sengupta, Pinaki

    2016-11-01

    Self-emulsifying drug delivery system (SEDDS) is an isotropic mixture of lipid, surfactant and co-surfactant, which forms a fine emulsion when comes in contact of an aqueous medium with mild agitation. SEDDS is considered as a potential platform for oral delivery of hydrophobic drug in order to overcome their poor and irregular bioavailability challenges. In spite of fewer advantages like improved solubility of drug, bypassing lymphatic transport etc., SEDDS faces different controversial issues such as the use of appropriate terminology (self-microemulsifying drug delivery system; SMEDDS or self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system; SNEDDS), presence of high amount of surfactant, correlation of in vitro model to in vivo studies, lack of human volunteer study and effect of conversion of SEDDS to final administrable dosage form on pharmacokinetic behavior of the drug. In this review, potential issues or questions on SEDDS are identified and summarized from the pharmacokinetic point of view. Primarily this review includes the conflict between the influences of droplet size, variation in correlation between in vitro lipolysis or ex-vivo intestinal permeation and pharmacokinetic parameters, variation in in vivo results of solid and liquid SEDDS, and potential challenges or limitation of pharmacokinetic studies on human volunteers with orally administered SEDDS. In the past decades, hundreds of in vivo studies on SEDDS have been published. In the present study, only the relevant article on in vivo pharmacokinetic studies with orally administered SEDDS published in past 5-6 years are analyzed for an up to date compilation.

  20. Preparation of a solid self-microemulsifying drug delivery system by hot-melt extrusion.

    PubMed

    Silva, Luis Antonio D; Almeida, Susana L; Alonso, Ellen C P; Rocha, Priscila B R; Martins, Felipe T; Freitas, Luís A P; Taveira, Stephania F; Cunha-Filho, Marcilio S S; Marreto, Ricardo N

    2018-04-25

    Hot-melt extrusion (HME) has gained increasing attention in the pharmaceutical industry; however, its potential in the preparation of solid self-emulsifying drug delivery systems (S-SMEDDS) is still unexplored. This study sought to prepare enteric S-SMEDDS by HME and evaluate the effects of the process and formulation variables on S-SMEDDS properties via Box-Behnken design. Liquid SMEDDS were developed, and carvedilol was used as a class II model drug. Mean size, polydispersity index (PdI) and zeta potential of the resulting microemulsions were determined. The extrudates were then obtained by blending the lipid mixture and HPMCAS using a twin-screw hot-melt extruder. SEM, optical microscopy and PXRD were used to characterize the extrudates. In vitro microemulsion reconstitution and drug release were also studied. L-SMEDDS gave rise to microemulsions with low mean size, PdI and zeta potential (140.04 ± 7.22 nm, 0.219 ± 0.011 and -9.77 ± 0.86 mV). S-SMEDDS were successfully prepared by HME, and an HMPCAS matrix was able to avoid microemulsion reconstitution and retain drug release in pH 1.2 (12.97%-25.54%). Conversely, microemulsion reconstitution and drug release were gradual in pH 6.8 and complete for some formulations. Extrudates prepared at the lowest drug concentration and highest temperature and recirculation time promoted a complete and rapid drug release in pH 6.8 giving rise to small and uniform microemulsion droplets. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  1. Comparative permeability studies with radioactive and nonradioactive risedronate sodium from self-microemulsifying drug delivery system and solution.

    PubMed

    Ilem-Ozdemir, Derya; Gundogdu, Evren; Ekinci, Meliha; Ozgenc, Emre; Asikoglu, Makbule

    2015-01-01

    The purpose of this work is to prepare a self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) for risedronate sodium (RSD) and to compare the permeability with RSD solution. The solubility of RSD was determined in different vehicles. Phase diagrams were constructed to determine the optimum concentration of oil, surfactant, and cosurfactant. RSD SMEDDS was prepared by using a mixture of soybean oil, cremophor EL, span 80, and transcutol (2.02:7.72:23.27:61.74, w/w, respectively). The prepared RSD SMEDDS was characterized by droplet size value. In vitro Caco-2 cell permeability studies were performed for SMEDDS and solution of radioactive ((99 m)Tc-labeled RSD) and nonradioactive RSD. The experimental results indicated that RSD SMEDDS has good stability and its droplet size is between 216.68 ± 3.79 and 225.26 ± 7.65 during stability time. In addition, RSD SMEDDS has higher permeability value than the RSD solution for both radioactive and nonradioactive experiments. The results illustrated the potential use of SMEDDS for delivery of poorly absorbed RSD.

  2. Combined effects of the drug distribution and mucus diffusion properties of self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems on the oral absorption of fenofibrate.

    PubMed

    Sunazuka, Yushi; Ueda, Keisuke; Higashi, Kenjirou; Tanaka, Yusuke; Moribe, Kunikazu

    2018-05-24

    We present the absorption improvement mechanism of fenofibrate (FFB), a Biopharmaceutics Classification System (BCS) class II drug, from self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems (SMEDDS), centered on improving the diffusion of FFB through the unstirred water layer (UWL). Four SMEDDS formulations containing Labrafac™ lipophile WL 1349 (WL1349) or Labrafil ® M 1944CS (M1944) oils and NIKKOL HCO-40 (HCO40) or NIKKOL HCO-60 (HCO60) surfactants were prepared. Every SMEDDS formulation formed microemulsion droplets of approximately 30 nm. In vitro tests showed that the microemulsion droplets containing M1944 had relatively small FFB solubilization capacities, causing larger amounts of FFB to be dissolved in the bulk water phase, compared to the droplets containing WL1349. The diffusivity of the microemulsion droplets through the mucin solution layer was enhanced when using HCO40 compared to HCO60. The oral absorption in rats was the highest when using the SMEDDS formulation containing M1944 and HCO40. High FFB distribution in the bulk water phase and fast diffusion of microemulsion droplets through the mucus layer contributed to the efficient delivery of FFB molecules through the UWL to the epithelial cells, leading to enhanced FFB absorption. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  3. Characterization, pharmacokinetics and tissue distribution of chlorogenic acid-loaded self-microemulsifying drug delivery system.

    PubMed

    Chen, Li; Liu, Chang-Shun; Chen, Qing-Zhen; Wang, Sen; Xiong, Yong-Ai; Jing, Jing; Lv, Jia-Jia

    2017-03-30

    The purpose of this study was to develop a self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) to improve the oral bioavailability of Chlorogenic acid (CA), an important bioactive compound from Lonicerae Japonicae Flos with poor permeability. SMEDDS was prepared and characterized by self-emulsifying rate, morphological observation, droplet size determination, stability, in vitro release, in vivo bioavailability and tissue distribution experiments. Results shown that the SMEDDS of CA has a high self-emulsifying rate (>98%) in the dissolution media, and its microemulsion exhibits small droplet size (16.37nm) and good stability. In vitro release test showed a complete release of CA from SMEDDS in 480min. After oral administration in mice, significantly enhanced bioavailability of CA was achieved through SMEDDS (249.4% relative to the CA suspension). Interestingly, SMEDDS significantly changed the tissue distribution of CA and showed a better targeting property to the kidney (2.79 of the relative intake efficiency). It is suggested that SMEDDS improves the oral bioavailability of CA may mainly through increasing its absorption and slowing the metabolism of absorbed CA via changing its distribution from the liver to the kidney. In conclusion, it is indicated that SMEDDS is a promising carrier for the oral delivery of CA. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  4. [Study on self-microemulsifying membrane controlled-release drop pill of hawthorn leaves flavonoids].

    PubMed

    Wang, Jin-Xuan; Huang, Hong-Zhang; Li, Ning; Gao, Chong-Kai

    2014-03-01

    To prepare the hawthorn leaves flavonoids self-microemulsifying membrane controlled-release coated drop pill, and to study its release rate in vitro and pharmacokinetics study in vivo. In order to improve the dissolution of hawthorn leaves flavonoids, self-microemulsifying technology was used to prepare the hawthorn leaves flavonoids self-microemulsion. Hawthorn leaves flavonoids self-microemulsifying drop pill was prepared with the PEG 6000. Studies were made on the in vitro release of flavonoids from hawthorn leaves self-micro-emulsifying membrane-moderated coated drop pills and the in vivo pharmacokinetic in rats. The prescription of flavonoids from hawthorn leaves self-micro-emulsifying drop pills was 0.25 g of flavonoids from hawthorn leaves, 0.25 g of iodophenyl maleimide, 0.375 g of polyethylene glycol 400, 0.375 g of cremophor RH 40 and 2 g of polyethylene glycol 6000. The optimized prescription was 4 g of ethyl cellulose 20, 0.64 g of polyethylene glycol 400, 1.8 g of diethyl phthalate, and the weight of coating materials increased by 3.5%. Flavonoids from hawthorn leaves self-micro-emulsifying membrane-moderated coated drop pills complied with the design of sustained-release in 12 h in terms of in vitro release and in vivo pharmacokinetic parameters in rats, and its bioavailability was 2.47 times of quick-release drop pills. Slightly soluble flavonoids from hawthorn leaves could be made into sustained-release preparations by the self-micro-emulsifying and coating technology.

  5. Inclusion of Digestible Surfactants in Solid SMEDDS Formulation Removes Lag Time and Influences the Formation of Structured Particles During Digestion.

    PubMed

    Vithani, Kapilkumar; Hawley, Adrian; Jannin, Vincent; Pouton, Colin; Boyd, Ben J

    2017-05-01

    Solid self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems (SMEDDS) have received considerable attention in recent times attempting to overcome the drawbacks of liquid SMEDDS. Earlier literature reports on solid SMEDDS have focussed on formulation development; however, the digestibility and propensity for self-assembly of the digested components with endogenous bile salts and phospholipids are unknown. Therefore, as a starting point, previously reported solid SMEDDS containing Gelucire® 44/14 (GEL) and the non-digestible surfactants, Vitamin E TPGS (TPGS) and Lutrol® F 127 (F 127), were prepared, and their dispersion and digestion behaviours were studied using an in vitro lipolysis model, coupled with small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) to determine the formed colloidal structures during digestion in real time. GEL alone was digested (89%) and formed a lamellar phase (Lα). When surfactants were added at a 40:60% w/w lipid to surfactants ratio, digestion was inhibited with a significant lag time being evident. However, increasing the fraction of GEL to 50% w/w enabled digestion with reduced lag time. The substitution of the non-digestible surfactants with digestible surfactants, sucrose esters S-1670 (S-1670) and Span® 60 (S-60), eliminated the digestion lag time, and the formation of colloidal structures was more similar to that of GEL alone.

  6. Development and optimization of a self-microemulsifying drug delivery system for atorvastatin calcium by using D-optimal mixture design.

    PubMed

    Yeom, Dong Woo; Song, Ye Seul; Kim, Sung Rae; Lee, Sang Gon; Kang, Min Hyung; Lee, Sangkil; Choi, Young Wook

    2015-01-01

    In this study, we developed and optimized a self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) formulation for improving the dissolution and oral absorption of atorvastatin calcium (ATV), a poorly water-soluble drug. Solubility and emulsification tests were performed to select a suitable combination of oil, surfactant, and cosurfactant. A D-optimal mixture design was used to optimize the concentration of components used in the SMEDDS formulation for achieving excellent physicochemical characteristics, such as small droplet size and high dissolution. The optimized ATV-loaded SMEDDS formulation containing 7.16% Capmul MCM (oil), 48.25% Tween 20 (surfactant), and 44.59% Tetraglycol (cosurfactant) significantly enhanced the dissolution rate of ATV in different types of medium, including simulated intestinal fluid, simulated gastric fluid, and distilled water, compared with ATV suspension. Good agreement was observed between predicted and experimental values for mean droplet size and percentage of the drug released in 15 minutes. Further, pharmacokinetic studies in rats showed that the optimized SMEDDS formulation considerably enhanced the oral absorption of ATV, with 3.4-fold and 4.3-fold increases in the area under the concentration-time curve and time taken to reach peak plasma concentration, respectively, when compared with the ATV suspension. Thus, we successfully developed an optimized ATV-loaded SMEDDS formulation by using the D-optimal mixture design, that could potentially be used for improving the oral absorption of poorly water-soluble drugs.

  7. Development and optimization of a self-microemulsifying drug delivery system for ator vastatin calcium by using d-optimal mixture design

    PubMed Central

    Yeom, Dong Woo; Song, Ye Seul; Kim, Sung Rae; Lee, Sang Gon; Kang, Min Hyung; Lee, Sangkil; Choi, Young Wook

    2015-01-01

    In this study, we developed and optimized a self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) formulation for improving the dissolution and oral absorption of atorvastatin calcium (ATV), a poorly water-soluble drug. Solubility and emulsification tests were performed to select a suitable combination of oil, surfactant, and cosurfactant. A d-optimal mixture design was used to optimize the concentration of components used in the SMEDDS formulation for achieving excellent physicochemical characteristics, such as small droplet size and high dissolution. The optimized ATV-loaded SMEDDS formulation containing 7.16% Capmul MCM (oil), 48.25% Tween 20 (surfactant), and 44.59% Tetraglycol (cosurfactant) significantly enhanced the dissolution rate of ATV in different types of medium, including simulated intestinal fluid, simulated gastric fluid, and distilled water, compared with ATV suspension. Good agreement was observed between predicted and experimental values for mean droplet size and percentage of the drug released in 15 minutes. Further, pharmacokinetic studies in rats showed that the optimized SMEDDS formulation considerably enhanced the oral absorption of ATV, with 3.4-fold and 4.3-fold increases in the area under the concentration-time curve and time taken to reach peak plasma concentration, respectively, when compared with the ATV suspension. Thus, we successfully developed an optimized ATV-loaded SMEDDS formulation by using the d-optimal mixture design, that could potentially be used for improving the oral absorption of poorly water-soluble drugs. PMID:26089663

  8. Evaluation of critical formulation parameters in design and differentiation of self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems (SMEDDSs) for oral delivery of aciclovir.

    PubMed

    Janković, Jovana; Djekic, Ljiljana; Dobričić, Vladimir; Primorac, Marija

    2016-01-30

    The study investigated the influence of formulation parameters for design of self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems (SMEDDSs) comprising oil (medium chain triglycerides) (10%), surfactant (Labrasol(®), polysorbate 20, or Kolliphor(®) RH40), cosurfactant (Plurol(®) Oleique CC 497) (q.s. ad 100%), and cosolvent (glycerol or macrogol 400) (20% or 30%), and evaluate their potential as carriers for oral delivery of a poorly permeable antivirotic aciclovir (acyclovir). The drug loading capacity of the prepared formulations ranged from 0.18-31.66 mg/ml. Among a total of 60 formulations, three formulations meet the limits for average droplet size (Z-ave) and polydispersity index (PdI) that have been set for SMEDDSs (Z-ave≤100nm, PdI<0.250) upon spontaneous dispersion in 0.1M HCl and phosphate buffer pH 7.2. SMEDDSs with the highest aciclovir loading capacity (24.06 mg/ml and 21.12 mg/ml) provided the in vitro drug release rates of 0.325 mg cm(-2)min(-1) and 0.323 mg cm(-2)min(-1), respectively, and significantly enhanced drug permeability in the parallel artificial membrane permeability assay (PAMPA), in comparison with the pure drug substance. The results revealed that development of SMEDDSs with enhanced drug loading capacity and oral delivery potential, required optimization of hydrophilic ingredients, in terms of size of hydrophilic moiety of the surfactant, surfactant-to-cosurfactant mass ratio (Km), and log P of the cosolvent. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  9. [Optimization and characterization of curcumin-piperine dual drug loaded self-microemulsifying drug delivery system by simplex lattice design].

    PubMed

    Li, Qiu-Ping; Dai, Jun-Dong; Zhai, Wen-Wen; Jiang, Qiao-Li

    2014-10-01

    The objective of the study was to prepare and evaluate the quality of curcumin-piperinedual drug loaded self-microemulsifying drug delivery system(Cur-PIP-SMEDDS). Simplex lattice design was constructed using optimal oil phase, surfactant and co-surfactant concentration as independent variables, and the curcumin and piperine were used as model drugs to optimize Cur-PIP-SMEDDS formulation. In the present study, the drug loadings of curcumin and piperine, mean particle size of Cur-PIP-SMEDDS were made as indicators, and the experiment design, model building and response surface analysis were established using Design Expert 8. 06 software to optimize and verify the composition of SMEDDS formulation. The quality of Cur-PIP-SMEDDS was evaluated by observing the appearance status, transmission electron microscope micrographs and determining particle diameter, electric potential, drug entrapment efficiency and drug loading of it. As a result, the optimal formulation of SMEDDS was CapryoL 90-Cremophor RH40-TranscutoL HP (10:60:30). The appearance of Cur-PIP-SMEDDS remained clarified and transparent, and the microemulsion droplets appeared spherical without aggregation with uniform particle size distribution. The mean size of microemulsion droplet formed from Cur-PIP-SMEDDS was 15.33 nm, the drug loading of SMEDDS for Cur and PIP were 40.90 mg · g(-1) and 0.97 mg · g(-1), respectively, the drug entrapment efficiency were 94.98% and 90.96%, respectively. The results show that Cur-PIP-SMEDDS can increase the solubility and stability of curcumin significantly, in the expectation of enhancing the bioavailability of it. Taken together, these findings can provide the reference to a preferable choice of the Cur formulation and contribute to therapeutic application in clinical research.

  10. Enhanced oral bioavailability of valsartan using a polymer-based supersaturable self-microemulsifying drug delivery system.

    PubMed

    Yeom, Dong Woo; Chae, Bo Ram; Son, Ho Yong; Kim, Jin Han; Chae, Jun Soo; Song, Seh Hyon; Oh, Dongho; Choi, Young Wook

    2017-01-01

    A novel, supersaturable self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (S-SMEDDS) was successfully formulated to enhance the dissolution and oral absorption of valsartan (VST), a poorly water-soluble drug, while reducing the total quantity for administration. Poloxamer 407 is a selectable, supersaturating agent for VST-containing SMEDDS composed of 10% Capmul ® MCM, 45% Tween ® 20, and 45% Transcutol ® P. The amounts of SMEDDS and Poloxamer 407 were chosen as formulation variables for a 3-level factorial design. Further optimization was established by weighting different levels of importance on response variables for dissolution and total quantity, resulting in an optimal S-SMEDDS in large quantity (S-SMEDDS_LQ; 352 mg in total) and S-SMEDDS in reduced quantity (S-SMEDDS_RQ; 144.6 mg in total). Good agreement was observed between predicted and experimental values for response variables. Consequently, compared with VST powder or suspension and SMEDDS, both S-SMEDDS_LQ and S-SMEDDS_RQ showed excellent in vitro dissolution and in vivo oral bioavailability in rats. The magnitude of dissolution and absorption-enhancing capacities using quantity-based comparisons was in the order S-SMEDDS_RQ > S-SMEDDS_LQ > SMEDDS > VST powder or suspension. Thus, we concluded that, in terms of developing an effective SMEDDS preparation with minimal total quantity, S-SMEDDS_RQ is a promising candidate.

  11. A Critical Appraisal of Solubility Enhancement Techniques of Polyphenols

    PubMed Central

    Kaur, Harkiran; Kaur, Gurpreet

    2014-01-01

    Polyphenols constitute a family of natural substances distributed widely in plant kingdom. These are produced as secondary metabolites by plants and so far 8000 representatives of this family have been identified. Recently, there is an increased interest in the polyphenols because of the evidence of their role in prevention of degenerative diseases such as neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases. Although a large number of drugs are available in the market for treatment of these diseases, however, the emphasis these days is on the exploitation of natural principles derived from plants. Most polyphenols show low in vivo bioavailability thus limiting their application for oral drug delivery. This low bioavailability could be associated with low aqueous solubility, first pass effect, metabolism in GIT, or irreversible binding to cellular DNA and proteins. Therefore, there is a need to devise strategies to improve oral bioavailability of polyphenols. Various approaches like nanosizing, self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems (SMEDDS), microencapsulation, complexation, and solid dispersion can be used to increase the bioavailability. This paper will highlight the various methods that have been employed till date for the solubility enhancement of various polyphenols so that a suitable drug delivery system can be formulated. PMID:26556188

  12. Self-microemulsifying drug delivery system improves curcumin dissolution and bioavailability.

    PubMed

    Wu, Xuemei; Xu, Jianhua; Huang, Xiuwang; Wen, Caixia

    2011-01-01

    Curcumin has a wide spectrum of biological and pharmacological activities, but it has not yet been approved as a therapeutic agent because of its low solubility and stability in aqueous solution, and the relatively low bioavailability in vivo. To overcome these limitations, self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) of curcumin was developed. Various oils, surfactants, and cosurfactants were selected to optimize the formulation. Pseudoternary phase diagrams were constructed and orthogonal design was used to compare the oil-in-water (o/w) microemulsion-forming capacity of different oils/surfactants/cosurfactants. The solubility of curcumin in various oils and cosurfactants was determined to find suitable ingredients with a good solubilizing capacity. Droplet size was measured to obtain the concentration of oil, surfactant, and cosurfactant for forming stable microemulsion. Furthermore, its quality and bioavailability in mice were assessed. Pseudoternary phase diagrams and solubility test showed that the formulation of SMEDDS composed of 20% ethanol, 60% Cremophor RH40®, and 20% isopropyl myristate, in which the concentration of curcumin reached 50 mg/mL. Curcumin was released completely from SMEDDS at 10 minutes. The developed SMEDDS formulation improved the oral bioavailability of curcumin significantly, and the relative oral bioavailability of SMEDDS compared with curcumin suspension was 1213%. The SMEDDS can significantly increase curcumin dissolution in vitro and bioavailability in vivo.

  13. Self-microemulsifying drug delivery system and nanoemulsion for enhancing aqueous miscibility of Alpinia galanga oil.

    PubMed

    Khumpirapang, Nattakanwadee; Pikulkaew, Surachai; Müllertz, Anette; Rades, Thomas; Okonogi, Siriporn

    2017-01-01

    Alpinia galanga oil (AGO) possesses various activities but low aqueous solubility limits its application particularly in aquatic animals. AGO has powerful activity on fish anesthesia. Ethanol used for enhancing water miscible of AGO always shows severe side effects on fish. The present study explores the development of self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems (SMEDDS) and nanoemulsions (NE) to deliver AGO for fish anesthesia with less or no alcohol. Pseudoternary phase diagrams were constructed to identify the best SMEDDS-AGO formulation, whereas NE-AGO were developed by means of high-energy emulsification. The mean droplet size of the best SMEDDS-AGO was 82 ± 0.5 nm whereas that of NE-AGO was 48 ± 1.6 nm. The anesthetic effect of the developed SMEDDS-AGO and NE-AGO in koi (Cyprinus carpio) was evaluated and compared with AGO ethanolic solution (EtOH-AGO). It was found that the time of induction the fish to reach the surgical stage of anesthesia was dose dependent. NE-AGO showed significantly higher activity than SMEDDS-AGO and EtOH-AGO, respectively. EtOH-AGO caused unwanted hyperactivity in the fish. This side effect did not occur in the fish anesthetized with SMEDDS-AGO and NE-AGO. In conclusion, SMEDDS and NE are promising delivery systems for AGO.

  14. Self-microemulsifying drug delivery system and nanoemulsion for enhancing aqueous miscibility of Alpinia galanga oil

    PubMed Central

    Khumpirapang, Nattakanwadee; Pikulkaew, Surachai; Müllertz, Anette; Rades, Thomas

    2017-01-01

    Alpinia galanga oil (AGO) possesses various activities but low aqueous solubility limits its application particularly in aquatic animals. AGO has powerful activity on fish anesthesia. Ethanol used for enhancing water miscible of AGO always shows severe side effects on fish. The present study explores the development of self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems (SMEDDS) and nanoemulsions (NE) to deliver AGO for fish anesthesia with less or no alcohol. Pseudoternary phase diagrams were constructed to identify the best SMEDDS-AGO formulation, whereas NE-AGO were developed by means of high-energy emulsification. The mean droplet size of the best SMEDDS-AGO was 82 ± 0.5 nm whereas that of NE-AGO was 48 ± 1.6 nm. The anesthetic effect of the developed SMEDDS-AGO and NE-AGO in koi (Cyprinus carpio) was evaluated and compared with AGO ethanolic solution (EtOH-AGO). It was found that the time of induction the fish to reach the surgical stage of anesthesia was dose dependent. NE-AGO showed significantly higher activity than SMEDDS-AGO and EtOH-AGO, respectively. EtOH-AGO caused unwanted hyperactivity in the fish. This side effect did not occur in the fish anesthetized with SMEDDS-AGO and NE-AGO. In conclusion, SMEDDS and NE are promising delivery systems for AGO. PMID:29190663

  15. The enhanced inhibitory effect of different antitumor agents in self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems on human cervical cancer HeLa cells.

    PubMed

    Ujhelyi, Zoltán; Kalantari, Azin; Vecsernyés, Miklós; Róka, Eszter; Fenyvesi, Ferenc; Póka, Róbert; Kozma, Bence; Bácskay, Ildikó

    2015-07-21

    The aim of this study was to develop topical self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems (SMEDDS) containing antitumor agents (bleomycin, cisplatin and ifosfamide) and to investigate their inhibitory potential in SMEDDS on human cervical cancer HeLa cells. The physicochemical properties of cytostatic drug loaded SMEDDS were characterized. The cytotoxicity of main components of SMEDDS was also investigated. Their IC50 values were determined. HeLa cells were treated by different concentrations of cisplatin, bleomycin and ifosfamide alone and in various SMEDDS. The inhibitory effect on cell growth was analyzed by MTT cell viability assay. Inflammation is a driving force that accelerates cancer development. The inhibitory effect of these antitumor agents has also been tested on HeLa cells in the presence of inflammatory mediators (IL-1-β, TNF-α) as an in vitro model of inflamed human cervix. Significant differences in the cytotoxicity of cytostatic drugs alone and in SMEDDS have been found in a concentration-dependent manner. The self-micro emulsifying system may potentiate the effectiveness of bleomycin, cisplatin and ifosfamide topically. The effect of SMEDDS containing antitumor agents was decreased significantly in the presence of inflammatory mediators. According to our experiments, the optimal SMEDDS formulation is 1:1:2:6:2 ratios of Isopropyl myristate, Capryol 90, Kolliphor RH 40, Cremophor RH40, Transcutol HP and Labrasol. It can be concluded that SMEDDS may increase the inhibitory effect of bleomycin, ifosfamide and cisplatin on human cervical cancer HeLa cells. Inflammation on HeLa cells hinders the effectiveness of SMEDDS containing antitumor agents. Our results might ensure useful data for development of optimal antitumor formulations.

  16. High drug loading self-microemulsifying/micelle formulation: design by high-throughput formulation screening system and in vivo evaluation.

    PubMed

    Sakai, Kenichi; Obata, Kouki; Yoshikawa, Mayumi; Takano, Ryusuke; Shibata, Masaki; Maeda, Hiroyuki; Mizutani, Akihiko; Terada, Katsuhide

    2012-10-01

    To design a high drug loading formulation of self-microemulsifying/micelle system. A poorly-soluble model drug (CH5137291), 8 hydrophilic surfactants (HS), 10 lipophilic surfactants (LS), 5 oils, and PEG400 were used. A high loading formulation was designed by a following stepwise approach using a high-throughput formulation screening (HTFS) system: (1) an oil/solvent was selected by solubility of the drug; (2) a suitable HS for highly loading was selected by the screenings of emulsion/micelle size and phase stability in binary systems (HS, oil/solvent) with increasing loading levels; (3) a LS that formed a broad SMEDDS/micelle area on a phase diagram containing the HS and oil/solvent was selected by the same screenings; (4) an optimized formulation was selected by evaluating the loading capacity of the crystalline drug. Aqueous solubility behavior and oral absorption (Beagle dog) of the optimized formulation were compared with conventional formulations (jet-milled, PEG400). As an optimized formulation, d-α-tocopheryl polyoxyethylene 1000 succinic ester: PEG400 = 8:2 was selected, and achieved the target loading level (200 mg/mL). The formulation formed fine emulsion/micelle (49.1 nm), and generated and maintained a supersaturated state at a higher level compared with the conventional formulations. In the oral absorption test, the area under the plasma concentration-time curve of the optimized formulation was 16.5-fold higher than that of the jet-milled formulation. The high loading formulation designed by the stepwise approach using the HTFS system improved the oral absorption of the poorly-soluble model drug.

  17. Improved oral bioavailability of poorly water-soluble indirubin by a supersaturatable self-microemulsifying drug delivery system.

    PubMed

    Chen, Zhi-Qiang; Liu, Ying; Zhao, Ji-Hui; Wang, Lan; Feng, Nian-Ping

    2012-01-01

    Indirubin, isolated from the leaves of the Chinese herb Isatis tinctoria L, is a protein kinase inhibitor and promising antitumor agent. However, the poor water solubility of indirubin has limited its application. In this study, a supersaturatable self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (S-SMEDDS) was developed to improve the oral bioavailability of indirubin. A prototype S-SMEDDS was designed using solubility studies and phase diagram construction. Precipitation inhibitors were selected from hydrophilic polymers according to their crystallization-inhibiting capacity through in vitro precipitation tests. In vitro release of indirubin from S-SMEDDS was examined to investigate its likely release behavior in vivo. The in vivo bioavailability of indirubin from S-SMEDDS and from SMEDDS was compared in rats. The prototype formulation of S-SMEDDS comprised Maisine™ 35-1:Cremophor(®) EL:Transcutol(®) P (15:40:45, w/w/w). Polyvinylpyrrolidone K17, a hydrophilic polymer, was used as a precipitation inhibitor based on its better crystallization-inhibiting capacity compared with polyethylene glycol 4000 and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose. In vitro release analysis showed more rapid drug release from S-SMEDDS than from SMEDDS. In vivo bioavailability analysis in rats indicated that improved oral absorption was achieved and that the relative bioavailability of S-SMEDDS was 129.5% compared with SMEDDS. The novel S-SMEDDS developed in this study increased the dissolution rate and improved the oral bioavailability of indirubin in rats. The results suggest that S-SMEDDS is a superior means of oral delivery of indirubin.

  18. Examination of oral absorption and lymphatic transport of halofantrine in a triple-cannulated canine model after administration in self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems (SMEDDS) containing structured triglycerides.

    PubMed

    Holm, René; Porter, Christopher J H; Edwards, Glenn A; Müllertz, Anette; Kristensen, Henning G; Charman, William N

    2003-09-01

    The potential for lipidic self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems (SMEDDS) containing triglycerides with a defined structure, where the different fatty acids on the glycerol backbone exhibit different metabolic fate, to improve the lymphatic transport and the portal absorption of a poorly water-soluble drug, halofantrine, were investigated in fasted lymph cannulated canines. Two different structured triglycerides were incorporated into the SMEDDS; 1,3-dioctanoyl-2-linoleyl-sn-glycerol (C8:0-C18:2-C8:0) (MLM) and 1,3-dilinoyl-2-octanoyl-sn-glycerol (C18:2-C8:0-C18:2) (LML). A previously optimised SMEDDS formulation for halofantrine, comprising of triglyceride, Cremophor EL, Maisine 35-1 and ethanol was selected for bioavailability assessment. The extent of lymphatic transport via the thoracic duct was 17.9% of the dose for the animals dosed with the MLM SMEDDS and 27.4% for LML. Also the plasma availability was affected by the triglyceride incorporated into the multi-component delivery system and availabilities of 56.9% (MLM) and 37.2% (LML) were found. These data indicate that the pharmaceutical scientist can use the structure of the lipid to affect the relative contribution of the two absorption pathways. The MLM formulation produced a total bioavailability of 74.9%, which is higher than the total absorption previously observed after post-prandial administration. This could indicate the utility of disperse lipid-base formulations based on structured triglycerides for the oral delivery of halofantrine, and potentially other lipophilic drugs.

  19. Effect of different polysorbates on development of self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems using medium chain lipids.

    PubMed

    Shah, Ankita; Thool, Prajwal; Sorathiya, Komal; Prajapati, Hetal; Dalrymple, Damon; Serajuddin, Abu T M

    2018-02-01

    The primary objective of this study was to develop lipid-based self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems (SMEDDS) without using any organic cosolvents that would spontaneously form microemulsions upon dilution with water. Cosolvents were avoided to prevent possible precipitation of drug upon dilution and other stability issues. Different polysorbates, namely, Tween 20, Tween 40, Tween 60, and Tween 80, were used as surfactants, and Captex 355 EP/NF (glycerol tricaprylate/caprate) or its 1:1 mixture with Capmul MCM NF (glycerol monocaprylocaprate) were used as lipids. Captex 355-Tween-water ternary phase diagrams showed that oil-in-water microemulsions were formed only when the surfactant content was high (80-90%) and the lipid content low (10-20%). Thus, mixtures of Tweens with Captex 355 alone were not suitable to prepare SMEDDS with substantial lipid contents. However, when Captex 355 was replaced with the 1:1 mixture of Captex 355 and Capmul MCM, clear isotropic microemulsion regions in phase diagrams with sizes in the increasing order of Tween 20 < Tween 40 < Tween 60 < Tween 80 were obtained. Tween 80 had the most profound effect among all surfactants as microemulsions were formed with lipid to surfactant ratios as high as 7:3, which may be attributed to the presence of double bond in its side chain that increased the curvature of surfactant layer. Thus, lipid-surfactant mixtures containing 1:1 mixture of medium chain triglyceride (Captex 355) and monoglyceride (Capmul MCM) and as low as 30% Tween 80 were identified as organic cosolvent-free systems for the preparation of SMEDDS. Formulations with a model drug, probucol, dispersed spontaneously and rapidly upon dilution with water to form microemulsions without any drug precipitation.

  20. Formulation and statistical optimization of self-microemulsifying drug delivery system of eprosartan mesylate for improvement of oral bioavailability.

    PubMed

    Dangre, Pankaj; Gilhotra, Ritu; Dhole, Shashikant

    2016-10-01

    The present investigation is aimed to design a statistically optimized self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) of eprosartan mesylate (EM). Preliminary screening was carried out to find a suitable combination of various excipients for the formulation. A 3(2) full factorial design was employed to determine the effect of various independent variables on dependent (response) variables. The independent variables studied in the present work were concentration of oil (X 1) and the ratio of S mix (X 2), whereas the dependent variables were emulsification time (s), globule size (nm), polydispersity index (pdi), and zeta potential (mV), and the multiple linear regression analysis (MLRA) was employed to understand the influence of independent variables on dependent variables. Furthermore, a numerical optimization technique using the desirability function was used to develop a new optimized formulation with desired values of dependent variables. The optimized SMEDDS formulation of eprosartan mesylate (EMF-O) by the above method exhibited emulsification time, 118.45 ± 1.64 s; globule size, 196.81 ± 1.29 nm; zeta potential, -9.34 ± 1.2 mV, and polydispersity index, 0.354 ± 0.02. For the in vitro dissolution study, the optimized formulation (EMF-O) and pure drug were separately entrapped in the dialysis bag, and the study indicated higher release of the drug from EMF-O. In vivo pharmacokinetic studies in Wistar rats using PK solver software revealed 2.1-fold increment in oral bioavailability of EM from EMF-O, when compared with plain suspension of pure drug.

  1. Novel gastroretentive sustained-release tablet of tacrolimus based on self-microemulsifying mixture: in vitro evaluation and in vivo bioavailability test.

    PubMed

    Wang, Yan-ping; Gan, Yong; Zhang, Xin-xin

    2011-10-01

    To develop a novel gastroretentive drug delivery system based on a self-microemulsifying (SME) lipid mixture for improving the oral absorption of the immunosuppressant tacrolimus. Liquid SME mixture, composed of Cremophor RH40 and monocaprylin glycerate, was blended with polyethylene oxide, chitosan, polyvinylpyrrolidone and mannitol, and then transformed into tablets via granulation, with ethanol as the wetting agent. The tablets were characterized in respect of swelling, bioadhesive and SME properties. In vitro dissolution was conducted using an HCl buffer at pH 1.2. Oral bioavailability of the tablets was examined in fasted beagle dogs. The tablet could expand to 13.5 mm in diameter and 15 mm in thickness during the initial 20 min of contact with the HCl buffer at pH 1.2. The bioadhesive strength was as high as 0.98±0.06 N/cm(2). The SME gastroretentive sustained-release tablets preserved the SME capability of the liquid SME formations under transmission electron microscope. The drug-release curve was fit to the zero-order release model, which was helpful in reducing fluctuations in blood concentration. Compared with the commercially available capsules of tacrolimus, the relative bioavailability of the SME gastroretentive sustained-release tablets was 553.4%±353.8%. SME gastroretentive sustained-release tablets can enhance the oral bioavailability of tacrolimus with poor solubility and a narrow absorption window.

  2. A novel folate-modified self-microemulsifying drug delivery system of curcumin for colon targeting.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Lin; Zhu, Weiwei; Yang, Chunfen; Guo, Hongxia; Yu, Aihua; Ji, Jianbo; Gao, Yan; Sun, Min; Zhai, Guangxi

    2012-01-01

    The objective of this study was to prepare, characterize, and evaluate a folate-modified self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (FSMEDDS) with the aim to improve the solubility of curcumin and its delivery to the colon, facilitating endocytosis of FSMEDDS mediated by folate receptors on colon cancer cells. Ternary phase diagrams were constructed in order to obtain the most efficient self-emulsification region, and the formulation of curcumin-loaded SMEDDS was optimized by a simplex lattice experiment design. Then, three lipophilic folate derivatives (folate-polyethylene glycol-distearoylphosphatidylethanolamine, folate-polyethylene glycol-cholesteryl hemisuccinate, and folate-polyethylene glycol-cholesterol) used as a surfactant were added to curcumin-loaded SMEDDS formulations. An in situ colon perfusion method in rats was used to optimize the formulation of FSMEDDS. Curcumin-loaded FSMEDDS was then filled into colon-targeted capsules and the in vitro release was investigated. Cytotoxicity studies and cellular uptake studies was used in this research. The optimal formulation of FSMEDDS obtained with the established in situ colon perfusion method in rats was comprised of 57.5% Cremophor(®) EL, 32.5% Transcutol(®) HP, 10% Capryol™ 90, and a small amount of folate-polyethylene glycol-cholesteryl hemisuccinate (the weight ratio of folate materials to Cremophor EL was 1:100). The in vitro release results indicated that the obtained formulation of curcumin could reach the colon efficiently and release the drug immediately. Cellular uptake studies analyzed with fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry indicated that the FSMEDDS formulation could efficiently bind with the folate receptors on the surface of positive folate receptors cell lines. In addition, FSMEDDS showed greater cytotoxicity than SMEDDS in the above two cells. FSMEDDS-filled colon-targeted capsules are a potential carrier for colon delivery of curcumin.

  3. Self-nanoemulsifying performance of two grades of Lauroglycol (Lauroglycol-90 and Lauroglycol-FCC) in the presence of mixed nonionic surfactants.

    PubMed

    Shakeel, Faiyaz; Haq, Nazrul; Alanazi, Fars K; Alsarra, Ibrahim A

    2014-11-01

    The present study was undertaken to evaluate the impact of various combinations of nonionic surfactants on self-nanoemulsifying performance of two grades of Lauroglycol (Lauroglycol-90 and Lauroglycol-FCC) in glibenclamide (GBN) nanoemulsion. Formulations (L1-L30) were prepared by spontaneous emulsification method. Prepared formulations were subjected to thermodynamic stability and self-nanoemulsification test. Results of thermodynamic stability and self-nanoemulsification tests were confirmed by further characterization of these formulations in terms of droplet size, viscosity, refractive index and % transmittance. Formulations prepared with Labrasol, HCO-60 and Gelucire-44/14 were found to be suitable for self-emulsifying drug delivery system only whereas those prepared with Tween-80 and Cremophor-EL were found to be suitable for self-nanoemulsifying or self-microemulsifying drug delivery system of GBN with respect to Lauroglycol-90 or Lauroglycol-FCC. Formulation L24 (Lauroglycol-FCC/Tween-80/ethanol/water) was optimized as best formulation for self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system of GBN. These results indicated that Tween-80 could be the best surfactant in terms of self-nanoemulsification.

  4. Improved oral bioavailability of poorly water-soluble indirubin by a supersaturatable self-microemulsifying drug delivery system

    PubMed Central

    Chen, Zhi-Qiang; Liu, Ying; Zhao, Ji-Hui; Wang, Lan; Feng, Nian-Ping

    2012-01-01

    Background Indirubin, isolated from the leaves of the Chinese herb Isatis tinctoria L, is a protein kinase inhibitor and promising antitumor agent. However, the poor water solubility of indirubin has limited its application. In this study, a supersaturatable self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (S-SMEDDS) was developed to improve the oral bioavailability of indirubin. Methods A prototype S-SMEDDS was designed using solubility studies and phase diagram construction. Precipitation inhibitors were selected from hydrophilic polymers according to their crystallization-inhibiting capacity through in vitro precipitation tests. In vitro release of indirubin from S-SMEDDS was examined to investigate its likely release behavior in vivo. The in vivo bioavailability of indirubin from S-SMEDDS and from SMEDDS was compared in rats. Results The prototype formulation of S-SMEDDS comprised Maisine™ 35-1:Cremophor® EL:Transcutol® P (15:40:45, w/w/w). Polyvinylpyrrolidone K17, a hydrophilic polymer, was used as a precipitation inhibitor based on its better crystallization-inhibiting capacity compared with polyethylene glycol 4000 and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose. In vitro release analysis showed more rapid drug release from S-SMEDDS than from SMEDDS. In vivo bioavailability analysis in rats indicated that improved oral absorption was achieved and that the relative bioavailability of S-SMEDDS was 129.5% compared with SMEDDS. Conclusion The novel S-SMEDDS developed in this study increased the dissolution rate and improved the oral bioavailability of indirubin in rats. The results suggest that S-SMEDDS is a superior means of oral delivery of indirubin. PMID:22403491

  5. Lipid Nanocarriers for Oral Delivery of Serenoa repens CO2 Extract: A Study of Microemulsion and Self-Microemulsifying Drug Delivery Systems.

    PubMed

    Guccione, Clizia; Bergonzi, Maria Camilla; Awada, Khaled M; Piazzini, Vieri; Bilia, Anna Rita

    2018-07-01

    The aim of this study was the development and characterization of lipid nanocarriers using food grade components for oral delivery of Serenoa repens CO 2 extract, namely microemulsions (MEs) and self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems (SMEDDSs) to improve the oral absorption. A commercial blend (CB) containing 320 of S. repens CO 2 extract plus the aqueous soluble extracts of nettle root and pineapple stem was formulated in two MEs and two SMEDDSs. The optimized ME loaded with the CB (CBM2) had a very low content of water (only 17.3%). The drug delivery systems were characterized by dynamic light scattering, transmission electron microscopy, and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with a diode-array detector analyses in order to evaluate the size, the homogeneity, the morphology, and the encapsulation efficiency. β -carotene was selected as marker for the quantitative HPLC analysis. Additionally, physical and chemical stabilities were acceptable during 3 wk at 4 °C. Stability of these nanocarriers in simulated stomach and intestinal conditions was proved. Finally, the improvement of oral absorption of S. repens was studied in vitro using parallel artificial membrane permeability assay. An enhancement of oral permeation was found in both CBM2 and CBS2 nanoformulations comparing with the CB and S. repens CO 2 extract. The best performance was obtained by the CBM2 nanoformulation (~ 17%) predicting a 30 - 70% passive oral human absorption in vivo . Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

  6. In Situ Lipidization as a New Approach for the Design of a Self Microemulsifying Drug Delivery System (SMEDDS) of Doxorubicin Hydrochloride for Oral Administration.

    PubMed

    Derajram M Benival, M; Devarajan, Padma V

    2015-05-01

    The present paper reports in situ lipidization as a novel approach for the design of Dox-self microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS). Dox-aerosol OT (AOT) ion pair complex (lipidized Dox), exhibited high log P value of 1.74, indicating lipophilic nature. The lipidized Dox revealed good solubility but limited stability in various oils. Rapid complex formation of Dox with AOT dissolved in oils, and the high partitioning of lipidized Dox (-90%) into the oily phase presented in situ lipidization as a strategy to overcome the limited chemical stability of lipidized Dox. SMEDDS was prepared by mixing the lipidizing agent AOT, the surfactant α-Tocopheryl-Polyethyleneglycol-1 000-Succinate (TPGS) and Capmul as the oil. Dox was suspended in the SMEDDS to obtain Dox-SMEDDS. Dox-SMEDDS on aqueous dilution, resulted in a microemulsion with globule size 196 ± 16.56 nm, and revealed slow release of Dox. Oral bioavailability study in rats revealed a 420% enhancement from Dox-SMEDDS compared to Dox solution. Dox-SMEDDS and control group revealed comparable superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in heart and kidneys suggesting safety of the Dox-SMEDDS. Efficacy study (tumor size reduction) in fibrosarcoma mouse model suggested Dox-SMEDDS as a promising oral delivery system for the treatment of cancer. In situ lipidization of Dox in SMEDDS presents a novel approach for the design of an orally bioavailable and promising formulation of Dox for oral administration.

  7. Novel gastroretentive sustained-release tablet of tacrolimus based on self-microemulsifying mixture: in vitro evaluation and in vivo bioavailability test

    PubMed Central

    Wang, Yan-ping; Gan, Yong; Zhang, Xin-xin

    2011-01-01

    Aim: To develop a novel gastroretentive drug delivery system based on a self-microemulsifying (SME) lipid mixture for improving the oral absorption of the immunosuppressant tacrolimus. Methods: Liquid SME mixture, composed of Cremophor RH40 and monocaprylin glycerate, was blended with polyethylene oxide, chitosan, polyvinylpyrrolidone and mannitol, and then transformed into tablets via granulation, with ethanol as the wetting agent. The tablets were characterized in respect of swelling, bioadhesive and SME properties. In vitro dissolution was conducted using an HCl buffer at pH 1.2. Oral bioavailability of the tablets was examined in fasted beagle dogs. Results: The tablet could expand to 13.5 mm in diameter and 15 mm in thickness during the initial 20 min of contact with the HCl buffer at pH 1.2. The bioadhesive strength was as high as 0.98±0.06 N/cm2. The SME gastroretentive sustained-release tablets preserved the SME capability of the liquid SME formations under transmission electron microscope. The drug-release curve was fit to the zero-order release model, which was helpful in reducing fluctuations in blood concentration. Compared with the commercially available capsules of tacrolimus, the relative bioavailability of the SME gastroretentive sustained-release tablets was 553.4%±353.8%. Conclusion: SME gastroretentive sustained-release tablets can enhance the oral bioavailability of tacrolimus with poor solubility and a narrow absorption window. PMID:21927013

  8. A Novel Self-Microemulsifying System for the Simultaneous Delivery and Enhanced Oral Absorption of Curcumin and Resveratrol.

    PubMed

    Jaisamut, Patcharawalai; Wiwattanawongsa, Kamonthip; Wiwattanapatapee, Ruedeekorn

    2017-03-01

    The use of curcumin and resveratrol in combination has now become increasingly of interest because of their synergistic effects as therapeutic agents for various diseases, especially cancer. To overcome the poor oral bioavailability of both compounds and improve patient compliance, a novel self-microemulsifying formulation containing curcumin together with resveratrol was developed. Capryol 90, Cremophor EL, and Labrasol were selected as the oil, surfactant, and co-surfactant in the formulation, respectively, based on the solubility study of both compounds. More than 70 % and 80 % of curcumin and resveratrol, respectively, were released in 20 min. The formulation formed a fine oil in water microemulsion with droplet sizes in aqueous media of 15-20 nm. In addition, the formulation containing curcumin and resveratrol showed greater antioxidant activity than that of the formulations with individual compounds, while the cytotoxic activity against HT-29 of the co-formulation (IC 50  = 18.25 µM; curcumin and resveratrol in the ratio 1 : 1) was less than the formulation with only curcumin (IC 50  = 30.1 µM) and only resveratrol (IC 50  = 25.4 µM). After oral administration to rabbits, the self-microemulsifying formulation containing curcumin together with resveratrol increased the total plasma concentrations of curcumin and resveratrol by 10-fold and 6-fold, respectively, compared to the unformulated combination. This study clearly demonstrated the potential use of the self-microemulsifying formulation for co-delivery, and enhanced oral absorption of poorly water-soluble natural compounds. In addition, the combination was found to produce synergistic antioxidant activity and cytotoxicity against HT-29 cells. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

  9. Bromocriptine tablet of self-microemulsifying system adsorbed onto porous carrier to stimulate lipoproteins secretion for brain cellular uptake.

    PubMed

    Thongrangsalit, Sirigul; Phaechamud, Thawatchai; Lipipun, Vimolmas; Ritthidej, Garnpimol C

    2015-07-01

    Both low solubility and high hepatic metabolism cause low oral bioavailability of bromocriptine mesylate (BM) leading to very low drug amount in brain. Self-microemulsion (SME) tablets were developed to improve solubility, stimulate lipoprotein synthesis to promote lymphatic transport, avoid hepatic metabolism and target drug to brain. SME liquid containing castor oil, Tween(®) 80 and Cremophor(®) EL was prepared and then adsorbed onto solid carries, Aerosil(®)200, Aeroperl(®)300 or NeusilinUS2(®), yielding SME powders. The optimal ratios of SME liquid to carriers determined from flowability and scanning electron photomicrographs before tableting were 1.5:1, 2:1 and 2.5:1 for Aerosil(®)200, Aeroperl(®)300 and NeusilinUS2(®), respectively. Only Aeroperl(®)300 SME tablet had comparable dissolution to BM commercial tablet. From in vitro study in Caco-2 cells, fluorescein loaded SME tablet showed higher uptake than fluorescein loaded in either oil or surfactant. Although significantly lower amount of drug was permeated from SME tablet than from commercial tablet, higher drug uptake was obviously observed (P<0.05). In addition, higher lipoprotein synthesis expressing as content of apolipoprotein B (apo-B) found in secreted chylomicron resulted in higher drug uptake in co-culture of brain endothelial cells (bEnd.3) and astrocytes (CTX TNA2) from drug loaded SME tablet when compared to commercial tablet (P<0.05) due to binding of apo-B to LDL receptors expressed on the surface of endothelial cells. Therefore, tablet of SME adsorbed onto porous carrier potentially delivered BM to brain via lymphatic transport by increasing the lipoprotein synthesis. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  10. Influence of surfactants in self-microemulsifying formulations on enhancing oral bioavailability of oxyresveratrol: Studies in Caco-2 cells and in vivo.

    PubMed

    Sangsen, Yaowaporn; Wiwattanawongsa, Kamonthip; Likhitwitayawuid, Kittisak; Sritularak, Boonchoo; Graidist, Potchanapond; Wiwattanapatapee, Ruedeekorn

    2016-02-10

    Self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems (SMEDDS) containing two types (Tween80 and Labrasol) and two levels (low; 5% and high; 15%) of co-surfactants were formulated to evaluate the impact of surfactant phase on physical properties and oral absorption of oxyresveratrol (OXY). All formulations showed a very rapid release in the simulated gastric fluid (SGF) pH 1.2. After dilution with different media, the microemulsion droplet sizes of the Tween80-based (∼26 to 36 nm) were smaller than that of the Labrasol-based systems (∼34 to 45 nm). Both systems with high levels of surfactant increased the Caco-2 cells permeability of OXY compared to those with low levels of surfactant (1.4-1.7 folds) and the unformulated OXY (1.9-2.0 folds). It was of interest, that there was a reduction (4.4-5.3 folds) in the efflux transport of OXY from both systems compared to the unformulated OXY. The results were in good agreement with the in vivo absorption studies of such OXY-formulations in rats. Significantly greater values of Cmax and AUC(0-10h) (p<0.05) were obtained from the high levels of Tween80-based (F(r,0-10h) 786.32%) compared to those from the Labrasol-based system (F(r,0-10h) 218.32%). These finding indicate the importance of formulation variables such as type and quantity of surfactant in the SMEDDS to enhance oral drug bioavailability. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  11. Removal of xylenol orange from its aqueous solution using SDS self-microemulsifying systems: optimization by Box-Behnken statistical design.

    PubMed

    Shakeel, Faiyaz; Haq, Nazrul; Alanazi, Fars K; Alsarra, Ibrahim A

    2014-04-01

    The aim of present study was to develop and evaluate sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) self-microemulsifying systems (SMES) for the removal of an anionic dye xylenol orange (XO) from its bulk aqueous media via liquid-liquid adsorption. The composition of SDS SMES was optimized by Box-Behnken statistical design for the maximum removal of XO from its aqueous solution. Various SDS formulations were prepared by spontaneous emulsification method and characterized for thermodynamic stability, self-microemulsification efficiency, droplet size, and viscosity. Adsorption studies were conducted at 8, 16, and 24 h by mixing small amounts of SDS formulations with relatively large amounts of bulk aqueous solution of XO. Droplet size and viscosity of SDS formulations were significantly influenced by oil phase concentration (triacetin), while surfactant concentration had little impact on droplet size and viscosity. However, the percentage of removal of XO was influenced by triacetin concentration, surfactant concentration, and adsorption time. Based on lowest droplet size (35.97 nm), lowest viscosity (29.62 cp), and highest percentage of removal efficiency (89.77 %), formulation F14, containing 2 % w/w of triacetin and 40 % w/w of surfactant mixture (20 % w/w of SDS and 20 % w/w of polyethylene glycol 400), was selected as an optimized formulation for the removal of XO from its bulk aqueous media after 16 h. These results indicated that SDS SMES could be suitable alternates of solid-liquid adsorption for the removal of toxic dyes such as XO from its aqueous solution through liquid-liquid adsorption.

  12. Enhancement of oral bioavailability of atorvastatin calcium by self-emulsifying drug delivery systems (SEDDS).

    PubMed

    Kadu, Pawan J; Kushare, Sachin S; Thacker, Dhaval D; Gattani, Surendra G

    2011-02-01

    The aim of the present study was to formulate a self-emulsifying drug delivery system of atorvastatin calcium and its characterization including in vitro and in vivo potential. The solubility of atorvastatin calcium was determined in various vehicles such as Captex 355, Captex 355 EP/NF, Ethyl oleate, Capmul MCM, Capmul PG-8, Gelucire 44/14, Tween 80, Tween 20, and PEG 400. Pseudoternary phase diagrams were plotted on the basis of solubility data of drug in various components to evaluate the microemulsification region. Formulation development and screening was carried out based on results obtained from phase diagrams and characteristics of resultant microemulsion. Prepared formulations were tested for microemulsifying properties and evaluated for clarity, precipitation, viscosity determination, drug content and in vitro dissolution. The optimized formulation further evaluated for particle size distribution, zeta potential, stability studies and in vivo potential. In vivo performance of the optimized formulation was evaluated using a Triton-induced hypercholesterolemia model in male Albino Wistar rats. The formulation significantly reduced serum lipid levels as compared with atorvastatin calcium. Thus studies illustrated the potential use for the delivery of hydrophobic drug such as atorvastatin calcium by oral route.

  13. Development of self-microemulsifying drug delivery system for oral delivery of poorly water-soluble nutraceuticals.

    PubMed

    Shah, Ankita V; Desai, Heta H; Thool, Prajwal; Dalrymple, Damon; Serajuddin, Abu T M

    2018-06-01

    The objective of the study was to develop a self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS), also known as microemulsion preconcentrate, for oral delivery of five poorly water-soluble nutraceuticals or bioactive agents, namely, vitamin A, vitamin K2, coenzyme Q 10 , quercetin and trans-resveratrol. The SMEDDS contained a 1:1 mixture (w/w) of Capmul MCM NF (a medium chain monoglyceride) and Captex 355 EP/NF (a medium chain triglyceride) as the hydrophobic lipid and Tween 80 (polysorbate 80) as the hydrophilic surfactant. The lipid and surfactant were mixed at 50:50 w/w ratio. All three of the SMEDDS components have GRAS or safe food additive status. The solubility of nutraceuticals was determined in Capmul MCM, Captex 355, Tween 80, and the SMEDDS (microemulsion preconcentrate mixture). The solubility values of vitamin A palmitate, vitamin K2, coenzyme Q 10 , quercetin, and trans-resveratrol per g of SMEDDS were, respectively, 500, 12, 8, 56, and 87 mg. Appropriate formulations of nutraceuticals were prepared and filled into hard gelatin capsules. They were then subjected to in vitro dispersion testing using 250 mL of 0.01 N HCl in USP dissolution apparatus II. The dispersion test showed that all SMEDDS containing nutraceuticals dispersed spontaneously to form microemulsions after disintegration of capsule shells with globule size in the range of 25 to 200 nm. From all formulations, except that of vitamin K2, >80-90% nutraceuticals dispersed in 5-10 min and there was no precipitation of compounds during the test period of 120 min. Some variation in dispersion of vitamin K2 was observed due to the nature of the material used (vitamin K2 pre-adsorbed onto calcium phosphate). The present report provides a simple and organic cosolvent-free lipid-based SMEDDS for the oral delivery of poorly water-soluble nutraceuticals. Although a 50:50 w/w mixture of lipid to surfactant was used, the lipid content may be increased to 70:30 without compromising the formation of microemulsion.

  14. Improving oral bioavailability of resveratrol by a UDP-glucuronosyltransferase inhibitory excipient-based self-microemulsion.

    PubMed

    Yang, Fei-Fei; Zhou, Jing; Hu, Xiao; Cong, Zhao-Qing; Liu, Chun-Yu; Pan, Rui-Le; Chang, Qi; Liu, Xin-Min; Liao, Yong-Hong

    2018-03-01

    Self-microemulsifying (SME) drug delivery system has been developed to increase oral bioavailabilities, and inhibitory excipients are capable of improving oral bioavailability by inhibiting enzyme mediated intestinal metabolism. However, the potential of enzyme inhibitory excipients containing SME in boosting resveratrol bioavailability remains largely uninvestigated. In this study, we set out to prepare SME-1 with UGT inhibitory excipients (excipients without inhibitory activities named SME-2 as control) to increase the bioavailability of RES by inhibiting intestinal metabolism. Results demonstrated that similar physicochemical properties such as size, polydistribution index and in vitro release, cellular uptake and permeability in Caco-2 cells as well as in vivo lymphatic distribution between inhibitory SME-1 and non-inhibitory SME-2 were observed. In vivo study demonstrated that the molar ratios of RES-G/RES were 7.25±0.48 and 5.06±2.42 for free drug and SME-2, respectively, and the molar ratio decreased to 0.36±0.10 in SME-1 group. Pharmacokinetic study confirmed that the inhibitory excipients containing SME demonstrated potential in increasing bioavailability of RES from 6.5% for the free RES and 12.9% for SME-2 to 76.1% in SME-1 through modulating the glucuronidation by UGT inhibitory excipients. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  15. Design of lipid-based formulations for oral administration of poorly water-soluble drug fenofibrate: effects of digestion.

    PubMed

    Mohsin, Kazi

    2012-06-01

    Lipid-based drug carriers are likely to have influence on bioavailability through enhanced solubilization of the drug in the gastrointestinal tract. The study was designed to investigate the lipid formulation digestibility in the simulated gastro intestinal media. Fenofibrate was formulated in representative Type II, IIIA, IIIB and IV self-emulsifying/microemulsifying lipid delivery systems (SEDDS and SMEDDS designed for oral administration) using various medium-chain glyceride components, non-ionic surfactants and cosolvents as excipients. Soybean oil was used only as an example of long-chain triglycerides to compare the effects of formulation with their counterparts. The formulations were subjected to in vitro digestion specifically to predict the fate of the drug in the gastro intestinal tract after exposure of the formulation to pancreatic enzymes and bile. In vitro digestion experiments were carried out using a pH-stat maintained at pH 7.5 for 30 min using intestinal fluids simulating the fed and fasted states. The digestion rate was faster and almost completed in Type II and IIIA systems. Most of the surfactants used in the studies are digestible. However, the high concentration of surfactant and/or cosolvent used in Type IIIB or IV systems lowered the rate of digestion. The digestion of medium-chain triglycerides was faster than long-chain triglycerides, but kept comparatively less drug in the post digestion products. Medium-chain mixed glycerides are good solvents for fenofibrate as rapidly digested but to improve fenofibrate concentration in post digestion products the use of long-chain mixed glycerides are suggested for further investigations.

  16. Transdermal solid delivery of epigallocatechin-3-gallate using self-double-emulsifying drug delivery system as vehicle: Formulation, evaluation and vesicle-skin interaction.

    PubMed

    Hu, Caibiao; Gu, Chengyu; Fang, Qiao; Wang, Qiang; Xia, Qiang

    2016-02-01

    The present study investigated a self-double-emulsifying drug delivery system loaded with epigallocatechin-3-gallate to improve epigallocatechin-3-gallate skin retention. The long chain solid lipids (cetostearyl alcohol) and macadamia oil were utilized as a carrier to deliver the bioactive ingredient. Response surface methodology was used to optimize the formulation, and the solid lipid to total lipid weight ratio, concentration of epigallocatechin-3-gallate and hydrophilic surfactant on skin retention were found to be the principal factors. The optimum formulation with high encapsulation efficiency (95.75%), self-double-emulsification performance (99.58%) and skin retention (87.24%) were derived from the fitted models and experimentally examined, demonstrating a reasonable agreement between experimental and predicted values. Epigallocatechin-3-gallate-self-double-emulsifying drug delivery system was found to be stable for 3 months. Transdermal studies could explain a higher skin diffusion of epigallocatechin-3-gallate from the self-double-emulsifying drug delivery system compared with EGCG aqueous solution. In vitro cytotoxicity showed that epigallocatechin-3-gallate-self-double-emulsifying drug delivery system did not exert hazardous effect on L929 cells up to 1:10. © The Author(s) 2015.

  17. Hepatoprotective effects of a self-micro emulsifying drug delivery system containing Silybum marianum native seed oil against experimentally induced liver injury.

    PubMed

    Fehér, P; Ujhelyi, Z; Vecsernyés, M; Fenyvesi, F; Damache, G; Ardelean, A; Costache, M; Dinischiotu, A; Hermenean, A; Bácskay, I

    2015-04-01

    The main purpose of this study was to certify the effect of native silymarin oil (SM-oil) formulated in a self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS). The optimal formulation was 25% of SM-oil, 33.3 % of Cremophor RH40, 20% of Transcutol HP, 16.6% of Labrasol and 5% of Capryol 90. In this novel formulation the SM-oil was the active substance and the lipid part. The in vivo study examined the preventive effects of SMEDDS containing SM native seeds oil against carbon tetrachloride (CC14) induced hepatotoxicity in mice. Determination of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels and also liver histology investigations have been done. The liver antioxidant status was determined with the concentrations of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), glutathione reductase (GR), and glutathione (GSH) hepatic lipid peroxidation was examined and expressed in terms of malondialdehyde (MDA) content. The plasma levels of AST and ALT significantly diminished by pre-treatment with 500 mg/kg and 1000 mg/kg SMEDDS. The pre-treatment with 500 mg/kg and 1000 mg/kg SMEDDS increased GSH level by about 6% respectively 24% compared to the CC14 group. Due to preventive administration of 500 mg/kg and 1000 mg/kg of SMEDDS in the intoxicated animals, MDA levels were reduced by 22% respectively 58%. Also, an insignificant rise by almost 17% and 19% in the animals treated with the both doses of SMEDDS could be noticed. It can be concluded that hepatotoxicity may be avoided by the oral application of our formulation.

  18. [Effect of self-microemulsifying system on cell tight junctions].

    PubMed

    Sha, Xian-Yi; Fang, Xiao-Ling

    2006-01-01

    To study the effect of negatively charged and positively charged self-microemulsifying systems (SMES) on the cellular tight junction complex was to be investigated at molecular cell level. Human intestinal epithelial Caco-2 cell model was established. Effect of formulations on the transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) and permeability of the paracellular transport marker mannitol were measured to evaluate the cell integrity. Changes in subcellular localization of the tight junction protein zona occludens 1 (ZO-1) and cytoskeleton protein actin by immunofluorescence were also assessed after treatment of two SMESs in different dilutions. The TEER of cell monolayers was not markedly affected by negatively charged SMES in different dilutions. The positively charged SMES could significantly decrease the TEER (P < 0.05) in three dilutions. The full recovery of TEER was found after the treatment of lower dilution for 2 h, then cultured for 48 h, while the recovery of TEER was 81.3% of control in 1 : 50 dilution. Two SMESs could enhance the apparent permeability coefficient of mannitol (2.9 - 64.6 folds), which depended on the dilution times. The immunofluorescent results indicated that the distribution of ZO-1 and actin were discrete in cell membrane after the treatment of formulation. Since the positively charged microemulsion could bind to the epithelial cell membrane by electrostatic interaction, the actin of the cells undergone some kind of stress stimulated by the higher concentration of microemulsion was more markedly affected than the negatively charged SMES. Effect of formulations on ZO-1 and actin relied on the dilution. SMES is able to enhance the paracellular transport marker mannitol. The mechanism of opening of tight junctions by SMES might be the change of distribution of ZO-1 and actin.

  19. Disposition of lipid-based formulation in the intestinal tract affects the absorption of poorly water-soluble drugs.

    PubMed

    Iwanaga, Kazunori; Kushibiki, Toshihiro; Miyazaki, Makoto; Kakemi, Masawo

    2006-03-01

    Solvent Green 3 (SG), a model poorly water-soluble compound, was orally administered to rats with soybean oil emulsion or the Self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) composed of Gelucire44/14. The bioavailability of SG after oral administration with SMEDDS was 1.7-fold higher than that with soybean oil emulsion. The intestinal absorption of lipid-based formulations themselves was evaluated by the in situ closed loop method. The effect of lipase and bile salt on their absorption was also evaluated. SMEDDS itself was rapidly absorbed in the intestine even in the absence of lipase and bile salt, and the absorption was increased by the addition of lipase and bile salt. On the other hand, no soybean oil emulsion was absorbed in the absence of lipase and bile salt. However, mixed micelle prepared from emulsion by incubating soybean oil emulsion with lipase and bile salt was rapidly absorbed through the intestine. Without lipase and bile salt, SG was not absorbed after administration with soybean oil emulsion. Therefore, we concluded that the degradation of soybean oil emulsion was needed for SG to be absorbed through the intestine. Furthermore, we investigated the intestinal absorption of SG after oral administration to rats whose chylomicron synthesis were inhibited by pretreatment with colchicine. Colchicine completely inhibited the intestinal absorption of SG after administration with each lipid-based formulation, suggesting that SG was absorbed from the intestine via a lymphatic route. Absorption of the dosage formulation should be paid attention when poorly water-soluble drugs are orally administered with lipid-based formulation.

  20. Development of solid self-emulsifying drug delivery system (SEDDS) I: use of poloxamer 188 as both solidifying and emulsifying agent for lipids.

    PubMed

    Shah, Ankita V; Serajuddin, Abu T M

    2012-10-01

    To develop solid self-emulsifying drug delivery systems (SEDDS) for lipids using poloxamer 188 as both solidifying and emulsifying agents. Mixtures of various lipids with poloxamer 188 and PEG 8000 were prepared at ~75°C. The molten mixtures, with and without dissolved drugs (fenofibrate and probucol), were then cooled to room temperature. When solids formed, they were characterized by powder XRD, DSC, microscopy using cross-polarization and confocal fluorescence techniques, dispersion test in water and particle size analysis of dispersions. When mixed with poloxamer 188 or PEG 8000, lipids consisting of monoesters of fatty acids with glycerol or propylene glycol formed solid systems, but not di- and tri-esters, which showed phase separation. Added to water, the solid systems containing poloxamer 188 started to disperse in water forming oil globules of 200-600 nm. No emulsification of lipids was observed from solids containing PEG 8000, indicating that the surfactant property of poloxamer 188 was responsible for emulsification. Powder XRD, DSC and microscopic examination revealed that poloxamer 188 and PEG 8000 maintained their crystallinity in solid systems, while the lipids were interspersed in between crystalline regions. The drug remained solubilized in the lipid phase. A novel solid SEDDS is developed where the drug can be solubilized in liquid lipids and then the lipidic solution can be converted to solid mass by dispersing into the microstructure of poloxamer 188.

  1. Profile of disposition, tissue distribution and excretion of the novel anti-human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) agent W-1 in rats.

    PubMed

    Lu, Ying-Yuan; Wang, Xiao-Wei; Wang, Xin; Dai, Wen-Bing; Zhang, Qiang; Li, Pu; Lou, Ya-Qing; Lu, Chuang; Liu, Jun-Yi; Zhang, Guo-Liang

    2016-07-01

    The purpose of this study was to characterize the disposition, distribution, excretion and plasma protein binding of 6-benzyl-1-benzyloxymethyl-5-iodouracil (W-1) in rats. Concentrations of W-1 within biological samples were determined using a validated high performance liquid chromatography method. The plasma protein binding of W-1 was examined by equilibrium dialysis method. After oral administration of W-1 (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg, respectively) in self-microemulsifying drug delivery system formulation, the pharmacokinetic parameters of W-1 were as follows: the peak plasma concentrations (C max) were 0.42, 1.50 and 2.55 μg/mL, the area under the curve (AUC0-t) were 0.89, 2.27 and 3.96 µg/h mL and the plasma half-life (t 1/2) were 5.15, 3.77 and 3.77 h, respectively. Moreover, the prototype of W-1 was rapidly and extensively distributed into fifteen tissues, especially higher concentrations were detected in intestine, stomach and liver, respectively. The plasma protein binding of W-1 in rat, beagle dog and human were in the range of 97.96-99.13 %. This study suggested that W-1 has an appropriate pharmacokinetics in rats, such as rapid absorption, moderate clearance, and rapid distribution to multiple tissues. Those properties provide important information for further development W-1 as an anti-HIV-1 drug candidate.

  2. In vitro and in vivo studies of pharmacokinetics and antitumor efficacy of D07001-F4, an oral gemcitabine formulation.

    PubMed

    Hao, Wei-Hua; Wang, Jong-Jing; Hsueh, Shu-Ping; Hsu, Pei-Jing; Chang, Li-Chien; Hsu, Chang-Shan; Hsu, Kuang-Yang

    2013-02-01

    The chemotherapy agent gemcitabine is currently administered intravenously because the drug has poor oral bioavailability. In order to assess the pharmacokinetics and antitumor activity of D07001-F4, a new self-microemulsifying oral drug delivery system preparation of gemcitabine, this study was performed to compare the effect of D07001-F4 with administered gemcitabine in vitro and in vivo. D07001-F4 pharmacokinetics was examined by evaluation of in vitro deamination of D07001-F4 and gemcitabine hydrochloride by recombinant human cytidine deaminase (rhCDA) and in vivo evaluation of D07001-F4 pharmacokinetics in mice. Antitumor activity was evaluated by comparing the effect of D07001-F4 and gemcitabine hydrochloride in inhibiting growth in nine cancer cell lines and by examining the effect of D07001-F4 and gemcitabine in two xenograft tumor models in mice. In vitro deamination of D07001-F4 by rhCDA was 3.3-fold slower than deamination of gemcitabine hydrochloride. Growth inhibition by D07001-F4 of 7 of the 8 cancer cell lines was increased compared with that seen with gemcitabine hydrochloride, and D07001-F4 inhibited the growth of pancreatic and colon cancer xenografts. In vivo pharmacokinetics showed the oral bioavailability of D07001-F4 to be 34%. D07001-F4 was effective against several cancer types, was metabolized more slowly than gemcitabine hydrochloride, and exhibited enhanced oral bioavailability.

  3. Self dispersing mixed micelles forming systems for enhanced dissolution and intestinal permeability of hydrochlorothiazide.

    PubMed

    Sultan, Amal A; El-Gizawy, Sanaa A; Osman, Mohamed A; El Maghraby, Gamal M

    2017-01-01

    Mixed micelles provide promising strategy for enhancing dissolution and permeability of drugs. However, their fluid nature limited the stability of the loaded drug and hindered the development of stable oral dosage form. Accordingly, the objective was to develop solid self dispersing mixed micelle forming systems (MMFS) for enhanced dissolution and intestinal permeability of hydrochlorothiazide. Pseudoternary phase diagrams were constructed using sodium cholate, lecithin with either poloxamer 407 or PEG 4000 to determine the composition of MMFS. Both polymer free and poloxamer or PEG containing MMFS were prepared as homogenous matrices or as solid self dispersing powder. The later was developed by adsorption of MMFS on avicel-aerosil mixture. Differential scanning calorimetry provided an evidence for existence of hydrochlorothiazide as molecular dispersion in the MMFS. Dispersing polymer free, PEG 4000 or poloxamer based MMFS in aqueous medium produced micelles having size values of 119, 52.6 and 28nm, respectively. The zeta potential values were -61.8, -59.5 and -19.5mV for the same systems, respectively. Preparation of solid self dispersing MMFS enhanced the dissolution rate of hydrochlorothiazide. The intestinal absorption of hydrochlorothiazide from its aqueous solution and polymer incorporating mixed micellar systems was monitored using in situ rabbit intestinal perfusion technique. The permeability results showed a clear trend for enhanced membrane transport of the drug after being incorporated into poloxamer containing mixed micellar system. The study thus introduced a versatile easily formulated solid self dispersing system with high potential for solving the dissolution and permeability problems of class IV drugs. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  4. Comparative study on solid self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery and solid dispersion system for enhanced solubility and bioavailability of ezetimibe

    PubMed Central

    Rashid, Rehmana; Kim, Dong Wuk; Yousaf, Abid Mehmood; Mustapha, Omer; Din, Fakhar ud; Park, Jong Hyuck; Yong, Chul Soon; Oh, Yu-Kyoung; Youn, Yu Seok; Kim, Jong Oh; Choi, Han-Gon

    2015-01-01

    Background The objective of this study was to compare the physicochemical characteristics, solubility, dissolution, and oral bioavailability of an ezetimibe-loaded solid self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS), surface modified solid dispersion (SMSD), and solvent evaporated solid dispersion (SESD) to identify the best drug delivery system with the highest oral bioavailability. Methods For the liquid SNEDDS formulation, Capryol 90, Cremophor EL, and Tween 80 were selected as the oil, surfactant, and cosurfactant, respectively. The nanoemulsion-forming region was sketched using a pseudoternary phase diagram on the basis of reduced emulsion size. The optimized liquid SNEDDS was converted to solid SNEDDS by spray drying with silicon dioxide. Furthermore, SMSDs were prepared using the spray drying technique with various amounts of hydroxypropylcellulose and Tween 80, optimized on the basis of their drug solubility. The SESD formulation was prepared with the same composition of optimized SMSD. The aqueous solubility, dissolution, physicochemical properties, and pharmacokinetics of all of the formulations were investigated and compared with the drug powder. Results The drug existed in the crystalline form in SMSD, but was changed into an amorphous form in SNEDDS and SESD, giving particle sizes of approximately 24, 6, and 11 µm, respectively. All of these formulations significantly improved the aqueous solubility and dissolution in the order of solid SNEDDS ≥ SESD > SMSD, and showed a total higher plasma concentration than did the drug powder. Moreover, SESD gave a higher area under the drug concentration time curve from zero to infinity than did SNEDDS and SMSD, even if they were not significantly different, suggesting more improved oral bioavailability. Conclusion Among the various formulations tested in this study, the SESD system would be strongly recommended as a drug delivery system for the oral administration of ezetimibe with poor water solubility. PMID:26491288

  5. Statistical modeling, optimization and characterization of solid self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system of lopinavir using design of experiment.

    PubMed

    Patel, Grishma; Shelat, Pragna; Lalwani, Anita

    2016-10-01

    Lopinavir (LPV), an antiretroviral protease inhibitor shows poor bioavailability because of poor aqueous solubility and extensive hepatic first-pass metabolism. The aim of the present work was to investigate the potential of the solid self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (S-SNEDDS) in improving dissolution rate and oral bioavailability of LPV. Liquid SNEDDS (L-SNEDDS) of LPV were prepared using Capmul MCM C8, Cremophor RH 40 and propylene glycol and their amounts were optimized by Scheffe's mixture design. L-SNEDDS formulations were evaluated for different physicochemical and in vitro drug release parameters. S-SNEDDS were prepared by adsorbing L-SNEDDS on Neusilin US2 and characterized for solid-state properties. In vivo bioavailability of S-SNEDDS, marketed Lopinavir + Ritonavir (LPV/RTV) formulation and pure LPV was studied in Wistar rats. Stability study of S-SNEDDS was performed as per ICH guidelines. Optimized L-SNEDDS obtained by Scheffe design had drug loading 160 ± 1.15 mg, globule size 32.9 ± 1.45 nm and drug release >95% within 15 min. Solid state studies suggested the transformation of the crystalline drug to amorphous drug. The size and zeta potential of globules obtained on dilution S-SNEDDS remained similar to L-SNEEDS. In vivo bioavailability study revealed that S-SNEDDS has 2.97 and 1.54-folds higher bioavailability than pure LPV and LPV/RTV formulation, respectively. The optimized S-SNEDDS was found to be stable and had a shelf life of 2.85 years. The significant increase in drug dissolution and bioavailability by prepared SNEDDS suggest that the developed S-SNEDDS is a useful solid platform for improving oral bioavailability of poorly soluble LPV.

  6. Emodin self-emulsifying platform ameliorates the expression of FN, ICAM-1 and TGF-β1 in AGEs-induced glomerular mesangial cells by promoting absorption.

    PubMed

    Huang, Jiani; Gong, Wenyan; Chen, Zhiquan; Huang, Junying; Chen, Qiuhong; Huang, Heqing; Zhao, Chunshun

    2017-03-01

    Emodin, a potential anti-diabetic nephropathy agent, is limited by its oral use due to the poor water solubility. The present study aimed to enhance the absorption and the suppressive effects of emodin on renal fibrosis by developing a self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS). Solubility studies, compatibility tests, pseudo-ternary phase diagrams analysis and central composite design were carried out to obtain the optimized formulation. The average droplet size of emodin-loaded SMEDDS was about 18.31±0.12nm, and the droplet size and zeta potential remained stable at different dilution ratios of water and different values of pH varying from 1.2 to 7.2. Enhanced cellular uptake in both the Caco-2 cells and glomerular mesangial cells (GMCs) is great advantageous for the formulation. The AUC 0-24h of emodin-loaded SMEDDS was 1.87-fold greater than that of emodin suspension, which may be attributed to enhanced uptake in Caco-2 cells. Moreover, emodin-loaded SMEDDS showed better suppressive effects on the protein level of fibronectin (FN), transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) and intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1) than the crude emodin in advanced glycation-end products (AGEs)-induced GMCs and renal tubular epithelial cells (NRK-52E). Our study illustrated that developed SMEDDS improved the oral absorption of emodin, and attained better suppressive effects on the protein level of renal fibrosis compositions in AGEs-induced GMCs and NRK-52E cells. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  7. Self-micro emulsifying formulation improved intestinal absorption and oral bioavailability of bakuchiol.

    PubMed

    Pi, Jiaxin; Gao, Xu; Yu, Yue; Zheng, Yin; Zhu, Zhuangzhi; Wang, Yajing

    2014-10-18

    Bakuchiol (BAK), isolated from the seeds of Psoralea corylifolia L., recently presents a variety of pharmacologic activities. However, the poor oral bioavailability limits its further development and clinical use. The purpose of this study was to establish a self-microemulsifying (SME) formulation for oral delivery improvement of BAK. The optimized liquid SME formulation was comprised of BAK (40 %), Cremophor RH 40 (30 %) and Labrasol (30 %). The emulsion droplets were spherical in shape, and particle size and zeta potential were determined. The in vitro dissolution test of BAK-SME formulation illustrated faster dissolution rate than the bulk drug. The permeabilities of 40 μg mL -1 BAK-SME formulation in rat intestinal segments of duodenum, jejunum, ileum and colon were 30.91 × 10 -3 , 23.61 × 10 -3 , 29.43 × 10 -3 and 23.62 × 10 -3 cm min -1 , respectively, exhibiting 3.99 times in duodenum, 2.59 times in ileum and 2.31 times in colon greater than BAK perfusate. The oral bioavailability of BAK-SME formulation at a dose of 150 mg kg -1 was determined in rats. The C max and the AUC (0-24h) were 515.4 ng mL -1 and 4,327.2 h ng mL -1 , respectively, which were 1.90 fold and 1.73 fold greater than the value of BAK suspension. All these results clearly stated that BAK-SME formulation performed well-improvement on oral bioavailability of BAK.

  8. Novel Nanostructured Solid Materials for Modulating Oral Drug Delivery from Solid-State Lipid-Based Drug Delivery Systems.

    PubMed

    Dening, Tahnee J; Rao, Shasha; Thomas, Nicky; Prestidge, Clive A

    2016-01-01

    Lipid-based drug delivery systems (LBDDS) have gained significant attention in recent times, owing to their ability to overcome the challenges limiting the oral delivery of poorly water-soluble drugs. Despite the successful commercialization of several LBDDS products over the years, a large discrepancy exists between the number of poorly water-soluble drugs displaying suboptimal in vivo performances and the application of LBDDS to mitigate their various delivery challenges. Conventional LBDDS, including lipid solutions and suspensions, emulsions, and self-emulsifying formulations, suffer from various drawbacks limiting their widespread use and commercialization. Accordingly, solid-state LBDDS, fabricated by adsorbing LBDDS onto a chemically inert solid carrier material, have attracted substantial interest as a viable means of stabilizing LBDDS whilst eliminating some of the various limitations. This review describes the impact of solid carrier choice on LBDDS performance and highlights the importance of appropriate solid carrier material selection when designing hybrid solid-state LBDDS. Specifically, emphasis is placed on discussing the ability of the specific solid carrier to modulate drug release, control lipase action and lipid digestion, and enhance biopharmaceutical performance above the original liquid-state LBDDS. To encourage the interested reader to consider their solid carrier choice on a higher level, various novel materials with the potential for future use as solid carriers for LBDDS are described. This review is highly significant in guiding future research directions in the solid-state LBDDS field and fostering the translation of these delivery systems to the pharmaceutical marketplace.

  9. Solid super saturated self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (sat-SNEDDS) as a promising alternative to conventional SNEDDS for improvement rosuvastatin calcium oral bioavailability.

    PubMed

    Abo Enin, Hadel A; Abdel-Bar, Hend Mohamed

    2016-11-01

    This study aims to illustrate the applicability of solid supersaturated self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (sat-SNEDDS) for the improvement of rosuvastatin calcium (RC) oral bioavailability. Different sat-SNEDDS were prepared by incorporating different ratios of RC into SNEDDS using tween80/PEG400 (77.2%) as surfactant/cosurfactant mixture and garlic /olive oil (22.8%) as oil phase. The prepared systems were characterized viz; size, zeta potential, TEM and stability. Various hydrophilic and hydrophobic carriers were employed to solidify the optimized RC sat-SNEDDS. The influence of the carrier was investigated by SEM, XRPD, DSC, flow properties, in vitro precipitation, drug release and oral bioavailability study. The adsorption of the stable positively charged nanocarrier RC sat-SNEDDS onto solid carriers provided free flowing amorphous powder. The carrier could amend the morphological architecture and in vitro release of the RC solid sat-SNEDDS. Hydrophobic carriers as microcrystalline cellulose 102 (MCC) showed superior physical characters and higher dissolution rate over hydrophilic carriers as maltodextrin with respective T 100% 30 min and 45 min. The rapid spontaneous emulsification, the positively nanosized MCC-sat-SNEDDS improved oral bioavailability of RC by 2.1-fold over commercial tablets. Solid MCC-sat-SNEDDS combined dual benefits of sat-SNEDDS and solid dosage form was successfully optimized to improve RC oral bioavailability.

  10. Non-covalent interactions of a drug molecule encapsulated in a hybrid silica gel.

    PubMed

    Paul, Geo; Steuernagel, Stefan; Koller, Hubert

    2007-12-28

    The drug molecule Propranolol has been encapsulated by a sol-gel process in an organic-inorganic hybrid matrix by in-situ self-assembly; the 2D HETCOR solid state NMR spectroscopy provides direct proof of the intimate spatial relationship between the host matrix and guest drug molecules.

  11. Pharmaceutical optimization of lipid-based dosage forms for the improvement of taste-masking, chemical stability and solubilizing capacity of phenobarbital.

    PubMed

    Monteagudo, Ezequiel; Langenheim, Mariana; Salerno, Claudia; Buontempo, Fabián; Bregni, Carlos; Carlucci, Adriana

    2014-06-01

    Microemulsions (MEs) and self-emulsifying drug delivery systems (SEEDS) containing phenobarbital (Phe) were developed to improve its chemical stability, solubilizing capacity and taste-masking in oral liquid dosage forms. Cremophor® RH40 and Labrasol® were used as surfactants for the screening of ME regions, Capmul® MCM L, Captex® 355, Imwitor® 408, Myglyol® 840 and Isopropyl myristate were the oil phases assayed; Transcutol® P, Polyethylene-glycol 400, glycerol, Propylene-glycol and ethanol the cosurfactants. Phe stability assay was carried out (20:4:20:56% and 20:4:35:41% (w/w); surfactant:oily phase:cosurfactant:water) for both surfactants; only one containing ethanol showed significant dismissing in its drug content. Solubility capacity for these selected formulations were also evaluated, an amount between 17 and 58 mg/mL of Phe could be loaded. At last, an optimized ME formulation with Cremophor® RH40 20%, Capmul® MCM L 4%, PEG 400 35% and sucralose 2% (w/w) was chosen in order to optimize taste-masking using an electronic tongue. Strawberry along with banana and tutti-frutti flavors plus mint flavor proved to be the best ones. Labrasol-based pre-concentrates were tested for (micro)emulsifying properties; all of them resulted to behave as SEDDS. In summary, a rationale experimental design conducted to an optimized ME for Phe oral pediatric administration which was able to load 5-fold times the currently used dose (4 mg/mL), with no sign of physical or chemical instability and with improved taste; SEDDS for capsule filling were also obtained. The biopharmaceutical advantages described for these dosage forms encourage furthering in vivo evaluation.

  12. Solid dispersion of poorly water-soluble drugs: early promises, subsequent problems, and recent breakthroughs.

    PubMed

    Serajuddin, A T

    1999-10-01

    Although there was a great interest in solid dispersion systems during the past four decades to increase dissolution rate and bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs, their commercial use has been very limited, primarily because of manufacturing difficulties and stability problems. Solid dispersions of drugs were generally produced by melt or solvent evaporation methods. The materials, which were usually semisolid and waxy in nature, were hardened by cooling to very low temperatures. They were then pulverized, sieved, mixed with relatively large amounts of excipients, and encapsulated into hard gelatin capsules or compressed into tablets. These operations were difficult to scale up for the manufacture of dosage forms. The situation has, however, been changing in recent years because of the availability of surface-active and self-emulsifying carriers and the development of technologies to encapsulate solid dispersions directly into hard gelatin capsules as melts. Solid plugs are formed inside the capsules when the melts are cooled to room temperature. Because of surface activity of carriers used, complete dissolution of drug from such solid dispersions can be obtained without the need for pulverization, sieving, mixing with excipients, etc. Equipment is available for large-scale manufacturing of such capsules. Some practical limitations of dosage form development might be the inadequate solubility of drugs in carriers and the instability of drugs and carriers at elevated temperatures necessary to manufacture capsules.

  13. Solid self-nanoemulsifying delivery systems as a platform technology for formulation of poorly soluble drugs.

    PubMed

    Bansal, Tripta; Mustafa, Gulam; Khan, Zeenat I; Ahmad, Farhaan J; Khar, Roop K; Talegaonkar, Sushama

    2008-01-01

    New drug discovery programs produce molecules with poor physico-chemical properties, making delivery of these molecules at the right proportion into the body a big challenge to the formulation scientist. The various options available to overcome the hurdle include solvent precipitation, micronisation/nanonization using high-pressure homogenization or jet milling, salt formation, use of microspheres, solid dispersions, cogrinding, complexation, and many others. Self-nanoemulsifying systems (SNES) form one of the most popular and commercially viable approaches for delivery of poorly soluble drugs exhibiting dissolution rate limited absorption, especially those belonging to the Biopharmaceutics Classification System II/IV. SNES are essentially an isotropic blend of oils, surfactants, and/or cosolvents that emulsify spontaneously to produce oil in water nanoemulsion when introduced into aqueous phase under gentle agitation. Conventional SNES consist of liquid forms filled in hard or soft gelatin capsules, which are least preferred due to leaching and leakage phenomenon, interaction with capsule shell components, handling difficulties, machinability, and stability problems. Solidification of these liquid systems to yield solid self-nanoemulsifying systems (SSNES) offer a possible solution to the mentioned complications, and that is why these systems have attracted wide attention. Other than the advantages and wide application of SSNEDS, the present paper focuses on formulation considerations, selection, and function of solidifying excipients; techniques of preparation; and case studies of drugs selected from different therapeutic categories. Developments in the techniques for in vitro evaluation of SSNEDS have also been discussed.

  14. Development of clinical dosage forms for a poorly water-soluble drug II: formulation and characterization of a novel solid microemulsion preconcentrate system for oral delivery of a poorly water-soluble drug.

    PubMed

    Li, Ping; Hynes, Sara R; Haefele, Thomas F; Pudipeddi, Madhu; Royce, Alan E; Serajuddin, Abu T M

    2009-05-01

    The solution of a poorly water-soluble drug in a liquid lipid-surfactant mixture, which served as a microemulsion preconcentrate, was converted into a solid form by incorporating it in a solid polyethylene glycol (PEG) matrix. The solid microemulsion preconcentrates thus formed consisted of Capmul PG8 (propylene glycol monocaprylate) as oil, Cremophor EL (polyoxyl 35 castor oil) as surfactant, and hydrophilic polymer PEG 3350 as solid matrix. The drug (aqueous solubility: 0.17 microg/mL at pH 1-8 and 25 degrees C) was dissolved in a melt of the mixture at 65-70 degrees C and then the hot solution was filled into hard gelatin capsules; the liquid gradually solidified upon cooling below 55 degrees C. The solid system was characterized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), confocal Raman microscopy (CRM), and the dispersion testing in water. It was confirmed that a solid microemulsion preconcentrate is a two-phase system, where clusters of crystalline PEG 3350 formed the solid structure (m.p. 55-60 degrees C) and the liquid microemulsion preconcentrate dispersed in between PEG 3350 crystals as a separate phase. The drug remained dissolved in the liquid phase. In vitro release testing showed that the preconcentrate dispersed readily in water forming a microemulsion with the drug dissolved in the oil particles (<150 nm) and the presence of PEG 3350 did not interfere with the process of self-microemulsification.

  15. Transforming lipid-based oral drug delivery systems into solid dosage forms: an overview of solid carriers, physicochemical properties, and biopharmaceutical performance.

    PubMed

    Tan, Angel; Rao, Shasha; Prestidge, Clive A

    2013-12-01

    The diversity of lipid excipients available commercially has enabled versatile formulation design of lipid-based drug delivery systems for enhancing the oral absorption of poorly water-soluble drugs, such as emulsions, microemulsions, micelles, liposomes, niosomes and various self-emulsifying systems. The transformation of liquid lipid-based systems into solid dosage forms has been investigated for several decades, and has recently become a core subject of pharmaceutical research as solidification is regarded as viable means for stabilising lipid colloidal systems while eliminating stringent processing requirements associated with liquid systems. This review describes the types of pharmaceutical grade excipients (silica nanoparticle/microparticle, polysaccharide, polymer and protein-based materials) used as solid carriers and the current state of knowledge on the liquid-to-solid conversion approaches. Details are primarily focused on the solid-state physicochemical properties and redispersion capacity of various dry lipid-based formulations, and how these relate to the in vitro drug release and solubilisation, lipid carrier digestion and cell permeation performances. Numerous in vivo proof-of-concept studies are presented to highlight the viability of these dry lipid-based formulations. This review is significant in directing future research work in fostering translation of dry lipid-based formulations into clinical applications.

  16. Self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system of nifedipine: impact of hydrophilic-lipophilic balance and molecular structure of mixed surfactants.

    PubMed

    Weerapol, Yotsanan; Limmatvapirat, Sontaya; Nunthanid, Jurairat; Sriamornsak, Pornsak

    2014-04-01

    A simple but novel mixed surfactant system was designed to fabricate a self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS) based on hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) value. The impacts of HLB and molecular structure of surfactants on the formation of SNEDDS were investigated. After screening various oils and surfactants, nifedipine (NDP)-loaded liquid SNEDDS was formulated with Imwitor(®) 742 as oil and Tween(®)/Span(®) or Cremophor(®)/Span(®) as mixed surfactant. Droplet size of the emulsions obtained after dispersing SNEDDS containing Tween(®)/Span(®) in aqueous medium was independent of the HLB of a mixed surfactant. The use of the Cremophor(®)/Span(®) blend gave nanosized emulsion at higher HLB. The structure of the surfactant was found to influence the emulsion droplet size. Solid SNEDDS was then prepared by adsorbing NDP-loaded liquid SNEDDS comprising Cremophor(®) RH40/Span(®) 80 onto Aerosil(®) 200 or Aerosil(®) R972 as inert solid carrier. Solid SNEDDS formulations using higher amounts (30-50% w/w) of Aerosil(®) 200 exhibited good flow properties with smooth surface and preserved the self-emulsifying properties of liquid SNEDDS. Differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray diffraction studies of solid SNEDDS revealed the transformation of the crystalline structure of NDP due to its molecular dispersion state. In vitro dissolution study demonstrated higher dissolution of NDP from solid SNEDDS compared with NDP powder.

  17. The pneumatic syringe: a simple apparatus for self-administration of drugs by rats.

    PubMed

    Weeks, J R

    1977-12-01

    Drug solution is delivered by a syringe operated by a pneumatic cylinder. Recommended delivery volumes are from 10 to 200 microliter. A solid-state control unit is described which can operate two syringes (drug injection and flush), has outputs for recording responses and injections, and can be programmed to provide several schedules of reinforcement. All components are readily commercially available.

  18. Study of Predictors of Suicidal Behaviour in Bundeswehr Soldiers Receiving Inpatient Care

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2011-04-01

    i.e. external restrictions (regarding alcohol and drug consumption ) and a good resource situation (solid employment, good physical condition...self-poisoning by medication/ drugs ), X70-79 (cuts, hanging, firearm discharge), X80-84 (jumping from a high place/intentional crashing of motor...for the following potential regressors are analysed based on the established group differences:  sex  diagnosis  drug abuse  status

  19. Formulation Strategies to Improve the Bioavailability of Poorly Absorbed Drugs with Special Emphasis on Self-Emulsifying Systems

    PubMed Central

    Gupta, Shweta; Kesarla, Rajesh

    2013-01-01

    Poorly water-soluble drug candidates are becoming more prevalent. It has been estimated that approximately 60–70% of the drug molecules are insufficiently soluble in aqueous media and/or have very low permeability to allow for their adequate and reproducible absorption from the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) following oral administration. Formulation scientists have to adopt various strategies to enhance their absorption. Lipidic formulations are found to be a promising approach to combat the challenges. In this review article, potential advantages and drawbacks of various conventional techniques and the newer approaches specifically the self-emulsifying systems are discussed. Various components of the self-emulsifying systems and their selection criteria are critically reviewed. The attempts of various scientists to transform the liquid self-emulsifying drug delivery systems (SEDDS) to solid-SEDDS by adsorption, spray drying, lyophilization, melt granulation, extrusion, and so forth to formulate various dosage forms like self emulsifying capsules, tablets, controlled release pellets, beads, microspheres, nanoparticles, suppositories, implants, and so forth have also been included. Formulation of SEDDS is a potential strategy to deliver new drug molecules with enhanced bioavailability mostly exhibiting poor aqueous solubility. The self-emulsifying system offers various advantages over other drug delivery systems having potential to solve various problems associated with drugs of all the classes of biopharmaceutical classification system (BCS). PMID:24459591

  20. Formulation of avanafil in a solid self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system for enhanced oral delivery.

    PubMed

    Soliman, Kareem AbuBakr; Ibrahim, Howida Kamal; Ghorab, Mahmoud Mohammed

    2016-10-10

    Avanafil was incorporated into solid self-nanoemulsifying systems with the aim of improving its oral bioavailability. Labrafil, Labrafac, and Miglyol 812 N were investigated as oils, Tween 80 and Cremophor EL as surfactants, and Transcutol HP as a co-surfactant. Nine formulations produced clear solutions of 13.89-38.09nm globules after aqueous dilution. Adsorption of preconcentrate onto Aeroperl 300 Pharma at a 2:1 ratio had no effect on nanoemulsion particle size. Differential scanning calorimetry, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy indicated that avanafil was molecularly dispersed within the solid nanosystems. A formulation containing 10% Labrafil, 60% Tween 80, and 30% Transcutol HP had the highest drug loading (44.48mg/g) and an acceptable in vitro dissolution profile (96.42% within 30min). This formulation was chemically and physically stable for 6months under accelerated storage conditions and it produced a 3.2-fold increase in bioavailability in rabbits, as compared to conventional commercially available avanafil tablets (Spedra(®)). Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  1. Submicron Emulsions and Their Applications in Oral Delivery.

    PubMed

    Mundada, Veenu; Patel, Mitali; Sawant, Krutika

    2016-01-01

    A "submicron emulsion" is an isotropic mixture of drug, lipids, and surfactants, usually with hydrophilic cosolvents and with droplet diameters ranging from 10 to 500 nm. Submicron emulsions are of increasing interest in medicine due to their kinetic stability, high solubilizing capacity, and tiny globule size. Because of these properties, they have been applied in various fields, such as personal care, cosmetics, health care, pharmaceuticals, and agrochemicals. Submicron emulsions are by far the most advanced nanoparticulate systems for the systemic delivery of biologically active agents for controlled drug delivery and targeting. They are designed mainly for pharmaceutical formulations suitable for various routes of administration like parenteral, ocular, transdermal, and oral. This review article describes the marked potential of submicron emulsions for oral drug delivery owing to their numerous advantages like reduced first pass metabolism, inhibition of P-glycoprotein efflux system, and enhanced absorption via intestinal lymphatic pathway. To overcome the limitations of liquid dosage forms, submicron emulsions can be formulated into solid dosage forms such as solid self-emulsifying systems. This article covers various types of submicron emulsions like microemulsion, nanoemulsion, and self-emulsifying drug delivery system (SEDDS), and their potential pharmaceutical applications in oral delivery with emphasis on their advantages, limitations, and advancements.

  2. In vitro cellular uptake of evodiamine and rutaecarpine using a microemulsion

    PubMed Central

    Zhang, Yong-Tai; Huang, Zhe-Bin; Zhang, Su-Juan; Zhao, Ji-Hui; Wang, Zhi; Liu, Ying; Feng, Nian-Ping

    2012-01-01

    Objective To investigate the cellular uptake of evodiamine and rutaecarpine in a microemulsion in comparison with aqueous suspensions and tinctures. Materials and methods A microemulsion was prepared using the dropwise addition method. Mouse skin fibroblasts were cultured in vitro to investigate the optimal conditions for evodiamine and rutaecarpine uptake with different drug concentrations and administration times. Under optimal conditions, the cellular uptake of microemulsified drugs was assayed and compared to tinctures and aqueous suspensions. Rhodamine B labeling and laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM) were used to explore the distribution of fluorochrome transferred with the microemulsion in fibroblasts. Cellular morphology was also investigated, using optical microscopy to evaluate microemulsion-induced cellular toxicity. Results The maximum cellular drug uptake amounts were obtained with a 20% concentration (v/v) of microemulsion and an 8 hour administration time. Drug uptake by mouse skin fibroblasts was lowest when the drugs were loaded in microemulsion. After incubation with rhodamine B-labeled microemulsion for 8 hours, the highest fluorescence intensity was achieved, and the fluorochrome was primarily distributed in the cytochylema. No obvious cellular morphologic changes were observed with the administration of either the microemulsion or the aqueous suspension; for the tincture group, however, massive cellular necrocytosis was observed. Conclusion The lower cellular uptake with microemulsion may be due to the fact that most of the drug loaded in the microemulsion vehicle was transported via the intercellular space, while a small quantity of free drug (released from the vehicle) was ingested through transmembrane transport. Mouse skin fibroblasts rarely endocytosed evodiamine and rutaecarpine with a microemulsion as the vehicle. The microemulsion had no obvious effect on cellular morphology, suggesting there is little or no cellular toxicity associated with the administration of microemulsion on mouse skin fibroblasts. PMID:22679361

  3. In vitro cellular uptake of evodiamine and rutaecarpine using a microemulsion.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Yong-Tai; Huang, Zhe-Bin; Zhang, Su-Juan; Zhao, Ji-Hui; Wang, Zhi; Liu, Ying; Feng, Nian-Ping

    2012-01-01

    To investigate the cellular uptake of evodiamine and rutaecarpine in a microemulsion in comparison with aqueous suspensions and tinctures. A microemulsion was prepared using the dropwise addition method. Mouse skin fibroblasts were cultured in vitro to investigate the optimal conditions for evodiamine and rutaecarpine uptake with different drug concentrations and administration times. Under optimal conditions, the cellular uptake of microemulsified drugs was assayed and compared to tinctures and aqueous suspensions. Rhodamine B labeling and laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM) were used to explore the distribution of fluorochrome transferred with the microemulsion in fibroblasts. Cellular morphology was also investigated, using optical microscopy to evaluate microemulsion-induced cellular toxicity. The maximum cellular drug uptake amounts were obtained with a 20% concentration (v/v) of microemulsion and an 8 hour administration time. Drug uptake by mouse skin fibroblasts was lowest when the drugs were loaded in microemulsion. After incubation with rhodamine B-labeled microemulsion for 8 hours, the highest fluorescence intensity was achieved, and the fluorochrome was primarily distributed in the cytochylema. No obvious cellular morphologic changes were observed with the administration of either the microemulsion or the aqueous suspension; for the tincture group, however, massive cellular necrocytosis was observed. The lower cellular uptake with microemulsion may be due to the fact that most of the drug loaded in the microemulsion vehicle was transported via the intercellular space, while a small quantity of free drug (released from the vehicle) was ingested through transmembrane transport. Mouse skin fibroblasts rarely endocytosed evodiamine and rutaecarpine with a microemulsion as the vehicle. The microemulsion had no obvious effect on cellular morphology, suggesting there is little or no cellular toxicity associated with the administration of microemulsion on mouse skin fibroblasts.

  4. Custom fractional factorial designs to develop atorvastatin self-nanoemulsifying and nanosuspension delivery systems--enhancement of oral bioavailability.

    PubMed

    Hashem, Fahima M; Al-Sawahli, Majid M; Nasr, Mohamed; Ahmed, Osama A A

    2015-01-01

    Poor water solubility of a drug is a major challenge in drug delivery research and a main cause for limited bioavailability and pharmacokinetic parameters. This work aims to utilize custom fractional factorial design to assess the development of self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems (SNEDDS) and solid nanosuspensions (NS) in order to enhance the oral delivery of atorvastatin (ATR). According to the design, 14 experimental runs of ATR SNEDDS were formulated utilizing the highly ATR solubilizing SNEDDS components: oleic acid, Tween 80, and propylene glycol. In addition, 12 runs of NS were formulated by the antisolvent precipitation-ultrasonication method. Optimized formulations of SNEDDS and solid NS, deduced from the design, were characterized. Optimized SNEDDS formula exhibited mean globule size of 73.5 nm, zeta potential magnitude of -24.1 mV, and 13.5 μs/cm of electrical conductivity. Optimized solid NS formula exhibited mean particle size of 260.3 nm, 7.4 mV of zeta potential, and 93.2% of yield percentage. Transmission electron microscopy showed SNEDDS droplets formula as discrete spheres. The solid NS morphology showed flaky nanoparticles with irregular shapes using scanning electron microscopy. The release behavior of the optimized SNEDDS formula showed 56.78% of cumulative ATR release after 10 minutes. Solid NS formula showed lower rate of release in the first 30 minutes. Bioavailability estimation in Wistar albino rats revealed an augmentation in ATR bioavailability, relative to ATR suspension and the commercial tablets, from optimized ATR SNEDDS and NS formulations by 193.81% and 155.31%, respectively. The findings of this work showed that the optimized nanocarriers enhance the oral delivery and pharmacokinetic profile of ATR.

  5. DNA Trojan Horses: Self-Assembled Floxuridine-Containing DNA Polyhedra for Cancer Therapy.

    PubMed

    Mou, Quanbing; Ma, Yuan; Pan, Gaifang; Xue, Bai; Yan, Deyue; Zhang, Chuan; Zhu, Xinyuan

    2017-10-02

    Based on their structural similarity to natural nucleobases, nucleoside analogue therapeutics were integrated into DNA strands through conventional solid-phase synthesis. By elaborately designing their sequences, floxuridine-integrated DNA strands were synthesized and self-assembled into well-defined DNA polyhedra with definite drug-loading ratios as well as tunable size and morphology. As a novel drug delivery system, these drug-containing DNA polyhedra could ideally mimic the Trojan Horse to deliver chemotherapeutics into tumor cells and fight against cancer. Both in vitro and in vivo results demonstrate that the DNA Trojan horse with buckyball architecture exhibits superior anticancer capability over the free drug and other formulations. With precise control over the drug-loading ratio and structure of the nanocarriers, the DNA Trojan horse may play an important role in anticancer treatment and exhibit great potential in translational nanomedicine. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  6. Silica encapsulated lipid-based drug delivery systems for reducing the fed/fasted variations of ziprasidone in vitro.

    PubMed

    Dening, Tahnee J; Rao, Shasha; Thomas, Nicky; Prestidge, Clive A

    2016-04-01

    Ziprasidone is a poorly water-soluble antipsychotic drug that demonstrates low fasted state oral bioavailability and a clinically significant two-fold increase in absorption when dosed postprandially. Owing to significant compliance challenges faced by schizophrenic patients, a novel oral formulation of ziprasidone that demonstrates improved fasted state absorption and a reduced food effect is of major interest, and is therefore the aim of this research. Three lipid-based drug delivery systems (LBDDS) were developed and investigated: (a) a self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS), (b) a solid SNEDDS formulation, and (c) silica-lipid hybrid (SLH) microparticles. SNEDDS was developed using Capmul MCM® and Tween 80®, and solid SNEDDS was fabricated by spray-drying SNEDDS with Aerosil 380® silica nanoparticles as the solid carrier. SLH microparticles were prepared in a similar manner to solid SNEDDS using a precursor lipid emulsion composed of Capmul MCM® and soybean lecithin. The performance of the developed formulations was evaluated under simulated digesting conditions using an in vitro lipolysis model, and pure (unformulated) ziprasidone was used as a control. While pure ziprasidone exhibited the lowest rate and extent of drug solubilization under fasting conditions and a significant 2.4-fold increase in drug solubilization under fed conditions, all three LBDDS significantly enhanced the extent of drug solubilization under fasting conditions between 18- and 43-folds in comparison to pure drug. No significant difference in drug solubilization for the fed and fasted states was observed for the three LBDDS systems. To highlight the potential of LBDDS, mechanism(s) of action and various performance characteristics are discussed. Importantly, LBDDS are identified as an appropriate formulation strategy to explore further for the improved oral delivery of ziprasidone. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  7. [Use of over-the-counter drugs containing ibuprofen in self-medication].

    PubMed

    Macesková, B

    2001-05-01

    Ibuprofen (MO1AE01) is a suitable means for self-medication with regard to its relatively wide spectrum of indication, good tolerance, and safety. In the Czech Republic, OTC preparations containing ibuprofen represent frequently used medicaments. The paper examines solid divided dosage forms for oral administration. A survey based on questionnaires reveals in what indications and according to what dosing schemes the purchased preparations are used, and the paper evaluates possible risks. Strengthening of the role of the pharmacist as the provider of information on drugs, keeping patients' drug records in pharmacies, and deepening of the mutual cooperation of the physician and pharmacist would contribute to increase the safety of the use of the preparations under study.

  8. Improvement of solubility, dissolution and stability profile of artemether solid dispersions and self emulsified solid dispersions by solvent evaporation method.

    PubMed

    Tayyab Ansari, Muhammad; Arshad, Muhammad Sohail; Hussain, Altaf; Ahmad, Zeeshan

    2016-12-08

    The purpose of this study was to investigate changes in the water solubility of artemether; a poorly soluble drug used for the treatment of malaria. Different solid dispersions (SDs) of artemether were prepared using artemether and polyethylene glycol 6000 at ratio 12:88 (Group 1), self-emulsified solid dispersions (SESDs) containing artemether, polyethylene glycol 6000, cremophor-A-25, olive oil, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose and transcutol in the ratio 12:75:5:4:2:2, respectively (Group 2). SESDs were also prepared by substituting cremophor-A-25 in Group 2 with poloxamer 188 (noted as Group 3). Each of these preparations was formulated using physical mixing and the solvent evaporation method. Aqueous solubility of artemether improved 11-, 95- and 102-fold, while dissolution (in simulated gastric fluid) increased 3-, 13- and 14-fold, for formulation groups 1, 2 and 3, respectively. X-ray diffraction patterns of SDs indicated a decrease in peak intensities at 10° implying reduced artemether crystallinity. Scanning electron micrographs invariably revealed embedment of artemether by various excipients and a glassy appearance for solvent evaporated mixtures for all three formulation Groups. Our findings indicate improved hydrophilic interactions for drug particles yield greater solubility and dissolution in the following order for artemether formulating methods: solvent evaporation mixtures > physical mixtures > pure artemether.

  9. Effect of ingested lipids on drug dissolution and release with concurrent digestion: a modeling approach

    PubMed Central

    Buyukozturk, Fulden; Di Maio, Selena; Budil, David E.; Carrier, Rebecca L.

    2014-01-01

    Purpose To mechanistically study and model the effect of lipids, either from food or self-emulsifying drug delivery systems (SEDDS), on drug transport in the intestinal lumen. Methods Simultaneous lipid digestion, dissolution/release, and drug partitioning were experimentally studied and modeled for two dosing scenarios: solid drug with a food-associated lipid (soybean oil) and drug solubilized in a model SEDDS (soybean oil and Tween 80 at 1:1 ratio). Rate constants for digestion, permeability of emulsion droplets, and partition coefficients in micellar and oil phases were measured, and used to numerically solve the developed model. Results Strong influence of lipid digestion on drug release from SEDDS and solid drug dissolution into food-associated lipid emulsion were observed and predicted by the developed model. 90 minutes after introduction of SEDDS, there was 9% and 70% drug release in the absence and presence of digestion, respectively. However, overall drug dissolution in the presence of food-associated lipids occurred over a longer period than without digestion. Conclusion A systems-based mechanistic model incorporating simultaneous dynamic processes occurring upon dosing of drug with lipids enabled prediction of aqueous drug concentration profile. This model, once incorporated with a pharmacokinetic model considering processes of drug absorption and drug lymphatic transport in the presence of lipids, could be highly useful for quantitative prediction of impact of lipids on bioavailability of drugs. PMID:24234918

  10. Drug carrier systems for solubility enhancement of BCS class II drugs: a critical review.

    PubMed

    Kumar, Sumit; Bhargava, Deepak; Thakkar, Arti; Arora, Saahil

    2013-01-01

    Poor aqueous solubility impedes a drug's bioavailability and challenges its pharmaceutical development. Pharmaceutical development of drugs with poor water solubility requires the establishment of a suitable formulation layout among various techniques. Various approaches have been investigated extensively to improve the aqueous solubility and poor dissolution rate of BCS class II and IV drugs. In this literature review, novel formulation options, particularly for class II drugs designed for applications such as micronization, self-emulsification, cyclodextrin complexation, co-crystallisation, super critical fluid technology, solubilisation by change in pH, salt formation, co-solvents, melt granulation, and solid dispersion, liposomal/niosomal formulations, are discussed in detail to introduce biopharmaceutical challenges and recent approaches to facilitate more efficient drug formulation and development.

  11. Inorganic phosphate-triggered release of anti-cancer arsenic trioxide from a self-delivery system: an in vitro and in vivo study

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chen, Fei-Yan; Yi, Jing-Wei; Gu, Zhe-Jia; Tang, Bin-Bing; Li, Jian-Qi; Li, Li; Kulkarni, Padmakar; Liu, Li; Mason, Ralph P.; Tang, Qun

    2016-03-01

    On-demand drug delivery is becoming feasible via the design of either exogenous or endogenous stimulus-responsive drug delivery systems. Herein we report the development of gadolinium arsenite nanoparticles as a self-delivery platform to store, deliver and release arsenic trioxide (ATO, Trisenox), a clinical anti-cancer drug. Specifically, unloading of the small molecule drug is triggered by an endogenous stimulus: inorganic phosphate (Pi) in the blood, fluid, and soft or hard tissue. Kinetics in vitro demonstrated that ATO is released with high ON/OFF specificity and no leakage was observed in the silent state. The nanoparticles induced tumor cell apoptosis, and reduced cancer cell migration and invasion. Plasma pharmacokinetics verified extended retention time, but no obvious disturbance of phosphate balance. Therapeutic efficacy on a liver cancer xenograft mouse model was dramatically potentiated with reduced toxicity compared to the free drug. These results suggest a new drug delivery strategy which might be applied for ATO therapy on solid tumors.On-demand drug delivery is becoming feasible via the design of either exogenous or endogenous stimulus-responsive drug delivery systems. Herein we report the development of gadolinium arsenite nanoparticles as a self-delivery platform to store, deliver and release arsenic trioxide (ATO, Trisenox), a clinical anti-cancer drug. Specifically, unloading of the small molecule drug is triggered by an endogenous stimulus: inorganic phosphate (Pi) in the blood, fluid, and soft or hard tissue. Kinetics in vitro demonstrated that ATO is released with high ON/OFF specificity and no leakage was observed in the silent state. The nanoparticles induced tumor cell apoptosis, and reduced cancer cell migration and invasion. Plasma pharmacokinetics verified extended retention time, but no obvious disturbance of phosphate balance. Therapeutic efficacy on a liver cancer xenograft mouse model was dramatically potentiated with reduced toxicity compared to the free drug. These results suggest a new drug delivery strategy which might be applied for ATO therapy on solid tumors. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: HRTEM image and electron diffraction pattern of individual GdAsOx NPs, cell viability measurements after 48 and 72 hours of incubation, body weight change curves, hematology curves, liver function curves, and renal function curves. See DOI: 10.1039/c6nr00536e

  12. Zein as a Pharmaceutical Excipient in Oral Solid Dosage Forms: State of the Art and Future Perspectives.

    PubMed

    Berardi, Alberto; Bisharat, Lorina; AlKhatib, Hatim S; Cespi, Marco

    2018-05-07

    Zein is the main storage protein of corn and it has several industrial applications. Mainly in the last 10-15 years, zein has emerged as a potential pharmaceutical excipient with unique features. Zein is a natural, biocompatible and biodegradable material produced from renewable sources. It is insoluble, yet due to its amphiphilic nature, it has self-assembling properties, which have been exploited for the formation of micromicroparticle and nanoparticle and films. Moreover, zein can hydrate so it has been used in swellable matrices for controlled drug release. Other pharmaceutical applications of zein in oral drug delivery include its incorporation in solid dispersions of poorly soluble drugs and in colonic drug delivery systems. This review describes the features of zein significant for its use as a pharmaceutical excipient for oral drug delivery, and it summaries the literature relevant to macroscopic zein-based oral dosage forms, i.e. tablets, capsules, beads and powders. Particular attention is paid to the most novel formulations and applications of zein. Moreover, gaps of knowledge as well as possible venues for future investigations on zein are highlighted.

  13. A novel solid self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (S-SNEDDS) for improved stability and oral bioavailability of an oily drug, 1-palmitoyl-2-linoleoyl-3-acetyl-rac-glycerol.

    PubMed

    Kim, Kyeong Soo; Yang, Eun Su; Kim, Dong Shik; Kim, Dong Wuk; Yoo, Hye Hyun; Yong, Chul Soon; Youn, Yu Seok; Oh, Kyung Taek; Jee, Jun-Pil; Kim, Jong Oh; Jin, Sung Giu; Choi, Han Gon

    2017-11-01

    To develop a novel solid self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (S-SNEDDS) for a water-insoluble oily drug, 1-palmitoyl-2-linoleoyl-3-acetyl-rac-glycerol (PLAG) with improved stability and oral bioavailability, numerous S-SNEDDS were prepared with surfactant, hydrophilic polymer, antioxidant, and calcium silicate (porous carrier) using the spray-drying method. Their physicochemical properties were evaluated using emulsion droplet size analysis, SEM and PXRD. Moreover, the solubility, dissolution, stability, and pharmacokinetics of the selected S-SNEDDS were assessed compared with the drug and a commercial soft capsule. Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) with the highest drug solubility were selected as surfactant and hydrophilic polymer, respectively. Among the antioxidants tested, only butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) could completely protect the drug from oxidative degradation. The S-SNEDDS composed of PLAG/SLS/HPMC/BHA/calcium silicate at a weight ratio of 1: 0.25: 0.1: 0.0002: 0.5 provided an emulsion droplet size of less than 300 nm. In this S-SNEDDS, the drug and other ingredients might exist in the pores of carrier and attach onto its surface. It considerably improved the drug stability (about 100 vs. 70%, 60 °C for 5 d) and dissolution (about 80 vs. 20% in 60 min) compared to the commercial soft capsule. Moreover, the S-SNEDDS gave higher AUC, C max , and T max values than the commercial soft capsule; in particular, the former improved the oral bioavailability of PLAG by about 3-fold. Our results suggested that this S-SNEDDS provided excellent stability and oral bioavailability of PLAG. Thus, this S-SNEDDS would be recommended as a powerful oral drug delivery system for an oily drug, PLAG.

  14. Social stimuli enhance phencyclidine (PCP) self-administration in rhesus monkeys

    PubMed Central

    Newman, Jennifer L.; Perry, Jennifer L.; Carroll, Marilyn E.

    2007-01-01

    Environmental factors, including social interaction, can alter the effects of drugs of abuse on behavior. The present study was conducted to examine the effects of social stimuli on oral phencyclidine (PCP) self-administration by rhesus monkeys. Ten adult rhesus monkeys (M. mulatta) were housed side by side in modular cages that could be configured to provide visual, auditory, and olfactory stimuli provided by another monkey located in the other side of the paired unit. During the first experiment, monkeys self-administered PCP (0.25 mg/ml) and water under concurrent fixed ratio (FR) 16 schedules of reinforcement with either a solid or a grid (social) partition separating each pair of monkeys. In the second experiment, a PCP concentration-response relationship was determined under concurrent progressive ratio (PR) schedules of reinforcement under the solid and grid partition conditions. Under the concurrent FR 16 schedules, PCP and water self-administration was significantly higher during exposure to a cage mate through a grid partition than when a solid partition separated the monkeys. The relative reinforcing strength of PCP, as measured by PR break points, was greater during the grid partition condition compared to the solid partition condition indicated by an upward shift in the concentration-response curve. To determine whether the social stimuli provided by another monkey led to activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which may have evoked the increase of PCP self-administration during the grid partition condition, a third experiment was conducted to examine cortisol levels under the two housing conditions. A modest, but nonsignificant increase in cortisol levels was found upon switching from the solid to the grid partition condition. The results suggest that social stimulation among monkeys in adjoining cages leads to enhanced reinforcing strength of PCP. PMID:17560636

  15. Dropwise additive manufacturing of pharmaceutical products for amorphous and self emulsifying drug delivery systems.

    PubMed

    Içten, Elçin; Purohit, Hitesh S; Wallace, Chelsey; Giridhar, Arun; Taylor, Lynne S; Nagy, Zoltan K; Reklaitis, Gintaras V

    2017-05-30

    The improvements in healthcare systems and the advent of the precision medicine initiative have created the need to develop more innovative manufacturing methods for the delivery and production of individualized dosing and personalized treatments. In accordance with the changes observed in healthcare systems towards more innovative therapies, this paper presents dropwise additive manufacturing of pharmaceutical products (DAMPP) for small scale, distributed manufacturing of individualized dosing as an alternative to conventional manufacturing methods A dropwise additive manufacturing process for amorphous and self-emulsifying drug delivery systems is reported, which utilizes drop-on-demand printing technology for automated and controlled deposition of melt-based formulations onto inert tablets. The advantages of drop on demand technology include reproducible production of droplets with adjustable sizing and high placement accuracy, which enable production of individualized dosing even for low dose and high potency drugs. Flexible use of different formulations, such as lipid-based formulations, allows enhancement of the solubility of poorly water soluble and highly lipophilic drugs with DAMPP. Here, DAMPP is used to produce solid oral dosage forms from melts of an active pharmaceutical ingredient and a surfactant. The dosage forms are analyzed to show the amorphous nature, self-emulsifying drug delivery system characteristics and dissolution behavior of these formulations. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  16. In situ absorption and relative bioavailability studies of zaleplon loaded self-nanoemulsifying powders.

    PubMed

    Janga, Karthik Y; Jukanti, Raju; Sunkavalli, Sharath; Velpula, Ashok; Bandari, Suresh; Kandadi, Prabhakar; Veerareddy, Prabhakar Reddy

    2013-01-01

    Self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems (SNEDDSs) offer potential as suitable carriers for improved oral delivery of poorly soluble and low bioavailable drugs. To derive self-nanoemulsifying powders (SNEPs), the optimized Z-SNEDDS formulation was adsorbed onto different carriers and based on micromeritics the formulation loaded onto neusilin US2 (SNEP-N) was selected for further characterization. The solid-state characterization (scanning electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry and powder X-ray diffraction) studies unravel the transformation of native crystalline state to amorphous and/or molecular state. The higher predictive effective permeability coefficient and fraction absorbed in humans extrapolated from in situ single-pass intestinal absorption study data in rats provide an insight on the potential of SNEPs for augment in absorption across gastrointestinal barrier. Overall a 3.5-fold enhancement in the extent of absorption of zaleplon from SNEP-N formulation proves the feasibility of SNEPs formulation for improved oral delivery of zaleplon.

  17. Impact of various solid carriers and spray drying on pre/post compression properties of solid SNEDDS loaded with glimepiride: in vitro-ex vivo evaluation and cytotoxicity assessment.

    PubMed

    Rajesh, Sarvi Yadav; Singh, Sachin Kumar; Pandey, Narendra Kumar; Sharma, Parth; Bawa, Palak; Kumar, Bimlesh; Gulati, Monica; Jain, Subheet Kumar; Gowthamarajan, Kuppusamy; Singh, Saurabh

    2018-07-01

    Development of self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems (SNEDDS) of glimepiride is reported with the aim to achieve its oral delivery. Lauroglycol FCC, Tween-80, and ethanol were used as oil, surfactant, and co-surfactant, respectively as independent variables. The optimized composition of SNEDDS formulation (F1) was 10% v/v Lauroglycol FCC, 45% v/v Tween 80, 45% v/v ethanol, and 0.005% w/v glimepiride. Further, the optimized liquid SNEDDS were solidified through spray drying using various hydrophilic and hydrophobic carriers. Among the various carriers, Aerosil 200 was found to provide desirable flow, compression, dissolution, and diffusion. Both, liquid and solid-SNEDDS have shown release of more than 90% within 10 min. Results of permeation studies performed on Caco-2 cell showed that optimized SNEDDS exhibited 1.54 times higher drug permeation amount and 0.57 times lower drug excretion amount than that of market tablets at 4 hours (p < .01). Further, the cytotoxicity study performed on Caco-2 cell revealed that the cell viability was lower in SNEDDS (92.22% ± 4.18%) compared with the market tablets (95.54% ± 3.22%; p > .05, i.e. 0.74). The formulation was found stable with temperature variation and freeze thaw cycles in terms of droplet size, zeta potential, drug precipitation and phase separation. Crystalline glimepiride was observed in amorphous state in solid SNEDDS when characterized through DSC, PXRD, and FT-IR studies. The study revealed successful formulation of SNEDDS for glimepiride.

  18. Solid self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems for oral delivery of polypeptide-k: Formulation, optimization, in-vitro and in-vivo antidiabetic evaluation.

    PubMed

    Garg, Varun; Kaur, Puneet; Singh, Sachin Kumar; Kumar, Bimlesh; Bawa, Palak; Gulati, Monica; Yadav, Ankit Kumar

    2017-11-15

    Development of self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems (SNEDDS) of polypeptide-k (PPK) is reported with the aim to achieve its oral delivery. Box-Behnken design (BBD) was adopted to develop and optimize the composition of SNEDDS. Oleoyl polyoxyl-6 glycerides (A), Tween 80 (B), and diethylene glycol monoethyl ether (C) were used as oil, surfactant and co-surfactant, respectively as independent variables. The effect of variation in their composition was observed on the mean droplet size (y1), polydispersity index (PDI) (y2), % drug loading (y3) and zeta potential (y4). As per the optimal design, seventeen SNEDDS prototypes were prepared. The optimized composition of SNEDDS formulation was 25% v/v Oleoyl polyoxyl-6 glycerides, 37% v/v Tween 80, 38% v/v diethylene glycol monoethyl ether, and 3% w/v PPK. The optimized formulation revealed values of y1, y2, y3, and y4 as 31.89nm, 0.16, 73.15%, and -15.65mV, respectively. Further the optimized liquid SNEDDS were solidified through spray drying using various hydrophilic and hydrophobic carriers. Among the various carriers, Aerosil 200 was found to provide desirable flow, compression, disintegration and dissolution properties. Both, liquid and solid-SNEDDS have shown release of >90% within 10min. The formulation was found stable with change in pH, dilution, temperature variation and freeze thaw cycles in terms of droplet size, zeta potential, drug precipitation and phase separation. Crystalline PPK was observed in amorphous state in solid SNEDDS when characterized through DSC and PXRD studies. The biochemical, hematological and histopathological results of streptozotocin induced diabetic rats shown promising antidiabetic potential of PPK loaded in SNEDDS at its both the doses (i.e. 400mg/kg and 800mg/kg) as compared to its naïve form at both the doses. The study revealed successful formulation of SNEDDS for oral delivery of PPK. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  19. 21 CFR 330.3 - Imprinting of solid oral dosage form drug products.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 5 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Imprinting of solid oral dosage form drug products... AS SAFE AND EFFECTIVE AND NOT MISBRANDED General Provisions § 330.3 Imprinting of solid oral dosage form drug products. A requirement to imprint an identification code on solid oral dosage form drug...

  20. 21 CFR 330.3 - Imprinting of solid oral dosage form drug products.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 5 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Imprinting of solid oral dosage form drug products... AS SAFE AND EFFECTIVE AND NOT MISBRANDED General Provisions § 330.3 Imprinting of solid oral dosage form drug products. A requirement to imprint an identification code on solid oral dosage form drug...

  1. Drug-Drug Multicomponent Solid Forms: Cocrystal, Coamorphous and Eutectic of Three Poorly Soluble Antihypertensive Drugs Using Mechanochemical Approach.

    PubMed

    Haneef, Jamshed; Chadha, Renu

    2017-08-01

    The present study deals with the application of mechanochemical approach for the preparation of drug-drug multicomponent solid forms of three poorly soluble antihypertensive drugs (telmisartan, irbesartan and hydrochlorothiazide) using atenolol as a coformer. The resultant solid forms comprise of cocrystal (telmisartan-atenolol), coamorphous (irbesartan-atenolol) and eutectic (hydrochlorothiazide-atenolol). The study emphasizes that solid-state transformation of drug molecules into new forms is a result of the change in structural patterns, diminishing of dimers and creating new facile hydrogen bonding network based on structural resemblance. The propensity for heteromeric or homomeric interaction between two different drugs resulted into diverse solid forms (cocrystal/coamorphous/eutectics) and become one of the interesting aspects of this research work. Evaluation of these solid forms revealed an increase in solubility and dissolution leading to better antihypertensive activity in deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA) salt-induced animal model. Thus, development of these drug-drug multicomponent solid forms is a promising and viable approach to addressing the issue of poor solubility and could be of considerable interest in dual drug therapy for the treatment of hypertension.

  2. Advances in polyelectrolyte multilayer nanofilms as tunable drug delivery systems

    PubMed Central

    Jiang, Bingbing; Barnett, John B; Li, Bingyun

    2009-01-01

    There has been considerable interest in polyelectrolyte multilayer nanofilms, which have a variety of applications ranging from optical and electrochemical materials to biomedical devices. Polyelectrolyte multilayer nanofilms are constructed from aqueous solutions using electrostatic layer-by-layer self-assembly of oppositely-charged polyelectrolytes on a solid substrate. Multifunctional polyelectrolyte multilayer nanofilms have been studied using charged dyes, metal and inorganic nanoparticles, DNA, proteins, and viruses. In the past few years, there has been increasing attention to developing polyelectrolyte multilayer nanofilms as drug delivery vehicles. In this mini-review, we present recent developments in polyelectrolyte multilayer nanofilms with tunable drug delivery properties, with particular emphasis on the strategies in tuning the loading and release of drugs in polyelectrolyte multilayer nanofilms as well as their applications. PMID:24198464

  3. Patient safety: numerical skills and drug calculation abilities of nursing students and registered nurses.

    PubMed

    McMullan, Miriam; Jones, Ray; Lea, Susan

    2010-04-01

    This paper is a report of a correlational study of the relations of age, status, experience and drug calculation ability to numerical ability of nursing students and Registered Nurses. Competent numerical and drug calculation skills are essential for nurses as mistakes can put patients' lives at risk. A cross-sectional study was carried out in 2006 in one United Kingdom university. Validated numerical and drug calculation tests were given to 229 second year nursing students and 44 Registered Nurses attending a non-medical prescribing programme. The numeracy test was failed by 55% of students and 45% of Registered Nurses, while 92% of students and 89% of nurses failed the drug calculation test. Independent of status or experience, older participants (> or = 35 years) were statistically significantly more able to perform numerical calculations. There was no statistically significant difference between nursing students and Registered Nurses in their overall drug calculation ability, but nurses were statistically significantly more able than students to perform basic numerical calculations and calculations for solids, oral liquids and injections. Both nursing students and Registered Nurses were statistically significantly more able to perform calculations for solids, liquid oral and injections than calculations for drug percentages, drip and infusion rates. To prevent deskilling, Registered Nurses should continue to practise and refresh all the different types of drug calculations as often as possible with regular (self)-testing of their ability. Time should be set aside in curricula for nursing students to learn how to perform basic numerical and drug calculations. This learning should be reinforced through regular practice and assessment.

  4. Molecular implications of drug-polymer solubility in understanding the destabilization of solid dispersions by milling.

    PubMed

    Yang, Ziyi; Nollenberger, Kathrin; Albers, Jessica; Qi, Sheng

    2014-07-07

    The solubility of drugs in polymer matrixes has been recognized as one of the key factors governing the physical stability of solid dispersions. This study has explored the implications of drug solubility on the destabilization that occurs on milling, which is often used as an additional process for hot melt extruded (HME) solid dispersions. The theoretical drug solubility in the polymer was first predicted using various theoretical and experimental approaches. The destabilization effects of high-energy mechanical milling on the solid dispersions with drug loadings below and above the predicted solubility were then investigated using a range of thermal, microscopic, and spectroscopic techniques. Four model drug-polymer combinations were studied. The HME formulations with drug loading below the predicted solid solubility (undersaturated and true molecular dispersion) showed good stability against milling. In contrast, milling destabilized supersaturated HME dispersions via increasing molecular mobility and creating phase-separated, amorphous, drug-rich domains. However, these additional amorphous drug-rich domains created by milling show good stability under ambient conditions, though crystallization can be accelerated by additional heating. These results highlighted that the processing method used to prepare the solid dispersions may play a role in facilitating the stabilization of amorphous drug in supersaturated solid dispersions. The degree of supersaturation of the drug in the polymer showed significant impact on the destabilization behavior of milling on solid dispersions. An improved understanding of the destabilization behavior of solid dispersions upon milling can provide new insights into the processing related apparent solubility of drugs in polymers.

  5. Effect of hydroxypropylcellulose and Tween 80 on physicochemical properties and bioavailability of ezetimibe-loaded solid dispersion.

    PubMed

    Rashid, Rehmana; Kim, Dong Wuk; Din, Fakhar Ud; Mustapha, Omer; Yousaf, Abid Mehmood; Park, Jong Hyuck; Kim, Jong Oh; Yong, Chul Soon; Choi, Han-Gon

    2015-10-05

    The purpose of this research was to evaluate the effect of the HPC (hydroxypropylcellulose) and Tween 80 on the physicochemical properties and oral bioavailability of ezetimibe-loaded solid dispersions. The binary solid dispersions were prepared with drug and various amounts of HPC. Likewise, ternary solid dispersions were prepared with different ratios of drug, HPC and Tween 80. Both types of solid dispersions were prepared using the solvent evaporation method. Their aqueous solubility, physicochemical properties, dissolution and oral bioavailability were investigated in comparison with the drug powder. All the solid dispersions significantly improved the drug solubility and dissolution. As the amount of HPC increased in the binary solid dispersions to 10-fold, the drug solubility and dissolution were increased accordingly. However, further increase in HPC did not result in significant differences among them. Similarly, up to 0.1-fold, Tween 80 increased the drug solubility in the ternary solid dispersions followed by no significant change. However, Tween 80 hardly affected the drug dissolution. The physicochemical analysis proved that the drug in binary and ternary solid dispersion was existed in the amorphous form. The particle-size measurements of these formulations were also not significantly different from each other, which showed that Tween 80 had no impact on physicochemical properties. The ezetimibe-loaded binary and ternary solid dispersions gave 1.6- and 1.8-fold increased oral bioavailability in rats, respectively, as compared to the drug powder; however, these values were not significantly different from each other. Thus, HPC greatly affected the solubility, dissolution and oral bioavailability of drug, but Tween 80 hardly did. Furthermore, this ezetimibe-loaded binary solid dispersion prepared only with HPC would be suggested as a potential formulation for oral administration of ezetimibe. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  6. Immobilization of paracetamol and benzocaine pro-drug derivatives as long-range self-organized monolayers on graphite.

    PubMed

    Popoff, Alexandre; Fichou, Denis

    2008-05-01

    We show here by means of scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) at the liquid/solid interface that paracetamol and benzocaine molecules bearing a long aliphatic chain can be immobilized on highly oriented pyrolitic graphite (HOPG) as perfectly ordered two-dimensional domains extending over several hundreds of nanometers. In both cases, high-resolution STM images reveal that compounds 1 and 2 self-assemble into parallel lamellae having a head-to-head arrangement. The paracetamol heads of 1 are in a zigzag position with entangled n-dodecyloxy side chains while benzocaine heads of compound 2 are perfectly aligned as a double row and have their palmitic side chains on either sides of the head alignment. We attribute the very long-range ordering of these two pro-drug derivatives on HOPG to the combined effects of intermolecular H-bonding on one side and Van der Waals interactions between aliphatic side chains and graphite on the other side. The 2D immobilization of pro-drug derivatives via a non-destructive physisorption mechanism could prove to be useful for applications such as drug delivery if it can be realized on a biocompatible substrate.

  7. Improving the dissolution rate of poorly water soluble drug by solid dispersion and solid solution: pros and cons.

    PubMed

    Chokshi, Rina J; Zia, Hossein; Sandhu, Harpreet K; Shah, Navnit H; Malick, Waseem A

    2007-01-01

    The solid dispersions with poloxamer 188 (P188) and solid solutions with polyvinylpyrrolidone K30 (PVPK30) were evaluated and compared in an effort to improve aqueous solubility and bioavailability of a model hydrophobic drug. All preparations were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry, powder X-ray diffraction, intrinsic dissolution rates, and contact angle measurements. Accelerated stability studies also were conducted to determine the effects of aging on the stability of various formulations. The selected solid dispersion and solid solution formulations were further evaluated in beagle dogs for in vivo testing. Solid dispersions were characterized to show that the drug retains its crystallinity and forms a two-phase system. Solid solutions were characterized to be an amorphous monophasic system with transition of crystalline drug to amorphous state. The evaluation of the intrinsic dissolution rates of various preparations indicated that the solid solutions have higher initial dissolution rates compared with solid dispersions. However, after storage at accelerated conditions, the dissolution rates of solid solutions were lower due to partial reversion to crystalline form. The drug in solid dispersion showed better bioavailability in comparison to solid solution. Therefore, considering physical stability and in vivo study results, the solid dispersion was the most suitable choice to improve dissolution rates and hence the bioavailability of the poorly water soluble drug.

  8. Characterization of low-dose doxorubicin-loaded silica-based nanocomposites

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Prokopowicz, Magdalena

    2018-01-01

    In this study, we synthesized multicomponent solid films of low-dose doxorubicin (DOX)-loaded polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-SiO2/CaP nanocomposites via sol-gel process combined with the method of evaporation-induced self-assembly (EISA) at low temperature. Nanomechanical properties (elasticity and adhesion) of the synthesized multicomponent films were determined by using atomic force microscopy with a PeakForce™ quantitative nanomechanical mapping imaging technique. Solid state of DOX in the synthesized films was studied by using UV-vis and fluorescence spectroscopy. The release profile of different concentrations of DOX loaded (1, 3, and 5 wt%) on the multicomponent films was assessed using USP Apparatus 4 and via UV-vis end analysis. Results indicate drug-component interactions on the overall morphology of domains (size and shape), nanomechanical properties, and release behavior of the DOX-loaded nanocomposites. We observed a progressive increase in surface roughness and mean adhesive value with increasing concentration of DOX loaded (0-5 wt%). In addition, for all the different concentrations of DOX-loaded, we observed a diffusion-controlled drug release.

  9. Porous Silica-Supported Solid Lipid Particles for Enhanced Solubilization of Poorly Soluble Drugs.

    PubMed

    Yasmin, Rokhsana; Rao, Shasha; Bremmell, Kristen E; Prestidge, Clive A

    2016-07-01

    Low dissolution of drugs in the intestinal fluid can limit their effectiveness in oral therapies. Here, a novel porous silica-supported solid lipid system was developed to optimize the oral delivery of drugs with limited aqueous solubility. Using lovastatin (LOV) as the model poorly water-soluble drug, two porous silica-supported solid lipid systems (SSL-A and SSL-S) were fabricated from solid lipid (glyceryl monostearate, GMS) and nanoporous silica particles Aerosil 380 (silica-A) and Syloid 244FP (silica-S) via immersion/solvent evaporation. SSL particles demonstrated significantly higher rate and extent of lipolysis in comparison with the pure solid lipid, depending on the lipid loading levels and the morphology. The highest lipid digestion was observed when silica-S was loaded with 34% (w/w) solid lipid, and differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) analysis confirmed the encapsulation of up to 2% (w/w) non-crystalline LOV in this optimal SSL-S formulation. Drug dissolution under non-digesting intestinal conditions revealed a three- to sixfold increase in dissolution efficiencies when compared to the unformulated drug and a LOV-lipid suspension. Furthermore, the SSL-S provided superior drug solubilization under simulated intestinal digesting condition in comparison with the drug-lipid suspension and drug-loaded silica. Therefore, solid lipid and nanoporous silica provides a synergistic effect on optimizing the solubilization of poorly water-soluble compound and the solid lipid-based porous carrier system provides a promising delivery approach to overcome the oral delivery challenges of poorly water-soluble drugs.

  10. Development of solid dispersion systems of dapivirine to enhance its solubility.

    PubMed

    Gorajana, Adinarayana; Ying, Chan Chiew; Shuang, Yeen; Fong, Pooi; Tan, Zhi; Gupta, Jyoti; Talekar, Meghna; Sharma, Manisha; Garg, Sanjay

    2013-06-01

    Dapivirine, formerly known as TMC 120, is a poorly-water soluble anti-HIV drug, currently being developed as a vaginal microbicide. The clinical use of this drug has been limited due to its poor solubility. The aim of this study was to design solid dispersion systems of Dapivirine to improve its solubility. Solid dispersions were prepared by solvent and fusion methods. Dapivirine release from the solid dispersion system was determined by conducting in-vitro dissolution studies. The physicochemical characteristics of the drug and its formulation were studied using Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), powder X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). A significant improvement in drug dissolution rate was observed with the solid dispersion systems. XRD, SEM and DSC results indicated the transformation of pure Dapivirine which exists in crystalline form into an amorphous form in selected solid dispersion formulations. FTIR and HPLC analysis confirmed the absence of drug-excipient interactions. Solid dispersion systems can be used to improve the dissolution rate of Dapivirine. This improvement could be attributed to the reduction or absence of drug crystallinity, existence of drug particles in an amorphous form and improved wettability of the drug.

  11. Metastatic potential of tumor-initiating cells in solid tumors.

    PubMed

    Adhikari, Amit S; Agarwal, Neeraj; Iwakuma, Tomoo

    2011-01-01

    The lethality of cancer is mainly caused by its properties of metastasis, drug resistance, and subsequent recurrence. Understanding the mechanisms governing these properties and developing novel strategies to overcome them will greatly improve the survival of cancer patients. Recent findings suggest that tumors are comprised of heterogeneous cell populations, and only a small fraction of these are tumorigenic with the ability to self-renew and produce phenotypically diverse tumor cell populations. Cells in this fraction are called tumor-initiating cells (TICs) or cancer stem cells (CSCs). TICs have been identified from many types of cancer. They share several similarities with normal adult stem cells including sphere-forming ability, self-renewability, and expression of stem cell surface markers and transcription factors. TICs have also been proposed to be responsible for cancer metastasis, however, scarce evidence for their metastatic potential has been provided. In this review article, we have attempted to summarize the studies which have examined the metastatic potential of TICs in solid tumors.

  12. Absorption Study of Genistein Using Solid Lipid Microparticles and Nanoparticles: Control of Oral Bioavailability by Particle Sizes.

    PubMed

    Kim, Jeong Tae; Barua, Sonia; Kim, Hyeongmin; Hong, Seong-Chul; Yoo, Seung-Yup; Jeon, Hyojin; Cho, Yeongjin; Gil, Sangwon; Oh, Kyungsoo; Lee, Jaehwi

    2017-07-01

    In this study, the effect of particle size of genistein-loaded solid lipid particulate systems on drug dissolution behavior and oral bioavailability was investigated. Genistein-loaded solid lipid microparticles and nanoparticles were prepared with glyceryl palmitostearate. Except for the particle size, other properties of genistein-loaded solid lipid microparticles and nanoparticles such as particle composition and drug loading efficiency and amount were similarly controlled to mainly evaluate the effect of different particle sizes of the solid lipid particulate systems on drug dissolution behavior and oral bioavailability. The results showed that genistein-loaded solid lipid microparticles and nanoparticles exhibited a considerably increased drug dissolution rate compared to that of genistein bulk powder and suspension. The microparticles gradually released genistein as a function of time while the nanoparticles exhibited a biphasic drug release pattern, showing an initial burst drug release, followed by a sustained release. The oral bioavailability of genistein loaded in solid lipid microparticles and nanoparticles in rats was also significantly enhanced compared to that in bulk powders and the suspension. However, the bioavailability from the microparticles increased more than that from the nanoparticles mainly because the rapid drug dissolution rate and rapid absorption of genistein because of the large surface area of the genistein-solid lipid nanoparticles cleared the drug to a greater extent than the genistein-solid lipid microparticles did. Therefore, the findings of this study suggest that controlling the particle size of solid-lipid particulate systems at a micro-scale would be a promising strategy to increase the oral bioavailability of genistein.

  13. Solid dispersions enhance solubility, dissolution, and permeability of thalidomide.

    PubMed

    Barea, Silvana A; Mattos, Cristiane B; Cruz, Ariadne C C; Chaves, Vitor C; Pereira, Rafael N; Simões, Claudia M O; Kratz, Jadel M; Koester, Letícia S

    2017-03-01

    Thalidomide (THD) is a BCS class II drug with renewed and growing therapeutic applicability. Along with the low aqueous solubility, additional poor biopharmaceutical properties of the drug, i.e. chemical instability, high crystallinity, and polymorphism, lead to a slow and variable oral absorption. In this view, we developed solid dispersions (SDs) containing THD dispersed in different self-emulsifying carriers aiming at an enhanced absorption profile for the drug. THD was dispersed in lauroyl macrogol-32 glycerides (Gelucire ® 44/14) and α-tocopherol polyethylene glycol succinate (Kolliphor ® TPGS), in the presence or absence of the precipitation inhibitor polyvinylpyrrolidone K30 (PVP K30), by means of the solvent method. Physicochemical analysis revealed the formation of semicrystalline SDs. X-ray diffraction and infrared spectroscopy analyses suggest that the remaining crystalline fraction of the drug in the SDs did not undergo polymorphic transition. The impact of the solubility-enhancing formulations on the THD biopharmaceutical properties was evaluated by several in vitro techniques. The developed SDs were able to increase the apparent solubility of the drug (up to 2-3x the equilibrium solubility) for a least 4 h. Dissolution experiments (paddle method, 75 rpm) in different pHs showed that around 80% of drug dissolved after 120 min (versus 40% of pure crystalline drug). Additionally, we demonstrated the enhanced solubility obtained via SDs could be translated into increased flux in a parallel artificial membrane permeability assay (PAMPA). In summary, the results demonstrate that SDs could be considered an interesting and unexplored strategy to improve the biopharmaceutical properties of THD, since SDs of this important drug have yet to be reported.

  14. Comparison of HPMC based polymers performance as carriers for manufacture of solid dispersions using the melt extruder.

    PubMed

    Ghosh, Indrajit; Snyder, Jennifer; Vippagunta, Radha; Alvine, Marilyn; Vakil, Ronak; Tong, Wei-Qin; Vippagunta, Sudha

    2011-10-31

    Preparation of amorphous solid dispersions using hot-melt extrusion process for poorly water soluble compounds which degrade on melting remains a challenge due to exposure to high temperatures. The aim of this study was to develop a physically and chemically stable amorphous solid dispersion of a poorly water-soluble compound, NVS981, which is highly thermal sensitive and degrades upon melting at 165 °C. Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose (HPMC) based polymers; HPMC 3cps, HPMC phthalate (HPMCP) and HPMC acetyl succinate (HPMCAS) were selected as carriers to prepare solid dispersions using hot melt extrusion because of their relatively low glass transition temperatures. The solid dispersions were compared for their ease of manufacturing, physical stability such as recrystallization potential, phase separation, molecular mobility and enhancement of drug dissolution. Two different drug loads of 20 and 50% (w/w) were studied in each polymer system. It was interesting to note that solid dispersions with 50% (w/w) drug load were easier to process in the melt extruder compared to 20% (w/w) drug load in all three carriers, which was attributed to the plasticizing behavior of the drug substance. Upon storage at accelerated stability conditions, no phase separation was observed in HPMC 3cps and HPMCAS solid dispersions at the lower and higher drug load, whereas for HPMCP, phase separation was observed at higher drug load after 3 months. The pharmaceutical performance of these solid dispersions was evaluated by studying drug dissolution in pH 6.8 phosphate buffer. Drug release from solid dispersion prepared from polymers used for enteric coating, i.e. HPMCP and HPMCAS was faster compared with the water soluble polymer HPMC 3cps. In conclusion, of the 3 polymers studied for preparing solid dispersions of thermally sensitive compound using hot melt extrusion, HPMCAS was found to be the most promising as it was easily processible and provided stable solid dispersions with enhanced dissolution. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  15. Dissolution-modulating mechanism of pH modifiers in solid dispersion containing weakly acidic or basic drugs with poor water solubility.

    PubMed

    Tran, Phuong Ha-Lien; Tran, Thao Truong-Dinh; Lee, Kyoung-Ho; Kim, Dong-Jin; Lee, Beom-Jin

    2010-05-01

    Although the solid dispersion method has been known to increase the dissolution rate of poorly water-soluble drugs by dispersing them in hydrophilic carriers, one obstacle of the solid dispersion method is its limited solubilization capacity, especially for pH-dependent soluble drugs. pH-modified solid dispersion, in which pH modifiers are incorporated, may be a useful method for increasing the dissolution rate of weakly acidic or basic drugs. Sufficient research, including the most recent reports, was undertaken in this review. How could the inclusion of the pH the pH modifiers in the solid dispersion system change drug structural behaviors, molecular interactions, microenvironmental pH, and/or release rate of pH modifiers, relating with the enhanced dissolution of weakly acidic or weakly basic drugs with poor water solubility? These questions have been investigated to determine the dissolution-modulating mechanism of pH modifiers in solid dispersion containing weakly acidic or basic drugs. It is believed that step-by-step mechanistic approaches could provide the ultimate solution for solubilizing several poorly water-soluble drugs with pH-dependent solubility from a solid dispersion system, as well as provide ideas for developing future dosage systems.

  16. Chemotherapeutic Drug Based Metal-Organic Particles for Microvesicle-Mediated Deep Penetration and Programmable pH/NIR/Hypoxia Activated Cancer Photochemotherapy.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Da; Wu, Ming; Cai, Zhixiong; Liao, Naishun; Ke, Kun; Liu, Hongzhi; Li, Ming; Liu, Gang; Yang, Huanghao; Liu, Xiaolong; Liu, Jingfeng

    2018-02-01

    A novel metal-organic particle (MOP) based nanodrug formed by mild self-assembly of chemotherapeutic drugs, including banoxantrone and doxorubicin, through Cu(II)-mediated coordination effects, is reported. In this nanodrug, Cu(II) acts as a bridge to join AQ4N and DOX, and then, self-assembly of [-AQ4N-Cu(II)-(DOX) 2 -Cu(II)-] n complexes forms nanosized MOPs (referred to as ADMOPs) through multiple interactions including host-metal-guest coordination, hydrophobic interactions, π-stacking, and van der Waals force. The ADMOPs reported here have several important features over conventional drugs, including tumor microenvironment pH-sensitive drug release that can be tracked by "turning on" the fluorescence of AQ4N or DOX through proton competition with Cu(II) to break the coordination bonds and much deeper penetration into solid tumors via microvesicle-mediated intercellular transfer. Most strikingly, the ADMOPs can serve as stimuli-responsive nanocarriers to efficiently load the photosensitizer phthalocyanine due to their inherent highly porous characteristics. Thus, the ADMOPs significantly enhance the chemotherapeutic efficacy by "on-demand" photodynamic therapy, which further induces a hypoxic environment that enhances the reduction of AQ4N to systematically increase the therapeutic efficiency. Taken together, the designed ADMOPs composed of chemotherapeutic drugs may serve as a potential programmable controlled synergistic agent for cancer therapy.

  17. Perspectives on Strategies Using Swellable Polymers in Solid Dispersions for Controlled Drug Release.

    PubMed

    Tran, Thao T D; Tran, Phuong H L

    2017-01-01

    Poorly water-soluble drugs, which commonly face the issue of poor absorption and low bioavailability, have been under ongoing research of many formulation scientists for the past few decades. Solid dispersion is one of the most effective strategies in concerns for improving bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs. Either application of solid dispersions in dissolution enhancement of poorly water-soluble drugs or the use of swellable polymers in controlled drug release has been reported in pharmaceutical designs widely. However, a review of strategies of using swellable polymers in solid dispersion to take a full advantage of these polymers as a current perspective in facilitating drug bioavailability enhancement is still missing. In this review, we aim to provide a summary of techniques used to formulate a swellable polymer in solid dispersion especially a description of a suitable fabrication method in design of a controlled release solid dispersion. Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.org.

  18. Assessment of hupu gum for its carrier property in the design and evaluation of solid mixtures of poorly water soluble drug - rofecoxib.

    PubMed

    Vadlamudi, Harini Chowdary; Raju, Y Prasanna; Asuntha, G; Nair, Rahul; Murthy, K V Ramana; Vulava, Jayasri

    2014-01-01

    There are no reports about the pharmaceutical applications of hupu gum (HG). Hence the present study was undertaken to test its suitability in the dissolution enhancement of poorly water soluble drug. Rofecoxib (RFB) was taken as model drug. For comparison solid mixtures were prepared with carriers such as poly vinyl pyrrolidone (PVP), sodium starch glycollate (SSG) and guar gum (GG). Physical mixing (PM), co-grinding (CG), kneading (KT) and solvent evaporation (SE) techniques were used to prepare the solid mixtures, using all the carriers in different carrier and drug ratios. The solid mixtures were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). There was a significant improvement in the dissolution rate of solid mixtures of HG, when compared with the solid mixtures of other carriers. There was an increase in dissolution rate with increase in concentration of HG upto 1:1 ratio of carrier and drug. No drug-carrier interaction was found by FTIR studies. XRD studies indicated reduction in crystallinity of the drug with increase in HG concentration. Hence HG could be a useful carrier for the dissolution enhancement of poorly water soluble drugs.

  19. Microstructural effects in drug release by solid and cellular polymeric dosage forms: A comparative study.

    PubMed

    Blaesi, Aron H; Saka, Nannaji

    2017-11-01

    In recent studies, we have introduced melt-processed polymeric cellular dosage forms to achieve both immediate drug release and predictable manufacture. Dosage forms ranging from minimally-porous solids to highly porous, open-cell and thin-walled structures were prepared, and the drug release characteristics investigated as the volume fraction of cells and the excipient molecular weight were varied. In the present study, both minimally-porous solid and cellular dosage forms consisting of various weight fractions of Acetaminophen drug and polyethylene glycol (PEG) excipient are prepared and analyzed. Microstructures of the solid forms and the cell walls range from single-phase solid solutions of the excipient and a small amount of drug molecules to two-phase composites of the excipient and tightly packed drug particles. Results of dissolution experiments show that the minimally-porous solid forms disintegrate and release drug by slow surface erosion. The erosion rate decreases as the drug weight fraction is increased. By contrast, the open-cell structures disintegrate rapidly by viscous exfoliation, and the disintegration time is independent of drug weight fraction. Drug release models suggest that the solid forms erode by convective mass transfer of the faster-eroding excipient if the drug volume fraction is small. At larger drug volume fractions, however, the slower-eroding drug particles hinder access of the free-flowing fluid to the excipient, thus slowing down erosion of the composite. Conversely, the disintegration rate of the cellular forms is limited by diffusion of the dissolution fluid into the excipient phase of the thin cell walls. Because the wall thickness is of the order of the drug particle size, and the particles are enveloped by the excipient during melt-processing, the drug particles cannot hinder diffusion through the excipient across the walls. Thus the disintegration time of the cellular forms is mostly unaffected by the volume fraction of drug in the walls. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  20. Synthesis and Primary Characterization of Self-Assembled Peptide-Based Hydrogels

    PubMed Central

    Nagarkar, Radhika P.; Schneider, Joel P.

    2009-01-01

    Summary Hydrogels based on peptide self-assembly form an important class of biomaterials that find application in tissue engineering and drug delivery. It is essential to prepare peptides with high purity to achieve batch-to-batch consistency affording hydrogels with reproducible properties. Automated solid-phase peptide synthesis coupled with optimized Fmoc (9-fluorenylmethoxycarbonyl) chemistry to obtain peptides in high yield and purity is discussed. Details of isolating a desired peptide from crude synthetic mixtures and assessment of the peptide’s final purity by high-performance liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry are provided. Beyond the practical importance of synthesis and primary characterization, techniques used to investigate the properties of hydrogels are briefly discussed. PMID:19031061

  1. Surfactant-Free Solid Dispersions of Hydrophobic Drugs in an Amorphous Sugar Matrix Dried from an Organic Solvent.

    PubMed

    Takeda, Koji; Gotoda, Yuto; Hirota, Daichi; Hidaka, Fumihiro; Sato, Tomo; Matsuura, Tsutashi; Imanaka, Hiroyuki; Ishida, Naoyuki; Imamura, Koreyoshi

    2017-03-06

    The technique for homogeneously dispersing hydrophobic drugs in a water-soluble solid matrix (solid dispersion) is a subject that has been extensively investigated in the pharmaceutical industry. Herein, a novel technique for dispersing a solid, without the need to use a surfactant, is reported. A freeze-dried amorphous sugar sample was dissolved in an organic solvent, which contained a soluble model hydrophobic component. The suspension of the sugar and the model hydrophobic component was vacuum foam dried to give a solid powder. Four types of sugars and methanol were used as representative sugars and the organic medium. Four model drugs (indomethacin, ibuprofen, gliclazide, and nifedipine) were employed. Differential scanning calorimetry analyses indicated that the sugar and model drug (100:1) did not undergo segregation during the drying process. The dissolution of the hydrophobic drugs in water from the solid dispersion was then evaluated, and the results indicated that the C max and AUC 0-60 min of the hydrophobic drug in water were increased when the surfactant-free solid dispersion was used. Palatinose and/or α-maltose were superior to the other tested carbohydrates in increasing C max and AUC 0-60 min for all tested model drugs, and the model drug with a lower water solubility tended to exhibit a greater extent of over-dissolution.

  2. Kinetics of Surface-Driven Self-Assembly and Fatigue-Induced Disassembly of a Virus-Based Nanocoating.

    PubMed

    Valbuena, Alejandro; Mateu, Mauricio G

    2017-02-28

    Self-assembling protein layers provide a "bottom-up" approach for precisely organizing functional elements at the nanoscale over a large solid surface area. The design of protein sheets with architecture and physical properties suitable for nanotechnological applications may be greatly facilitated by a thorough understanding of the principles that underlie their self-assembly and disassembly. In a previous study, the hexagonal lattice formed by the capsid protein (CA) of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) was self-assembled as a monomolecular layer directly onto a solid substrate, and its mechanical properties and dynamics at equilibrium were analyzed by atomic force microscopy. Here, we use atomic force microscopy to analyze the kinetics of self-assembly of the planar CA lattice on a substrate and of its disassembly, either spontaneous or induced by materials fatigue. Both self-assembly and disassembly of the CA layer are cooperative reactions that proceed until a phase equilibrium is reached. Self-assembly requires a critical protein concentration and is initiated by formation of nucleation points on the substrate, followed by lattice growth and eventual merging of CA patches into a continuous monolayer. Disassembly of the CA layer showed hysteresis and appears to proceed only after large enough defects (nucleation points) are formed in the lattice, whose number is largely increased by inducing materials fatigue that depends on mechanical load and its frequency. Implications of the kinetic results obtained for a better understanding of self-assembly and disassembly of the HIV capsid and protein-based two-dimensional nanomaterials and the design of anti-HIV drugs targeting (dis)assembly and biocompatible nanocoatings are discussed. Copyright © 2017 Biophysical Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  3. Comparison of a Lyophilized Drug Product to Other Solid and Liquid Media for the Extraction of Elastomeric Oligomers from a Butyl Rubber Stopper.

    PubMed

    Zdravkovic, Steven A

    2017-01-01

    Lyophilization is commonly used to extend the shelf life of pharmaceutical products that are otherwise unstable when stored as a liquid formulation. However, the ability of a lyophilized drug, or other solid medium, to leach or extract substances from a pharmaceutical packaging material is not well characterized. To provide insight into this area of uncertainty, the extraction properties of a lyophilized drug product, the lyophilized drug product reconstituted in water, and several other solid and liquid media of varying polarity were determined using a glass vial with a butyl rubber stopper as a representative pharmaceutical packaging system. The results obtained in this study show that the extracting power of a medium, whether solid or liquid, was primarily a function of polarity. Thus, the amount of each extractable observed for the lyophilized and reconstituted drug product were in trend with the other solid and liquid media, respectively. Nevertheless, it was notable that the lyophilized drug product was able to leach substances from the stopper in quantifiable amounts, whereas the reconstituted drug product contained no detectable leachables. Using a mathematical relationship, it was determined that the extraction power of the lyophilized drug product was equivalent to a 50/50 isopropanol/water solution. LAY ABSTRACT: Freeze drying is commonly used to extend the shelf life of pharmaceutical products that are otherwise unstable when stored as a liquid formulation. However, the propensity for substances to migrate from a pharmaceutical packaging material and into a solid drug formulation is not well characterized. To provide insight into this area of uncertainty, the migration of substances from a glass vial with a butyl rubber stopper and into a lyophilized drug product, the drug product reconstituted with water, as well as several solid and liquid media of varying polarity were assessed. The results obtained in this study show that the extracting power of a medium, whether solid or liquid, was primarily a function of polarity and thus could be related to one another. Furthermore, the results for the freeze-dried and reconstituted drug products were in trend with the other solid and liquid media tested, respectively, and showed that the freeze-dried drug was able to leach substances from the stopper in measureable amounts, whereas the reconstituted drug product contained no substances that had originated from the stopper. © PDA, Inc. 2017.

  4. Enhanced solubility and bioavailability of sibutramine base by solid dispersion system with aqueous medium.

    PubMed

    Li, Dong Xun; Jang, Ki-Young; Kang, Wonku; Bae, Kyoungjin; Lee, Mann Hyung; Oh, Yu-Kyoung; Jee, Jun-Pil; Park, Young-Joon; Oh, Dong Hoon; Seo, Youn Gee; Kim, Young Ran; Kim, Jong Oh; Woo, Jong Soo; Yong, Chul Soon; Choi, Han-Gon

    2010-01-01

    To develop a novel sibutramine base-loaded solid dispersion with improved solubility bioavailability, various solid dispersions were prepared with water, hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose (HPMC), poloxamer and citric acid using spray-drying technique. The effect of HPMC, poloxamer and citric acid on the aqueous solubility of sibutramine was investigated. The physicochemical properties of solid dispersion were investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X-ray powder diffraction. The dissolution and pharmacokinetics in rats of solid dispersion were evaluated compared to the sibutramine hydrochloride monohydrate-loaded commercial product (Reductil). The sibutramine base-loaded solid dispersion gave two type forms. Like conventional solid dispersion system, one type appeared as a spherical shape with smooth surface, as the carriers and drug with relatively low melting point were soluble in water and formed it. The other appeared as an irregular form with relatively rough surface. Unlike conventional solid dispersion system, this type changed no crystalline form of drug. Our results suggested that this type was formed by attaching hydrophilic carriers to the surface of drug without crystal change, resulting from changing the hydrophobic drug to hydrophilic form. The sibutramine-loaded solid dispersion at the weight ratio of sibutramine base/HPMC/poloxamer/citric acid of 5/3/3/0.2 gave the maximum drug solubility of about 3 mg/ml. Furthermore, it showed the similar plasma concentration, area under the curve (AUC) and C(max) of parent drug, metabolite I and II to the commercial product, indicating that it might give the similar drug efficacy compared to the sibutramine hydrochloride monohydrate-loaded commercial product in rats. Thus, this solid dispersion system would be useful to deliver poorly water-soluble sibutramine base with enhanced bioavailability.

  5. Enhancement of human oral bioavailability and in vitro antitumor activity of rosuvastatin via spray dried self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system.

    PubMed

    Kamel, Amany O; Mahmoud, Azza A

    2013-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to develop spray dried self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS) tablets of rosuvastatin using mannitol as a carrier. SNEDDS were prepared using Capryol 90, poloxamer 407 and Transcutol P or triacetin as oil, surfactant and cosurfactants, respectively. The prepared systems were characterized and their cytotoxicity was evaluated using Caco-2 cell lines. A comparative bioavailability study was performed in human volunteers relative to the conventional commercial product. Results showed better self-nanoemulsifying ability of systems containing triacetin compared to Transcutol P. SNEDDS formed uni-modal nanoemulsion droplet size distributions with droplet size less than 50 nm and polydispersity index values ranging from 0.127 to 0.275. The solubilizing capacity of rosuvastatin was affected by both surfactant and cosurfactant concentrations. Upon spray drying, systems prepared using Transcutol P tended to be soft and tacky and were sticking to the walls of the dryer. The redispersion of rosuvastatin from solid SNEDDS was very fast (100% within 5 minutes). Optimized SNEDDS prepared with triacetin were safe with no cytotoxic effect on Caco-2 cells. The anticancer effect of rosuvastatin was enhanced when incorporated in SNEDDS (IC50 value decreased from 4 to 3 microg/ml) due to the increase in penetration of SNEDDS inside the cells. The relative bioavailability for SNEDDS tablets compared to the commercial tablets was 167%. The effective solubilization, penetration and enhancement in bioavailability of SNEDDS tablets proves their potential as a safe, and effective drug delivery system for poorly-soluble drugs.

  6. Novel self-assembled mesalamine-sucralfate complexes: preparation, characterization, and formulation aspects.

    PubMed

    Ispas-Szabo, Pompilia; Friciu, Mihaela Maria; Nguyen, Phuong; Dumoulin, Yves; Mateescu, Mircea Alexandru

    2016-01-01

    Two well-known active agents, mesalamine (MES) and sucralfate (SUC), were investigated for possible utilization as fixed-dose combination product. The anti-inflammatory action of MES in association with bioadhesiveness and mucosal healing properties of SUC were considered promising for the development of a new compound containing both molecules, aimed as an improved treatment of ulcerative colitis. The present study investigates the capacity of the two active agents to interact and generate a new and stable entity via self-assembling. Spray-drying was used to co-process the two active principles from an aqueous mixture where the ratio MES:SUC was in the range 25:75, 50:50, and 75:25. The structural data (X-Ray, FTIR, SEM, DSC, and (1)H NMR) have shown that MES and SUC are interacting leading to complexes with properties differing from those of each separate active agent and from their physical blends. (1)H NMR results indicated that complexation occurred when the aqueous suspensions of drugs were mixed, prior to spray-drying. Drug-drug self-assembling was the driving mechanism in the formation of the new entity. Based on the structural data, a hypothetical structure of the complex was proposed. Co-processing of MES and SUC represents a simple and useful procedure to prepare new self-assembled compounds by valorizing the ionic interactions between the two entities. Preliminary studies with oral solid dosage forms based on MES-SUC complexes tested in vitro have shown a controlled MES release, opening the perspective of a new colon-targeted delivery system and a novel class of compounds with therapeutic application in inflammatory bowel diseases.

  7. 21 CFR 206.10 - Code imprint required.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-04-01

    ... and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) DRUGS: GENERAL IMPRINTING OF SOLID ORAL DOSAGE FORM DRUG PRODUCTS FOR HUMAN USE § 206.10 Code imprint required. (a) Unless exempted under § 206.7, no drug product in solid oral dosage form may be introduced or...

  8. 21 CFR 206.10 - Code imprint required.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-04-01

    ... and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) DRUGS: GENERAL IMPRINTING OF SOLID ORAL DOSAGE FORM DRUG PRODUCTS FOR HUMAN USE § 206.10 Code imprint required. (a) Unless exempted under § 206.7, no drug product in solid oral dosage form may be introduced or...

  9. 21 CFR 206.10 - Code imprint required.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-04-01

    ... and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) DRUGS: GENERAL IMPRINTING OF SOLID ORAL DOSAGE FORM DRUG PRODUCTS FOR HUMAN USE § 206.10 Code imprint required. (a) Unless exempted under § 206.7, no drug product in solid oral dosage form may be introduced or...

  10. Solubility Enhancement of a Poorly Water Soluble Drug by Forming Solid Dispersions using Mechanochemical Activation

    PubMed Central

    Rojas-Oviedo, I.; Retchkiman-Corona, B.; Quirino-Barreda, C. T.; Cárdenas, J.; Schabes-Retchkiman, P. S.

    2012-01-01

    Mechanochemical activation is a practical cogrinding operation used to obtain a solid dispersion of a poorly water soluble drug through changes in the solid state molecular aggregation of drug-carrier mixtures and the formation of noncovalent interactions (hydrogen bonds) between two crystalline solids such as a soluble carrier, lactose, and a poorly soluble drug, indomethacin, in order to improve its solubility and dissolution rate. Samples of indomethacin and a physical mixture with a weight ratio of 1:1 of indomethacin and lactose were ground using a high speed vibrating ball mill. Particle size was determined by electron microscopy, the reduction of crystallinity was determined by calorimetry and transmission electron microscopy, infrared spectroscopy was used to find evidence of any interactions between the drug and the carrier and the determination of apparent solubility allowed for the corroboration of changes in solubility. Before grinding, scanning electron microscopy showed the drug and lactose to have an average particle size of around 50 and 30 μm, respectively. After high speed grinding, indomethacin and the mixture had a reduced average particle size of around 5 and 2 μm, respectively, showing a morphological change. The ground mixture produced a solid dispersion that had a loss of crystallinity that reached 81% after 30 min of grinding while the drug solubility of indomethacin within the solid dispersion increased by 2.76 fold as compared to the pure drug. Drug activation due to hydrogen bonds between the carboxylic group of the drug and the hydroxyl group of lactose as well as the decrease in crystallinity of the solid dispersion and the reduction of the particle size led to a better water solubility of indomethacin. PMID:23798775

  11. The utilization of drug-polymer interactions for improving the chemical stability of hot-melt extruded solid dispersions.

    PubMed

    Guo, Zhefei; Lu, Ming; Li, Yongcheng; Pang, Huishi; Lin, Ling; Liu, Xu; Wu, Chuanbin

    2014-02-01

    Interactions between drugs and polymers were utilized to lower the processing temperature of hot-melt extrusion (HME), and thus minimize the thermal degradation of heat-sensitive drugs during preparation of amorphous solid dispersions. Diflunisal (DIF), which would degrade upon melting, was selected as a model drug. Hydrogen bonds between DIF and polymeric carriers (PVP K30, PVP VA64, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose and Soluplus) were revealed by differential scanning calorimetry and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The hot-melt extruded solid dispersion was characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The results of hot-stage polar microscopy indicated that DIF was dissolved in molten polymers at 160°C, much lower than the melting point of DIF (215°C). At this temperature, amorphous solid dispersions were successfully produced by HME, as confirmed by XRD and SEM. The related impurities in amorphous solid dispersions detected by HPLC were lower than 0.3%, indicating that thermal degradation was effectively minimized. The dissolution of DIF from amorphous solid dispersions was significantly enhanced as compared with the pure crystalline drug. This technique based on drug-polymer interactions to prepare chemically stable amorphous solid dispersions by HME provides an attractive opportunity for development of heat-sensitive drugs. © 2013 Royal Pharmaceutical Society.

  12. Physicochemical characterization of tacrolimus-loaded solid dispersion with sodium carboxylmethyl cellulose and sodium lauryl sulfate.

    PubMed

    Park, Young-Joon; Ryu, Dong-Sung; Li, Dong Xun; Quan, Qi Zhe; Oh, Dong Hoon; Kim, Jong Oh; Seo, Youn Gee; Lee, Young-Im; Yong, Chul Soon; Woo, Jong Soo; Choi, Han-Gon

    2009-06-01

    To develop a novel tacrolimus-loaded solid dispersion with improved solubility, various solid dispersions were prepared with various ratios of water, sodium lauryl sulfate, citric acid and carboxylmethylcellulose-Na using spray drying technique. The physicochemical properties of solid dispersions were investigated using scanning electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetery and powder X-ray diffraction. Furthermore, their solubility and dissolution were evaluated compared to drug powder. The solid dispersion at the tacrolimus/CMC-Na/sodium lauryl sulfate/citric acid ratio of 3/24/3/0.2 significantly improved the drug solubility and dissolution compared to powder. The scanning electron microscopy result suggested that carriers might be attached to the surface of drug in this solid dispersion. Unlike traditional solid dispersion systems, the crystal form of drug in this solid dispersion could not be converted to amorphous form, which was confirmed by the analysis of DSC and powder X-ray diffraction. Thus, the solid dispersion system with water, sodium lauryl sulfate, citric acid and CMC-Na should be a potential candidate for delivering a poorly water-soluble tacrolimus with enhanced solubility and no convertible crystalline.

  13. Bioavailability enhancement of a poorly water-soluble drug by solid dispersion in polyethylene glycol-polysorbate 80 mixture.

    PubMed

    Joshi, Hemant N; Tejwani, Ravindra W; Davidovich, Martha; Sahasrabudhe, Vaishali P; Jemal, Mohammed; Bathala, Mohinder S; Varia, Sailesh A; Serajuddin, Abu T M

    2004-01-09

    Oral bioavailability of a poorly water-soluble drug was greatly enhanced by using its solid dispersion in a surface-active carrier. The weakly basic drug (pK(a) approximately 5.5) had the highest solubility of 0.1mg/ml at pH 1.5, < 1 microg/ml aqueous solubility between pH 3.5 and 5.5 at 24+/-1 degrees C, and no detectable solubility (< 0.02 microg/ml) at pH greater than 5.5. Two solid dispersion formulations of the drug, one in Gelucire 44/14 and another one in a mixture of polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG 3350) with polysorbate 80, were prepared by dissolving the drug in the molten carrier (65 degrees C) and filling the melt in hard gelatin capsules. From the two solid dispersion formulations, the PEG 3350-polysorbate 80 was selected for further development. The oral bioavailability of this formulation in dogs was compared with that of a capsule containing micronized drug blended with lactose and microcrystalline cellulose and a liquid solution in a mixture of PEG 400, polysorbate 80 and water. For intravenous administration, a solution in a mixture of propylene glycol, polysorbate 80 and water was used. Absolute oral bioavailability values from the capsule containing micronized drug, the capsule containing solid dispersion and the oral liquid were 1.7+/-1.0%, 35.8+/-5.2% and 59.6+/-21.4%, respectively. Thus, the solid dispersion provided a 21-fold increase in bioavailability of the drug as compared to the capsule containing micronized drug. A capsule formulation containing 25 mg of drug with a total fill weight of 600 mg was subsequently selected for further development. The selected solid dispersion formulation was physically and chemically stable under accelerated storage conditions for at least 6 months. It is hypothesized that polysorbate 80 ensures complete release of drug in a metastable finely dispersed state having a large surface area, which facilitates further solubilization by bile acids in the GI tract and the absorption into the enterocytes. Thus, the bioavailability of this poorly water-soluble drug was greatly enhanced by formulation as a solid dispersion in a surface-active carrier.

  14. Solid-State NMR Investigation of Drug-Excipient Interactions and Phase Behavior in Indomethacin-Eudragit E Amorphous Solid Dispersions.

    PubMed

    Lubach, Joseph W; Hau, Jonathan

    2018-02-20

    To investigate the nature of drug-excipient interactions between indomethacin (IMC) and methacrylate copolymer Eudragit® E (EE) in the amorphous state, and evaluate the effects on formulation and stability of these amorphous systems. Amorphous solid dispersions containing IMC and EE were spray dried with drug loadings from 20% to 90%. PXRD was used to confirm the amorphous nature of the dispersions, and DSC was used to measure glass transition temperatures (T g ). 13 C and 15 N solid-state NMR was utilized to investigate changes in local structure and protonation state, while 1 H T 1 and T 1ρ relaxation measurements were used to probe miscibility and phase behavior of the dispersions. T g values for IMC-EE solid dispersions showed significant positive deviations from predicted values in the drug loading range of 40-90%, indicating a relatively strong drug-excipient interaction. 15 N solid-state NMR exhibited a change in protonation state of the EE basic amine, with two distinct populations for the EE amine at -360.7 ppm (unprotonated) and -344.4 ppm (protonated). Additionally, 1 H relaxation measurements showed phase separation at high drug load, indicating an amorphous ionic complex and free IMC-rich phase. PXRD data showed all ASDs up to 90% drug load remained physically stable after 2 years. 15 N solid-state NMR experiments show a change in protonation state of EE, indicating that an ionic complex indeed forms between IMC and EE in amorphous solid dispersions. Phase behavior was determined to exhibit nanoscale phase separation at high drug load between the amorphous ionic complex and excess free IMC.

  15. Mechanism of drug release from polymethacrylate-based extrudates and milled strands prepared by hot-melt extrusion.

    PubMed

    Albers, Jessica; Alles, Rainer; Matthée, Karin; Knop, Klaus; Nahrup, Julia Schulze; Kleinebudde, Peter

    2009-02-01

    The aim of the study was the formulation of solid dispersions of the poorly water-soluble drug celecoxib and a polymethacrylate carrier by hot-melt extrusion. The objectives were to elucidate the mechanism of drug release from obtained extrudates and milled strands addicted to the solid-state properties of the solid dispersions and to examine and eliminate stability problems occurring under storage, exposure of mechanical stress, and in vitro dissolution. Transparent extrudates containing up to 60% drug could be prepared with a temperature setting below the melting point of celecoxib. XRPD and DSC measurements indicated the formation of a glassy solid solution, where the drug is molecularly dispersed in the carrier. The amorphous state of the glassy solid solution could be maintained during the exposure of mechanical stress in a milling process, and was stable under storage for at least 6 months. Solid-state properties and SEM images of extrudates after dissolution indicated a carrier-controlled dissolution, whereby the drug is molecularly dispersed within the concentrated carrier layer. The glassy solid solution showed a 58-fold supersaturation in 0.1 N HCl within the first 10 min, which was followed by a recrystallization process. Recrystallization could be inhibited by an external addition of HPMC.

  16. Comparison of Extruded and Sonicated Vesicles for Planar Bilayer Self-Assembly

    PubMed Central

    Cho, Nam-Joon; Hwang, Lisa Y.; Solandt, Johan J.R.; Frank, Curtis W.

    2013-01-01

    Lipid vesicles are an important class of biomaterials that have a wide range of applications, including drug delivery, cosmetic formulations and model membrane platforms on solid supports. Depending on the application, properties of a vesicle population such as size distribution, charge and permeability need to be optimized. Preparation methods such as mechanical extrusion and sonication play a key role in controlling these properties, and yet the effects of vesicle preparation method on vesicular properties and integrity (e.g., shape, size, distribution and tension) remain incompletely understood. In this study, we prepared vesicles composed of 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (POPC) lipid by either extrusion or sonication, and investigated the effects on vesicle size distribution over time as well as the concomitant effects on the self-assembly of solid-supported planar lipid bilayers. Dynamic light scattering (DLS), quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation (QCM-D) monitoring, fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) experiments were performed to characterize vesicles in solution as well as their interactions with silicon oxide substrates. Collectively, the data support that sonicated vesicles offer more robust control over the self-assembly of homogenous planar lipid bilayers, whereas extruded vesicles are vulnerable to aging and must be used soon after preparation. PMID:28811437

  17. 21 CFR 206.1 - Scope.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 4 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Scope. 206.1 Section 206.1 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) DRUGS: GENERAL IMPRINTING OF SOLID ORAL DOSAGE FORM DRUG PRODUCTS FOR HUMAN USE § 206.1 Scope. This part applies to all solid oral...

  18. 21 CFR 206.1 - Scope.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 4 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Scope. 206.1 Section 206.1 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) DRUGS: GENERAL IMPRINTING OF SOLID ORAL DOSAGE FORM DRUG PRODUCTS FOR HUMAN USE § 206.1 Scope. This part applies to all solid oral...

  19. 21 CFR 206.1 - Scope.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 4 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Scope. 206.1 Section 206.1 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) DRUGS: GENERAL IMPRINTING OF SOLID ORAL DOSAGE FORM DRUG PRODUCTS FOR HUMAN USE § 206.1 Scope. This part applies to all solid oral...

  20. 21 CFR 206.1 - Scope.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 4 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Scope. 206.1 Section 206.1 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) DRUGS: GENERAL IMPRINTING OF SOLID ORAL DOSAGE FORM DRUG PRODUCTS FOR HUMAN USE § 206.1 Scope. This part applies to all solid oral...

  1. 21 CFR 206.3 - Definitions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-04-01

    ... FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) DRUGS: GENERAL IMPRINTING OF SOLID ORAL DOSAGE FORM DRUG PRODUCTS FOR HUMAN USE § 206.3 Definitions. The following... 600.3(t) of this chapter. Solid oral dosage form means capsules, tablets, or similar drug products...

  2. 21 CFR 206.3 - Definitions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-04-01

    ... FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) DRUGS: GENERAL IMPRINTING OF SOLID ORAL DOSAGE FORM DRUG PRODUCTS FOR HUMAN USE § 206.3 Definitions. The following... 600.3(t) of this chapter. Solid oral dosage form means capsules, tablets, or similar drug products...

  3. 21 CFR 206.3 - Definitions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-04-01

    ... FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) DRUGS: GENERAL IMPRINTING OF SOLID ORAL DOSAGE FORM DRUG PRODUCTS FOR HUMAN USE § 206.3 Definitions. The following... 600.3(t) of this chapter. Solid oral dosage form means capsules, tablets, or similar drug products...

  4. Oral formulation strategies to improve solubility of poorly water-soluble drugs.

    PubMed

    Singh, Abhishek; Worku, Zelalem Ayenew; Van den Mooter, Guy

    2011-10-01

    In the past two decades, there has been a spiraling increase in the complexity and specificity of drug-receptor targets. It is possible to design drugs for these diverse targets with advances in combinatorial chemistry and high throughput screening. Unfortunately, but not entirely unexpectedly, these advances have been accompanied by an increase in the structural complexity and a decrease in the solubility of the active pharmaceutical ingredient. Therefore, the importance of formulation strategies to improve the solubility of poorly water-soluble drugs is inevitable, thus making it crucial to understand and explore the recent trends. Drug delivery systems (DDS), such as solid dispersions, soluble complexes, self-emulsifying drug delivery systems (SEDDS), nanocrystals and mesoporous inorganic carriers, are discussed briefly in this review, along with examples of marketed products. This article provides the reader with a concise overview of currently relevant formulation strategies and proposes anticipated future trends. Today, the pharmaceutical industry has at its disposal a series of reliable and scalable formulation strategies for poorly soluble drugs. However, due to a lack of understanding of the basic physical chemistry behind these strategies, formulation development is still driven by trial and error.

  5. Synergistic role of solid lipid and porous silica in improving the oral delivery of weakly basic poorly water soluble drugs.

    PubMed

    Yasmin, Rokhsana; Rao, Shasha; Bremmell, Kristen; Prestidge, Clive

    2017-01-01

    Oral absorption of weakly basic drugs (e.g. cinnarizine (CIN)) is limited by their pH dependent precipitation in intestinal conditions. To overcome this challenge, a novel drug delivery system composed of solid lipid and porous silica, namely silica encapsulated solid lipid (SESL) particles, was developed via hot homogenization of melted lipid dispersion, followed by ultra-sonication of the silica stabilized homogenized melted lipid dispersion. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) images of the SESL formulation revealed non-spherical and aggregated hybrid particles, with rough exterior and structured nanoparticles visible on the surface. A 1.5, 2.2 and 7-fold improvement in the dissolution of CIN was observed for the SESL particles, under simulated intestinal non-digesting conditions, in comparison to the drug loaded in solid lipid (CIN-SL) matrix, drug loaded in porous silica (CIN-PS) and pure drug powder. Under simulated intestinal digestive condition, significant improvement in the drug solubilization was reported for the SESL formulation in compared to the individual drug loaded systems i.e. CIN-PS and CIN-SL. Thereby, silica encapsulated solid lipid system provides a promising oral delivery approach for poorly water soluble weakly basic drugs. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  6. Modeling solid-state transformations occurring in dissolution testing.

    PubMed

    Laaksonen, Timo; Aaltonen, Jaakko

    2013-04-15

    Changes in the solid-state form can occur during dissolution testing of drugs. This can often complicate interpretation of results. Additionally, there can be several mechanisms through which such a change proceeds, e.g. solvent-mediated transformation or crystal growth within the drug material itself. Here, a mathematical model was constructed to study the dissolution testing of a material, which undergoes such changes. The model consisted of two processes: the recrystallization of the drug from a supersaturated liquid state caused by the dissolution of the more soluble solid form and the crystal growth of the stable solid form at the surface of the drug formulation. Comparison to experimental data on theophylline dissolution showed that the results obtained with the model matched real solid-state changes and that it was able to distinguish between cases where the transformation was controlled either by solvent-mediated crystallization or solid-state crystal growth. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  7. Orally Disintegrating Tablets Containing Melt Extruded Amorphous Solid Dispersion of Tacrolimus for Dissolution Enhancement.

    PubMed

    Ponnammal, Poovizhi; Kanaujia, Parijat; Yani, Yin; Ng, Wai Kiong; Tan, Reginald B H

    2018-03-16

    In order to improve the aqueous solubility and dissolution of Tacrolimus (TAC), amorphous solid dispersions of TAC were prepared by hot melt extrusion with three hydrophilic polymers, Polyvinylpyrrolidone vinyl acetate (PVP VA64), Soluplus ® and Hydroxypropyl Cellulose (HPC), at a drug loading of 10% w / w . Molecular modeling was used to determine the miscibility of the drug with the carrier polymers by calculating the Hansen Solubility Parameters. Powder X-ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) studies of powdered solid dispersions revealed the conversion of crystalline TAC to amorphous form. Fourier transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy results indicated formation of hydrogen bond between TAC and polymers leading to stabilization of TAC in amorphous form. The extrudates were found to be stable under accelerated storage conditions for 3 months with no re-crystallization, indicating that hot melt extrusion is suitable for producing stable amorphous solid dispersions of TAC in PVP VA64, Soluplus ® and HPC. Stable solid dispersions of amorphous TAC exhibited higher dissolution rate, with the solid dispersions releasing more than 80% drug in 15 min compared to the crystalline drug giving 5% drug release in two hours. These stable solid dispersions were incorporated into orally-disintegrating tablets in which the solid dispersion retained its solubility, dissolution and stability advantage.

  8. Orally Disintegrating Tablets Containing Melt Extruded Amorphous Solid Dispersion of Tacrolimus for Dissolution Enhancement

    PubMed Central

    Ponnammal, Poovizhi; Kanaujia, Parijat; Ng, Wai Kiong; Tan, Reginald B. H.

    2018-01-01

    In order to improve the aqueous solubility and dissolution of Tacrolimus (TAC), amorphous solid dispersions of TAC were prepared by hot melt extrusion with three hydrophilic polymers, Polyvinylpyrrolidone vinyl acetate (PVP VA64), Soluplus® and Hydroxypropyl Cellulose (HPC), at a drug loading of 10% w/w. Molecular modeling was used to determine the miscibility of the drug with the carrier polymers by calculating the Hansen Solubility Parameters. Powder X-ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) studies of powdered solid dispersions revealed the conversion of crystalline TAC to amorphous form. Fourier transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy results indicated formation of hydrogen bond between TAC and polymers leading to stabilization of TAC in amorphous form. The extrudates were found to be stable under accelerated storage conditions for 3 months with no re-crystallization, indicating that hot melt extrusion is suitable for producing stable amorphous solid dispersions of TAC in PVP VA64, Soluplus® and HPC. Stable solid dispersions of amorphous TAC exhibited higher dissolution rate, with the solid dispersions releasing more than 80% drug in 15 min compared to the crystalline drug giving 5% drug release in two hours. These stable solid dispersions were incorporated into orally-disintegrating tablets in which the solid dispersion retained its solubility, dissolution and stability advantage. PMID:29547585

  9. Enhancement of in-vitro drug dissolution of ketoconazole for its optimal in-vivo absorption using Nanoparticles and Solid Dispersion forms of the drug

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Syed, Mohammed Irfan

    Ketoconazole is one of the most widely prescribed oral antifungal drugs for the systemic treatment of various fungal infections. However, due its hydrophobic nature and poor solubility profiles in the gastro-intestinal fluids, variations in its bioavailability have been documented. Therefore, to enhance its dissolution in the biological fluids, this study was initiated to develop and evaluate Nanoparticles and Solid Dispersion forms of the drug. Nanoparticles of ketoconazole were developed by Wet Bead Milling technique using PVP-10k as the stabilizing material at a weight ratio of (2:1). Solid dispersion powder was prepared by Hot Melt method using PEG-8000 at a weight ratio of (1:2). A commercial product containing 200mg of ketoconazole tablet and pure drug powder were used as the control for comparison purposes. The dissolution studies were carried out in SGF, SIF, USP; and SIF with 0.2% sodium lauryl sulfate using the USP-II method for a 2 hours period. Physical characterizations were carried out using SEM, DSC, XRD and FTIR studies. Wet Bead Milling method yielded nanoparticles in the particles size range of (100-300nm.). First all samples were evaluated for their in-vitro dissolution in SGF at pH=1.2. After 15 minutes, the amounts of drug dissolved were observed to be 27% from both the pure powder and commercial tablet (control), 29% from solid dispersion and 100% from the Nanoparticles dosage form. This supports the fact that Nanoparticles had a strong influence on the dissolution rate of the drug and exhibited much faster dissolution of ketoconazole. When the same formulations were studied in the SIF, USP medium, the control formulation gave 3%, solid dispersion 8% and Nanoparticles 8% drug dissolution after 2 hours period. This could be because the weakly basic ketoconazole drug remained un-dissociated in the alkaline medium. Since this medium was unable to clearly distinguish the dissolution profiles from different formulation of the drug, the SIF solution was modified to include 0.02%, 0.05% and 0.1% sodium lauryl sulfate. Here, after 2 hours, the amount of drug dissolved was calculated to be 10% from controls, 21% from solid dispersion and 36% from nanoparticles in SIF with 0.02% SLS. Drug release was 20% from controls, 41% from solid dispersion and 52% from nanoparticle formulation in SIF with 0.05% SLS. Whereas amount of drug released in SIF with 0.1% SLS showed 21% from the control, 62% from solid dispersion and 85% from Nanoparticles respectively. This data supports that the ketoconazole Nanoparticles and its solid-dispersion exhibit many fold increase in dissolution of the drug, which could lead to a less variable and enhanced in-vivo drug absorption profiles. In addition, the data from the Physical Characterization (DSC, XRD and FTIR) supports that there were no interaction within the ingredients occurred in Nanoparticles and solid-dispersion formulations of the drug sample. Wet Bead Milling and Hot Melt methods proved useful in developing the Nanoparticles and solid dispersion form of ketoconazole. Results from particle size analysis were in correlation with data obtained from Scanning electron Microscopy and size of the nanoparticles was below 100nm. The dissolution studies with the modified simulated intestinal fluid (SIF) exhibited several fold increase in the dissolution of the drug compared to the pure drug powder and the commercial products used as the control. Also, the results from the physical characterization studies clearly support the stability of ketoconazole in both of these formulations.

  10. Mathematical model to analyze the dissolution behavior of metastable crystals or amorphous drug accompanied with a solid-liquid interface reaction.

    PubMed

    Hirai, Daiki; Iwao, Yasunori; Kimura, Shin-Ichiro; Noguchi, Shuji; Itai, Shigeru

    2017-04-30

    Metastable crystals and the amorphous state of poorly water-soluble drugs in solid dispersions (SDs), are subject to a solid-liquid interface reaction upon exposure to a solvent. The dissolution behavior during the solid-liquid interface reaction often shows that the concentration of drugs is supersaturated, with a high initial drug concentration compared with the solubility of stable crystals but finally approaching the latter solubility with time. However, a method for measuring the precipitation rate of stable crystals and/or the potential solubility of metastable crystals or amorphous drugs has not been established. In this study, a novel mathematical model that can represent the dissolution behavior of the solid-liquid interface reaction for metastable crystals or amorphous drug was developed and its validity was evaluated. The theory for this model was based on the Noyes-Whitney equation and assumes that the precipitation of stable crystals at the solid-liquid interface occurs through a first-order reaction. Moreover, two models were developed, one assuming that the surface area of the drug remains constant because of the presence of excess drug in the bulk and the other that the surface area changes in time-dependency because of agglomeration of the drug. SDs of Ibuprofen (IB)/polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) were prepared and their dissolution behaviors under non-sink conditions were fitted by the models to evaluate improvements in solubility. The model assuming time-dependent surface area showed good agreement with experimental values. Furthermore, by applying the model to the dissolution profile, parameters such as the precipitation rate and the potential solubility of the amorphous drug were successfully calculated. In addition, it was shown that the improvement in solubility with supersaturation was able to be evaluated quantitatively using this model. Therefore, this mathematical model would be a useful tool to quantitatively determine the supersaturation concentration of a metastable drug from solid dispersions. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  11. Actively targeted delivery of anticancer drug to tumor cells by redox-responsive star-shaped micelles.

    PubMed

    Shi, Chunli; Guo, Xing; Qu, Qianqian; Tang, Zhaomin; Wang, Yi; Zhou, Shaobing

    2014-10-01

    In cancer therapy nanocargos based on star-shaped polymer exhibit unique features such as better stability, smaller size distribution and higher drug capacity in comparison to linear polymeric micelles. In this study, we developed a multifunctional star-shaped micellar system by combination of active targeting ability and redox-responsive behavior. The star-shaped micelles with good stability were self-assembled from four-arm poly(ε-caprolactone)-poly(ethylene glycol) copolymer. The redox-responsive behaviors of these micelles triggered by glutathione were evaluated from the changes of micellar size, morphology and molecular weight. In vitro drug release profiles exhibited that in a stimulated normal physiological environment, the redox-responsive star-shaped micelles could maintain good stability, whereas in a reducing and acid environment similar with that of tumor cells, the encapsulated agent was promptly released. In vitro cellular uptake and subcellular localization of these micelles were further studied with confocal laser scanning microscopy and flow cytometry against the human cervical cancer cell line HeLa. In vivo and ex vivo DOX fluorescence imaging displayed that these FA-functionalized star-shaped micelles possessed much better specificity to target solid tumor. Both the qualitative and quantitative results of the antitumor effect in 4T1 tumor-bearing BALB/c mice demonstrated that these redox-responsive star-shaped micelles have a high therapeutic efficiency to artificial solid tumor. Therefore, the multifunctional star-shaped micelles are a potential platform for targeted anticancer drug delivery. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  12. Dissolution Failure of Solid Oral Drug Products in Field Alert Reports.

    PubMed

    Sun, Dajun; Hu, Meng; Browning, Mark; Friedman, Rick L; Jiang, Wenlei; Zhao, Liang; Wen, Hong

    2017-05-01

    From 2005 to 2014, 370 data entries of dissolution failures of solid oral drug products were assessed with respect to the solubility of drug substances, dosage forms [immediate release (IR) vs. modified release (MR)], and manufacturers (brand name vs. generic). The study results show that the solubility of drug substances does not play a significant role in dissolution failures; however, MR drug products fail dissolution tests more frequently than IR drug products. When multiple variables were analyzed simultaneously, poorly water-soluble IR drug products failed the most dissolution tests, followed by poorly soluble MR drug products and very soluble MR drug products. Interestingly, the generic drug products fail dissolution tests at an earlier time point during a stability study than the brand name drug products. Whether the dissolution failure of these solid oral drug products has any in vivo implication will require further pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic, clinical, and drug safety evaluation. Food and Drug Administration is currently conducting risk-based assessment using in-house dissolution testing, physiologically based pharmacokinetic modeling and simulation, and post-market surveillance tools. At the meantime, this interim report will outline a general scheme of monitoring dissolution failures of solid oral dosage forms as a pharmaceutical quality indicator. Published by Elsevier Inc.

  13. Classification of solid dispersions: correlation to (i) stability and solubility (ii) preparation and characterization techniques.

    PubMed

    Meng, Fan; Gala, Urvi; Chauhan, Harsh

    2015-01-01

    Solid dispersion has been a topic of interest in recent years for its potential in improving oral bioavailability, especially for poorly water soluble drugs where dissolution could be the rate-limiting step of oral absorption. Understanding the physical state of the drug and polymers in solid dispersions is essential as it influences both the stability and solubility of these systems. This review emphasizes on the classification of solid dispersions based on the physical states of drug and polymer. Based on this classification, stability aspects such as crystallization tendency, glass transition temperature (Tg), drug polymer miscibility, molecular mobility, etc. and solubility aspects have been discussed. In addition, preparation and characterization methods for binary solid dispersions based on the classification have also been discussed.

  14. Integration of active pharmaceutical ingredient solid form selection and particle engineering into drug product design.

    PubMed

    Ticehurst, Martyn David; Marziano, Ivan

    2015-06-01

    This review seeks to offer a broad perspective that encompasses an understanding of the drug product attributes affected by active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) physical properties, their link to solid form selection and the role of particle engineering. While the crucial role of active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) solid form selection is universally acknowledged in the pharmaceutical industry, the value of increasing effort to understanding the link between solid form, API physical properties and drug product formulation and manufacture is now also being recognised. A truly holistic strategy for drug product development should focus on connecting solid form selection, particle engineering and formulation design to both exploit opportunities to access simpler manufacturing operations and prevent failures. Modelling and predictive tools that assist in establishing these links early in product development are discussed. In addition, the potential for differences between the ingoing API physical properties and those in the final product caused by drug product processing is considered. The focus of this review is on oral solid dosage forms and dry powder inhaler products for lung delivery. © 2015 Royal Pharmaceutical Society.

  15. Solid lipid microparticles containing loratadine prepared using a Micromixer.

    PubMed

    Milak, Spomenka; Medlicott, Natalie; Tucker, Ian G

    2006-12-01

    Solid lipid microparticles were investigated as a taste-masking approach for a lipophilic weak base in a suspension. The idea was that the drug concentration in the aqueous phase of a suspension might be reduced by its partitioning into the solid lipid particles. Loratadine, as a model drug, was used to prepare Precirol ATO 5 microparticles by a Micromixer. The effects of three process variables: drug loading, PVA concentration and water/lipid ratio on the microparticle size, encapsulation efficiency, surface appearance, in-vitro release and drug partitioning in a suspension were studied. Loratadine release was slow in simulated saliva and very fast at the pH of stomach. In suspension of loratadine lipid microparticles, drug was released into the aqueous phase to the same concentration as in a drug suspension. Therefore, the usefulness of these microparticles for taste-masking in liquids is limited. However, they might be useful for taste-masking in solid dosage forms.

  16. Effects of drug-carrier interactions on drug dissolution from binary and ternary matrices

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Iqbal, Zafar

    For nearly five decades, pharmaceutical researchers have studied solid solutions of drugs in polymers as a potential means to enhance the dissolution of drugs with poor aqueous solubility. This has become of greater importance in recent years because most new potential drug compounds (new chemical entities) exhibit poor water solubility and present great challenges to scientists who must design dosage forms from which the drugs are bioavailable. During the formulation of a solid solution, the drug undergoes physical but not chemical alterations that increase its chemical potential in the formulation relative to that of the pure drug in its stable form. This increased chemical potential is responsible for enhanced dissolution as well as physical instabilities, such as amorphous to crystalline conversions and precipitation within the solid state. The chemical potential is derived from the Gibbs free energy, so it is reasonable to explain the behavior of solid solution systems in terms of thermodynamics. Solid solutions and dispersions have been extensively studied by pharmaceutical scientists, both with regard to manufacturing aspects and the proposal of various models in attempts to explain the physical bases for how these systems work. Recently, Dave and Bellantone proposed a model based on the thermodynamic changes resulting from the formulation of binary solid solutions of a drug in the polymer PVP. Their model introduced a modification of the F-H theory, which was used to quantify the drug-polymer interaction energies and calculate the entropy of mixing of the drug and polymer. In this work, the model of Dave and Bellantone was extended to include three-component systems, consisting of one drug mixed in a carrier matrix consisting of mixture of two polymers or a polymer and a surfactant. For this research, solid solutions were formed using various drug weight fractions in the formulations. The study focused on the following points: (1) Prepare solid solution formulations and perform appropriate physical characterizations. (2) Characterize the increase in drug dissolution rates resulting from solid solution formulations. (3) Relate the initial dissolution rates to the drug solubility. (4) Explain the solubility enhancement from solid solution dosage in terms of the drug polymer interactions using the extended thermodynamic model. Two poorly water soluble drugs, levonorgestrel (LEVO) and ethinyl estradiol (EE) were formulated in seven solid solution preparations comprised of four carrier systems. Materials used as carriers included various combinations of the polymers PVP K-30, Copovidone (COP), Poloxamer 182, and the surfactant TweenRTM 20. Additionally, ibuprofen (IBU) was used in three formulations consisting of various combinations of PVP K-30, Copovidone and TweenRTM 20. Formulations with various drug weight fractions (0.5%--30%) were prepared using the solvent evaporation technique. Each formulation was tested for dissolution using intrinsic dissolution apparatus (USP). The solid solutions were compressed into tablets into the sample die that maintained a constant surface area during the dissolution process. DSC, XRD and NIRS scans identified that the crystalline peaks of the drug disappeared with the addition of the polymer for all ratios of EE, indicating the formation of solid solutions (to within the limits of detection of the equipment). This was also observed for the LEVO dispersions up to 10% drug loading. At higher drug loading, solutions were formed but some small degree crystallinity was also present. For each experiment, the initial dissolution rates were obtained from the slope of the mass dissolved vs. time plots taken at early times, and volume normalized initial dissolution rates RV were calculated by dividing the initial dissolution rate by the volume fraction of the drug in the formulation. Comparison of the RV values for the various formulations with a reference RV (typically that of the pure drug or of the formulation with the highest polymer content) allowed calculation of relative volume normalized dissolution rates (RNV). The various RNV were used in the thermodynamic model for data analyses and to determine the interactions between the drug and carrier molecules. It was generally seen that RNV increased with decreased drug fraction, and was adequately modeled by the equations derived from the extended thermodynamic model. It was concluded that the model proposed for the binary and ternary systems successfully represented the mechanism of drug-polymer interaction and the energy changes taken place within the dispersion systems. The dissolution data analysis and subsequent understanding of physical modifications in the dispersion systems characterized by XRD, NIRS and DSC further substantiated the findings. The understanding of the fundamental physical might help scientists to predict the effects of mixing various drugs and polymers, and the effects of varying ratios.

  17. Water-mediated solid-state transformation of a polymorphic drug during aqueous-based drug-layer coating of pellets.

    PubMed

    Lust, Andres; Lakio, Satu; Vintsevits, Julia; Kozlova, Jekaterina; Veski, Peep; Heinämäki, Jyrki; Kogermann, Karin

    2013-11-01

    During aqueous drug-layer coating, drug substance(s) are exposed to water and elevated temperatures which can lead to water-mediated process induced transformations (PITs). The effects of aqueous drug-layer coating of pellets (Cellets(®)) on the anhydrous piroxicam, PRX, were investigated in the miniaturized coating equipment and with free films. Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) was used as a carrier coating polymer. Free films were prepared by using an in-house small-scale rotating plate system equipped with an atomization air nozzle. Raman spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to characterize the solid-state properties and surface morphology of the pellets and free films. The results showed that anhydrous PRX form I (AH) and monohydrate (MH) were stable during drug-layer coating, but amorphous PRX in solid dispersion (SD) crystallized as MH already after 10 min of coating. Furthermore, the increase in a dissolution rate was achieved from the drug-layer coated inert pellets compared to powder forms. In conclusion, water-mediated solid-state PITs of amorphous PRX is evident during aqueous-based drug-layer coating of pellets, and solid-state change can be verified using Raman spectroscopy. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  18. Drug-targeting methodologies with applications: A review

    PubMed Central

    Kleinstreuer, Clement; Feng, Yu; Childress, Emily

    2014-01-01

    Targeted drug delivery to solid tumors is a very active research area, focusing mainly on improved drug formulation and associated best delivery methods/devices. Drug-targeting has the potential to greatly improve drug-delivery efficacy, reduce side effects, and lower the treatment costs. However, the vast majority of drug-targeting studies assume that the drug-particles are already at the target site or at least in its direct vicinity. In this review, drug-delivery methodologies, drug types and drug-delivery devices are discussed with examples in two major application areas: (1) inhaled drug-aerosol delivery into human lung-airways; and (2) intravascular drug-delivery for solid tumor targeting. The major problem addressed is how to deliver efficiently the drug-particles from the entry/infusion point to the target site. So far, most experimental results are based on animal studies. Concerning pulmonary drug delivery, the focus is on the pros and cons of three inhaler types, i.e., pressurized metered dose inhaler, dry powder inhaler and nebulizer, in addition to drug-aerosol formulations. Computational fluid-particle dynamics techniques and the underlying methodology for a smart inhaler system are discussed as well. Concerning intravascular drug-delivery for solid tumor targeting, passive and active targeting are reviewed as well as direct drug-targeting, using optimal delivery of radioactive microspheres to liver tumors as an example. The review concludes with suggestions for future work, considereing both pulmonary drug targeting and direct drug delivery to solid tumors in the vascular system. PMID:25516850

  19. Impact of excipient interactions on solid dosage form stability.

    PubMed

    Narang, Ajit S; Desai, Divyakant; Badawy, Sherif

    2012-10-01

    Drug-excipient interactions in solid dosage forms can affect drug product stability in physical aspects such as organoleptic changes and dissolution slowdown, or chemically by causing drug degradation. Recent research has allowed the distinction in chemical instability resulting from direct drug-excipient interactions and from drug interactions with excipient impurities. A review of chemical instability in solid dosage forms highlights common mechanistic themes applicable to multiple degradation pathways. These common themes include the role of water and microenvironmental pH. In addition, special aspects of solid-state reactions with excipients and/or excipient impurities add to the complexity in understanding and modeling reaction pathways. This paper discusses mechanistic basis of known drug-excipient interactions with case studies and provides an overview of common underlying themes. Recent developments in the understanding of degradation pathways further impact methodologies used in the pharmaceutical industry for prospective stability assessment. This paper discusses these emerging aspects in terms of limitations of drug-excipient compatibility studies, emerging paradigms in accelerated stability testing, and application of mathematical modeling for prediction of drug product stability.

  20. In vitro characterization of a novel polymeric system for preparation of amorphous solid drug dispersions.

    PubMed

    Mahmoudi, Zahra N; Upadhye, Sampada B; Ferrizzi, David; Rajabi-Siahboomi, Ali R

    2014-07-01

    Preparation of amorphous solid dispersions using polymers is a commonly used formulation strategy for enhancing the solubility of poorly water-soluble drugs. However, often a single polymer may not bring about a significant enhancement in solubility or amorphous stability of a poorly water-soluble drug. This study describes application of a unique and novel binary polymeric blend in preparation of solid dispersions. The objective of this study was to investigate amorphous solid dispersions of glipizide, a BCS class II model drug, in a binary polymeric system of polyvinyl acetate phthalate (PVAP) and hypromellose (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, HPMC). The solid dispersions were prepared using two different solvent methods: rotary evaporation (rotavap) and fluid bed drug layering on sugar spheres. The performance and physical stability of the dispersions were evaluated with non-sink dissolution testing, powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), and modulated differential scanning calorimetry (mDSC). PXRD analysis demonstrated an amorphous state for glipizide, and mDSC showed no evidence of phase separation. Non-sink dissolution testing in pH 7.5 phosphate buffer indicated more than twofold increase in apparent solubility of the drug with PVAP-HPMC system. The glipizide solid dispersions demonstrated a high glass transition temperature (Tg) and acceptable chemical and physical stability during the stability period irrespective of the manufacturing process. In conclusion, the polymeric blend of PVAP-HPMC offers a unique formulation approach for developing amorphous solid dispersions with the flexibility towards the use of these polymers in different ratios and combined quantities depending on drug properties.

  1. New solid-state chemistry technologies to bring better drugs to market: knowledge-based decision making.

    PubMed

    Park, Aeri; Chyall, Leonard J; Dunlap, Jeanette; Schertz, Christine; Jonaitis, David; Stahly, Barbara C; Bates, Simon; Shipplett, Rex; Childs, Scott

    2007-01-01

    Modern drug development demands constant deployment of more effective technologies to mitigate the high cost of bringing new drugs to market. In addition to cost savings, new technologies can improve all aspects of pharmaceutical development. New technologies developed at SSCI, Inc. include solid form development of an active pharmaceutical ingredients. (APIs) are PatternMatch software and capillary-based crystallisation techniques that not only allow for fast and effective solid form screening, but also extract maximum property information from the routine screening data that is generally available. These new technologies offer knowledge-based decision making during solid form development of APIs and result in more developable API solid forms.

  2. Enhancement of solubility and bioavailability of ambrisentan by solid dispersion using Daucus carota as a drug carrier: formulation, characterization, in vitro, and in vivo study.

    PubMed

    Deshmane, Subhash; Deshmane, Snehal; Shelke, Santosh; Biyani, Kailash

    2018-06-01

    Ambrisentan is an US FDA approved drug, it is the second oral endothelin A receptor antagonist known for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension, but its oral administration is limited due to its poor water solubility. Hence, the objective of the investigation was focused on enhancement of solubility and bioavailability of ambrisentan by solid dispersion technique using natural Daucus carota extract as drug carrier. Drug carrier was evaluated for solubility, swelling index, viscosity, angle of repose, hydration capacity, and acute toxicity test (LD 50 ). Ambrisentan was studied for the saturation solubility, phase solubility, and Gibbs free energy change. Compatibility of drug and the natural carrier was confirmed by DSC, FTIR, and XRD. Solid dispersions were evaluated for drug content, solubility, morphology, in vitro, and in vivo study. Screening of the natural carrier showed the desirable properties like water solubility, less swelling index, less viscosity, and acute toxicity study revealed no any clinical symptoms of toxicity. Drug and carrier interaction study confirmed the compatibility to consider its use in the formulation. Formed particles were found to be spherical with smooth surface. In vitro studies revealed higher drug release from the solid dispersion than that of the physical mixture. Bioavailability study confirms the increased absorption and bioavailability by oral administration of solid dispersion. Hence, it can be concluded that the natural Daucus carota extract can be the better alternative source for the preparation of solid dispersion and/or other dosage forms for improving solubility and bioavailability.

  3. Physical solid-state properties and dissolution of sustained-release matrices of polyvinylacetate.

    PubMed

    Gonzalez Novoa, Gelsys Ananay; Heinämäki, Jyrki; Mirza, Sabir; Antikainen, Osmo; Colarte, Antonio Iraizoz; Paz, Alberto Suzarte; Yliruusi, Jouko

    2005-02-01

    Solid-state compatibility and in vitro dissolution of direct-compressed sustained-release matrices of polyvinylacetate (PVAc) and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) containing ibuprofen as a model drug were studied. Polyvinylalcohol (PVA) was used as an alternative water-soluble polymer to PVP. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and powder X-ray diffractometry (PXRD) were used for characterizing solid-state polymer-polymer and drug-polymer interactions. The mechanical treatment for preparing physical mixtures of polyvinyl polymers and the drug (i.e. simple blending or stressed cogrinding) was shown not to affect the physical state of the drug and the polymers. With the drug-polymer mixtures the endothermic effect due to drug melting was always evident, but a considerable modification of the melting point of the drug in physical binary mixtures (drug:PVP) was observed, suggesting some interaction between the two. On the other hand, the lack of a significant shift of the melting endothermic peak of the drug in physical tertiary drug-polymer mixtures revealed no evidence of solid-state interaction between the drug and the present polymers. Sustained-release dissolution profiles were achieved from the direct-compressed matrices made from powder mixtures of the drug and PVAc combined with PVP, and the proportion of PVAc in the mixture clearly altered the drug release profiles in vitro. The drug release from the present matrix systems is controlled by both diffusion of the drug through the hydrate matrix and the erosion of the matrix itself.

  4. Elucidation and visualization of solid-state transformation and mixing in a pharmaceutical mini hot melt extrusion process using in-line Raman spectroscopy.

    PubMed

    Van Renterghem, Jeroen; Kumar, Ashish; Vervaet, Chris; Remon, Jean Paul; Nopens, Ingmar; Vander Heyden, Yvan; De Beer, Thomas

    2017-01-30

    Mixing of raw materials (drug+polymer) in the investigated mini pharma melt extruder is achieved by using co-rotating conical twin screws and an internal recirculation channel. In-line Raman spectroscopy was implemented in the barrels, allowing monitoring of the melt during processing. The aim of this study was twofold: to investigate (I) the influence of key process parameters (screw speed - barrel temperature) upon the product solid-state transformation during processing of a sustained release formulation in recirculation mode; (II) the influence of process parameters (screw speed - barrel temperature - recirculation time) upon mixing of a crystalline drug (tracer) in an amorphous polymer carrier by means of residence time distribution (RTD) measurements. The results indicated a faster mixing endpoint with increasing screw speed. Processing a high drug load formulation above the drug melting temperature resulted in the production of amorphous drug whereas processing below the drug melting point produced solid dispersions with partially amorphous/crystalline drug. Furthermore, increasing the screw speed resulted in lower drug crystallinity of the solid dispersion. RTD measurements elucidated the improved mixing capacity when using the recirculation channel. In-line Raman spectroscopy has shown to be an adequate PAT-tool for product solid-state monitoring and elucidation of the mixing behavior during processing in a mini extruder. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  5. Development of solid dispersions of artemisinin for transdermal delivery.

    PubMed

    Shahzad, Yasser; Sohail, Sadia; Arshad, Muhammad Sohail; Hussain, Talib; Shah, Syed Nisar Hussain

    2013-11-30

    Solid dispersions of the poorly soluble drug artemisinin were developed using polymer blends of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) with the aim of enhancing solubility and in vitro permeation of artemisinin through skin. Formulations were characterised using a combination of molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). Solubility of artemisinin was determined in two solvents: de-ionised water and phosphate buffered saline (PBS; pH 7.4), while in vitro drug permeation studies were carried out using rabbit skin as a model membrane. MD simulations revealed miscibility between the drug and polymers. DSC confirmed the molecular dispersion of the drug in the polymer blend. Decrease in crystallinity of artemisinin with respect to polymer content and the absence of specific drug-polymer interactions were confirmed using XRD and FT-IR, respectively. The solubility of artemisinin was dramatically enhanced for the solid dispersions, as was the permeation of artemisinin from saturated solid-dispersion vehicles relative to that from saturated solutions of the pure drug. The study suggests that high energy solid forms of artemisinin could possibly enable transdermal delivery of artemisinin. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  6. 76 FR 63304 - Guidance for Industry on Incorporation of Physical-Chemical Identifiers Into Solid Oral Dosage...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-10-12

    ...] Guidance for Industry on Incorporation of Physical-Chemical Identifiers Into Solid Oral Dosage Form Drug... entitled ``Incorporation of Physical-Chemical Identifiers Into Solid Oral Dosage Form Drug Products for Anticounterfeiting.'' This guidance provides recommendations on design considerations for incorporating physical...

  7. Investigating the Interaction Pattern and Structural Elements of a Drug-Polymer Complex at the Molecular Level.

    PubMed

    Nie, Haichen; Mo, Huaping; Zhang, Mingtao; Song, Yang; Fang, Ke; Taylor, Lynne S; Li, Tonglei; Byrn, Stephen R

    2015-07-06

    Strong associations between drug and polymeric carriers are expected to contribute to higher drug loading capacities and better physical stability of amorphous solid dispersions. However, molecular details of the interaction patterns and underlying mechanisms are still unclear. In the present study, a series of amorphous solid dispersions of clofazimine (CLF), an antileprosy drug, were prepared with different polymers by applying the solvent evaporation method. When using hypromellose phthalate (HPMCP) as the carrier, the amorphous solid dispersion system exhibits not only superior drug loading capacity (63% w/w) but also color change due to strong drug-polymer association. In order to further explain these experimental observations, the interaction between CLF and HPMCP was investigated in a nonpolar volatile solvent system (chloroform) prior to forming the solid dispersion. We observed significant UV/vis and (1)H NMR spectral changes suggesting the protonation of CLF and formation of ion pairs between CLF and HPMCP in chloroform. Furthermore, nuclear Overhauser effect spectroscopy (NOESY) and diffusion order spectroscopy (DOSY) were employed to evaluate the strength of associations between drug and polymers, as well as the molecular mobility of CLF. Finally, by correlating the experimental values with quantum chemistry calculations, we demonstrate that the protonated CLF is binding to the carboxylate group of HPMCP as an ion pair and propose a possible structural model of the drug-polymer complex. Understanding the drug and carrier interaction patterns from a molecular perspective is critical for the rational design of new amorphous solid dispersions.

  8. Using Flory-Huggins phase diagrams as a pre-formulation tool for the production of amorphous solid dispersions: a comparison between hot-melt extrusion and spray drying.

    PubMed

    Tian, Yiwei; Caron, Vincent; Jones, David S; Healy, Anne-Marie; Andrews, Gavin P

    2014-02-01

    Amorphous drug forms provide a useful method of enhancing the dissolution performance of poorly water-soluble drugs; however, they are inherently unstable. In this article, we have used Flory-Huggins theory to predict drug solubility and miscibility in polymer candidates, and used this information to compare spray drying and melt extrusion as processes to manufacture solid dispersions. Solid dispersions were prepared using two different techniques (hot-melt extrusion and spray drying), and characterised using a combination of thermal (thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry), spectroscopic (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction methods. Spray drying permitted generation of amorphous solid dispersions across a wider drug concentration than melt extrusion. Melt extrusion provided sufficient energy for more intimate mixing to be achieved between drug and polymer, which may improve physical stability. It was also confirmed that stronger drug-polymer interactions might be generated through melt extrusion. Remixing and dissolution of recrystallised felodipine into the polymeric matrices did occur during the modulated differential scanning calorimetry analysis, but the complementary information provided from FTIR confirms that all freshly prepared spray-dried samples were amorphous with the existence of amorphous drug domains within high drug-loaded samples. Using temperature-composition phase diagrams to probe the relevance of temperature and drug composition in specific polymer candidates facilitates polymer screening for the purpose of formulating solid dispersions. © 2013 Royal Pharmaceutical Society.

  9. Lipid nanostructured Hydrogels for Topical Delivery of Anti-inflammatory Drugs: Preparation and Characterization

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Acevedo-Robles, Noelia

    Diclofenac sodium is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) used to treat sign or symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. However, its clinical usage is limited to some extent due to its toxicity and systemic side effects, including gastrointestinal lesions. The development of lipid nanostructured hydrogel for topical application will solve the problems of first pass metabolism minimize systemic side effect of the anti-inflammatory drugs. Two types of nanotechnologies were used: Lipid Nanostructured Lipid carrier (NLC) and Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLN). The difference between both nanotechnologies is that NLC carrier contain liquid and solid lipid, however, the SLN contains solid lipid. Both nanostructured lipid carrier is prepared by high pressure micro-fluidizer technology avoiding solvents use. The use of liquid lipid with solid lipid leads us to imperfection in the matrix which can provide more space for the accommodation of the drug, therefore NLC is the more efficient formulation in drug entrapment.

  10. Design of Solid-Gas Interfaces for Enhanced Thermal Transfer

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2015-09-28

    modifications. Specifically, for metal surfaces modified with organic self - assembled monolayers (SAMs), both TAC and MAC are close to its theoretical...we designed solid surfaces functionalized with organic self - assembled monolayers (SAMs) and demonstrated associated significant improvement of the...at solid-gas interfaces by self - assembled monolayers ” Applied Physics Letters 102, 061907 (2013). 2. Zhi Liang, William Evans, and Pawel Keblinski

  11. Coordination polymer gels with important environmental and biological applications.

    PubMed

    Jung, Jong Hwa; Lee, Ji Ha; Silverman, Julian R; John, George

    2013-02-07

    Coordination Polymer Gels (CPGs) constitute a subset of solid-like metal ion and bridging organic ligand structures (similar to metal-organic frameworks) that form multi-dimensional networks through a trapped solvent as a result of non-covalent interactions. While physical properties of these gels are similar to conventional high molecular weight organic polymer gels, coordination polymer gel systems are often fully reversible and can be assembled and disassembled in the presence of additional energy (heat, sonication, shaking) to give a solution of solvated gelators. Compared to gels resulting from purely organic self-assembled low molecular weight gelators, metal ions incorporated into the fibrilar networks spanning the bulk solvent can impart CPGs with added functionalities. The solid/liquid nature of the gels allows for species to migrate through the gel system and interact with metals, ligands, and the solvent. Chemosensing, catalysis, fluorescence, and drug-delivery applications are some of the many potential uses for these dynamic systems, taking advantage of the metal ion's coordination, the organic polydentate ligand's orientation and functionality, or a combination of these properties. By fine tuning these systems through metal ion and ligand selection and by directing self-assembly with external stimuli the rational synthesis of practical systems can be envisaged.

  12. Tailored design of multifunctional and programmable pH-responsive self-assembling polypeptides as drug delivery nanocarrier for cancer therapy.

    PubMed

    Wang, Tzu-Wei; Yeh, Chia-Wei; Kuan, Chen-Hsiang; Wang, Li-Wen; Chen, Liang-Hsin; Wu, Hsi-Chin; Sun, Jui-Shen

    2017-08-01

    Breast cancer has become the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality in female wherein more than 90% of breast cancer-related death results from cancer metastasis to distant organs at advanced stage. The purpose of this study is to develop biodegradable nanoparticles composed of natural polypeptides and calcium phosphate (CaP) with sequential pH-responsivity to tumor microenvironments for active targeted drug delivery. Two different amphiphilic copolymers, poly(ethylene glycol) 3400 -aconityl linkage-poly(l-glutamic acid) 15 -poly(l-histidine) 10 -poly(l-leucine) 10 and LyP1-poly(ethylene glycol) 1100 -poly(l-glutamic acid) 15 -poly(l-histidine) 10 -poly(l-leucine) 10 , were exploited to self-assemble into micelles in aqueous phase. The bio-stable nanoparticles provide three distinct functional domains: the anionic PGlu shell for CaP mineralization, the protonation of PHis segment for facilitating anticancer drug release at target site, and the hydrophobic core of PLeu for encapsulation of anticancer drugs. Furthermore, the hydrated PEG outer corona is used for prolonging circulation time, while the active targeting ligand, LyP-1, is served to bind to breast cancer cells and lymphatic endothelial cells in tumor for inhibiting metastasis. Mineralized DOX-loaded nanoparticles (M-DOX NPs) efficiently prevent the drug leakage at physiological pH value and facilitate the encapsulated drug release at acidic condition when compared to DOX-loaded nanoparticles (DOX NPs). M-DOX NPs with LyP-1 targeting ligand effectively accumulated in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. The inhibition effect on cell proliferation also enhances with time, illustrating the prominent anti-tumor efficacy. Moreover, the in vitro metastatic inhibition model shows the profound inhibition effect of inhibitory nanoparticles. In brief, this self-assembling peptide-based drug delivery nanocarrier with multifunctionality and programmable pH-sensitivity is of great promise and potential for anti-cancer therapy. This tailored-design polypeptide-based nanoparticles with self-assembling and programmable stimulus-responsive properties enable to 1) have stable pH in physiological value with a low level of drug loss and effectively release the encapsulated drug with pH variations according to the tumor microenvironment, 2) enhance targeting ability to hard-to-treat breast cancer cells and activate endothelial cells (tumor region), 3) significantly inhibit the growth and prevent from malignant metastasis of cancer cells in consonance with promising anti-tumor efficacy, and 4) make tumors stick to localized position so that these confined solid tumors can be more accessible by different treatment modalities. This work contributes to designing a programmable pH-responsive drug delivery system based on the tailor-designed polypeptides. Copyright © 2017 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  13. To evaluate the change in release from solid dispersion using sodium lauryl sulfate and model drug sulfathiazole.

    PubMed

    Dave, Rutesh H; Patel, Hardikkumar H; Donahue, Edward; Patel, Ashwinkumar D

    2013-10-01

    The solubility of drugs remains one of the most challenging aspects of formulation development. There are numerous ways to improve the solubility of drugs amongst which the most promising strategy is solid dispersion. Different ratios of sulfathiazole: PVP-K29/32: sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) were prepared (1:1:0.1, 1:1:0.5, 1:1:1) and various methods were employed to characterize the prepared solid dispersions, namely modulated differential scanning calorimeter, X-ray powder diffraction, Fourier Transformed Infrared Spectroscopy and dissolution studies. Lack of crystallinity was observed in internal and external systems suggesting a loss of crystallinity, whereas the physical mixtures showed a characteristic peak of sulfathiazole. In vitro dissolution results clearly showed that the incorporation of a relatively small amount of surfactants (5, 20 or 33% w/w) into a solid dispersion can improve its dissolution rates compared to binary solid dispersion (SD) alone and pure sulfathiazole. In all ratios solid dispersion internal shows a higher dissolution rate compared to a physical mixture and solid dispersion external which suggests that the way that the surfactant is incorporated into the solid dispersion plays an important role in changing the solubility of a drug. The solubilization mechanism is mainly responsible for this higher dissolution rate when we incorporate the SLS in SD.

  14. Development and in-vivo assessment of the bioavailability of oridonin solid dispersions by the gas anti-solvent technique.

    PubMed

    Li, Songming; Liu, Ying; Liu, Tao; Zhao, Ling; Zhao, Jihui; Feng, Nianping

    2011-06-15

    We developed solid dispersions, using the gas anti-solvent technique (GAS), to improve the oral bioavailability of the poorly water-soluble active component oridonin. The solubility of oridonin in supercritical carbon dioxide was measured under various pressures and temperatures. To prepare oridonin solid dispersions using the GAS technique, ethanol was used as the solvent, CO(2) was used as the anti-solvent and the hydrophilic polymer polyvinylpyrrolidone K17 (PVP K17) was used as the drug carrier matrix. Characterization of the obtained preparations was undertaken using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses and a drug release study. Oridonin solid dispersions were formed and oridonin was present in an amorphous form in these dispersions. Oridonin solid dispersions significantly increased the drug dissolution rate compared with that of oridonin powder, primarily through drug amorphization. Compared with the physical mixture of oridonin and PVP K17, oridonin solid dispersions gave higher values of AUC and C(max), and the absorption of oridonin from solid dispersions resulted in 26.4-fold improvement in bioavailability. The present study illustrated the feasibility of applying the GAS technique to prepare oridonin solid dispersions, and of using them for the delivery of oridonin via the oral route. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  15. Optimization of β-carotene loaded solid lipid nanoparticles preparation using a high shear homogenization technique

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Triplett, Michael D.; Rathman, James F.

    2009-04-01

    Using statistical experimental design methodologies, the solid lipid nanoparticle design space was found to be more robust than previously shown in literature. Formulation and high shear homogenization process effects on solid lipid nanoparticle size distribution, stability, drug loading, and drug release have been investigated. Experimentation indicated stearic acid as the optimal lipid, sodium taurocholate as the optimal cosurfactant, an optimum lecithin to sodium taurocholate ratio of 3:1, and an inverse relationship between mixing time and speed and nanoparticle size and polydispersity. Having defined the base solid lipid nanoparticle system, β-carotene was incorporated into stearic acid nanoparticles to investigate the effects of introducing a drug into the base solid lipid nanoparticle system. The presence of β-carotene produced a significant effect on the optimal formulation and process conditions, but the design space was found to be robust enough to accommodate the drug. β-Carotene entrapment efficiency averaged 40%. β-Carotene was retained in the nanoparticles for 1 month. As demonstrated herein, solid lipid nanoparticle technology can be sufficiently robust from a design standpoint to become commercially viable.

  16. Regulatory considerations of pharmaceutical solid polymorphism in Abbreviated New Drug Applications (ANDAs).

    PubMed

    Raw, Andre S; Furness, M Scott; Gill, Devinder S; Adams, Richard C; Holcombe, Frank O; Yu, Lawrence X

    2004-02-23

    A sponsor of an Abbreviated New Drug Application (ANDA) must have information to show that the proposed generic product and the innovator product are both pharmaceutically equivalent and bioequivalent, and therefore, therapeutically equivalent. Many pharmaceutical solids exist in several crystalline forms and thus exhibit polymorphism. Polymorphism may result in differences in the physico-chemical properties of the active ingredient and variations in these properties may render a generic drug product to be bioinequivalent to the innovator brand. For this reason, in ANDAs, careful attention is paid to the effect of polymorphism in the context of generic drug product equivalency. This review discusses the impact of polymorphism on drug product manufacturability, quality, and performance. Conclusions from this analysis demonstrate that pharmaceutical solid polymorphism has no relevance to the determination of drug substance "sameness" in ANDAs. Three decision trees for solid oral dosage forms or liquid suspensions are provided for evaluating when and how polymorphs of drug substances should be monitored and controlled in ANDA submissions. Case studies from ANDAs are provided which demonstrate the irrelevance of polymorphism to the determination of drug substance "sameness". These case studies also illustrate the conceptual framework from these decision trees and illustrate how their general principles are sufficient to assure both the quality and the therapeutic equivalence of marketed generic drug products.

  17. Benefit/risk considerations with respect to OTC-descheduling of loperamide.

    PubMed

    Fletcher, P; Steffen, R; DuPont, H

    1995-05-01

    The main criteria to be considered for releasing an antidiarrhoeal from a prescription to an OTC-drug are guaranteed quality control, established efficacy and safety and the evaluation of the drug experience on major markets. Besides the considerable benefits from a socio-economic point of view, the risk for potential inappropriate use of loperamide (CAS 53179-11-6) as self-medication can be minimized by its use being avoided in children of 5 years of age or less (e.g. by making available a solid formulation only), by limiting the treatment duration to 48 h, and by contraindicating the use of the drug in cases of fever (> 38 degrees C) and/or blood in the stools. On the basis of a broad review loperamide can be considered to be efficacious in acute non-specific, acute functional and traveller's diarrhoea. The agent has a good safety profile if the mentioned restrictions are born in mind. Loperamide thus satisfies the OTC criteria.

  18. Applications of lipid based formulation technologies in the delivery of biotechnology-based therapeutics.

    PubMed

    du Plessis, Lissinda H; Marais, Etienne B; Mohammed, Faruq; Kotzé, Awie F

    2014-01-01

    In the last decades several new biotechnologically-based therapeutics have been developed due to progress in genetic engineering. A growing challenge facing pharmaceutical scientists is formulating these compounds into oral dosage forms with adequate bioavailability. An increasingly popular approach to formulate biotechnology-based therapeutics is the use of lipid based formulation technologies. This review highlights the importance of lipid based drug delivery systems in the formulation of oral biotechnology based therapeutics including peptides, proteins, DNA, siRNA and vaccines. The different production procedures used to achieve high encapsulation efficiencies of the bioactives are discussed, as well as the factors influencing the choice of excipient. Lipid based colloidal drug delivery systems including liposomes and solid lipid nanoparticles are reviewed with a focus on recent advances and updates. We further describe microemulsions and self-emulsifying drug delivery systems and recent findings on bioactive delivery. We conclude the review with a few examples on novel lipid based formulation technologies.

  19. Amorphous stabilization and dissolution enhancement of amorphous ternary solid dispersions: combination of polymers showing drug-polymer interaction for synergistic effects.

    PubMed

    Prasad, Dev; Chauhan, Harsh; Atef, Eman

    2014-11-01

    The purpose of this study was to understand the combined effect of two polymers showing drug-polymer interactions on amorphous stabilization and dissolution enhancement of indomethacin (IND) in amorphous ternary solid dispersions. The mechanism responsible for the enhanced stability and dissolution of IND in amorphous ternary systems was studied by exploring the miscibility and intermolecular interactions between IND and polymers through thermal and spectroscopic analysis. Eudragit E100 and PVP K90 at low concentrations (2.5%-40%, w/w) were used to prepare amorphous binary and ternary solid dispersions by solvent evaporation. Stability results showed that amorphous ternary solid dispersions have better stability compared with amorphous binary solid dispersions. The dissolution of IND from the ternary dispersion was substantially higher than the binary dispersions as well as amorphous drug. Melting point depression of physical mixtures reveals that the drug was miscible in both the polymers; however, greater miscibility was observed in ternary physical mixtures. The IR analysis confirmed intermolecular interactions between IND and individual polymers. These interactions were found to be intact in ternary systems. These results suggest that the combination of two polymers showing drug-polymer interaction offers synergistic enhancement in amorphous stability and dissolution in ternary solid dispersions. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association.

  20. Improvement of the dissolution rate of poorly soluble drugs by solid crystal suspensions.

    PubMed

    Thommes, Markus; Ely, David R; Carvajal, M Teresa; Pinal, Rodolfo

    2011-06-06

    We present a novel extrusion based approach where the dissolution rate of poorly soluble drugs (griseofulvin, phenytoin and spironolactone) is significantly accelerated. The drug and highly soluble mannitol are coprocessed in a hot melt extrusion operation. The obtained product is an intimate mixture of the crystalline drug and crystalline excipient, with up to 50% (w/w) drug load. The in vitro drug release from the obtained solid crystalline suspensions is over 2 orders of magnitude faster than that of the pure drug. Since the resulting product is crystalline, the accelerated dissolution rate does not bear the physical stability concerns inherent to amorphous formulations. This approach is useful in situations where the drug is not a good glass former or in cases where it is difficult to stabilize the amorphous drug. Being thermodynamically stable, the dissolution profile and the solid state properties of the product are maintained after storage at 40 °C, 75% RH for at least 90 days.

  1. Lipid nanoparticles for the delivery of poorly water-soluble drugs.

    PubMed

    Bunjes, Heike

    2010-11-01

    This review discusses important aspects of lipid nanoparticles such as colloidal lipid emulsions and, in particular, solid lipid nanoparticles as carrier systems for poorly water-soluble drugs, with a main focus on the parenteral and peroral use of these carriers. A short historical background of the development of colloidal lipid emulsions and solid lipid nanoparticles is provided and their similarities and differences are highlighted. With regard to drug incorporation, parameters such as the chemical nature of the particle matrix and the physicochemical nature of the drug, effects of drug partition and the role of the particle interface are discussed. Since, because of the crystalline nature of their lipid core, solid lipid nanoparticles display some additional important features compared to emulsions, their specificities are introduced in more detail. This mainly includes their solid state behaviour (crystallinity, polymorphism and thermal behaviour) and the consequences of their usually non-spherical particle shape. Since lipid nanoemulsions and -suspensions are also considered as potential means to alter the pharmacokinetics of incorporated drug substances, some underlying basic considerations, in particular concerning the drug-release behaviour of such lipid nanodispersions on dilution, are addressed as well. Colloidal lipid emulsions and solid lipid nanoparticles are interesting options for the delivery of poorly water-soluble drug substances. Their specific physicochemical properties need, however, to be carefully considered to provide a rational basis for their development into effective carrier systems for a given delivery task. © 2010 The Author. Journal compilation © 2010 Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain.

  2. [Dynamics of the mechanical properties of drops of biological liquids during drying as a reflection of the features of selfassembly of their components from the nano- to microlevel].

    PubMed

    Iakhno, T A; Sanin, A G; Sanina, O A; Iakhno, V G

    2011-01-01

    It has been shown that the dynamics of the molecular self-assembly of the components of liquids drying in the form of drops on a solid moistened surface contains information about their composition and structure. The physical mechanisms of this phenomenon have been considered. A method of recording this dynamics and retrieving useful information has been suggested. Examples of using this method in medicinal diagnosis and the assessment of the quality of food products, drugs, and liquids of domestic appliance are given.

  3. Weaving colloidal webs around droplets: spontaneous assembly of extended colloidal networks encasing microfluidic droplet ensembles.

    PubMed

    Zheng, Lu; Ho, Leon Yoon; Khan, Saif A

    2016-10-26

    The ability to form transient, self-assembling solid networks that 'cocoon' emulsion droplets on-demand allows new possibilities in the rapidly expanding area of microfluidic droplet-based materials science. In this communication, we demonstrate the spontaneous formation of extended colloidal networks that encase large microfluidic droplet ensembles, thus completely arresting droplet motion and effectively isolating each droplet from others in the ensemble. To do this, we employ molecular inclusion complexes of β-cyclodextrin, which spontaneously form and assemble into colloidal solids at the droplet interface and beyond, via the outward diffusion of a guest molecule (dichloromethane) from the droplets. We illustrate the advantage of such transient network-based droplet stabilization in the area of pharmaceutical crystallization, where we are able to fabricate monodisperse spherical crystalline microgranules of 5-methyl-2-[(2-nitrophenyl)amino]-3-thiophenecarbonitrile (ROY), a model hydrophobic drug, with a dramatic enhancement of particle properties compared to conventional methods.

  4. Characteristics of self-inflicted drug overdose deaths in North Carolina.

    PubMed

    Austin, Anna E; Proescholdbell, Scott K; Creppage, Kathleen E; Asbun, Alex

    2017-12-01

    Drug overdose mortality is a major public health concern in the United States, with prescription opioids contributing substantially to recent increases in drug overdose deaths. Compared to unintentional drug overdose deaths, relatively little data describes intentional self-inflicted drug overdose deaths (i.e., suicide by drug overdose). The aim of this study was to examine the characteristics of self-inflicted drug overdose deaths, overall and in comparison to unintentional drug overdose deaths. We linked vital statistics, prescription drug monitoring program, and toxicology data for self-inflicted and unintentional drug overdose deaths among North Carolina residents in 2012. Most self-inflicted (79.2%) and unintentional (75.6%) drug overdose decedents had a prescription for a controlled substance within one year of death. Toxicology results revealed that antidepressants contributed to a significantly higher percent of self-inflicted compared to unintentional drug overdose deaths (45.0% vs. 8.1%). Among deaths in which commonly prescribed opioids (oxycodone, hydrocodone) or benzodiazepines (alprazolam, clonazepam) contributed to death, a significantly higher percent of self-inflicted drug overdose decedents had a prescription for the substance within 30days of death compared to unintentional drug overdose decedents. The results highlight the use of prescription opioids, benzodiazepines, and antidepressants among self-inflicted drug overdose decedents. Importantly, the results indicate that self-inflicted drug overdose decedents were more likely than unintentional drug overdose decedents to have potential contact with the health care system in the weeks preceding death, offering an opportunity for professionals to identify and intervene on risk factors or signs of distress and potential for self-harm. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  5. The mechanisms of drug release from solid dispersions in water-soluble polymers.

    PubMed

    Craig, Duncan Q M

    2002-01-14

    Solid dispersions in water-soluble carriers have attracted considerable interest as a means of improving the dissolution rate, and hence possibly bioavailability, of a range of hydrophobic drugs. However, despite the publication of numerous original papers and reviews on the subject, the mechanisms underpinning the observed improvements in dissolution rate are not yet understood. In this review the current consensus with regard to the solid-state structure and dissolution properties of solid dispersions is critically assessed. In particular the theories of carrier- and drug-controlled dissolution are highlighted. A model is proposed whereby the release behaviour from the dispersions may be understood in terms of the dissolution or otherwise of the drug into the concentrated aqueous polymer layer adjacent to the solid surface, including a derivation of an expression to describe the release of intact particles from the dispersions. The implications of a deeper understanding of the dissolution mechanisms are discussed, with particular emphasis on optimising the choice of carrier and manufacturing method and the prediction of stability problems.

  6. Mechanism for enhanced absorption of a solid dispersion formulation of LY2300559 using the artificial stomach duodenum model.

    PubMed

    Polster, Christopher S; Wu, Sy-Juen; Gueorguieva, Ivelina; Sperry, David C

    2015-04-06

    An artificial stomach duodenum (ASD) model has been used to demonstrate the performance difference between two formulations of LY2300559, a low-solubility acidic developmental drug. The two formulations investigated were a conventional high-shear wet granulation (HSWG) formulation and a solid dispersion formulation. A pharmacokinetic study in humans demonstrated the enhanced performance of the solid dispersion formulation relative to the HSWG formulation. The Cmax and AUC of the solid dispersion was 2.6 and 1.9 times greater, respectively, compared to the HSWG formulation. In the ASD, the solid dispersion formulation performance was characterized by three main phases: (1) rapid release in the stomach, creating a supersaturated concentration of drug, (2) precipitation in the stomach, and (3) rapid redissolution of the precipitate in the duodenum to concentration levels that are supersaturated relative to crystalline drug. A series of complementary experiments were employed to describe this performance behavior mechanistically. Imaging experiments with a pH indicating dye showed that local pH gradients from meglumine in the solid dispersion formulation were responsible for creating a high initial supersaturation concentration in the stomach. Upon dissipation of meglumine, the drug precipitated in the stomach as an amorphous solid. Because the precipitated drug is in an amorphous form, it can then rapidly redissolve as it transits to the more neutral environment of the duodenum. This unexpected sequence of physical state changes gives a mechanistic explanation for the enhanced in vivo performance of the solid dispersion formulation relative to the HSWG formulation.

  7. Clinical Considerations of Focal Drug Delivery in Cancer Treatment.

    PubMed

    Harris, Jamie; Klonoski, Samuel C; Chiu, Bill

    2017-01-01

    According to the US Center for Disease Control, cancer deaths are the second most common cause of mortality in both adults and children. Definitive treatment of solid tumors involves surgical resection with or without systemic chemotherapy and radiation. The advent of local drug delivery presents a unique treatment modality that can offer substantial benefits in cancer management. Three main phases in solid tumor management exist for the treating physician: initial diagnosis with tissue biopsy, surgical resection with or without chemotherapy, and management of metastatic disease. A literature review of both basic science as well as clinical trials using local drug delivery strategies in the management of solid tumors was done on PubMed. These were then further divided into the categories of initial tissue biopsy intervention, surgical resection, and management of metastatic disease. A total of 27 articles were review that included both pre-clinical as well as clinical investigation of local drug delivery therapies in the treatment of solid tumors. Treatments such as MRI guided therapies, FDA approved local therapies for intracranial gliomas as well as local therapy for single site metastatic disease were identified. This review focuses the current state of local drug delivery in the treatment of solid tumors in both the pre-clinical as well as clinical investigation settings. Local drug delivery therapy offers an exciting new treatment modality for solid malignancies. Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.org.

  8. Development, characterization, and evaluation of sunscreen cream containing solid lipid nanoparticles of silymarin.

    PubMed

    Netto MPharm, Gladyston; Jose, Jobin

    2017-12-10

    Most of the sunscreen formulations mainly contain chemicals or synthetic molecules. Nowadays, researchers are mainly focussing on herbal formulations due to toxicity of the synthetic molecules. Silymarin is a natural flavonoids having excellent antioxidant properties. Solid lipid nanoparticles are novel drug carriers which improve the drug stability and tolerance effect and also enhance the permeation effect. This study aimed at the preparation of solid lipid nanoparticles containing silymarin that will be incorporated into a sunscreen cream and determine its sun protection factor. The solid lipid nanoparticles were prepared by micro-emulsion method; here, the glyceryl monostearate was used as lipid, and Tween 80 was used as an emulsifier. The solid lipid nanoparticles were evaluated for drug entrapment, particle size and morphology, zeta potential, and polydispersity index. The dispersion was formulated into sunscreen cream and evaluated for various parameters, such as extrudability, viscosity, spreadability, drug content, in vitro drug release, ex vivo permeation of drug, in vitro and in vivo sun protection factor determination, in vivo skin irritation test, and accelerated stability studies. The results suggested that as the concentration of emulsifier increased, the entrapment efficiency of silymarin increased. In vitro and in vivo sun protection factor determination showed that SPF of 13.80 and 14.1, respectively. Stability studies were performed under accelerated conditions, and it did not show any appreciable change in parameters. These results indicated that the sunscreen containing silymarin solid lipid nanoparticles exhibited better photoprotective action. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  9. In-vitro Drug Dissolution Studies in Medicinal Compounds.

    PubMed

    Bozal-Palabiyik, Burcin; Uslu, Bengi; Ozkan, Yalcin; Ozkan, Sibel A

    2018-03-22

    After oral administration, drug absorption from solid dosage forms depend on the release of the drug active compounds from the dosage form, the dissolution or solubilization of the drug under physiological conditions, and the permeability across the gastrointestinal tract. Dissolution testing is an essential part of designing more effective solid dosage forms in pharmaceutical industry. Moreover dissolution testing contributes to the selection of appropriate formulation excipients for improving the dosage form efficiency. This study aims to analyze in-vitro drug dissolution testing in solid dosage forms since 2010 in order to present a comprehensive outlook of recent trends. In doing that the previous studies in the literature are summarized in the form of a table to demonstrate the apparatuses used for dissolution testing, the media in which the solid dosage form is dissolved, the method preferred for analysis from dissolution media, the conditions of analyses and the results obtained. Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.org.

  10. Chitosan-based nanocarriers for antimalarials

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dreve, Simina; Kacso, Iren; Popa, Adriana; Raita, Oana; Bende, A.; Borodi, Gh.; Bratu, I.

    2012-02-01

    The objective of this research was to synthesize and characterize chitosan-based liquid and solid materials with unique absorptive and mechanical properties as carriers for quinine - one of the most used antimalarial drug. The use of chitosan (CTS) as base in polyelectrolyte complex systems, to prepare solid release systems as sponges is presented. The preparation by double emulsification of CTS hydrogels carrying quinine as anti-malarial drug is reported. The concentration of quinine in the CTS hydrogel was 0.08 mmol. Chitosan - drug loaded hydrogel was used to generate solid sponges by freeze-drying at -610°C and 0.09 atm. Structural investigations of the solid formulations were done by Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-VIS), spectrofluorimetry, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X-ray diffractometry. The results indicated that the drug molecule is forming temporary chelates in CTS hydrogels and sponges. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) demonstrates the presence of free radicals in a wide range and the antioxidant activity for chitosan - drug supramolecular cross-linked assemblies.

  11. Novel Selective Detection Method of Tumor Angiogenesis Factors Using Living Nano-Robots.

    PubMed

    Al-Fandi, Mohamed; Alshraiedeh, Nida; Owies, Rami; Alshdaifat, Hala; Al-Mahaseneh, Omamah; Al-Tall, Khadijah; Alawneh, Rawan

    2017-07-14

    This paper reports a novel self-detection method for tumor cells using living nano-robots. These living robots are a nonpathogenic strain of E. coli bacteria equipped with naturally synthesized bio-nano-sensory systems that have an affinity to VEGF, an angiogenic factor overly-expressed by cancer cells. The VEGF-affinity/chemotaxis was assessed using several assays including the capillary chemotaxis assay, chemotaxis assay on soft agar, and chemotaxis assay on solid agar. In addition, a microfluidic device was developed to possibly discover tumor cells through the overexpressed vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Various experiments to study the sensing characteristic of the nano-robots presented a strong response toward the VEGF. Thus, a new paradigm of selective targeting therapies for cancer can be advanced using swimming E. coli as self-navigator miniaturized robots as well as drug-delivery vehicles.

  12. Hydrophobic Drug Encapsulation Mechanisms of an Injectable Self-Assembling Peptide Hydrogel

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sun, Jessie E. P.; Schneider, Joel P.; Pochan, Darrin J.

    2012-02-01

    We examined a beta-hairpin peptide network that is a shear thinning injectable solid with immediate rehealing behavior. These rheological properties result from the entangled and branched fibrillar nanostructure of the hydrogel networks. The fibrils are formed by the intramolecular folding and subsequent intermolecular assembly of the self-assembling peptides. Taking advantage of the nanofibrillar peptide structures, the hydrogel can be used to encapsulate curcumin, a hydrophobic, natural anticancer agent and indian spice. The hydrogel shields curcumin from the environment while depositing it exactly where it is intended through syringe injection, taking advantage of the hydrogel shear thinning and rehealing behavior. How the network envelopes and interacts with the curcumin is examined using fluoresence and electron microscopy methods to better understand the exact mechanisms and behaviors of the gel itself and the gel-curcumin construct.

  13. Solid Lipid Nanoparticles as Efficient Drug and Gene Delivery Systems: Recent Breakthroughs

    PubMed Central

    Ezzati Nazhad Dolatabadi, Jafar; Valizadeh, Hadi; Hamishehkar, Hamed

    2015-01-01

    In recent years, nanomaterials have been widely applied as advanced drug and gene delivery nanosystems. Among them, solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) have attracted great attention as colloidal drug delivery systems for incorporating hydrophilic or lipophilic drugs and various macromolecules as well as proteins and nucleic acids. Therefore, SLNs offer great promise for controlled and site specific drug and gene delivery. This article includes general information about SLN structures and properties, production procedures, characterization. In addition, recent progress on development of drug and gene delivery systems using SLNs was reviewed. PMID:26236652

  14. Polymeric Amorphous Solid Dispersions: A Review of Amorphization, Crystallization, Stabilization, Solid-State Characterization, and Aqueous Solubilization of Biopharmaceutical Classification System Class II Drugs.

    PubMed

    Baghel, Shrawan; Cathcart, Helen; O'Reilly, Niall J

    2016-09-01

    Poor water solubility of many drugs has emerged as one of the major challenges in the pharmaceutical world. Polymer-based amorphous solid dispersions have been considered as the major advancement in overcoming limited aqueous solubility and oral absorption issues. The principle drawback of this approach is that they can lack necessary stability and revert to the crystalline form on storage. Significant upfront development is, therefore, required to generate stable amorphous formulations. A thorough understanding of the processes occurring at a molecular level is imperative for the rational design of amorphous solid dispersion products. This review attempts to address the critical molecular and thermodynamic aspects governing the physicochemical properties of such systems. A brief introduction to Biopharmaceutical Classification System, solid dispersions, glass transition, and solubility advantage of amorphous drugs is provided. The objective of this review is to weigh the current understanding of solid dispersion chemistry and to critically review the theoretical, technical, and molecular aspects of solid dispersions (amorphization and crystallization) and potential advantage of polymers (stabilization and solubilization) as inert, hydrophilic, pharmaceutical carrier matrices. In addition, different preformulation tools for the rational selection of polymers, state-of-the-art techniques for preparation and characterization of polymeric amorphous solid dispersions, and drug supersaturation in gastric media are also discussed. Copyright © 2016 American Pharmacists Association®. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  15. Effects of polymer type and storage relative humidity on the kinetics of felodipine crystallization from amorphous solid dispersions.

    PubMed

    Rumondor, Alfred C F; Stanford, Lindsay A; Taylor, Lynne S

    2009-12-01

    The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of polymer type and storage relative humidity (RH) on the crystallization kinetics of felodipine from amorphous solid dispersions. Crystallization of the model drug felodipine from amorphous solid dispersion samples containing poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) (PVP) and hypromellose acetate succinate (HPMCAS) were evaluated. Samples at three different drug-polymer weight ratios (10, 25, and 50 wt. % polymer) were prepared and stored at six different RHs (0%, 32%, 52% or 66%, 75%, 86%, and 93%). Periodically, the fraction of the drug that had crystallized from the samples was quantified using powder X-ray diffractometry (PXRD). Felodipine crystallization rates from PVP-containing dispersions were found to be very sensitive to changes in storage RH, while crystallization rates from HPMCAS-containing dispersions were not. PVP and HPMCAS were similar in terms of their ability to inhibit crystallization at low RH, but when the storage RH was increased to 75% or above, felodipine crystallization from PVP-containing solid dispersions proceeded much faster. It is hypothesized that this trend was caused by moisture-induced drug-polymer immiscibility in PVP-felodipine system. For PVP-containing solid dispersion samples stored at 75% RH and above, crystallization of the model drug felodipine seemed to approach a kinetic plateau, whereby a fraction of the drug still remained amorphous even after storage for 500 days or more. The physical stability of solid dispersions as a function of RH is highly dependent on the polymer used to form the solid dispersion, with PVP-containing dispersions being much less physically stable at high RH than HPMCAS-containing dispersions.

  16. The Effects of Polymer Carrier, Hot Melt Extrusion Process and Downstream Processing Parameters on the Moisture Sorption Properties of Amorphous Solid Dispersions

    PubMed Central

    Feng, Xin; Vo, Anh; Patil, Hemlata; Tiwari, Roshan V.; Alshetaili, Abdullah S.; Pimparade, Manjeet B.; Repka, Michael A.

    2017-01-01

    Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of polymer carrier, hot melt extrusion (HME) and downstream processing parameters on the water uptake properties of amorphous solid dispersions. Methods Three polymers and a model drug were used to prepare amorphous solid dispersions utilizing HME technology. The sorption-desorption isotherms of solid dispersions and their physical mixtures were measured by the Dynamic Vapor Sorption system, and the effect of polymer hydrophobicity, hygroscopicity, molecular weight and the HME process were investigated. FTIR imaging was performed to understand the phase separation driven by the moisture. Key findings Solid dispersions with polymeric carriers with lower hydrophilicity, hygroscopicity, and higher molecular weight could sorb less moisture under the high RH conditions. The water uptake ability of polymer-drug solid dispersion systems were decreased compared to the physical mixture after HME, which might be due to the decreased surface area and porosity. The FTIR imaging indicated the homogeneity of the drug molecularly dispersed within the polymer matrix was changed after exposure to high RH. Conclusion Understanding the effect of formulation and processing on the moisture sorption properties of solid dispersions is essential for the development of drug products with desired physical and chemical stability. PMID:26589107

  17. Investigation of process temperature and screw speed on properties of a pharmaceutical solid dispersion using corotating and counter-rotating twin-screw extruders.

    PubMed

    Keen, Justin M; Martin, Charlie; Machado, Augie; Sandhu, Harpreet; McGinity, James W; DiNunzio, James C

    2014-02-01

    The use of corotating twin screw hot-melt extruders to prepare amorphous drug/polymer systems has become commonplace. As small molecule drug candidates exiting discovery pipelines trend towards higher MW and become more structurally complicated, the acceptable operating space shifts below the drug melting point. The objective of this research is to investigate the extrusion process space, which should be selected to ensure that the drug is solubilized in the polymer with minimal thermal exposure, is critical in ensuring the performance, stability and purity of the solid dispersion. The properties of a model solid dispersion were investigated using both corotating and counter-rotating hot-melt twin-screw extruders operated at various temperatures and screw speeds. The solid state and dissolution performance of the resulting solid dispersions was investigated and evaluated in context of thermodynamic predictions from Flory-Huggins Theory. In addition, the residence time distributions were measured using a tracer, modelled and characterized. The amorphous content in the resulting solid dispersions was dependent on the combination of screw speed, temperature and operating mode. The counter-rotating extruder was observed to form amorphous solid dispersions at a slightly lower temperature and with a narrower residence time distribution, which also exhibited a more desirable shape. © 2013 Royal Pharmaceutical Society.

  18. Recent advances of controlled drug delivery using microfluidic platforms.

    PubMed

    Sanjay, Sharma T; Zhou, Wan; Dou, Maowei; Tavakoli, Hamed; Ma, Lei; Xu, Feng; Li, XiuJun

    2018-03-15

    Conventional systematically-administered drugs distribute evenly throughout the body, get degraded and excreted rapidly while crossing many biological barriers, leaving minimum amounts of the drugs at pathological sites. Controlled drug delivery aims to deliver drugs to the target sites at desired rates and time, thus enhancing the drug efficacy, pharmacokinetics, and bioavailability while maintaining minimal side effects. Due to a number of unique advantages of the recent microfluidic lab-on-a-chip technology, microfluidic lab-on-a-chip has provided unprecedented opportunities for controlled drug delivery. Drugs can be efficiently delivered to the target sites at desired rates in a well-controlled manner by microfluidic platforms via integration, implantation, localization, automation, and precise control of various microdevice parameters. These features accordingly make reproducible, on-demand, and tunable drug delivery become feasible. On-demand self-tuning dynamic drug delivery systems have shown great potential for personalized drug delivery. This review presents an overview of recent advances in controlled drug delivery using microfluidic platforms. The review first briefly introduces microfabrication techniques of microfluidic platforms, followed by detailed descriptions of numerous microfluidic drug delivery systems that have significantly advanced the field of controlled drug delivery. Those microfluidic systems can be separated into four major categories, namely drug carrier-free micro-reservoir-based drug delivery systems, highly integrated carrier-free microfluidic lab-on-a-chip systems, drug carrier-integrated microfluidic systems, and microneedles. Microneedles can be further categorized into five different types, i.e. solid, porous, hollow, coated, and biodegradable microneedles, for controlled transdermal drug delivery. At the end, we discuss current limitations and future prospects of microfluidic platforms for controlled drug delivery. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  19. Self-concept mediate the relationship between childhood maltreatment and abstinence motivation as well as self-efficacy among drug addicts.

    PubMed

    Lu, Feng-Ying; Wen, Si; Deng, Gang; Tang, Yung-Lung

    2017-05-01

    Childhood maltreatment is widely accepted as a risk factor for drug addiction from adolescence to adulthood. However, the influence of childhood maltreatment on drug treatment related variables, such as drug abstinence motivation and self-concept, as well as self-efficacy, remains unclear. This study aims at exploring whether self-concept mediates the relationship between childhood maltreatment and abstinence motivation, as well as self-efficacy, among drug addicts. This study involves 816 (550 males, 226 females, mean age=34.59, range=16-58 years) drug addicts from compulsory detoxification units. Participants completed questionnaires, including the childhood trauma questionnaire 28 - item short form (CTQ - SF), Tennessee self-concept scale (TSCS), general self-efficacy scale (GSES), and drug abstinence motivation questionnaire (DAMQ). The structural equation model (SEM) analysis, including total and specific forms of maltreatment scores, showed that childhood maltreatment was negatively associated with self-concept, self-efficacy, and abstinence motivation. Self-concept was positively associated with self-efficacy and abstinence motivation. Conversely, significant association between self-efficacy and abstinence motivation did not exist. An indirect analysis showed that self-concept mediated the relationship between childhood maltreatment and self-efficacy. Critically, self-concept arbitrated the relationship between childhood maltreatment and abstinence motivation. The indirect effect of self-concept between childhood maltreatment and abstinence motivation still existed when the total scores of maltreatment were replaced by the scores of specific forms of maltreatment. These results demonstrated that self-concept is a critical factor in understanding the relationship between childhood maltreatment and abstinence motivation, as well as self-efficacy, among drug addicts. Improving the sense of self-worth may be an effective intervention therapy among drug addicts with childhood maltreatment history. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  20. Applications of Natural Polymeric Materials in Solid Oral Modified-Release Dosage Forms.

    PubMed

    Li, Liang; Zhang, Xin; Gu, Xiangqin; Mao, Shirui

    2015-01-01

    Solid oral modified-release dosage forms provide numerous advantages for drug delivery compared to dosage forms where the drugs are released and absorbed rapidly following ingestion. Natural polymers are of particular interest as drug carriers due to their good safety profile, biocompatibility, biodegradability, and rich sources. This review described the current applications of important natural polymers, such as chitosan, alginate, pectin, guar gum, and xanthan gum, in solid oral modified-release dosage forms. It was shown that natural polymers have been widely used to fabricate solid oral modified-release dosage forms such as matrix tablets, pellets and beads, and especially oral drug delivery systems such as gastroretentive and colon drug delivery systems. Moreover, chemical modifications could overcome the shortcomings associated with the use of natural polymers, and the combination of two or more polymers presented further advantages compared with that of single polymer. In conclusion, natural polymers and modified natural polymers have promising applications in solid oral modified-release dosage forms. However, commercial products based on them are still limited. To accelerate the application of natural polymers in commercial products, in vivo behavior of natural polymers-based solid oral modified-release dosage forms should be deeply investigated, and meanwhile quality of the natural polymers should be controlled strictly, and the influence of formulation and process parameters need to be understood intensively.

  1. Multiscale Computational Modeling of the Nanostructure of Solid Dispersions of Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose Acetate Succinate (HPMCAS) and Phenytoin.

    PubMed

    Huang, Wenjun; Mandal, Taraknath; Larson, Ronald G

    2017-10-02

    We recently developed coarse-grained (CG) force fields for hydroxypropyl methylcellulose acetate succinate (HPMCAS) polymers and the model drug molecule phenytoin, and a continuum transport model to study the polymer-drug nanostructures presented during a dissolution test after solvation of solid dispersion particles. We model the polymer-drug interactions that contribute to suppression of drug aggregation, release, and crystal growth during the dissolution process, and we take these as indicators of polymer effectiveness. We find that the size and the intermolecular interaction strength of the functional group and the drug loading concentration are the major factors that impact the effectiveness of the polymeric excipient. The hydroxypropyl acetyl group is the most effective functional group, followed by the acetyl group, while the deprotonated succinyl group is the least effective functional group, except that the deprotonated succinyl group at the 6-position is very effective in slowing down the phenytoin crystal growth. Our simulation results thus suggest HPMCAS with higher acetyl and lower succinyl content is more effective in promoting phenytoin solubility in dissolution media, and polymers become less effective when drug loading becomes high (i.e., 50% of the mass of the polymer/drug solid dispersion), agreeing with previous experimental studies. In addition, our transport model indicates that the drug release time from a solid dispersion particle of 2 μm diameter is less than 10 min, correlating well with the experimental time scale for a typical dissolution profile to reach maximum peak concentration. Our modeling effort, therefore, provides new avenues to understand the dissolution behavior of complex HPMCAS-phenytoin solid dispersions and offers a new design tool to optimize the formulation. Moreover, the systematic and robust approach used in our computational models can be extended to other polymeric excipients and drug candidates.

  2. Electrochemical Control of Peptide Self-Organization on Atomically Flat Solid Surfaces: A Case Study with Graphite.

    PubMed

    Seki, Takakazu; So, Christopher R; Page, Tamon R; Starkebaum, David; Hayamizu, Yuhei; Sarikaya, Mehmet

    2018-02-06

    The nanoscale self-organization of biomolecules, such as proteins and peptides, on solid surfaces under controlled conditions is an important issue in establishing functional bio/solid soft interfaces for bioassays, biosensors, and biofuel cells. Electrostatic interaction between proteins and surfaces is one of the most essential parameters in the adsorption and self-assembly of proteins on solid surfaces. Although the adsorption of proteins has been studied with respect to the electrochemical surface potential, the self-assembly of proteins or peptides forming well-organized nanostructures templated by lattice structure of the solid surfaces has not been studied in the relation to the surface potential. In this work, we utilize graphite-binding peptides (GrBPs) selected by the phage display method to investigate the relationship between the electrochemical potential of the highly ordered pyrolytic graphite (HOPG) and peptide self-organization forming long-range-ordered structures. Under modulated electrical bias, graphite-binding peptides form various ordered structures, such as well-ordered nanowires, dendritic structures, wavy wires, amorphous (disordered) structures, and islands. A systematic investigation of the correlation between peptide sequence and self-organizational characteristics reveals that the presence of the bias-sensitive amino acid modules in the peptide sequence has a significant effect on not only surface coverage but also on the morphological features of self-assembled structures. Our results show a new method to control peptide self-assembly by means of applied electrochemical bias as well as peptide design-rules for the construction of functional soft bio/solid interfaces that could be integrated in a wide range of practical implementations.

  3. Pharmaceutical Dispersion Techniques for Dissolution and Bioavailability Enhancement of Poorly Water-Soluble Drugs.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Xingwang; Xing, Huijie; Zhao, Yue; Ma, Zhiguo

    2018-06-23

    Over the past decades, a large number of drugs as well as drug candidates with poor dissolution characteristics have been witnessed, which invokes great interest in enabling formulation of these active ingredients. Poorly water-soluble drugs, especially biopharmaceutical classification system (BCS) II ones, are preferably designed as oral dosage forms if the dissolution limit can be broken through. Minimizing a drug’s size is an effective means to increase its dissolution and hence the bioavailability, which can be achieved by specialized dispersion techniques. This article reviews the most commonly used dispersion techniques for pharmaceutical processing that can practically enhance the dissolution and bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs. Major interests focus on solid dispersion, lipid-based dispersion (nanoencapsulation), and liquisolid dispersion (drug solubilized in a non-volatile solvent and dispersed in suitable solid excipients for tableting or capsulizing), covering the formulation development, preparative technique and potential applications for oral drug delivery. Otherwise, some other techniques that can increase the dispersibility of a drug such as co-precipitation, concomitant crystallization and inclusion complexation are also discussed. Various dispersion techniques provide a productive platform for addressing the formulation challenge of poorly water-soluble drugs. Solid dispersion and liquisolid dispersion are most likely to be successful in developing oral dosage forms. Lipid-based dispersion represents a promising approach to surmounting the bioavailability of low-permeable drugs, though the technique needs to traverse the obstacle from liquid to solid transformation. Novel dispersion techniques are highly encouraged to develop for formulation of poorly water-soluble drugs.

  4. Covalent binding of nanoliposomes to the surface of magnetotactic bacteria for the synthesis of self-propelled therapeutic agents.

    PubMed

    Taherkhani, Samira; Mohammadi, Mahmood; Daoud, Jamal; Martel, Sylvain; Tabrizian, Maryam

    2014-05-27

    The targeted and effective delivery of therapeutic agents remains an unmet goal in the field of controlled release systems. Magnetococcus marinus MC-1 magnetotactic bacteria (MTB) are investigated as potential therapeutic carriers. By combining directional magnetotaxis-microaerophilic control of these self-propelled agents, a larger amount of therapeutics can be delivered surpassing the diffusion limits of large drug molecules toward hard-to-treat hypoxic regions in solid tumors. The potential benefits of these carriers emphasize the need to develop an adequate method to attach therapeutic cargos, such as drug-loaded nanoliposomes, without substantially affecting the cell's ability to act as delivery agents. In this study, we report on a strategy for the attachment of liposomes to MTB (MTB-LP) through carbodiimide chemistry. The attachment efficacy, motility, and magnetic response of the MTB-LP were investigated. Results confirm that a substantial number of nanoliposomes (∼70) are efficiently linked with MTB without compromising functionality and motility. Cytotoxicity assays using three different cell types (J774, NIH/3T3, and Colo205) reveal that liposomal attachments to MTB formulation improve the biocompatibility of MTB, whereas attachment does not interfere with liposomal uptake.

  5. Trial opens to evaluate experimental cancer drug against solid tumors | Center for Cancer Research

    Cancer.gov

    Chemotherapy drugs have long been the mainstay of treatment for advanced solid tumors, but the toxic side effects of these drugs often limit the amount that can safely be given to patients. Doctors hope that PEN-866, an experimental cancer drug, can help to overcome this difficulty. Anish Thomas, M.D., who is leading this new trial, says, “This is a first-of-its-kind approach

  6. Microwave generated solid dispersions containing Ibuprofen.

    PubMed

    Moneghini, Mariarosa; Bellich, Barbara; Baxa, Pietro; Princivalle, Francesco

    2008-09-01

    The purpose of this study was to apply the attractive technique of the microwaves irradiation (MW) for the preparation of solvent-free solid dispersions (SD). In particular, the microwave technology has been considered in order to prepare an enhanced release dosage form for the poorly soluble drug Ibuprofen (IBU), employing PVP/VA 60/40 (PVP/VA 64) and hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin (HP-beta-CD) as hydrophilic carriers. Their physico-chemical characteristics and dissolution properties were compared to the corresponding physical mixtures and the drug alone. The results of physico-chemical characterization attested a correspondence of the solid state of the drug before and after irradiation treatment and that an amorphous form of the drug was obtained. This result, together with the presence of the hydrophilic polymers determined a remarkable enhancement of the in vitro dissolution rate of the drug suggesting that the microwave technique could be considered as a new and interesting method to prepare drug-polymer systems.

  7. Dissolution enhancement of efavirenz by solid dispersion and PEGylation techniques

    PubMed Central

    Madhavi, B. Bindu; Kusum, B.; Chatanya, CH. Krishna; Madhu, M. Naga; Harsha, V. Sri; Banji, David

    2011-01-01

    Background: Efavirenz is the preferred nonnucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor for first-line antiretroviral treatment in many countries. It is orally active and is specific for human immunodeficiency virus type 1. Its effectiveness can be attributed to its long half-life, which is 52–76 h after multiple doses. The drug is having poor water solubility. The formulation of poorly soluble drug for oral delivery will be one of the biggest challenges for formulation scientists in the research field. Among the available approaches, the solid dispersion technique has often proved to be the most commonly used method in improving dissolution and bioavailability of the drugs because of its simplicity and economy in preparation and evaluation. Materials and Methods: Solid dispersions were prepared by solvent evaporation and physical mixture methods by using polyethylene glycol as the hydrophilic carrier and PEGylated product was also prepared. The prepared products were evaluated for various parameters, such as polymer interaction, saturation solubility study, and drug release studies. The drug release data were analyzed by fitting it into various kinetic models. Results: There is an improvement in the dissolution from 16% to 70% with solid dispersion technology. Higuchi model was found to be the best fit model. Conclusion: Solid dispersion is the simple, efficient, and economic method to improve the dissolution of the poorly water-soluble drugs. PMID:23071917

  8. Evaluate the ability of PVP to inhibit crystallization of amorphous solid dispersions by density functional theory and experimental verify.

    PubMed

    Wang, Bing; Wang, Dandan; Zhao, Shan; Huang, Xiaobin; Zhang, Jianbin; Lv, Yan; Liu, Xiaocen; Lv, Guojun; Ma, Xiaojun

    2017-01-01

    In this study, we used density functional theory (DFT) to predict polymer-drug interactions, and then evaluated the ability of poly (vinyl pyrrolidone) (PVP) to inhibit crystallization of amorphous solid dispersions by experimental-verification. Solid dispersions of PVP/resveratrol (Res) and PVP/griseofulvin (Gri) were adopted for evaluating the ability of PVP to inhibit crystallization. The density functional theory (DFT) with the B3LYP was used to calculate polymer-drug and drug-drug interactions. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to confirm hydrogen bonding interactions. Polymer-drug miscibility and drug crystallinity were characterized by the modulated differential scanning calorimetry (MDSC) and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD). The release profiles were studied to investigate the dissolution advantage. DFT results indicated that E PVP-Res >E Res-Res (E: represents hydrogen bonding energy). A strong interaction was formed between PVP and Res. In addition, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis showed hydrogen bonding formed between PVP and Res, but not between PVP and Gri. MDSC and XRD results suggested that 70-90wt% PVP/Res and PVP/Gri solid dispersions formed amorphous solid dispersions (ASDs). Under the accelerated testing condition, PVP/Res dispersions with higher miscibility quantified as 90/10wt% were more stable than PVP/Gri dispersions. The cumulative dissolution rate of 90wt% PVP/Res dispersions still kept high after 90days storage due to the strong interaction. However, the cumulative dissolution rate of PVP/Gri solid dispersions significantly dropped because of the recrystallization of Gri. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  9. Understanding the generation and maintenance of supersaturation during the dissolution of amorphous solid dispersions using modulated DSC and 1H NMR.

    PubMed

    Baghel, Shrawan; Cathcart, Helen; O'Reilly, Niall J

    2018-01-30

    In this study, the dissolution behaviour of dipyridamole (DPM) and cinnarizine (CNZ) spray-dried amorphous solid dispersions (ASDs) using polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) and polyacrylic acid (PAA) as a carrier matrix were evaluated and compared. The drug concentrations achieved from the dissolution of PVP and PAA solid dispersions were significantly greater than the equilibrium solubility of crystalline DPM and CNZ in phosphate buffer pH 6.8 (PBS 6.8). The maximum drug concentration achieved by dissolution of PVP and PAA solid dispersions did not exceed the theoretically calculated apparent solubility of amorphous DPM and CNZ. However, the degree of supersaturation of DPM and CNZ increased considerably as the polymer weight fraction within the solid dispersion increased. In addition, the supersaturation profile of DPM and CNZ were studied in the presence and absence of the polymers. PAA was found to maintain a higher level of supersaturation compared to PVP. The enhanced drug solution concentration following dissolution of ASDs can be attributed to the reduced crystal growth rates of DPM and CNZ at an equivalent supersaturation. We have also shown that, for drugs having high crystallization tendency and weak drug-polymer interaction, the feasible way to increase dissolution might be increase the polymer weight fraction in the ASD. Solution 1 H NMR spectra were used to understand dissolution mechanism and to identify drug-polymer interaction. The change in electron densities of proton attached to different groups in DPM and CNZ suggested drug-polymer interaction in solution. The relative intensities of peak shift and nature of interaction between drug and polymer in different systems are different. These different effects suggest that DPM and CNZ interacts in a different way with PVP and PAA in solution which goes some way towards explaining the different polymeric effect, particularly in terms of inhibition of drug recrystallization and dissolution of DPM and CNZ ASDs. These results established that the different drug/polymer interactions in the solid state and in solution give rise to the variation in dissolution profile observed for different systems. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  10. Growth of self-textured Ga3+-substituted Li7La3Zr2O12 ceramics by solid state reaction and their significant enhancement in ionic conductivity

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Qin, Shiying; Zhu, Xiaohong; Jiang, Yue; Ling, Ming'en; Hu, Zhiwei; Zhu, Jiliang

    2018-03-01

    A highly self-textured Ga2O3-substituted Li7La3Zr2O12 (LLZO-Ga) solid electrolyte with a nominal composition of Li6.55Ga0.15La3Zr2O12 is obtained by a simple and low-cost solid-state reaction technique, requiring no seed crystals to achieve grain orientation. The as-prepared self-textured LLZO-Ga shows a strong (420) preferred orientation with a high Lotgering factor of 0.91. Coherently, a terrace-shaped microstructure consisting of many parallel layers, indicating a two-dimensional-like growth mode, is clearly observed in the self-textured sample. As a result, the highly self-textured garnet-type lithium-ion conducting solid electrolyte of LLZO-Ga exhibits an extremely high ionic conductivity, reaching a state-of-the-art level of 2.06 × 10-3 S cm-1 at room temperature (25 °C) and thus shedding light on an important strategy for improving the structure and ionic conductivity of solid electrolytes.

  11. Mechanistic insights for block copolymer morphologies: how do worms form vesicles?

    PubMed

    Blanazs, Adam; Madsen, Jeppe; Battaglia, Giuseppe; Ryan, Anthony J; Armes, Steven P

    2011-10-19

    Amphiphilic diblock copolymers composed of two covalently linked, chemically distinct chains can be considered to be biological mimics of cell membrane-forming lipid molecules, but with typically more than an order of magnitude increase in molecular weight. These macromolecular amphiphiles are known to form a wide range of nanostructures (spheres, worms, vesicles, etc.) in solvents that are selective for one of the blocks. However, such self-assembly is usually limited to dilute copolymer solutions (<1%), which is a significant disadvantage for potential commercial applications such as drug delivery and coatings. In principle, this problem can be circumvented by polymerization-induced block copolymer self-assembly. Here we detail the synthesis and subsequent in situ self-assembly of amphiphilic AB diblock copolymers in a one pot concentrated aqueous dispersion polymerization formulation. We show that spherical micelles, wormlike micelles, and vesicles can be predictably and efficiently obtained (within 2 h of polymerization, >99% monomer conversion) at relatively high solids in purely aqueous solution. Furthermore, careful monitoring of the in situ polymerization by transmission electron microscopy reveals various novel intermediate structures (including branched worms, partially coalesced worms, nascent bilayers, "octopi", "jellyfish", and finally pure vesicles) that provide important mechanistic insights regarding the evolution of the particle morphology during the sphere-to-worm and worm-to-vesicle transitions. This environmentally benign approach (which involves no toxic solvents, is conducted at relatively high solids, and requires no additional processing) is readily amenable to industrial scale-up, since it is based on commercially available starting materials.

  12. Solution behavior of PVP-VA and HPMC-AS-based amorphous solid dispersions and their bioavailability implications.

    PubMed

    Qian, Feng; Wang, Jennifer; Hartley, Ruiling; Tao, Jing; Haddadin, Raja; Mathias, Neil; Hussain, Munir

    2012-10-01

    To identify the mechanism behind the unexpected bio-performance of two amorphous solid dispersions: BMS-A/PVP-VA and BMS-A/HPMC-AS. Solubility of crystalline BMS-A in PVP-VA and HPMC-AS was measured by DSC. Drug-polymer interaction parameters were obtained by Flory-Huggins model fitting. Drug dissolution kinetics of spray-dried dispersions were studied under sink and non-sink conditions. BMS-A supersaturation was studied in the presence of pre-dissolved PVP-VA and HPMC-AS. Potency and crystallinity of undissolved solid dispersions were determined by HPLC and DSC. Polymer dissolution kinetics were obtained by mass balance calculation. Bioavailability of solid dispersions was assessed in dogs. In solid state, both polymers are miscible with BMS-A, while PVP-VA solublizes the drug better. BMS-A dissolves similarly from both solid dispersions in vitro regardless of dissolution method, while the HPMC-AS dispersion performed much better in vivo. At the same concentration, HPMC-AS is more effective in prolonging BMS-A supersaturation; this effect was negated by the slow dissolution rate of HPMC-AS. Further study revealed that fast PVP-VA dissolution resulted in elevated drug loading in undissolved dispersions and facilitated drug recrystallization before complete release. In contrast, the hydrophobicity and slower HPMC-AS dissolution prevented BMS-A recrystallization within the HPMC-AS matrix for >24 h. The lower bioavailability of PVP-VA dispersion was attributed to BMS-A recrystallization within the undissolved dispersion, due to hydrophilicity and fast PVP-VA dissolution rate. Polymer selection for solid dispersion development has significant impact on in vivo performance besides physical stability.

  13. Effect of tumor shape, size, and tissue transport properties on drug delivery to solid tumors

    PubMed Central

    2014-01-01

    Background The computational methods provide condition for investigation related to the process of drug delivery, such as convection and diffusion of drug in extracellular matrices, drug extravasation from microvessels or to lymphatic vessels. The information of this process clarifies the mechanisms of drug delivery from the injection site to absorption by a solid tumor. In this study, an advanced numerical method is used to solve fluid flow and solute transport equations simultaneously to investigate the effect of tumor shape and size on drug delivery to solid tumor. Methods The advanced mathematical model used in our previous work is further developed by adding solute transport equation to the governing equations. After applying appropriate boundary and initial conditions on tumor and surrounding tissue geometry, the element-based finite volume method is used for solving governing equations of drug delivery in solid tumor. Also, the effects of size and shape of tumor and some of tissue transport parameters such as effective pressure and hydraulic conductivity on interstitial fluid flow and drug delivery are investigated. Results Sensitivity analysis shows that drug delivery in prolate shape is significantly better than other tumor shapes. Considering size effect, increasing tumor size decreases drug concentration in interstitial fluid. This study shows that dependency of drug concentration in interstitial fluid to osmotic and intravascular pressure is negligible. Conclusions This study shows that among diffusion and convection mechanisms of drug transport, diffusion is dominant in most different tumor shapes and sizes. In tumors in which the convection has considerable effect, the drug concentration is larger than that of other tumors at the same time post injection. PMID:24987457

  14. Characterization of the molecular distribution of drugs in glassy solid dispersions at the nano-meter scale, using differential scanning calorimetry and gravimetric water vapour sorption techniques.

    PubMed

    van Drooge, D J; Hinrichs, W L J; Visser, M R; Frijlink, H W

    2006-03-09

    The molecular distribution in fully amorphous solid dispersions consisting of poly(vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP)-diazepam and inulin-diazepam was studied. One glass transition temperature (T(g)), as determined by temperature modulated differential scanning calorimetry (TMDSC), was observed in PVP-diazepam solid dispersions prepared by fusion for all drug loads tested (10-80 wt.%). The T(g) of these solid dispersions gradually changed with composition and decreased from 177 degrees C for pure PVP to 46 degrees C for diazepam. These observations indicate that diazepam was dispersed in PVP on a molecular level. However, in PVP-diazepam solid dispersions prepared by freeze drying, two T(g)'s were observed for drug loads above 35 wt.% indicating phase separation. One T(g) indicated the presence of amorphous diazepam clusters, the other T(g) was attributed to a PVP-rich phase in which diazepam was dispersed on a molecular level. With both the value of the latter T(g) and the DeltaC(p) of the diazepam glass transition the concentrations of molecular dispersed diazepam could be calculated (27-35 wt.%). Both methods gave similar results. Water vapour sorption (DVS) experiments revealed that the PVP-matrix was hydrophobised by the incorporated diazepam. TMDSC and DVS results were used to estimate the size of diazepam clusters in freeze dried PVP-diazepam solid dispersions, which appeared to be in the nano-meter range. The inulin-diazepam solid dispersions prepared by spray freeze drying showed one T(g) for drug loads up to 35 wt.% indicating homogeneous distribution on a molecular level. However, this T(g) was independent of the drug load, which is unexpected because diazepam has a lower T(g) than inulin (46 and 155 degrees C, respectively). For higher drug loads, a T(g) of diazepam as well as a T(g) of the inulin-rich phase was observed, indicating the formation of amorphous diazepam clusters. From the DeltaC(p) of the diazepam glass transition the amount of molecularly dispersed diazepam was calculated (12-27 wt.%). In contrast to the PVP-diazepam solid dispersions, DVS-experiments revealed that inulin was not hydrophobised by diazepam. Consequently, the size of diazepam clusters could not be estimated. It was concluded that TMDSC enables characterization and quantification of the molecular distribution in amorphous solid dispersions. When the hygroscopicity of the carrier is reduced by the drug, DVS in combination with TMDSC can be used to estimate the size of amorphous drug clusters.

  15. Solid lipid nanoparticles as an efficient drug delivery system of olmesartan medoxomil for the treatment of hypertension.

    PubMed

    Pandya, Nilima T; Jani, Parva; Vanza, Jigar; Tandel, Hemal

    2018-05-01

    The aim of the current investigation was to develop solid lipid nanoparticles of olmesartan medoxomil using hot homogenization method to improve its oral bioavailability. Central composite design was applied to optimize the formulation variables; lipid X1 (Glyceryl monostearate) and surfactant X2 (Poloxamer: Tween 80). The particle sizes were in the nanometer range and spherical shaped for all prepared solid lipid nanoparticles formulations and the zeta potential absolute values were high, predicting good long-term stability. In vitro study of olmesartan loaded solid lipid nanoparticle exhibited controlled release profile for at least 24 h. The rate and extent of drug diffusion was studied using dialysis sac, rat's stomach and intestine tissues; study demonstrated that drug release from the solid lipid nanoparticles was significantly higher than drug suspension. In vivo pharmacokinetic study of olmesartan loaded solid lipid nanoparticles revealed higher Cmax of 1610 ng/mL, higher AUC of 15492.50 ng/mL and increased relative bioavailability by almost 2.3 folds compared to marketed formulation. These results clearly indicate that olmesartan loaded solid lipid nanoparticles are shown to have enhanced bioavailability and effective therapeutic result and thus would be an excellent way to treat hypertension. Hence, these solid lipid nanoparticles could represent as a great potential for a possible alternative to conventional oral formulation in the treatment of hypertension. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  16. Soluplus®/TPGS-based solid dispersions prepared by hot-melt extrusion equipped with twin-screw systems for enhancing oral bioavailability of valsartan.

    PubMed

    Lee, Jae-Young; Kang, Wie-Soo; Piao, Jingpei; Yoon, In-Soo; Kim, Dae-Duk; Cho, Hyun-Jong

    2015-01-01

    Soluplus(®) (SP) and D-alpha-tocopherol polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate (TPGS)-based solid dispersion (SD) formulations were developed by hot-melt extrusion (HME) to improve oral bioavailability of valsartan (VST). HME process with twin-screw configuration for generating a high shear stress was used to prepare VST SD formulations. The thermodynamic state of the drug and its dispersion in the polymers were evaluated by solid-state studies, including Fourier-transform infrared, X-ray diffraction, and differential scanning calorimetry. Drug release from the SD formulations was assessed at pH values of 1.2, 4.0, and 6.8. Pharmacokinetic study was performed in rats to estimate the oral absorption of VST. HME with a high shear rate produced by the twin-screw system was successfully applied to prepare VST-loaded SD formulations. Drug amorphization and its molecular dispersion in the polymer matrix were verified by several solid-state studies. Drug release from SD formulations was improved, compared to the pure drug, particularly at pH 6.8. Oral absorption of drug in rats was also enhanced in SP and TPGS-based SD groups compared to that in the pure drug group. SP and TPGS-based SDs, prepared by the HME process, could be used to improve aqueous solubility, dissolution, and oral absorption of poorly water-soluble drugs.

  17. Current trends and future perspectives of solid dispersions containing poorly water-soluble drugs.

    PubMed

    Vo, Chau Le-Ngoc; Park, Chulhun; Lee, Beom-Jin

    2013-11-01

    Over 40% of active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) in development pipelines are poorly water-soluble drugs which limit formulation approaches, clinical application and marketability because of their low dissolution and bioavailability. Solid dispersion has been considered one of the major advancements in overcoming these issues with several successfully marketed products. A number of key references that describe state-of-the-art technologies have been collected in this review, which addresses various pharmaceutical strategies and future visions for the solubilization of poorly water-soluble drugs according to the four generations of solid dispersions. This article reviews critical aspects and recent advances in formulation, preparation and characterization of solid dispersions as well as in-depth pharmaceutical solutions to overcome some problems and issues that limit the development and marketability of solid dispersion products. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  18. Trimodal Therapy: Combining Hyperthermia with Repurposed Bexarotene and Ultrasound for Treating Liver Cancer.

    PubMed

    Misra, Santosh K; Ghoshal, Goutam; Gartia, Manas R; Wu, Zhe; De, Arun K; Ye, Mao; Bromfield, Corinne R; Williams, Emery M; Singh, Kuldeep; Tangella, Krishnarao V; Rund, Laurie; Schulten, Klaus; Schook, Lawrence B; Ray, Partha S; Burdette, Everette C; Pan, Dipanjan

    2015-11-24

    Repurposing of existing cancer drugs to overcome their physical limitations, such as insolubility, represents an attractive strategy to achieve enhanced therapeutic efficacy and broaden the range of clinical applications. Such an approach also promises to offer substantial cost savings in drug development efforts. Here we repurposed FDA-approved topical agent bexarotene (Targretin), currently in limited use for cutaneous manifestations of T-cell lymphomas, and re-engineer it for use in solid tumor applications by forming self-assembling nanobubbles. Physico-chemical characterization studies of the novel prodrug nanobubbles demonstrated their stability, enhanced target cell internalization capability, and highly controlled release profile in response to application of focused ultrasound energy. Using an in vitro model of hepatocellular carcinoma and an in vivo large animal model of liver ablation, we demonstrate the effectiveness of bexarotene prodrug nanobubbles when used in conjunction with catheter-based ultrasound, thereby highlighting the therapeutic promise of this trimodal approach.

  19. Tri-modal Therapy: Combining Hyperthermia with Repurposed Bexarotene and Ultrasound for Treating Liver Cancer

    PubMed Central

    Misra, Santosh K.; Ghoshal, Goutam; Bromfield, Corinne R.; Williams, Emery M.; Singh, Kuldeep; Tangella, Krishnarao V.; Rund, Laurie; Schulten, Klaus; Schook, Lawrence B.; Ray, Partha S.; Burdette, Everette C.; Pan, Dipanjan

    2016-01-01

    Repurposing of existing cancer drugs to overcome their physical limitations, such as insolubility, represents an attractive strategy to achieve enhanced therapeutic efficacy and broaden the range of clinical applications. Such an approach also promises to offer substantial cost savings in drug development efforts. Here we use repurposed FDA-approved topical agent bexarotene (Targretin™), currently in limited use for cutaneous manifestations of T-cell lymphomas, and re-engineer it for use in solid tumor applications by forming self-assembling nanobubbles. Physicochemical characterization studies of the novel prodrug nanobubbles demonstrated their stability, enhanced target cell-internalization capability and highly controlled release profile in response to application of focused ultrasound energy. Using an in vitro model of hepatocellular carcinoma and an in vivo large animal model of liver ablation, we demonstrate the effectiveness of bexarotene prodrug nanobubbles when used in conjunction with catheter-based ultrasound, thereby highlighting the therapeutic promise of this trimodal approach. PMID:26435333

  20. Targeting cancer stem cell-specific markers and/or associated signaling pathways for overcoming cancer drug resistance.

    PubMed

    Ranji, Peyman; Salmani Kesejini, Tayyebali; Saeedikhoo, Sara; Alizadeh, Ali Mohammad

    2016-10-01

    Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a small subpopulation of tumor cells with capabilities of self-renewal, dedifferentiation, tumorigenicity, and inherent chemo-and-radio therapy resistance. Tumor resistance is believed to be caused by CSCs that are intrinsically challenging to common treatments. A number of CSC markers including CD44, CD133, receptor tyrosine kinase, aldehyde dehydrogenases, epithelial cell adhesion molecule/epithelial specific antigen, and ATP-binding cassette subfamily G member 2 have been proved as the useful targets for defining CSC population in solid tumors. Furthermore, targeting CSC markers through new therapeutic strategies will ultimately improve treatments and overcome cancer drug resistance. Therefore, the identification of novel strategies to increase sensitivity of CSC markers has major clinical implications. This review will focus on the innovative treatment methods such as nano-, immuno-, gene-, and chemotherapy approaches for targeting CSC-specific markers and/or their associated signaling pathways.

  1. Solid-Phase Biological Assays for Drug Discovery

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Forsberg, Erica M.; Sicard, Clémence; Brennan, John D.

    2014-06-01

    In the past 30 years, there has been a significant growth in the use of solid-phase assays in the area of drug discovery, with a range of new assays being used for both soluble and membrane-bound targets. In this review, we provide some basic background to typical drug targets and immobilization protocols used in solid-phase biological assays (SPBAs) for drug discovery, with emphasis on particularly labile biomolecular targets such as kinases and membrane-bound receptors, and highlight some of the more recent approaches for producing protein microarrays, bioaffinity columns, and other devices that are central to small molecule screening by SPBA. We then discuss key applications of such assays to identify drug leads, with an emphasis on the screening of mixtures. We conclude by highlighting specific advantages and potential disadvantages of SPBAs, particularly as they relate to particular assay formats.

  2. Increased dissolution rate and oral bioavailability of hydrophobic drug glyburide tablets produced using supercritical CO₂ silica dispersion technology.

    PubMed

    Guan, Jibin; Han, Jihong; Zhang, Dong; Chu, Chunxia; Liu, Hongzhuo; Sun, Jin; He, Zhonggui; Zhang, Tianhong

    2014-04-01

    The aim of this study was to design a silica-supported solid dispersion of a water-insoluble drug, glyburide, to increase its dissolution rate and oral absorption using supercritical fluid (SCF) technology. DSC and PXRD results indicated that the encapsulated drug in the optimal solid dispersion was in an amorphous state and the product was stable for 6 months. Glyburide was adsorbed onto the porous silica, as confirmed by the SEM images and BET analysis. Furthermore, FT-IR spectroscopy confirmed that there was no change in the chemical structure of glyburide after the application of SCF. The glyburide silica-based dispersion could also be compressed into tablet form. In vitro drug release analysis of the silica solid dispersion tablets demonstrated faster release of glyburide compared with the commercial micronized tablet. In an in vivo test, the AUC of the tablets composed of the new glyburide silica-based solid dispersion was 2.01 times greater than that of the commercial micronized glyburide tablets. In conclusion, SCF technology presents a promising approach to prepare silica-based solid dispersions of hydrophobic drugs because of its ability to increase their release and oral bioavailability. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  3. The effects of polymer carrier, hot melt extrusion process and downstream processing parameters on the moisture sorption properties of amorphous solid dispersions.

    PubMed

    Feng, Xin; Vo, Anh; Patil, Hemlata; Tiwari, Roshan V; Alshetaili, Abdullah S; Pimparade, Manjeet B; Repka, Michael A

    2016-05-01

    The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of polymer carrier, hot melt extrusion and downstream processing parameters on the water uptake properties of amorphous solid dispersions. Three polymers and a model drug were used to prepare amorphous solid dispersions utilizing the hot melt extrusion technology. The sorption-desorption isotherms of solid dispersions and their physical mixtures were measured by the dynamic vapour sorption system, and the effects of polymer hydrophobicity, hygroscopicity, molecular weight and the hot melt extrusion process were investigated. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) imaging was performed to understand the phase separation driven by the moisture. Solid dispersions with polymeric carriers with lower hydrophilicity, hygroscopicity and higher molecular weight could sorb less moisture under the high relative humidity (RH) conditions. The water uptake ability of polymer-drug solid dispersion systems were decreased compared with the physical mixture after hot melt extrusion, which might be due to the decreased surface area and porosity. The FTIR imaging indicated that the homogeneity of the drug molecularly dispersed within the polymer matrix was changed after exposure to high RH. Understanding the effect of formulation and processing on the moisture sorption properties of solid dispersions is essential for the development of drug products with desired physical and chemical stability. © 2015 Royal Pharmaceutical Society.

  4. Sodium alginate as a potential carrier in solid dispersion formulations to enhance dissolution rate and apparent water solubility of BCS II drugs.

    PubMed

    Borba, Paola Aline Amarante; Pinotti, Marihá; de Campos, Carlos Eduardo Maduro; Pezzini, Bianca Ramos; Stulzer, Hellen Karine

    2016-02-10

    The solid dispersion technique is the most effective method for improving the dissolution rate of poorly water-soluble drugs, however it depends on a suitable carrier selection. The work explored the use of the biopolymer sodium alginate (SA) as a potential carrier in solid dispersions (SD). The data demonstrated that SA was able to improve the biopharmaceutical properties of the BCS II drug telmisartan (TEL) of low solubility even using relative small drug:polymer ratio. A solid state grinding process was used to prepare the solid dispersions (SD) during 45 min. The SD were prepared in different proportions of drug and carrier of 1:1, 1:3, 1:5, 1:7 and 1:9 (mass/mass). DSC, XRPD, FTIR and Raman confirmed the presence of molecular interactions between TEL and the carrier. FTIR supports the presence of hydrogen bonds between TEL and the carrier. SD_1:5, SD_1:7 and SD_1:9 enhanced the dissolution rate of the drug releasing more than 80% of the drug in just 30 min (83%, 84% and 87%). The the t-test results demonstrated equal dissolution efficiency values for SD_1:7 and Micardis(®), however the similarity (f2) and difference (f1) fit factors showed that the SD and Micardis(®) are statistically different. The physical stability studies demonstrated that SD using sodium alginate as a carrier remained unchanged during the period of 90 days at room temperature, showing that the sodium alginate acts as a good anti plasticizer agent, preventing the drug recrystallization. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  5. What's the agreement between self-reported and biochemical verification of drug use? A look at permanent supportive housing residents.

    PubMed

    Rendon, Alexis; Livingston, Melvin; Suzuki, Sumihiro; Hill, Whitney; Walters, Scott

    2017-07-01

    Self-reported substance use is commonly used as an outcome measure in treatment research. We evaluated the validity of self-reported drug use in a sample of 334 adults with mental health problems who were residing in supportive housing programs. The primary analysis was the calculation of the positive predictive values (PPVs) of self-report compared to an oral fluid test taken at the same time. A sensitivity analysis compared the positive predictive values of two self-reported drug use histories: biological testing window (ranging between the past 96h to 30days depending on drug type) or the full past 90-day comparison window (maximum length recorded during interview). A multivariable logistic regression was used to predict discordance between self-report and the drug test for users. Self-reported drug use and oral fluid drug tests were compared to determine the positive predictive value for amphetamines/methamphetamines/PCP (47.1% agreement), cocaine (43.8% agreement), and marijuana (69.7% agreement) drug tests. Participants who misreported their drug use were more likely to be older, non-White, have no medical insurance, and not report any alcohol use. In general, amphetamine/methamphetamine/PCP and cocaine use was adequately captured by the biological test, while marijuana use was best captured by a combination of self-report and biological data. Using the full past 90day comparison window resulted in higher concordance with the oral fluid drug test, indicating that self-reported drug use in the past 90days may be a proxy for drug use within the biological testing window. Self-report has some disadvantages when used as the sole measure of drug use in this population. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  6. Analytical techniques for characterization of cyclodextrin complexes in the solid state: A review.

    PubMed

    Mura, Paola

    2015-09-10

    Cyclodextrins are cyclic oligosaccharides able to form inclusion complexes with a variety of hydrophobic guest molecules, positively modifying their physicochemical properties. A thorough analytical characterization of cyclodextrin complexes is of fundamental importance to provide an adequate support in selection of the most suitable cyclodextrin for each guest molecule, and also in view of possible future patenting and marketing of drug-cyclodextrin formulations. The demonstration of the actual formation of a drug-cyclodextrin inclusion complex in solution does not guarantee its existence also in the solid state. Moreover, the technique used to prepare the solid complex can strongly influence the properties of the final product. Therefore, an appropriate characterization of the drug-cyclodextrin solid systems obtained has also a key role in driving in the choice of the most effective preparation method, able to maximize host-guest interactions. The analytical characterization of drug-cyclodextrin solid systems and the assessment of the actual inclusion complex formation is not a simple task and involves the combined use of several analytical techniques, whose results have to be evaluated together. The objective of the present review is to present a general prospect of the principal analytical techniques which can be employed for a suitable characterization of drug-cyclodextrin systems in the solid state, evidencing their respective potential advantages and limits. The applications of each examined technique are described and discussed by pertinent examples from literature. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  7. Thermodynamics of water-solid interactions in crystalline and amorphous pharmaceutical materials.

    PubMed

    Sacchetti, Mark

    2014-09-01

    Pharmaceutical materials, crystalline and amorphous, sorb water from the atmosphere, which affects critical factors in the development of drugs, such as the selection of drug substance crystal form, compatibility with excipients, dosage form selection, packaging, and product shelf-life. It is common practice to quantify the amount of water that a material sorbs at a given relative humidity (RH), but the results alone provide minimal to no physicochemical insight into water-solid interactions, without which pharmaceutical scientists cannot develop an understanding of their materials, so as to anticipate and circumvent potential problems. This research was conducted to advance the science of pharmaceutical materials by examining the thermodynamics of solids with sorbed water. The compounds studied include nonhygroscopic drugs, a channel hydrate drug, a stoichiometric hydrate excipient, and an amorphous excipient. The water sorption isotherms were measured over a range of temperature to extract the partial molar enthalpy and entropy of sorbed water as well as the same quantities for some of the solids. It was found that water-solid interactions spanned a range of energy and entropy as a function of RH, which was unique to the solid, and which could be valuable in identifying batch-to-batch differences and effects of processing in material performance. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association.

  8. Novel Selective Detection Method of Tumor Angiogenesis Factors Using Living Nano-Robots

    PubMed Central

    Alshraiedeh, Nida; Owies, Rami; Alshdaifat, Hala; Al-Mahaseneh, Omamah; Al-Tall, Khadijah; Alawneh, Rawan

    2017-01-01

    This paper reports a novel self-detection method for tumor cells using living nano-robots. These living robots are a nonpathogenic strain of E. coli bacteria equipped with naturally synthesized bio-nano-sensory systems that have an affinity to VEGF, an angiogenic factor overly-expressed by cancer cells. The VEGF-affinity/chemotaxis was assessed using several assays including the capillary chemotaxis assay, chemotaxis assay on soft agar, and chemotaxis assay on solid agar. In addition, a microfluidic device was developed to possibly discover tumor cells through the overexpressed vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Various experiments to study the sensing characteristic of the nano-robots presented a strong response toward the VEGF. Thus, a new paradigm of selective targeting therapies for cancer can be advanced using swimming E. coli as self-navigator miniaturized robots as well as drug-delivery vehicles. PMID:28708066

  9. NMR Relaxometry to Characterize the Drug Structural Phase in a Porous Construct.

    PubMed

    Thrane, Linn W; Berglund, Emily A; Wilking, James N; Vodak, David; Seymour, Joseph D

    2018-06-14

    Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) frequency spectra and T 2 relaxation time measurements, using a high-power radio frequency probe, are shown to characterize the presence of an amorphous drug in a porous silica construct. The results indicate the ability of non-solid-state NMR methods to characterize crystalline and amorphous solid structural phases in drugs. Two-dimensional T 1 - T 2 magnetic relaxation time correlation experiments are shown to monitor the impact of relative humidity on the drug in a porous silica tablet.

  10. Effects of added surfactant on swelling and molecular transport in drug-loaded tablets based on hydrophobically modified poly(acrylic acid).

    PubMed

    Knöös, Patrik; Wahlgren, Marie; Topgaard, Daniel; Ulvenlund, Stefan; Piculell, Lennart

    2014-08-14

    A combination of NMR chemical shift imaging and self-diffusion experiments is shown to give a detailed molecular picture of the events that occur when tablets of hydrophobically modified poly(acrylic acid) loaded with a drug (griseofulvin) swell in water in the presence or absence of surfactant (sodium octylbenzenesulfonate). The hydrophobic substituents on the polymer bind and trap the surfactant molecules in mixed micelles, leading to a slow effective surfactant transport that occurs via a small fraction of individually dissolved surfactant molecules in the water domain. Because of the efficient binding of surfactant, the penetrating water is found to diffuse past the penetrating surfactant into the polymer matrix, pushing the surfactant front outward as the matrix swells. The added surfactant has little effect on the transport of drug because both undissolved solid drug and surfactant-solubilized drug function as reservoirs that essentially follow the polymer as it swells. However, the added surfactant nevertheless has a strong indirect effect on the release of griseofulvin, through the effect of the surfactant on the solubility and erosion of the polymer matrix. The surfactant effectively solubilizes the hydrophobically modified polymer, making it fully miscible with water, leading to a more pronounced swelling and a slower erosion of the polymer matrix.

  11. Development of gellan gum containing formulations for transdermal drug delivery: Component evaluation and controlled drug release using temperature responsive nanogels.

    PubMed

    Carmona-Moran, Carlos A; Zavgorodnya, Oleksandra; Penman, Andrew D; Kharlampieva, Eugenia; Bridges, S Louis; Hergenrother, Robert W; Singh, Jasvinder A; Wick, Timothy M

    2016-07-25

    Enhancing skin permeation is important for development of new transdermal drug delivery formulations. This is particularly relevant for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). To address this, semisolid gel and solid hydrogel film formulations containing gellan gum as a gelling agent were developed and the effects of penetration enhancers (dimethyl sulfoxide, isopropyl alcohol and propylene glycol) on transport of the NSAID diclofenac sodium was quantified. A transwell diffusion system was used to accelerate formulation development. After 4h, diclofenac flux from a superior formulation of the semisolid gel or the solid hydrogel film was 130±11μg/cm(2)h and 108±7μg/cm(2)h, respectively, and significantly greater than that measured for a currently available diclofenac sodium topical gel (30±4μg/cm(2)h, p<0.05) or solution formulation (44±6μg/cm(2)h, p<0.05) under identical conditions. Over 24h diclofenac transport from the solid hydrogel film was greater than that measured for any new or commercial diclofenac formulation. Entrapment of temperature-responsive nanogels within the solid hydrogel film provides temperature-activated prolonged release of diclofenac. Diclofenac transport was minimal at 22°C, when diclofenac is entrapped within temperature-responsive nanogels incorporated into the solid hydrogel film, but increased 6-fold when the temperature was increased to skin surface temperature of 32°C. These results demonstrate the feasibility of the semisolid gel and solid hydrogel film formulations that can include thermo-responsive nanogels for development of transdermal drug formulations with adjustable drug transport kinetics. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  12. Formulation and optimization of mouth dissolve tablets containing rofecoxib solid dispersion.

    PubMed

    Sammour, Omaima A; Hammad, Mohammed A; Megrab, Nagia A; Zidan, Ahmed S

    2006-06-16

    The purpose of the present investigation was to increase the solubility and dissolution rate of rofecoxib by the preparation of its solid dispersion with polyvinyl pyrrolidone K30 (PVP K30) using solvent evaporation method. Drug-polymer interactions were investigated using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), x-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). For the preparation of rofecoxib mouth dissolve tablets, its 1:9 solid dispersion with PVP K30 was used with various disintegrants and sublimable materials. In an attempt to construct a statistical model for the prediction of disintegration time and percentage friability, a 3(2) randomized full and reduced factorial design was used to optimize the influence of the amounts of superdisintegrant and subliming agent. The obtained results showed that dispersion of the drug in the polymer considerably enhanced the dissolution rate. The drug-to-carrier ratio was the controlling factor for dissolution improvement. FTIR spectra revealed no chemical incompatibility between the drug and PVP K30. As indicated from XRD and DSC data, rofecoxib was in the amorphous form, which explains the better dissolution rate of the drug from its solid dispersions. Concerning the optimization study, the multiple regression analysis revealed that an optimum concentration of camphor and a higher percentage of crospovidone are required for obtaining rapidly disintegrating tablets. In conclusion, this investigation demonstrated the potential of experimental design in understanding the effect of the formulation variables on the quality of mouth dissolve tablets containing solid dispersion of a hydrophobic drug.

  13. Impact of pharmaceutical cocrystals: the effects on drug pharmacokinetics.

    PubMed

    Shan, Ning; Perry, Miranda L; Weyna, David R; Zaworotko, Michael J

    2014-09-01

    Pharmaceutical cocrystallization has emerged in the past decade as a new strategy to enhance the clinical performance of orally administered drugs. A pharmaceutical cocrystal is a multi-component crystalline material in which the active pharmaceutical ingredient is in a stoichiometric ratio with a second compound that is generally a solid under ambient conditions. The resulting cocrystal exhibits different solid-state thermodynamics, leading to changes in physicochemical properties that offer the potential to significantly modify drug pharmacokinetics. The impact of cocrystallization upon drug pharmacokinetics has not yet been well delineated. Herein, we compile previously published data to address two salient questions: what effect does cocrystallization impart upon physicochemical properties of a drug substance and to what degree can those effects impact its pharmacokinetics. Cocrystals can impact various aspects of drug pharmacokinetics, including, but not limited to, drug absorption. The diversity of solid forms offered through cocrystallization can facilitate drastic changes in solubility and pharmacokinetics. Therefore, it is unsurprising that cocrystal screening is now a routine step in early-stage drug development. With the increasing recognition of pharmaceutical cocrystals from clinical, regulatory and legal perspectives, the systematic commercialization of cocrystal containing drug products is just a matter of time.

  14. Single processing step toward injectable sustained-release formulations of Triptorelin based on a novel degradable semi-solid polymer.

    PubMed

    Asmus, Lutz R; Kaufmann, Béatrice; Melander, Louise; Weiss, Torsten; Schwach, Grégoire; Gurny, Robert; Möller, Michael

    2012-08-01

    Poly(lactic acid) is a widely used polymer for parenteral sustained-release formulations. But its solid state at room-temperature complicates the formulation process, and elaborate formulation systems like microparticles and self-precipitating implants are required for administration. In contrast, hexylsubstituted poly(lactic acid) (hexPLA) is a viscous, biodegradable liquid, which can simply be mixed with the active compound. In this study, the feasibility to prepare injectable suspension formulations with peptides was addressed on the example of the GnRH-agonist Triptorelin. Two formulation procedures, of which one was a straight forward one-step cryo-milling-mixing process, were compared regarding the particle size of the peptide in the polymer matrix, distribution, and drug release. This beneficial method resulted in a homogeneous formulation with an average particle diameter of the incorporated Triptorelin of only 4.1 μm. The rheological behavior of the Triptorelin-hexPLA formulations was assessed and showed thixotropic and shear-thinning behavior. Viscosity and injectability were highly dependent on the drug loading, polymer molecular weight, and temperature. Nine formulations with drug loadings from 2.5% to 10% and hexPLA molecular weights between 1500 and 5000 g/mol were investigated in release experiments, and all displayed a long-term release for over 3 months. Formulations with hexPLA of 1500 g/mol showed a viscosity-dependent release and hexPLA-Triptorelin formulations of over 2500 g/mol a molecular weight-dependent release profile. In consequence, the burst release and rate of release were controllable by adapting the drug loading and the molecular weight of the hexPLA. The degradation characteristics of the hexPLA polymer during the in vitro release experiment were studied by following the molecular weight decrease and weight loss. Triptorelin-hexPLA formulations had interesting sustained-release characteristics justifying further investigations in the drug-polymer interactions and the in vivo behavior. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  15. Towards better modelling of drug-loading in solid lipid nanoparticles: Molecular dynamics, docking experiments and Gaussian Processes machine learning.

    PubMed

    Hathout, Rania M; Metwally, Abdelkader A

    2016-11-01

    This study represents one of the series applying computer-oriented processes and tools in digging for information, analysing data and finally extracting correlations and meaningful outcomes. In this context, binding energies could be used to model and predict the mass of loaded drugs in solid lipid nanoparticles after molecular docking of literature-gathered drugs using MOE® software package on molecularly simulated tripalmitin matrices using GROMACS®. Consequently, Gaussian processes as a supervised machine learning artificial intelligence technique were used to correlate the drugs' descriptors (e.g. M.W., xLogP, TPSA and fragment complexity) with their molecular docking binding energies. Lower percentage bias was obtained compared to previous studies which allows the accurate estimation of the loaded mass of any drug in the investigated solid lipid nanoparticles by just projecting its chemical structure to its main features (descriptors). Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  16. Liquid-Solid Self-Lubricated Coatings

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Armada, S.; Schmid, R.; Equey, S.; Fagoaga, I.; Espallargas, N.

    2013-02-01

    Self-lubricated coatings have been a major topic of interest in thermal spray in the last decades. Self-lubricated coatings obtained by thermal spray are exclusively based on solid lubricants (PTFE, h-BN, graphite, MoS2, etc.) embedded in the matrix. Production of thermal spray coatings containing liquid lubricants has not yet been achieved because of the complexity of keeping a liquid in a solid matrix during the spraying process. In the present article, the first liquid-solid self-lubricating thermal spray coatings are presented. The coatings are produced by inserting lubricant-filled capsules inside a polymeric matrix. The goal of the coating is to release lubricant to the system when needed. The first produced coatings consisted solely of capsules for confirming the feasibility of the process. For obtaining such a coating, the liquid-filled capsules were injected in the thermal spray flame without any other feedstock material. Once the concept and the idea were proven, a polymer was co-sprayed together with the capsules to obtain a coating containing the lubricant-filled capsules distributed in the solid polymeric matrix. The coatings and the self-lubricated properties have been investigated by means of optical microscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy, and tribological tests.

  17. Trial opens to evaluate experimental cancer drug against solid tumors | Center for Cancer Research

    Cancer.gov

    Chemotherapy drugs have long been the mainstay of treatment for advanced solid tumors, but the toxic side effects of these drugs often limit the amount that can safely be given to patients. Doctors hope that PEN-866, an experimental cancer drug, can help to overcome this difficulty. Anish Thomas, M.D., who is leading this new trial, says, “This is a first-of-its-kind approach to facilitate tumor targeted delivery of chemotherapy drugs, which, if successful, would be a big step forward for cancer therapy.” Learn more...

  18. Application of hot melt extrusion for improving bioavailability of artemisinin a thermolabile drug.

    PubMed

    Kulkarni, C; Kelly, A L; Gough, T; Jadhav, V; Singh, K K; Paradkar, A

    2018-02-01

    Hot melt extrusion has been used to produce a solid dispersion of the thermolabile drug artemisinin. Formulation and process conditions were optimized prior to evaluation of dissolution and biopharmaceutical performance. Soluplus ® , a low T g amphiphilic polymer especially designed for solid dispersions enabled melt extrusion at 110 °C although some drug-polymer incompatibility was observed. Addition of 5% citric acid as a pH modifier was found to suppress the degradation. The area under plasma concentration time curve (AUC 0-24h ) and peak plasma concentration (C max ) were four times higher for the modified solid dispersion compared to that of pure artemisinin.

  19. Immobilization of recombinant vault nanoparticles on solid substrates.

    PubMed

    Xia, Yun; Ramgopal, Yamini; Li, Hai; Shang, Lei; Srinivas, Parisa; Kickhoefer, Valerie A; Rome, Leonard H; Preiser, Peter R; Boey, Freddy; Zhang, Hua; Venkatraman, Subbu S

    2010-03-23

    Native vaults are nanoscale particles found abundantly in the cytoplasm of most eukaryotic cells. They have a capsule-like structure with a thin shell surrounding a "hollow" interior compartment. Recombinant vault particles were found to self-assemble following expression of the major vault protein (MVP) in a baculovirus expression system, and these particles are virtually identical to native vaults. Such particles have been recently studied as potential delivery vehicles. In this study, we focus on immobilization of vault particles on a solid substrate, such as glass, as a first step to study their interactions with cells. To this end, we first engineered the recombinant vaults by fusing two different tags to the C-terminus of MVP, a 3 amino acid RGD peptide and a 12 amino acid RGD-strep-tag peptide. We have demonstrated two strategies for immobilizing vaults on solid substrates. The barrel-and-cap structure of vault particles was observed for the first time, by atomic force microscopy (AFM), in a dry condition. This work proved the feasibility of immobilizing vault nanoparticles on a material surface, and the possibility of using vault nanoparticles as localized and sustainable drug carriers as well as a biocompatible surface moiety.

  20. Physiochemical Characterization and Release Rate Studies of SolidDispersions of Ketoconazole with Pluronic F127 and PVP K-30

    PubMed Central

    Kumar, Pankaj; Mohan, Chander; KanamSrinivasan Uma Shankar, Mara; Gulati, Monica

    2011-01-01

    In the present study solid dispersions of the antifungal drug Ketoconazole were prepared with Pluronic F-127 and PVP K-30 with an intention to improve its dissolution properties. Investigations of the properties of the dispersions were performed using release studies, Differential scanning calorimetery (DSC), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR). The results obtained showed that the rate of dissolution of Ketoconazole was considerably improved when formulated in solid dispersions with PVP K-30 and Pluronic F-127 as compared with pure drug and physical mixtures. The results from DSC and XRD studies showed the transition of crystalline nature of drug to amorphous form, while FTIR studies demonstrated the absence of drug-carriers interaction. PMID:24250403

  1. Novel delivery device for monolithical solid oral dosage forms for personalized medicine.

    PubMed

    Wening, Klaus; Breitkreutz, Jörg

    2010-08-16

    There is an evident need for solid oral dosage forms allowing patients' tailor-made dosing due to variations in metabolization or small therapeutic indexes of drug substances. The objective of this work is the development of a device equipped with a novel solid dosage form, containing carvedilol as model drug, for the delivery of monolithical drug carriers in individual doses. The device was developed and constructed enabling an exact feed rate and dose adjustment by a cutting mechanism. A twin-screw extruder was used for producing cylindrical solid dosage forms. Divided doses were characterized by mass variation, cutting behavior and drug dissolution in order to investigate their applicability for practical use. Different formulations could be extruded obtaining straight cylindrical rods, which are divisible in exact slices by using the novel device. Forces below 20 N were needed to divide doses which comply with pharmacopoeial specification "conformity of mass". The developed formulations exhibit a sustained release of carvedilol within a range from 7 up to 16 h. A novel system consisting of a device and a cylindrical dosage form was developed. Patients' individual doses can be applied as monolithical solid dosage forms for oral use.

  2. Crosslinked hydrogels-a promising class of insoluble solid molecular dispersion carriers for enhancing the delivery of poorly soluble drugs.

    PubMed

    Sun, Dajun D; Lee, Ping I

    2014-02-01

    Water-insoluble materials containing amorphous solid dispersions (ASD) are an emerging category of drug carriers which can effectively improve dissolution kinetics and kinetic solubility of poorly soluble drugs. ASDs based on water-insoluble crosslinked hydrogels have unique features in contrast to those based on conventional water-soluble and water-insoluble carriers. For example, solid molecular dispersions of poorly soluble drugs in poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (PHEMA) can maintain a high level of supersaturation over a prolonged period of time via a feedback-controlled diffusion mechanism thus avoiding the initial surge of supersaturation followed by a sharp decline in drug concentration typically encountered with ASDs based on water-soluble polymers. The creation of both immediate- and controlled-release ASD dosage forms is also achievable with the PHEMA based hydrogels. So far, ASD systems based on glassy PHEMA have been shown to be very effective in retarding precipitation of amorphous drugs in the solid state to achieve a robust physical stability. This review summarizes recent research efforts in investigating the potential of developing crosslinked PHEMA hydrogels as a promising alternative to conventional water-soluble ASD carriers, and a related finding that the rate of supersaturation generation does affect the kinetic solubility profiles implications to hydrogel based ASDs.

  3. Crosslinked hydrogels—a promising class of insoluble solid molecular dispersion carriers for enhancing the delivery of poorly soluble drugs

    PubMed Central

    Sun, Dajun D.; Lee, Ping I.

    2014-01-01

    Water-insoluble materials containing amorphous solid dispersions (ASD) are an emerging category of drug carriers which can effectively improve dissolution kinetics and kinetic solubility of poorly soluble drugs. ASDs based on water-insoluble crosslinked hydrogels have unique features in contrast to those based on conventional water-soluble and water-insoluble carriers. For example, solid molecular dispersions of poorly soluble drugs in poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (PHEMA) can maintain a high level of supersaturation over a prolonged period of time via a feedback-controlled diffusion mechanism thus avoiding the initial surge of supersaturation followed by a sharp decline in drug concentration typically encountered with ASDs based on water-soluble polymers. The creation of both immediate- and controlled-release ASD dosage forms is also achievable with the PHEMA based hydrogels. So far, ASD systems based on glassy PHEMA have been shown to be very effective in retarding precipitation of amorphous drugs in the solid state to achieve a robust physical stability. This review summarizes recent research efforts in investigating the potential of developing crosslinked PHEMA hydrogels as a promising alternative to conventional water-soluble ASD carriers, and a related finding that the rate of supersaturation generation does affect the kinetic solubility profiles implications to hydrogel based ASDs. PMID:26579361

  4. Solid dispersions, part II: new strategies in manufacturing methods for dissolution rate enhancement of poorly water-soluble drugs.

    PubMed

    Bikiaris, Dimitrios N

    2011-12-01

    The absorption of poorly water-soluble drugs, when presented in the crystalline state to the gastrointestinal tract, is typically dissolution rate-limited, and according to BCS these drugs belong mainly to class II. Both dissolution kinetics and solubility are particle size dependent. Nowadays, various techniques are available to the pharmaceutical industry for dissolution rate enhancement of such drugs. Among such techniques, nanosuspensions and drug formulation in solid dispersions are those with the highest interest. This review discusses strategies undertaken over the last 10 years, which have been applied for the dissolution enhancement of poorly water-soluble drugs; such processes include melt mixing, electrospinning, microwave irradiation and the use of inorganic nanoparticles. Many problems in this field still need to be solved, mainly the use of toxic solvents, and for this reason the use of innovative new procedures and materials will increase over the coming years. Melt mixing remains extremely promising for the preparation of SDs and will probably become the most used method in the future for the preparation of solid drug dispersions.

  5. A self-forming composite electrolyte for solid-state sodium battery with ultra-long cycle life

    DOE PAGES

    Zhang, Zhizhen; Yang, Xiao -Qing; Zhang, Qinghua; ...

    2016-10-31

    Replacing organic liquid electrolyte with inorganic solid electrolytes (SE) can potentially address the inherent safety problems in conventional rechargeable batteries. Furthermore, all-solid-state batteries have been plagues by the relatively low ionic conductivity of solid electrolytes and large charge-transfer resistance resulted from solid-solid interfaces between electrode materials and solid electrolytes. Here we report a new design strategy for improving the ionic conductivity of solid electrolyte by self-forming a composite material. An optimized Na + ion conducting composite electrolyte derived from the NASICON structure was successfully synthesized, yielding ultra-high ionic conductivity of 3.4 mS cm –1 at 25°C and 14 ms cmmore » –1 at 80°C.« less

  6. Solid-state NMR as an effective method of polymorphic analysis: solid dosage forms of clopidogrel hydrogensulfate.

    PubMed

    Pindelska, Edyta; Szeleszczuk, Lukasz; Pisklak, Dariusz Maciej; Mazurek, Andrzej; Kolodziejski, Waclaw

    2015-01-01

    Clopidogrel hydrogensulfate (HSCL) is an antiplatelet agent, one of top-selling drugs in the world. In this paper, we have described a rapid and convenient method of verification which polymorph of HSCL is present in its final solid dosage form. Our methodology based on solid-state NMR spectroscopy and ab initio gauge-including projector-augmented wave calculations of NMR shielding constants is appropriate for currently available commercial solid dosage forms of HSCL. Furthermore, such structural characterization can assist with the development of new pharmaceutical products containing HSCL and also be useful in the identification of counterfeit drugs. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association.

  7. Development of novel sibutramine base-loaded solid dispersion with gelatin and HPMC: physicochemical characterization and pharmacokinetics in beagle dogs.

    PubMed

    Lim, Hyun-Tae; Balakrishnan, Prabagar; Oh, Dong Hoon; Joe, Kwan Hyung; Kim, Young Ran; Hwang, Doo Hyung; Lee, Yong-Bok; Yong, Chul Soon; Choi, Han-Gon

    2010-09-15

    To develop a novel sibutramine base-loaded solid dispersion with enhanced solubility and bioavailability, various solid dispersions were prepared using a spray drying technique with hydrophilic polymers such as gelatin, HPMC and citric acid. Their solubility, thermal characteristics and crystallinity were investigated. The dissolution and pharmacokinetics of the sibutramine base-loaded solid dispersion were then compared with a sibutramine hydrochloride monohydrate-loaded commercial product (Reductil). The solid dispersions prepared with gelatin gave higher drug solubility than those prepared without gelatin, irrespective of the amount of polymer. The sibutramine base-loaded solid dispersions containing hydrophilic polymer and citric acid showed higher drug solubility compared to sibutramine base and sibutramine hydrochloride monohydrate. Among the formulations tested, the solid dispersion composed of sibutramine base/gelatin/HPMC/citric acid at the weight ratio of 1/0.8/0.2/0.5 gave the highest solubility of 5.03+/-0.24 mg/ml. Our DSC and powder X-ray diffraction results showed that the drug was present in an altered amorphous form in this solid dispersion. The difference factor (f(1)) values between solid dispersion and commercial product were 2.82, 6.65 and 6.31 at pH 1.2, 4.0 and 6.8, respectively. Furthermore, they had the similarity factor (f(2)) value of 65.68, 53.43 and 58.97 at pH 1.2, 4.0 and 6.8, respectively. Our results suggested that the solid dispersion and commercial product produced a similar correlation of dissolution profiles at all pH ranges. The AUC, C(max) and T(max) of the parent drug and metabolite I and II from the solid dispersion were not significantly different from those of the commercial product, suggesting that the solid dispersion might be bioequivalent to the commercial product in beagle dogs. Thus, the sibutramine base-loaded solid dispersion prepared with gelatin, HPMC and citric acid is a promising candidate for improving the solubility and bioavailability of the poorly water-soluble sibutramine base. Crown Copyright 2010. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  8. 21 CFR 610.16 - Total solids in serums.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 7 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Total solids in serums. 610.16 Section 610.16 Food... GENERAL BIOLOGICAL PRODUCTS STANDARDS General Provisions § 610.16 Total solids in serums. Except as... solids. ...

  9. 21 CFR 610.16 - Total solids in serums.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 7 2011-04-01 2010-04-01 true Total solids in serums. 610.16 Section 610.16 Food... GENERAL BIOLOGICAL PRODUCTS STANDARDS General Provisions § 610.16 Total solids in serums. Except as... solids. ...

  10. Studies on dissolution enhancement and mathematical modeling of drug release of a poorly water-soluble drug using water-soluble carriers.

    PubMed

    Ahuja, Naveen; Katare, Om Prakash; Singh, Bhupinder

    2007-01-01

    Role of various water-soluble carriers was studied for dissolution enhancement of a poorly soluble model drug, rofecoxib, using solid dispersion approach. Diverse carriers viz. polyethylene glycols (PEG 4000 and 6000), polyglycolized fatty acid ester (Gelucire 44/14), polyvinylpyrollidone K25 (PVP), poloxamers (Lutrol F127 and F68), polyols (mannitol, sorbitol), organic acid (citric acid) and hydrotropes (urea, nicotinamide) were investigated for the purpose. Phase-solubility studies revealed AL type of curves for each carrier, indicating linear increase in drug solubility with carrier concentration. The sign and magnitude of the thermodynamic parameter, Gibbs free energy of transfer, indicated spontaneity of solubilization process. All the solid dispersions showed dissolution improvement vis-à-vis pure drug to varying degrees, with citric acid, PVP and poloxamers as the most promising carriers. Mathematical modeling of in vitro dissolution data indicated the best fitting with Korsemeyer-Peppas model and the drug release kinetics primarily as Fickian diffusion. Solid state characterization of the drug-poloxamer binary system using XRD, FTIR, DSC and SEM techniques revealed distinct loss of drug crystallinity in the formulation, ostensibly accounting for enhancement in dissolution rate.

  11. Fabrication and characterization of a solid state nanopore with self-aligned carbon nanoelectrodes for molecular detection

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Spinney, Patrick; Collins, Scott D.; Howitt, David G.; Smith, Rosemary L.

    2012-06-01

    Rapid and cost-effective DNA sequencing is a pivotal prerequisite for the genomics era. Many of the recent advances in forensics, medicine, agriculture, taxonomy, and drug discovery have paralleled critical advances in DNA sequencing technology. Nanopore modalities for DNA sequencing have recently surfaced including the electrical interrogation of protein ion channels and/or solid-state nanopores during translocation of DNA. However to date, most of this work has met with mixed success. In this work, we present a unique nanofabrication strategy that realizes an artificial nanopore articulated with carbon electrodes to sense the current modulations during the transport of DNA through the nanopore. This embodiment overcomes most of the technical difficulties inherent in other artificial nanopore embodiments and present a versatile platform for the testing of DNA single nucleotide detection. Characterization of the device using gold nanoparticles, silica nanoparticles, lambda dsDNA and 16-mer ssDNA are presented. Although single molecule DNA sequencing is still not demonstrated, the device shows a path towards this goal.

  12. Prodrugs as self-assembled hydrogels: a new paradigm for biomaterials.

    PubMed

    Vemula, Praveen Kumar; Wiradharma, Nikken; Ankrum, James A; Miranda, Oscar R; John, George; Karp, Jeffrey M

    2013-12-01

    Prodrug-based self-assembled hydrogels represent a new class of active biomaterials that can be harnessed for medical applications, in particular the design of stimuli responsive drug delivery devices. In this approach, a promoiety is chemically conjugated to a known-drug to generate an amphiphilic prodrug that is capable of forming self-assembled hydrogels. Prodrug-based self-assembled hydrogels are advantageous as they alter the solubility of the drug, enhance drug loading, and eliminate the use of harmful excipients. In addition, self-assembled prodrug hydrogels can be designed to undergo controlled drug release or tailored degradation in response to biological cues. Herein we review the development of prodrug-based self-assembled hydrogels as an emerging class of biomaterials that overcome several common limitations encountered in conventional drug delivery. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

  13. Encapsulation of Curcumin in Self-Assembling Peptide Hydrogels as Injectable Drug Delivery Vehicles

    PubMed Central

    Altunbas, Aysegul; Lee, Seung Joon; Rajasekaran, Sigrid A.; Schneider, Joel P.; Pochan, Darrin J.

    2011-01-01

    Curcumin, a hydrophobic polyphenol, is an extract of turmeric root with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-tumorigenic properties. Its lack of water solubility and relatively low bioavailability set major limitations for its therapeutic use. In this study, a self-assembling peptide hydrogel is demonstrated to be an effective vehicle for the localized delivery of curcumin over sustained periods of time. The curcumin-hydrogel is prepared in-situ where curcumin encapsulation within the hydrogel network is accomplished concurrently with peptide self-assembly. Physical and in vitro biological studies were used to demonstrate the effectiveness of curcumin-loaded β-hairpin hydrogels as injectable agents for localized curcumin delivery. Notably, rheological characterization of the curcumin loaded hydrogel before and after shear flow have indicated solid-like properties even at high curcumin payloads. In vitro experiments with a medulloblastoma cell line confirm that the encapsulation of the curcumin within the hydrogel does not have an adverse effect on its bioactivity. Most importantly, the rate of curcumin release and its consequent therapeutic efficacy can be conveniently modulated as a function of the concentration of the MAX8 peptide. PMID:21601921

  14. Congruence of Self-Reported Medications With Pharmacy Prescription Records In Low-Income Older Adults

    PubMed Central

    Caskie, Grace I. L.; Willis, Sherry L.

    2013-01-01

    Purpose This study examined the congruence of self-reported medications with computerized pharmacy records. Design and Methods Pharmacy records and self-reported medications were obtained for 294 members of a state pharmaceutical assistance program who also participated in ACTIVE, a clinical trial on cognitive training in nondemented elderly persons. The average age of the sample participants was 74.5 years (range = 65–91); 87.8% were females. Results Congruence between self-report and pharmacy data was generally high. Self-reports omitted drug classes in the pharmacy records less often than the pharmacy records did not include self-reported drug classes. The percentage of individuals with perfect agreement between self-reports and pharmacy records varied from 49% for major drug classes to 81 % for specific cardiovascular and central nervous system drugs. Within a drug class, agreement tended to be higher for individuals without a prescription in that class. Poorer health was consistently related to poorer self-report of medications. Implications Self-reported medications are most likely to be congruent with pharmacy records for drugs prescribed for more serious conditions, for more specific classes of drugs, and for healthier individuals. PMID:15075414

  15. Advances in simultaneous DSC-FTIR microspectroscopy for rapid solid-state chemical stability studies: some dipeptide drugs as examples.

    PubMed

    Lin, Shan-Yang; Wang, Shun-Li

    2012-04-01

    The solid-state chemistry of drugs has seen growing importance in the pharmaceutical industry for the development of useful API (active pharmaceutical ingredients) of drugs and stable dosage forms. The stability of drugs in various solid dosage forms is an important issue because solid dosage forms are the most common pharmaceutical formulation in clinical use. In solid-state stability studies of drugs, an ideal accelerated method must not only be selected by different complicated methods, but must also detect the formation of degraded product. In this review article, an analytical technique combining differential scanning calorimetry and Fourier-transform infrared (DSC-FTIR) microspectroscopy simulates the accelerated stability test, and simultaneously detects the decomposed products in real time. The pharmaceutical dipeptides aspartame hemihydrate, lisinopril dihydrate, and enalapril maleate either with or without Eudragit E were used as testing examples. This one-step simultaneous DSC-FTIR technique for real-time detection of diketopiperazine (DKP) directly evidenced the dehydration process and DKP formation as an impurity common in pharmaceutical dipeptides. DKP formation in various dipeptides determined by different analytical methods had been collected and compiled. Although many analytical methods have been applied, the combined DSC-FTIR technique is an easy and fast analytical method which not only can simulate the accelerated drug stability testing but also at the same time enable to explore phase transformation as well as degradation due to thermal-related reactions. This technique offers quick and proper interpretations. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  16. Patterns and Predictors of Self-Medication in Northern Uganda

    PubMed Central

    Ocan, Moses; Bwanga, Freddie; Bbosa, Godfrey S.; Bagenda, Danstan; Waako, Paul; Ogwal-Okeng, Jasper; Obua, Celestino

    2014-01-01

    Self-medication with antimicrobial agents is a common form of self-care among patients globally with the prevalence and nature differing from country to country. Here we assessed the prevalence and predictors of antimicrobial self-medication in post-conflict northern Uganda. A cross-sectional study was carried out using structured interviews on 892 adult (≥18 years) participants. Information on drug name, prescriber, source, cost, quantity of drug obtained, and drug use was collected. Households were randomly selected using multistage cluster sampling method. One respondent who reported having an illness within three months in each household was recruited. In each household, information was obtained from only one adult individual. Data was analyzed using STATA at 95% level of significance. The study found that a high proportion (75.7%) of the respondents practiced antimicrobial self-medication. Fever, headache, lack of appetite and body weakness were the disease symptoms most treated through self-medication (30.3%). The commonly self-medicated antimicrobials were coartem (27.3%), amoxicillin (21.7%), metronidazole (12.3%), and cotrimoxazole (11.6%). Drug use among respondents was mainly initiated by self-prescription (46.5%) and drug shop attendants (57.6%). On average, participants obtained 13.9±8.8 (95%CI: 12.6–13.8) tablets/capsules of antimicrobial drugs from drug shops and drugs were used for an average of 3.7±2.8 days (95%CI: 3.3–3.5). Over half (68.2%) of the respondents would recommend self-medication to another sick person. A high proportion (76%) of respondents reported that antimicrobial self-medication had associated risks such as wastage of money (42.1%), drug resistance (33.2%), and masking symptoms of underlying disease (15.5%). Predictors of self-medication with antimicrobial agents included gender, drug knowledge, drug leaflets, advice from friends, previous experience, long waiting time, and distance to the health facility. Despite knowledge of associated risks, use of self-medication with antimicrobial drugs in management of disease symptoms is a common practice in post-conflict northern Uganda. PMID:24658124

  17. High Performance Solid Polymer Electrolytes for Rechargeable Batteries: A Self-Catalyzed Strategy toward Facile Synthesis.

    PubMed

    Cui, Yanyan; Liang, Xinmiao; Chai, Jingchao; Cui, Zili; Wang, Qinglei; He, Weisheng; Liu, Xiaochen; Liu, Zhihong; Cui, Guanglei; Feng, Jiwen

    2017-11-01

    It is urgent to seek high performance solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) via a facile chemistry and simple process. The lithium salts are composed of complex anions that are stabilized by a Lewis acid agent. This Lewis acid can initiate the ring opening polymerization. Herein, a self-catalyzed strategy toward facile synthesis of crosslinked poly(ethylene glycol) diglycidyl ether-based solid polymer electrolyte (C-PEGDE) is presented. It is manifested that the poly(ethylene glycol) diglycidyl ether-based solid polymer electrolyte possesses a superior electrochemical stability window up to 4.5 V versus Li/Li + and considerable ionic conductivity of 8.9 × 10 -5 S cm -1 at ambient temperature. Moreover, the LiFePO 4 /C-PEGDE/Li batteries deliver stable charge/discharge profiles and considerable rate capability. It is demonstrated that this self-catalyzed strategy can be a very effective approach for high performance solid polymer electrolytes.

  18. [Preparation and in vitro dissolution of magnolol solid dispersion].

    PubMed

    Tang, Lan; Qiu, Shuai-Bo; Wu, Lan; Lv, Long-Fei; Lv, Hui-Xia; Shan, Wei-Guang

    2016-02-01

    In this study, solid dispersion system of magnolol in croscarmellose sodium was prepared by using the solvent evaporation method, in order to increase the drug dissolution. And its dissolution behavior, stability and physical characteristics were studied. The solid dispersion was prepared with magnolol and croscarmellose sodium, with the proportion of 1∶5, the in vitro dissolution of magnolol solid dispersion was up to 80.66% at 120 min, which was 6.9 times of magnolol. The results of DSC (differential scanning calorimetry), IR (infra-red) spectrum and SEM (scanning electron microscopy) showed that magnolol existed in solid dispersion in an amorphous form. After an accelerated stability test for six months, the drug dissolution and content in magnolol solid dispersion showed no significant change. So the solid dispersion prepared with croscarmellose sodium as the carrier can remarkably improve the stability and dissolution of magnolol. Copyright© by the Chinese Pharmaceutical Association.

  19. Clinical benefit, price and approval characteristics of FDA-approved new drugs for treating advanced solid cancer, 2000-2015.

    PubMed

    Vivot, A; Jacot, J; Zeitoun, J-D; Ravaud, P; Crequit, P; Porcher, R

    2017-05-01

    Prices of anti-cancer drugs are skyrocking. We aimed to assess the clinical benefit of new drugs for treating advanced solid tumors at the time of their approval by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and to search for a relation between price and clinical benefit of drugs. We included all new molecular entities and new biologics for treating advanced solid cancer that were approved by the FDA between 2000 and 2015. The clinical benefit of drugs was graded based on FDA medical review of pivotal clinical trials using the 2016-updated of the American Society of Clinical Oncology Value Framework (ASCO-VF) and the European Society for Medical Oncology Magnitude of Clinical Benefit Scale (ESMO-MCBS). Characteristics of drugs and approvals were obtained from publicly available FDA documents and price was evaluated according to US Medicare, US Veterans Health Administration and United Kingdom market systems. The FDA approved 51 new drugs for advanced solid cancer from 2000 to 2015; we could evaluate the value of 37 drugs (73%). By the ESMO-MCBS, five drugs (14%) were grade one (the lowest), nine (24%) grade two, 10 (27%) grade three, 11 (30%) grade four and two (5%) grade five (the highest). Thus, 13 drugs (35%) showed a meaningful clinical benefit (scale levels 4 and 5). By the ASCO-VF which had a range of 3.4-67, the median drug value was 37 (interquartile range 20-52). We found no relationship between clinical benefit and drug price (P = 0.9). No characteristic of drugs and of approval was significantly associated with clinical benefit. Many recently FDA-approved new cancer drugs did not have high clinical benefit as measured by current scales. We found no relation between the price of drugs and benefit to society and patients. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Society for Medical Oncology. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

  20. Just say "I don't": lack of concordance between teen report and biological measures of drug use.

    PubMed

    Delaney-Black, Virginia; Chiodo, Lisa M; Hannigan, John H; Greenwald, Mark K; Janisse, James; Patterson, Grace; Huestis, Marilyn A; Ager, Joel; Sokol, Robert J

    2010-11-01

    Prevalence estimates of illicit drug use by teens are typically generated from confidential or anonymous self-report. While data comparing teen self-report with biological measures are limited, adult studies identify varying degrees of under-reporting. Hair analyses for cocaine, opiates and marijuana were compared to confidential teen self- and parent-reported teen drug use in a longitudinal cohort of >400 high-risk urban teens and parents. Both teens and parents substantially underreported recent teen cocaine and opiate use. However, compared with parents, teens were more likely to deny biomarker-verified cocaine use. Teen specimens (hair) were 52 times more likely to identify cocaine use compared with self-report. Parent hair analyses for cocaine and opiate use were 6.5 times and 5.5 times, respectively, more likely to indicate drug use than were parental self-report. The lack of concordance between self-report and bioassay occurred despite participant's knowledge that a "certificate of confidentiality" protected both teen and adult participants, and that the biological specimens would be tested for drugs. These findings confirm prior reports of adult under-reporting of their own drug use while extending our understanding of teen's self-admitted drug use. The lack of concordance between teen self- or parent-reported teen drug use and biomarkers confirm our concerns that both teen- and parent-reported teen drug use is limited, at least for youth in high-risk urban settings. Methods of ascertainment other than self- or parent-report must be considered when health care providers, researchers and public health agencies attempt to estimate teen drug-use prevalence.

  1. Applications of Polymers as Pharmaceutical Excipients in Solid Oral Dosage Forms.

    PubMed

    Debotton, Nir; Dahan, Arik

    2017-01-01

    Over the last few decades, polymers have been extensively used as pharmaceutical excipients in drug delivery systems. Pharmaceutical polymers evolved from being simply used as gelatin shells comprising capsule to offering great formulation advantages including enabling controlled/slow release and specific targeting of drugs to the site(s) of action (the "magic bullets" concept), hence hold a significant clinical promise. Oral administration of solid dosage forms (e.g., tablets and capsules) is the most common and convenient route of drug administration. When formulating challenging molecules into solid oral dosage forms, polymeric pharmaceutical excipients permit masking undesired physicochemical properties of drugs and consequently, altering their pharmacokinetic profiles to improve the therapeutic effect. As a result, the number of synthetic and natural polymers available commercially as pharmaceutical excipients has increased dramatically, offering potential solutions to various difficulties. For instance, the different polymers may allow increased solubility, swellability, viscosity, biodegradability, advanced coatings, pH dependency, mucodhesion, and inhibition of crystallization. The aim of this article is to provide a wide angle prospect of the different uses of pharmaceutical polymers in solid oral dosage forms. The various types of polymeric excipients are presented, and their distinctive role in oral drug delivery is emphasized. The comprehensive know-how provided in this article may allow scientists to use these polymeric excipients rationally, to fully exploit their different features and potential influence on drug delivery, with the overall aim of making better drug products. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  2. Application of melt extrusion in the development of a physically and chemically stable high-energy amorphous solid dispersion of a poorly water-soluble drug.

    PubMed

    Lakshman, Jay P; Cao, Yu; Kowalski, James; Serajuddin, Abu T M

    2008-01-01

    Formulation of active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) in high-energy amorphous forms is a common strategy to enhance solubility, dissolution rate and, consequently, oral bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs. Amorphous APIs are, however, susceptible to recrystallization and, therefore, there is a need to physically stabilize them as solid dispersions in polymeric carriers. Hot melt extrusion has in recent years gained wide acceptance as a method of choice for the preparation of solid dispersions. There is a potential that the API, the polymer or both may degrade if excessively high temperature is needed in the melt extrusion process, especially when the melting point of the API is high. This report details a novel method where the API was first converted to an amorphous form by solvent evaporation and then melt-extruded with a suitable polymer at a drug load of at least 20% w/w. By this means, melt extrusion could be performed much below the melting temperature of the drug substance. Since the glass transition temperature of the amorphous drug was lower than that of the polymer used, the drug substance itself served as the plasticizer for the polymer. The addition of surfactants in the matrix enhanced dispersion and subsequent dissolution of the drug in aqueous media. The amorphous melt extrusion formulations showed higher bioavailability than formulations containing the crystalline API. There was no conversion of amorphous solid to its crystalline form during accelerated stability testing of dosage forms.

  3. 77 FR 57094 - Draft Guidance for Industry on Self-Identification of Generic Drug Facilities, Sites, and...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-09-17

    ... DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Food and Drug Administration [Docket No. FDA-2012-D-0881] Draft Guidance for Industry on Self-Identification of Generic Drug Facilities, Sites, and Organizations... ``Self-Identification of Generic Drug Facilities, Sites, and Organizations.'' The document was published...

  4. [Fundamentals of plasma chemistry and its application to drug engineering].

    PubMed

    Kuzuya, M

    1996-04-01

    In this review, our novel research works in both low temperature plasma chemistry and solid state plasma chemistry were described. As for low temperature plasma, the ESR study on plasma-induced radicals of several selected conventional polymers was shown including the detailed analyses of the radical structure and the mechanism by which the radicals were formed on typical degradable methacrylic polymers and cross-linkable polystyrene. One of the pharmaceutical applications of the plasma processing for drug delivery system (DDS) was also described, which includes the preparations of double-compressed tablet consisting of drugs as a core material and various types of polymers as a wall material followed by plasma-irradiation on such a tablet. As for solid state plasma, the detailed reaction mechanism of solid state mechanochemical polymerization was shown including the solid state single electron transfer and the special feature of the resulting polymers. The structural criteria for polymerizable monomer derived from the quantum chemical considerations were also established. Based on the above findings, we synthesized various polymeric prodrugs by mechanochemical polymerization and studied the nature of hydrolyses (drug release).

  5. Dynamics and interactions of ibuprofen in cyclodextrin nanosponges by solid-state NMR spectroscopy

    PubMed Central

    Ferro, Monica; Pastori, Nadia; Punta, Carlo; Melone, Lucio; Panzeri, Walter; Rossi, Barbara; Trotta, Francesco

    2017-01-01

    Two different formulations of cyclodextrin nanosponges (CDNS), obtained by polycondensation of β-cyclodextrin with ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid dianhydride (EDTAn), were treated with aqueous solutions of ibuprofen sodium salt (IbuNa) affording hydrogels that, after lyophilisation, gave two solid CDNS-drug formulations. 1H fast MAS NMR and 13C CP-MAS NMR spectra showed that IbuNa was converted in situ into its acidic and dimeric form (IbuH) after freeze-drying. 13C CP-MAS NMR spectra also indicated that the structure of the nanosponge did not undergo changes upon drug loading compared to the unloaded system. However, the 13C NMR spectra collected under variable contact time cross-polarization (VCT-CP) conditions showed that the polymeric scaffold CDNS changed significantly its dynamic regime on passing from the empty CDNS to the drug-loaded CDNS, thus showing that the drug encapsulation can be seen as the formation of a real supramolecular aggregate rather than a conglomerate of two solid components. Finally, the structural features obtained from the different solid-state NMR approaches reported matched the information from powder X-ray diffraction profiles. PMID:28228859

  6. Dynamics and interactions of ibuprofen in cyclodextrin nanosponges by solid-state NMR spectroscopy.

    PubMed

    Ferro, Monica; Castiglione, Franca; Pastori, Nadia; Punta, Carlo; Melone, Lucio; Panzeri, Walter; Rossi, Barbara; Trotta, Francesco; Mele, Andrea

    2017-01-01

    Two different formulations of cyclodextrin nanosponges (CDNS), obtained by polycondensation of β-cyclodextrin with ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid dianhydride (EDTAn), were treated with aqueous solutions of ibuprofen sodium salt (IbuNa) affording hydrogels that, after lyophilisation, gave two solid CDNS-drug formulations. 1 H fast MAS NMR and 13 C CP-MAS NMR spectra showed that IbuNa was converted in situ into its acidic and dimeric form (IbuH) after freeze-drying. 13 C CP-MAS NMR spectra also indicated that the structure of the nanosponge did not undergo changes upon drug loading compared to the unloaded system. However, the 13 C NMR spectra collected under variable contact time cross-polarization (VCT-CP) conditions showed that the polymeric scaffold CDNS changed significantly its dynamic regime on passing from the empty CDNS to the drug-loaded CDNS, thus showing that the drug encapsulation can be seen as the formation of a real supramolecular aggregate rather than a conglomerate of two solid components. Finally, the structural features obtained from the different solid-state NMR approaches reported matched the information from powder X-ray diffraction profiles.

  7. Structural modifications of polymethacrylates: impact on thermal behavior and release characteristics of glassy solid solutions.

    PubMed

    Claeys, Bart; De Coen, Ruben; De Geest, Bruno G; de la Rosa, Victor R; Hoogenboom, Richard; Carleer, Robert; Adriaensens, Peter; Remon, Jean Paul; Vervaet, Chris

    2013-11-01

    Polymethacrylates such as Eudragit® polymers are well established as drug delivery matrix. Here, we synthesize several Eudragit E PO (n-butyl-, dimethylaminoethyl-, methyl-methacrylate-terpolymer) analogues via free radical polymerization. These polymers are processed via hot melt extrusion, followed by injection molding and evaluated as carriers to produce immediate release solid solution tablets. Three chemical modifications increased the glass transition temperature of the polymer: (a) substitution of n-butyl by t-butyl groups, (b) reduction of the dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate (DMAEMA) content, and (c) incorporation of a bulky isobornyl repeating unit. These structural modifications revealed the possibility to increase the mechanical stability of the tablets via altering the polymer Tg without influencing the drug release characteristics and glassy solid solution forming properties. The presence of DMAEMA units proved to be crucial with respect to API/polymer interaction (essential in creating glassy solid solutions) and drug release characteristics. Moreover, these chemical modifications accentuate the need for a more rational design of (methacrylate) polymer matrix excipients for drug formulation via hot melt extrusion and injection molding. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  8. Supercritical antisolvent versus coevaporation: preparation and characterization of solid dispersions.

    PubMed

    Majerik, Viktor; Horváth, Géza; Szokonya, László; Charbit, Gérard; Badens, Elisabeth; Bosc, Nathalie; Teillaud, Eric

    2007-09-01

    The objective of this work was to improve the dissolution rate and aqueous solubility of oxeglitazar. Solid dispersions of oxeglitazar in PVP K17 (polyvinilpyrrolidone) and poloxamer 407 (polyoxyethylene-polyoxypropylene block copolymer) were prepared by supercritical antisolvent (SAS) and coevaporation (CoE) methods. Drug-carrier formulations were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, gas chromatography, UV/VIS spectroscopy and in vitro dissolution tests. The highest dissolution rate (nearly 3-fold higher than raw drug) was achieved by preparation of drug/PVP K17 coevaporate. Oxeglitazar/PVP K17 solid dispersions were stabilized by hydrogen bonding but contained higher amount of residual dichloromethane (DCM) than poloxamer 407 formulations regardless of the method of preparation. SAS prepared oxeglitazar/poloxamer 407 dissolved more than two times faster than raw drug. However, unlike PVP K17, poloxamer 407 did not form a single phase amorphous solid solution with oxeglitazar which has been manifested in higher degrees of crystallinity, too. Among the two techniques, evaluated in this work, conventional coevaporation resulted in higher amorphous content but SAS reduced residual solvent content more efficiently.

  9. Molecular mechanisms for synergistic effect of proteasome inhibitors with platinum-based therapy in solid tumors.

    PubMed

    Chao, Angel; Wang, Tzu-Hao

    2016-02-01

    The successful development of the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib as an anticancer drug has improved survival in patients with multiple myeloma. With the emergence of the newly US Food and Drug Administration-approved proteasome inhibitor carfilzomib, ongoing trials are investigating this compound and other proteasome inhibitors either alone or in combination with other chemotherapy drugs. However, in solid tumors, the efficacy of proteasome inhibitors has not lived up to expectations. Results regarding the potential clinical efficacy of bortezomib combined with other agents in the treatment of solid tumors are eagerly awaited. Recent identification of the molecular mechanisms (involving apoptosis and autophagy) by which bortezomib and cisplatin can overcome chemotherapy resistance and sensitize tumor cells to anticancer therapy can provide insights into the development of novel therapeutic strategies for patients with solid malignancies. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  10. Self-esteem and trait anxiety in relation to drug misuse in Kuwait.

    PubMed

    al-Najjar, M; Clarke, D D

    1996-05-01

    This study was designed to document knowledge about Kuwaiti drug users and to investigate whether or not there is an association between their poor self-concept and high level of anxiety. One hundred and seven incarcerated drug users, 107 individuals serving prison terms for offenses other than drug use, and 107 "normal" individuals were included in this pilot study. The Arabic version of Rosenberg's Self-Esteem Scale and Spielberger's State-Trait Anxiety Inventory were used to measure the subjects' self-esteem and state-trait anxiety, respectively. The results documented revealed that there is a relationship between levels of self-esteem and anxiety in Kuwaiti drug user behavior.

  11. Ultra-thin Solid-State Li-Ion Electrolyte Membrane Facilitated by a Self-Healing Polymer Matrix.

    PubMed

    Whiteley, Justin M; Taynton, Philip; Zhang, Wei; Lee, Se-Hee

    2015-11-18

    Thin solid membranes are formed by a new strategy, whereby an in situ derived self-healing polymer matrix that penetrates the void space of an inorganic solid is created. The concept is applied as a separator in an all-solid-state battery with an FeS2 -based cathode and achieves tremendous performance for over 200 cycles. Processing in dry conditions represents a paradigm shift for incorporating high active-material mass loadings into mixed-matrix membranes. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  12. Sustained release and permeation of timolol from surface-modified solid lipid nanoparticles through bioengineered human cornea.

    PubMed

    Attama, A A; Reichl, S; Müller-Goymann, C C

    2009-08-01

    The aim of the study was to formulate and evaluate surface-modified solid lipid nanoparticles sustained delivery system of timolol hydrogen maleate, a prototype ocular drug using a human cornea construct. Surface-modified solid lipid nanoparticles containing timolol with and without phospholipid were formulated by melt emulsification with high-pressure homogenization and characterized by particle size, wide-angle X-ray diffraction, encapsulation efficiency, and in vitro drug release. Drug transport studies through cornea bioengineered from human donor cornea cells were carried out using a modified Franz diffusion cell and drug concentration analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography. Results show that surface-modified solid lipid nanoparticles possessed very small particles (42.9 +/- 0.3 nm, 47.2 +/- 0.3 nm, 42.7 +/- 0.7 nm, and 37.7 +/- 0.3 nm, respectively for SM-SLN 1, SM-SLN 2, SM-SLN 3, and SM-SLN 4) with low polydispersity indices, increased encapsulation efficiency (> 44%), and sustained in vitro release compared with unmodified lipid nanoparticles whose particles were greater than 160 nm. Permeation of timolol hydrogen maleate from the surface-modified lipid nanoparticles across the cornea construct was sustained compared with timolol hydrogen maleate solution in distilled water. Surface-modified solid lipid nanoparticles could provide an efficient way of improving ocular bioavailability of timolol hydrogen maleate.

  13. Inventory of oral anticancer agents: Pharmaceutical formulation aspects with focus on the solid dispersion technique.

    PubMed

    Sawicki, E; Schellens, J H M; Beijnen, J H; Nuijen, B

    2016-11-01

    Dissolution from the pharmaceutical formulation is a prerequisite for complete and consistent absorption of any orally administered drug, including anticancer agents (oncolytics). Poor dissolution of an oncolytic can result in low oral bioavailability, high variability in blood concentrations and with that suboptimal or even failing therapy. This review discusses pharmaceutical formulation aspects and absorption pharmacokinetics of currently licensed orally administered oncolytics. In nearly half of orally dosed oncolytics poor dissolution is likely to play a major role in low and unpredictable absorption. Dissolution-limited drug absorption can be improved with a solid dispersion which is a formulation method that induces super-saturated drug dissolution and with that it enhances in vivo absorption. This review discusses formulation principles with focus on the solid dispersion technology and how it works to enhance drug absorption. There are currently three licensed orally dosed oncolytics formulated as a solid dispersion (everolimus, vemurafenib and regorafenib) and these formulations result in remarkably improved dissolution and absorption compared to what can be achieved with conventional formulations of the respective oncolytics. Because of the successful implementation of these three solid dispersion formulations, we encourage the application of this formulation method for poorly soluble oral oncolytics. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  14. An intrinsically self-healing NiCo//Zn rechargeable battery by self-healable ferric-ion-crosslinking sodium polyacrylate hydrogel electrolyte.

    PubMed

    Huang, Yan; Liu, Jie; Wang, Jiaqi; Hu, Mengmeng; Mo, Funian; Liang, Guojin; Zhi, Chunyi

    2018-06-15

    Self-healing solid-state aqueous rechargeable NiCo//Zn batteries are an essential element of flexible/wearable electronics due to their inherent safety, high energy density and mechanical robustness etc. However, the self-healability of solid-state batteries is only realized by few studies, in which electron/ion-inactive self-healable substrates are utilized. This fundamentally arises from the lack of self-healable electrolytes for solid-state batteries, and therefore, results in low healing efficiency and volume/mass diseconomy. Here we develop an intrinsically self-healing battery by designing a new electrolyte that is intrinsically self-healable. Sodium polyacrylate hydrogel chains are crosslinked by ferric ions to promote dynamic reconstruction of an integral network. These non-covalent crosslinkers can form ionic bonds to reconnect damaged surfaces when the hydrogel is cut off, providing an ultimate solution to the intrinsic self-healability problem of batteries. As a result, our NiCo//Zn battery with this hydrogel electrolyte can be autonomically self-healed with over 87% of capacity retained after 4 cycles of breaking/healing. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  15. Controlled release systems containing solid dispersions: strategies and mechanisms.

    PubMed

    Tran, Phuong Ha-Lien; Tran, Thao Truong-Dinh; Park, Jun Bom; Lee, Beom-Jin

    2011-10-01

    In addition to a number of highly soluble drugs, most new chemical entities under development are poorly water-soluble drugs generally characterized by an insufficient dissolution rate and a small absorption window, leading to the low bioavailability. Controlled-release (CR) formulations have several potential advantages over conventional dosage forms, such as providing a uniform and prolonged therapeutic effect to improve patient compliance, reducing the frequency of dosing, minimizing the number of side effects, and reducing the strength of the required dose while increasing the effectiveness of the drug. Solid dispersions (SD) can be used to enhance the dissolution rate of poorly water-soluble drugs and to sustain the drug release by choosing an appropriate carrier. Thus, a CR-SD comprises both functions of SD and CR for poorly water-soluble drugs. Such CR dosage forms containing SD provide an immediately available dose for an immediate action followed by a gradual and continuous release of subsequent doses to maintain the plasma concentration of poorly water-soluble drugs over an extended period of time. This review aims to summarize all currently known aspects of controlled release systems containing solid dispersions, focusing on the preparation methods, mechanisms of action and characterization of physicochemical properties of the system.

  16. Comparison of the pattern, efficacy, and tolerability of self-medicated drugs in primary dysmenorrhea: a questionnaire based survey.

    PubMed

    Sugumar, Ramya; Krishnaiah, Vasundara; Channaveera, Gokul Shetty; Mruthyunjaya, Shilpa

    2013-01-01

    To compare the pattern, efficacy, and tolerability of self-medicated drugs and to assess the adequacy of their dose in primary dysmenorrhea (PD). A survey using a self-developed, validated, objective, and structured questionnaire as a tool was conducted among subjects with PD. Statistical analysis was carried out using Chi-square test and ANOVA with post-hoc Tuckey's test. Out of 641 respondents, 42% were self-medicated. The pattern of drugs used was: Dicyclomine, an unknown drug, mefenamic acid, mefenamic acid + dicyclomine, and metamizole by 35%, 29%, 26%, 9%, and 1% of respondents, respectively. Mefenamic acid + dicyclomine, the combination was the most efficacious in comparison to other drugs in moderate to severe dysmenorrhea. There was better tolerability with mefenamic acid + dicyclomine group compared to other drugs. Sub-therapeutic doses were used by 86% of self-medicating respondents. The prevailing self-medication practices were inappropriate in a substantial proportion of women with inadequate knowledge regarding appropriate drug choice, therapeutic doses, and their associated side effects.

  17. A stimulus-control account of regulated drug intake in rats.

    PubMed

    Panlilio, Leigh V; Thorndike, Eric B; Schindler, Charles W

    2008-02-01

    Patterns of drug self-administration are often highly regular, with a consistent pause after each self-injection. This pausing might occur because the animal has learned that additional injections are not reinforcing once the drug effect has reached a certain level, possibly due to the reinforcement system reaching full capacity. Thus, interoceptive effects of the drug might function as a discriminative stimulus, signaling when additional drug will be reinforcing and when it will not. This hypothetical stimulus control aspect of drug self-administration was emulated using a schedule of food reinforcement. Rats' nose-poke responses produced food only when a cue light was present. No drug was administered at any time. However, the state of the light stimulus was determined by calculating what the whole-body drug level would have been if each response in the session had produced a drug injection. The light was only presented while this virtual drug level was below a specific threshold. A range of doses of cocaine and remifentanil were emulated using parameters based on previous self-administration experiments. Response patterns were highly regular, dose-dependent, and remarkably similar to actual drug self-administration. This similarity suggests that the emulation schedule may provide a reasonable model of the contingencies inherent in drug reinforcement. Thus, these results support a stimulus control account of regulated drug intake in which rats learn to discriminate when the level of drug effect has fallen to a point where another self-injection will be reinforcing.

  18. Relationship between self-reported adherence, antiretroviral drug concentration measurement and self-reported symptoms in patients treated for HIV-1 infection.

    PubMed

    Fabbiani, Massimiliano; Di Giambenedetto, Simona; Cingolani, Antonella; Fanti, Iuri; Colafigli, Manuela; Tamburrini, Enrica; Cauda, Roberto; Navarra, Pierluigi; De Luca, Andrea; Murri, Rita

    2016-01-01

    The aim of the study was to explore relationships between self-reported adherence, antiretroviral drug concentration measurement (TDM) and self-reported symptoms. We systematically administered to human immunodeficiency (HIV)-infected outpatients a questionnaire evaluating measures of self-reported adherence (missing doses during last week, deviations from the prescribed timing of therapy, self-initiated discontinuations for > 24 or 48 h, exhausting drugs and present sense of how patients are taking therapy) and a panel of referred symptoms (a symptom score was built summing self-reported scores for each listed symptom). We selected patients who completed the questionnaire and also had a TDM (mainly reflecting adherence in the past few days or weeks), thus comparing these two tools as measures of adherence. A total of 130 patients (64.6% males, median age 44 years, 76.2% with HIV RNA < 50 copies/ml, median CD4 540 cells/μl) were included. Mean self-reported adherence (on a 0-100 visual analogue scale) was 80% (standard deviation, 18.7). Drug concentration was subtherapeutic in 16 patients (12.3%), of which 7 (5.4%) had undetectable drug levels (< 0.05 mg/L). Of these last seven patients, five (71.4%) reported an adherence below 80%. In a multivariable analysis, females and patients with undetectable drug levels (mean change -18.43%, 95% confidence intervals (CIs) -31.83 to -5.03, p = 0.007) showed a lower self-reported adherence, while those with HIV RNA < 50 copies/ml showed a higher adherence. Lower self-reported adherence (odds ratio 0.62 per 10% increase, 95% CI = 0.43-0.89, p = 0.009) and longer time from last drug intake were independently related to the development of undetectable drug levels. We also found that a higher symptom score was associated with a lower self-reported adherence and with a higher proportion of undetectable drug levels. Self-reported adherence and TDM showed a correlation and seemed to be comparable tools for adherence estimation. Self-reported symptoms were associated with lower adherence and undetectable drug levels.

  19. Initial Drug Dissolution from Amorphous Solid Dispersions Controlled by Polymer Dissolution and Drug-Polymer Interaction.

    PubMed

    Chen, Yuejie; Wang, Shujing; Wang, Shan; Liu, Chengyu; Su, Ching; Hageman, Michael; Hussain, Munir; Haskell, Roy; Stefanski, Kevin; Qian, Feng

    2016-10-01

    To identify the key formulation factors controlling the initial drug and polymer dissolution rates from an amorphous solid dispersion (ASD). Ketoconazole (KTZ) ASDs using PVP, PVP-VA, HMPC, or HPMC-AS as polymeric matrix were prepared. For each drug-polymer system, two types of formulations with the same composition were prepared: 1. Spray dried dispersion (SDD) that is homogenous at molecular level, 2. Physical blend of SDD (80% drug loading) and pure polymer (SDD-PB) that is homogenous only at powder level. Flory-Huggins interaction parameters (χ) between KTZ and the four polymers were obtained by Flory-Huggins model fitting. Solution (13)C NMR and FT-IR were conducted to investigate the specific drug-polymer interaction in the solution and solid state, respectively. Intrinsic dissolution of both the drug and the polymer from ASDs were studied using a Higuchi style intrinsic dissolution apparatus. PXRD and confocal Raman microscopy were used to confirm the absence of drug crystallinity on the tablet surface before and after dissolution study. In solid state, KTZ is completely miscible with PVP, PVP-VA, or HPMC-AS, demonstrated by the negative χ values of -0.36, -0.46, -1.68, respectively; while is poorly miscible with HPMC shown by a positive χ value of 0.23. According to solution (13)C NMR and FT-IR studies, KTZ interacts with HPMC-AS strongly through H-bonding and dipole induced interaction; with PVPs and PVP-VA moderately through dipole-induced interactions; and with HPMC weakly without detectable attractive interaction. Furthermore, the "apparent" strength of drug-polymer interaction, measured by the extent of peak shift on NMR or FT-IR spectra, increases with the increasing number of interacting drug-polymer pairs. For ASDs with the presence of considerable drug-polymer interactions, such as KTZ/PVPs, KTZ/PVP-VA, or KTZ /HPMC-AS systems, drug released at the same rate as the polymer when intimate drug-polymer mixing was ensured (i.e., the SDD systems); while drug released much slower than the polymer when molecular level mixing or drug-polymer interaction was absent (SDD-PB systems). For ASDs without drug-polymer interaction (i.e., KTZ/HPMC systems), the mixing homogeneity had little impact on the release rate of either the drug or the polymer thus SDD and SDD-PB demonstrated the same drug or polymer release rate, while the drug released slowly and independently of polymer release. The initial drug release from an ASD was controlled by 1) the polymer release rate; 2) the strength of drug-polymer interaction, including the intrinsic interaction caused by the chemistry of the drug and the polymer (measured by the χ value), as well as that the apparent interaction caused by the drug-polymer ratio (measure by the extent of peak shift on spectroscopic analysis); and 3) the level of mixing homogeneity between the drug and polymer. In summary, the selection of polymer, drug-polymer ratio, and ASD processing conditions have profound impacts on the dissolution behavior of ASDs. Graphical Abstract Relationship between initial drug and polymer dissolution rates from amorphous solid dispersions with different mixing uniformity and drug-polymer interactions.

  20. Intranasal agomelatine solid lipid nanoparticles to enhance brain delivery: formulation, optimization and in vivo pharmacokinetics

    PubMed Central

    Fatouh, Ahmed M; Elshafeey, Ahmed H; Abdelbary, Ahmed

    2017-01-01

    Purpose Agomelatine is a novel antidepressant drug suffering from an extensive first-pass metabolism leading to a diminished absolute bioavailability. The aim of the study is: first to enhance its absolute bioavailability, and second to increase its brain delivery. Methods To achieve these aims, the nasal route was adopted to exploit first its avoidance of the hepatic first-pass metabolism to increase the absolute bioavailability, and second the direct nose-to-brain pathway to enhance the brain drug delivery. Solid lipid nanoparticles were selected as a drug delivery system to enhance agomelatine permeability across the blood–brain barrier and therefore its brain delivery. Results The optimum solid lipid nanoparticles have a particle size of 167.70 nm ±0.42, zeta potential of −17.90 mV ±2.70, polydispersity index of 0.12±0.10, entrapment efficiency % of 91.25%±1.70%, the percentage released after 1 h of 35.40%±1.13% and the percentage released after 8 h of 80.87%±5.16%. The pharmacokinetic study of the optimized solid lipid nanoparticles revealed a significant increase in each of the plasma peak concentration, the AUC(0–360 min) and the absolute bioavailability compared to that of the oral suspension of Valdoxan® with the values of 759.00 ng/mL, 7,805.69 ng⋅min/mL and 44.44%, respectively. The optimized solid lipid nanoparticles gave a drug-targeting efficiency of 190.02, which revealed more successful brain targeting by the intranasal route compared with the intravenous route. The optimized solid lipid nanoparticles had a direct transport percentage of 47.37, which indicates a significant contribution of the direct nose-to-brain pathway in the brain drug delivery. Conclusion The intranasal administration of agomelatine solid lipid nanoparticles has effectively enhanced both the absolute bioavailability and the brain delivery of agomelatine. PMID:28684900

  1. Micelles As Delivery System for Cancer Treatment.

    PubMed

    Keskin, Dilek; Tezcaner, Aysen

    2017-01-01

    Micelles are nanoparticles formed by the self-assembly of amphiphilic block copolymers in certain solvents above concentrations called critical micelle concentration (CMC). Micelles are used in different fields like food, cosmetics, medicine, etc. These nanosized delivery systems are under spotlight in the recent years with new achievements in terms of their in vivo stability, ability to protect entrapped drug, release kinetics, ease of cellular penetration and thereby increased therapeutic efficacy. Drug loaded micelles can be prepared by dialysis, oil-in-water method, solid dispersion, freezing, spray drying, etc. The aim of this review is to give an overview of the research on micelles (in vitro, in vivo and clinical) as delivery system for cancer treatment. Passive targeting is one route for accumulation of nanosized micellar drug formulations. Many research groups from both academia and industry focus on developing new strategies for improving the therapeutic efficacy of micellar systems (active targeting to the tumor site, designing multidrug delivery systems for overcoming multidrug resistance or micelles formed by prodrug conjugates, etc). There is only one micellar drug formulation in South Korea that has reached clinical practice. However, there are many untargeted anticancer drug loaded micellar formulations in clinical trials, which have potential for use in clinics. Many more products are expected to be on the market in the near future. Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.org.

  2. Drug delivery with topically applied nanoparticles: science fiction or reality.

    PubMed

    Lademann, J; Richter, H; Meinke, M C; Lange-Asschenfeldt, B; Antoniou, C; Mak, W C; Renneberg, R; Sterry, W; Patzelt, A

    2013-01-01

    The efficacy of topically applied drugs is determined by their action mechanism and their potential capacity of passing the skin barrier. Nanoparticles are assumed to be efficient carrier systems for drug delivery through the skin barrier. For flexible nanoparticles like liposomes, this effect has been well demonstrated. The penetration properties of solid nanoparticles are currently under intensive investigation. The crucial advantage of nanoparticles over non-particulate substances is their capability to penetrate deeply into the hair follicles where they can be stored for several days. There is no evidence, yet, that solid particles ≥40 nm are capable of passing through the healthy skin barrier. Therefore and in spite of the long-standing research efforts in this field, commercially available solid nanoparticle-based products for drug delivery through the healthy skin are still missing. Nevertheless, the prospects for the clinical use of nanoparticles in drug delivery are tremendous. They can be designed as transport systems delivering drugs efficiently into the hair follicles in the vicinity of specific target structures. Once deposited at these structures, specific signals might trigger the release of the drugs and exert their effects on the target cells. In this article, examples of such triggered drug release are presented. © 2013 S. Karger AG, Basel.

  3. Enhanced in vivo absorption of CB-1 antagonist in rats via solid solutions prepared by hot-melt extrusion.

    PubMed

    Ranzani, L S; Font, J; Galimany, F; Santanach, A; Gomez-Gomar, A M; Casadevall, G; Gryczke, A

    2011-06-01

    The aim of the present work was to investigate in vitro dissolution properties of three binary solid solutions prepared by a hot-melt extrusion (HME) process with vinyl pirrolidone--vinyl acetate copolymer (Kollidon VA 64), ethyl acrylate, methyl methacrylate polymer (Eudragit E) polyetilenglicol 8000 (PEG 8000) with a cannabinoid type 1 (CB-1) antagonist. Hansen solubility parameters were calculated from the chemical structures of the drug and the individual polymers in order to predict miscibility. Solid state characterizations of drug substance, physical blends and HME formulations were performed with differential scanning calorimetry. The dissolution testing conducted under sink conditions revealed that the dissolution rate of HME formulations improved around 1.8-fold vs drug substance. Supersaturation dissolution study demonstrated that HME formulations composed by Eudragit E and Kollidon VA64 increased drug solubility between 30- and 35-fold, respectively comparing to the drug substance. Physical and chemical stability of formulations were studied at 40°C/75%HR with open dish during 15 days. The formulation composed by the drug and Eudragit E at 10:90 was evaluated for in vivo drug absorption in male Wistar-Hannover rats and it was found to increase CB-1 absorption threefold greater than pure drug oral suspension.

  4. A Molecular-Level View of the Physical Stability of Amorphous Solid Dispersions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yuan, Xiaoda

    Many pharmaceutical compounds being developed in recent years are poorly soluble in water. This has led to insufficient oral bioavailability of many compounds in vitro. The amorphous formulation is one of the promising techniques to increase the oral bioavailability of these poorly water-soluble compounds. However, an amorphous drug substance is inherently unstable because it is a high energy form. In order to increase the physical stability, the amorphous drug is often formulated with a suitable polymer to form an amorphous solid dispersion. Previous research has suggested that the formation of an intimately mixed drug-polymer mixture contributes to the stabilization of the amorphous drug compound. The goal of this research is to better understand the role of miscibility, molecular interactions and mobility on the physical stability of amorphous solid dispersions. Methods were developed to detect different degrees of miscibility on nanometer scale and to quantify the extent of hydrogen-bonding interactions between the drug and the polymer. Miscibility, hydrogen-bonding interactions and molecular mobility were correlated with physical stability during a six-month period using three model systems. Overall, this research provides molecular-level insights into many factors that govern the physical stability of amorphous solid dispersions which can lead to a more effective design of stable amorphous formulations.

  5. Racial differences in the validity of self-reported drug use among men who have sex with men in Atlanta, GA.

    PubMed

    White, Darcy; Rosenberg, Eli S; Cooper, Hannah L F; del Rio, Carlos; Sanchez, Travis H; Salazar, Laura F; Sullivan, Patrick S

    2014-05-01

    Men who have sex with men (MSM), particularly young black MSM, are disproportionately affected in the United States' HIV epidemic. Drug use may contribute to these disparities, yet previous studies have failed to provide evidence of elevated use among black MSM, relying exclusively on self-reported usage. This study uses biological assays to validate self-reports of drug use and explore the potential for misclassification to distort findings on racial patterns of use in this population. From an Atlanta-based cohort study of 454 black and 349 white MSM from 2010 to 2012, participants' self-reported drug use was compared to urine drug screening findings. The sensitivity of self-report was calculated as the proportion reporting recent usage among those who screened positive. Multivariable regression models were constructed to examine racial patterns in self-report, urine-detection, and self-report sensitivity of marijuana and cocaine usage, adjusted for socio-demographic factors. In analyses that adjusted for age, education, income, sexual orientation, and history of arrest, black MSM were less likely to report recent use of marijuana (P<0.001) and cocaine (P=0.02), but equally likely to screen positive for either drug. This discrepancy between self-reported and urine-detected drug use was explained by significantly lower sensitivity of self-report for black participants (P<0.001 for marijuana, P<0.05 for cocaine). The contribution of individual drug-related risk behaviors to the HIV disparities between black and white MSM should be revisited with methods that validate self-reports of illegal drug use. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  6. Biomimetic Dissolution: A Tool to Predict Amorphous Solid Dispersion Performance.

    PubMed

    Puppolo, Michael M; Hughey, Justin R; Dillon, Traciann; Storey, David; Jansen-Varnum, Susan

    2017-11-01

    The presented study describes the development of a membrane permeation non-sink dissolution method that can provide analysis of complete drug speciation and emulate the in vivo performance of poorly water-soluble Biopharmaceutical Classification System class II compounds. The designed membrane permeation methodology permits evaluation of free/dissolved/unbound drug from amorphous solid dispersion formulations with the use of a two-cell apparatus, biorelevant dissolution media, and a biomimetic polymer membrane. It offers insight into oral drug dissolution, permeation, and absorption. Amorphous solid dispersions of felodipine were prepared by hot melt extrusion and spray drying techniques and evaluated for in vitro performance. Prior to ranking performance of extruded and spray-dried felodipine solid dispersions, optimization of the dissolution methodology was performed for parameters such as agitation rate, membrane type, and membrane pore size. The particle size and zeta potential were analyzed during dissolution experiments to understand drug/polymer speciation and supersaturation sustainment of felodipine solid dispersions. Bland-Altman analysis was performed to measure the agreement or equivalence between dissolution profiles acquired using polymer membranes and porcine intestines and to establish the biomimetic nature of the treated polymer membranes. The utility of the membrane permeation dissolution methodology is seen during the evaluation of felodipine solid dispersions produced by spray drying and hot melt extrusion. The membrane permeation dissolution methodology can suggest formulation performance and be employed as a screening tool for selection of candidates to move forward to pharmacokinetic studies. Furthermore, the presented model is a cost-effective technique.

  7. Preclinical Determinants of Drug Choice under Concurrent Schedules of Drug Self-Administration

    PubMed Central

    Banks, Matthew L.; Negus, S. Stevens

    2012-01-01

    Drug self-administration procedures have played a critical role in the experimental analysis of psychoactive compounds, such as cocaine, for over 50 years. While there are numerous permutations of this procedure, this paper will specifically focus on choice procedures using concurrent schedules of intravenous drug self-administration. The aims of this paper are to first highlight the evolution of drug choice procedures and then review the subsequent preclinical body of literature utilizing these choice procedures to understand the environmental, pharmacological, and biological determinants of the reinforcing stimulus effects of drugs. A main rationale for this paper is our proposition that choice schedules are underutilized in investigating the reinforcing effects of drugs in assays of drug self-administration. Moreover, we will conclude with potential future directions and unexplored scientific space for the use of drug choice procedures. PMID:23243420

  8. Highly scalable, closed-loop synthesis of drug-loaded, layer-by-layer nanoparticles.

    PubMed

    Correa, Santiago; Choi, Ki Young; Dreaden, Erik C; Renggli, Kasper; Shi, Aria; Gu, Li; Shopsowitz, Kevin E; Quadir, Mohiuddin A; Ben-Akiva, Elana; Hammond, Paula T

    2016-02-16

    Layer-by-layer (LbL) self-assembly is a versatile technique from which multicomponent and stimuli-responsive nanoscale drug carriers can be constructed. Despite the benefits of LbL assembly, the conventional synthetic approach for fabricating LbL nanoparticles requires numerous purification steps that limit scale, yield, efficiency, and potential for clinical translation. In this report, we describe a generalizable method for increasing throughput with LbL assembly by using highly scalable, closed-loop diafiltration to manage intermediate purification steps. This method facilitates highly controlled fabrication of diverse nanoscale LbL formulations smaller than 150 nm composed from solid-polymer, mesoporous silica, and liposomal vesicles. The technique allows for the deposition of a broad range of polyelectrolytes that included native polysaccharides, linear polypeptides, and synthetic polymers. We also explore the cytotoxicity, shelf life and long-term storage of LbL nanoparticles produced using this approach. We find that LbL coated systems can be reliably and rapidly produced: specifically, LbL-modified liposomes could be lyophilized, stored at room temperature, and reconstituted without compromising drug encapsulation or particle stability, thereby facilitating large scale applications. Overall, this report describes an accessible approach that significantly improves the throughput of nanoscale LbL drug-carriers that show low toxicity and are amenable to clinically relevant storage conditions.

  9. Phospholipid-based solid drug formulations for oral bioavailability enhancement: A meta-analysis.

    PubMed

    Fong, Sophia Yui Kau; Brandl, Martin; Bauer-Brandl, Annette

    2015-12-01

    Low bioavailability nowadays often represents a challenge in oral dosage form development. Solid formulations composed of drug and phospholipid (PL), which, upon contact with water, eventually form multilamellar liposomes (i.e. 'proliposomes'), are an emerging approach to solve such issue. Regarded as an 'improved' version of liposomes concerning storage stability, the potential and versatility of a range of such formulations for oral drug delivery have been extensively discussed. However, a systematic and quantitative analysis of the studies that applied solid PL for oral bioavailability enhancement is currently lacking. Such analysis is necessary for providing an overview of the research progress and addressing the question on how promising this approach can be on bioavailability enhancement. The current review performed a systematic search of references in three evidence-based English databases, Medline, Embase, and SciFinder, from the year of 1985 up till March 2015. A total of 112 research articles and 82 patents that involved solid PL-based formulations were identified. The majority of such formulations was intended for oral drug delivery (55%) and was developed to address low bioavailability issues (49%). A final of 54 studies that applied such formulations for bioavailability enhancement of 43 different drugs with poor water solubility and/or permeability were identified. These proof-of-concept studies with in vitro (n=31) and/or animal (n=23) evidences have been systematically summarized. Meta-analyses were conducted to measure the overall enhancement power (percent increase compared to control group) of solid PL formulations on drugs' solubility, permeability and oral bioavailability, which were found to be 127.4% (95% CI [86.1, 168.7]), 59.6% (95% CI [30.1, 89.0]), and 18.5% (95% CI [10.1, 26.9]) respectively. Correlations between the enhancement factors and in silico physiochemical properties of drugs were also performed to check if such approach can be used to identify the best candidates for oral solid PL formulation. In addition to scientific literature, 13 solid PL formulation-related patents that addressed the issue of low oral bioavailability have been identified and summarized; whereas no clinical study was identified from the current search. By providing systematic information and meta-analysis on studies that applied the principle of 'proliposomes' for oral bioavailability enhancement, the current review should be insightful for formulation scientists who wish to adopt the PL based approach to overcome the solubility, permeability and bioavailability issues of orally delivered drugs. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  10. Physicochemical interactions in solid dosage forms.

    PubMed

    Narang, Ajit S; Desai, Divyakant; Badawy, Sherif

    2012-10-01

    Complete characterization and mechanistic understanding of physicochemical interactions in solid dosage forms are not only important for consistent manufacturability, stability, and bioavailability of the drug product, but are also expected under the quality-by-design paradigm of drug development. Lack of this understanding can impact successful and timely development, scale-up, and commercial manufacture of dosage forms. This article highlights the stability and bioavailability implications of physicochemical interactions in dosage forms citing a couple of examples where such interactions necessitated the recall of commercial drug products.

  11. Use of hematopoietic cell transplants to achieve tolerance in patients with solid organ transplants.

    PubMed

    Strober, Samuel

    2016-03-24

    The goals of tolerance in patients with solid organ transplants are to eliminate the lifelong need for immunosuppressive (IS) drugs and to prevent graft loss due to rejection or drug toxicity. Tolerance with complete withdrawal of IS drugs has been achieved in recipients of HLA-matched and mismatched living donor kidney transplants in 3 medical centers using hematopoietic cell transplants to establish mixed or complete chimerism. © 2016 by The American Society of Hematology.

  12. Home pharmacies in Serbia: an insight into self-medication practice.

    PubMed

    Kusturica, Milica Paut; Tomic, Zdenko; Bukumiric, Zoran; Ninkovic, Ljiljana; Tomas, Ana; Stilinovic, Nebojsa; Sabo, Ana

    2015-04-01

    Worldwide data indicate that self-medication is frequently used inappropriately. Although self-medication is encouraged in most of the countries by introducing over-the-counter drugs, it bears the risk of misuse of drugs issued on prescription due to low observance of legislation of medicines requiring prescription by some pharmacies. The objective of this study was to explore the self-medication practice, with an emphasis on self-medication with prescription-only medications. Households in Novi Sad city, Serbia. The study was conducted over 8 month period (December 2011-July 2012) and involved a random sample of households. The questionnaire-based study and personal insight into household drug supplies was performed by a trained interviewer. Main outcome measure Number of drugs obtained without prescription or without consulting a physician in surveyed households. The total number of drug items present in the 383 households was 4,384 with a median of 11 drugs per household. More than a half of drugs in households were prescription-only medication (58.5 %). Approximately one third of prescription-only medications were obtained without prescription. The most common drugs obtained without prescription were anti-inflammatory and antirheumatic products and antibacterials for systemic use. Ibuprofen and diclofenac were the most common self-medicated drugs. Number of prescription-only medications bought with ought prescription was significantly higher in households with children under 12 years of age compared to other types of households. Our survey indicated that self-medication with prescription drugs appeared to be a rather common practice, which is far away from the concept of "responsible self-medication", especially regarding antibiotics.

  13. Predicting drug use at electronic music dance events: self-reports and biological measurement.

    PubMed

    Johnson, Mark B; Voas, Robert A; Miller, Brenda A; Holder, Harold D

    2009-06-01

    Most information on the prevalence of drug use comes from self-report surveys. The sensitivity of such information is cause for concern about the accuracy of self-report measures. In this study, self-reported drug use in the last 48 hr is compared to results from biological assays of saliva samples from 371 young adults entering clubs. The relationship between self-reports and drug presence in oral fluid was determined for three substances as follows: cocaine, marijuana, and amphetamine. Forty-one percent of the participants with drugs detected in their oral fluids reported no use in the last 48 hr. The significance of these results is discussed.

  14. Crystallization Kinetics of Indomethacin/Polyethylene Glycol Dispersions Containing High Drug Loadings.

    PubMed

    Duong, Tu Van; Van Humbeeck, Jan; Van den Mooter, Guy

    2015-07-06

    The reproducibility and consistency of physicochemical properties and pharmaceutical performance are major concerns during preparation of solid dispersions. The crystallization kinetics of drug/polyethylene glycol solid dispersions, an important factor that is governed by the properties of both drug and polymer has not been adequately explored, especially in systems containing high drug loadings. In this paper, by using standard and modulated differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray powder diffraction, we describe the influence of drug loading on crystallization behavior of dispersions made up of indomethacin and polyethylene glycol 6000. Higher drug loading increases the amorphicity of the polymer and inhibits the crystallization of PEG. At 52% drug loading, polyethylene glycol was completely transformed to the amorphous state. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first detailed investigation of the solubilization effect of a low molecular weight drug on a semicrystalline polymer in their dispersions. In mixtures containing up to 55% indomethacin, the dispersions exhibited distinct glass transition events resulting from amorphous-amorphous phase separation which generates polymer-rich and drug-rich domains upon the solidification of supercooled polyethylene glycol, whereas samples containing at least 60% drug showed a single amorphous phase during the period in which crystallization normally occurs. The current study demonstrates a wide range in physicochemical properties of drug/polyethylene glycol solid dispersions as a result of the complex nature in crystallization of this system, which should be taken into account during preparation and storage.

  15. Evaluation of various processes for simultaneous complexation and granulation to incorporate drug-cyclodextrin complexes into solid dosage forms.

    PubMed

    Gyanani, Vijay; Siddalingappa, Basavaraj; Betageri, Guru V

    2015-01-01

    Insoluble drugs often formulated with various excipients to enhance the dissolution. Cyclodextrins (CDs) are widely used excipients to improve dissolution profile of poorly soluble drugs. Drug-CD complexation process is complex and often requires multiple processes to produce solid dosage form. Hence, this study explored commonly used granulation processes for simultaneous complexation and granulation. Poorly soluble drugs ibuprofen and glyburide were selected as experimental drugs. Co-evaporation of drug:CD mixture from a solvent followed by wet granulation with water was considered as standard process for comparison. Spray granulation and fluid bed processing (FBP) using drug:CD solution in ethanol were evaluated as an alternative processes. The dissolution data of glyburide tablets indicated that tablets produced by spray granulation, FBP and co-evaporation-granulation have almost identical dissolution profile in water and 0.1% SLS (>70% in water and >60% in SLS versus 30 and 34%, respectively for plain tablet, in 120 min). Similarly, ibuprofen:CD tablets produced by co-evaporation-granulation and FBP displayed similar dissolution profile in 0.01 M HCl (pH 2.0) and buffer pH 5.5 (>90 and 100% versus 44 and 80% respectively for plain tablets, 120 min). Results of this study demonstrated that spray granulation is simple and cost effective process for low dose poorly soluble drugs to incorporate drug:CD complex into solid dosage form, whereas FBP is suitable for poorly soluble drugs with moderate dose.

  16. X-ray characterization of solid small molecule organic materials

    DOEpatents

    Billinge, Simon; Shankland, Kenneth; Shankland, Norman; Florence, Alastair

    2014-06-10

    The present invention provides, inter alia, methods of characterizing a small molecule organic material, e.g., a drug or a drug product. This method includes subjecting the solid small molecule organic material to x-ray total scattering analysis at a short wavelength, collecting data generated thereby, and mathematically transforming the data to provide a refined set of data.

  17. Surface self-organization: From wear to self-healing in biological and technical surfaces

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nosonovsky, Michael; Bhushan, Bharat

    2010-04-01

    Wear occurs at most solid surfaces that come in contact with other solid surfaces. While biological surfaces and tissues usually have the ability for self-healing, engineered self-healing materials only started to emerge recently. These materials are currently created using the trial-and-error approach and phenomenological models, so there is a need of a general first-principles theory of self-healing. We discuss the conditions under which the self-healing occurs and provide a general theoretical framework and criteria for self-healing using the concept of multiscale organization of entropy and non-equilibrium thermodynamics. The example of epicuticular wax regeneration of plant leaves is discussed as a case study.

  18. Managing Mental Health Problems in Everyday Life: Drug Treatment Client's Self-Care Strategies

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Holt, Martin; Treloar, Carla

    2008-01-01

    Little is understood about the self-care activities undertaken by drug treatment clients. Using data from a qualitative study of drug treatment and mental health we identify the self-care practices of drug treatment clients diagnosed with anxiety and depression. Seventy-seven participants were interviewed in four sites across Australia.…

  19. Microwave-assisted microemulsion technique for production of miconazole nitrate- and econazole nitrate-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles.

    PubMed

    Shah, Rohan M; Eldridge, Daniel S; Palombo, Enzo A; Harding, Ian H

    2017-08-01

    The microwave-assisted production of solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) is a novel technique reported recently by our group. The small particle size, solid nature and use of physiologically well-tolerated lipid materials make SLNs an interesting and potentially efficacious drug carrier. The main purpose of this research work was to investigate the suitability of microwave-assisted microemulsion technique to encapsulate selected ionic drug substances such as miconazole nitrate and econazole nitrate. The microwave-produced SLNs had a small size (250-300nm), low polydispersity (<0.20), high encapsulation efficiency (72-87%) and loading capacity (3.6-4.3%). Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies suggested reduced crystallinity of stearic acid in SLNs. The release studies demonstrated a slow, sustained but incomplete release of drugs (<60% after 24h) from microwave-produced SLNs. Data fitting of drug release data revealed that the release of both drugs from microwave-produced SLNs was governed by non-Fickian diffusion indicating that drug release was both diffusion- and dissolution- controlled. Anti-fungal efficacy of drug-loaded SLNs was evaluated on C. albicans. The cell viability studies showed that cytotoxicity of SLNs was concentration-dependent. These encouraging results suggest that the microwave-assisted procedure is suitable for encapsulation of ionic drugs and that microwave-produced SLNs can act as potential carriers of antifungal drugs. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  20. Three-dimensional periodic supramolecular organic framework ion sponge in water and microcrystals

    DOE PAGES

    Tian, Jia; Zhou, Tian-You; Zhang, Shao-Chen; ...

    2014-12-02

    Self-assembly has emerged as a powerful approach to generating complex supramolecular architectures. Despite there being many crystalline frameworks reported in the solid state, the construction of highly soluble periodic supramolecular networks in a three-dimensional space is still a challenge. In this paper we demonstrate that the encapsulation motif, which involves the dimerization of two aromatic units within cucurbit[8]uril, can be used to direct the co-assembly of a tetratopic molecular block and cucurbit[8]uril into a periodic three-dimensional supramolecular organic framework in water. The periodicity of the supramolecular organic framework is supported by solution-phase small-angle X-ray-scattering and diffraction experiments. Upon evaporating themore » solvent, the periodicity of the framework is maintained in porous microcrystals. Lastly, as a supramolecular 'ion sponge', the framework can absorb different kinds of anionic guests, including drugs, in both water and microcrystals, and drugs absorbed in microcrystals can be released to water with selectivity.« less

  1. Self-Mixing Thin-Slice Solid-State Laser Metrology

    PubMed Central

    Otsuka, Kenju

    2011-01-01

    This paper reviews the dynamic effect of thin-slice solid-state lasers subjected to frequency-shifted optical feedback, which led to the discovery of the self-mixing modulation effect, and its applications to quantum-noise-limited versatile laser metrology systems with extreme optical sensitivity. PMID:22319406

  2. French Health Technology Assessment of Antineoplastic Drugs Indicated in the Treatment of Solid Tumours: Perspective for Future Trends.

    PubMed

    Chouaid, Christos; Borget, Isabelle; Braun, Eric; Bazil, Marie-Laure; Schaetz, Dominique; Rémuzat, Cécile; Toumi, Mondher

    2016-08-01

    France is one of the European countries that spend the most on oncology drugs. To keep pharmaceutical expenditure under control, Health Authorities highly scrutinize market access of costly medicines. To assess current and future trends in French health technology assessment (HTA) of antineoplastic drugs indicated in the treatment of solid tumours. A review of the SMR and ASMR drivers of the Transparency Committee (CT) opinions issued for antineoplastic drugs indicated in the treatment of solid tumours and approved between 2009 and 2014 was performed to assess current trends in French health technology assessment (HTA), complemented by an expert board consultation to capture the critical issues on the future of antineoplastic drugs HTA. Thirty-one drugs indicated for the treatment of solid tumours were identified (77 % targeted therapies). Initial CT assessments were available for 26 drugs. Four key items in the CT assessment were identified: 1) Clinical trial methodology; 2) Acceptance of progression-free survival (PFS) as a valuable endpoint; 3) Transferability of clinical trials in clinical practice; 4) Unpredictability of CT decisions. Experts raised the important development of personalised medicines in oncology and key challenges for oncology products to generate information expected from HTA perspective. The French system remains committed to its values and philosophy (access of all innovations for everybody) which are threatened by the increasing launch of innovative therapies and budget constraint. Both HTA decision framework evolution and revision of the current pricing process should be considered in France to cope with these new challenges.

  3. Development of novel ibuprofen-loaded solid dispersion with enhanced bioavailability using cycloamylose.

    PubMed

    Baek, Hyung Hee; Kim, Dae-Hwan; Kwon, So Young; Rho, Shin-Joung; Kim, Dong-Wuk; Choi, Han-Gon; Kim, Yong-Ro; Yong, Chul Soon

    2012-03-01

    To develop a novel ibuprofen-loaded solid dispersion with enhanced bioavailability using cycloamylose, it was prepared using spray-drying techniques with cycloamylose at a weight ratio of 1:1. The effect of cycloamylose on aqueous solubility of ibuprofen was investigated. The physicochemical properties of solid dispersions were investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and X-ray diffraction. The dissolution and bioavailability in rats were evaluated compared with ibuprofen powder. This ibuprofen-loaded solid dispersion improved about 14-fold drug solubility. Ibuprofen was present in an unchanged crystalline state, and cycloamylose played the simple role of a solubilizing agent in this solid dispersion. Moreover, the dispersion gave 2-fold higher AUC (area under the drug concentration-time curve) value compared with a ibuprofen powder, indicating that it improved the oral bioavailability of ibuprofen in rats. Thus, the solid dispersion may be useful to deliver ibuprofen with enhanced bioavailability without crystalline change.

  4. Poly(2-ethyl-2-oxazoline) as matrix excipient for drug formulation by hot melt extrusion and injection molding.

    PubMed

    Claeys, Bart; Vervaeck, Anouk; Vervaet, Chris; Remon, Jean Paul; Hoogenboom, Richard; De Geest, Bruno G

    2012-10-15

    Here we evaluate poly(2-ethyl-2-oxazoline)s (PEtOx) as a matrix excipient for the production of oral solid dosage forms by hot melt extrusion (HME) followed by injection molding (IM). Using metoprolol tartrate as a good water-soluble model drug we demonstrate that drug release can be delayed by HME/IM, with the release rate controlled by the molecular weight of the PEtOx. Using fenofibrate as a lipophilic model drug we demonstrate that relative to the pure drug the dissolution rate is strongly enhanced by formulation in HME/IM tablets. For both drug molecules we find that solid solutions, i.e. molecularly dissolved drug in a polymeric matrix, are obtained by HME/IM. Copyright © 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  5. Factors affecting osteoarthritis patients' self-reported goal-directed drug information-seeking behaviors after exposure to direct-to-consumer advertising from physicians and the internet.

    PubMed

    Liu, Yifei; Farris, Karen B; Doucette, William R

    2011-10-01

    The objective of this study was to investigate appraisal of means (ie, self-efficacy, outcome expectancy, and affect) in predicting patients' goal-directed behaviors of direct-to-consumer advertising (DTCA)-prompted drug-information search from physicians and the internet. One thousand patients were randomly selected from a nationwide sample frame of 3000 osteoarthritis patients. A self-administered survey assessed exposure to DTCA, drug-information search as goal, self-efficacy, outcome expectancy, affect, and osteoarthritis pain. After 6 weeks, another survey measured the behavior of drug-information search for respondents to the first survey. Study subjects were those who were exposed to DTCA in the previous month, and who set drug-information search as their goal. For each information source, a multiple regression analysis was conducted in which drug-information search was the dependent variable, and self-efficacy, outcome expectancy, affect, and osteoarthritis pain were the independent variables. Among 454 patients who were exposed to DTCA, 174 patients set drug-information search as their goal and were the study subjects. The regression for physicians was not statistically significant. The regression for the internet was significant, accounting for 15% of behavior variance. Self-efficacy was a strong predictor of goal-directed drug-information search from the internet. Appraisal of means was useful to predict the goal-directed behavior of DTCA-prompted drug-information search from the internet. For patients who set drug-information search as a goal, actions to promote drug-information search from the internet need to focus on self-efficacy.

  6. Effect of surface chemical composition on the surface potential and iso-electric point of silicon substrates modified with self-assembled monolayers.

    PubMed

    Kuo, Che-Hung; Chang, Hsun-Yun; Liu, Chi-Ping; Lee, Szu-Hsian; You, Yun-Wen; Shyue, Jing-Jong

    2011-03-07

    Self-assembled monolayer (SAM)-modified nano-materials are a new technology to deliver drug molecules. While the majority of these depend on covalently immobilizing molecules on the surface, it is proposed that electrostatic interactions may be used to deliver drugs. By tuning the surface potential of solid substrates with SAMs, drug molecules could be either absorbed on or desorbed from substrates through the difference in electrostatic interactions around the selected iso-electric point (IEP). In this work, the surface of silicon substrates was tailored with various ratios of 3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (APTMS) and 3-mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane (MPTMS), which form amine- and thiol-bearing SAMs, respectively. The ratio of the functional groups on the silicon surface was quantified by X-ray photoelectron spectrometry (XPS); in general, the deposition kinetics of APTMS were found to be faster than those of MPTMS. Furthermore, for solutions with high MPTMS concentrations, the relative deposition rate of APTMS increased dramatically due to the acid-base reaction in the solution and subsequent electrostatic interactions between the molecules and the substrate. The zeta potential in aqueous electrolytes was determined with an electro-kinetic analyzer. By depositing SAMs of binary functional groups in varied ratios, the surface potential and IEP of silicon substrates could be fine-tuned. For <50% amine concentration in SAMs, the IEP changed linearly with the chemical composition from <2 to 7.18. For higher amine concentrations, the IEP slowly increased with concentration to 7.94 because the formation of hydrogen-bonding suppressed the subsequent protonation of amines.

  7. Moisture-Induced Amorphous Phase Separation of Amorphous Solid Dispersions: Molecular Mechanism, Microstructure, and Its Impact on Dissolution Performance.

    PubMed

    Chen, Huijun; Pui, Yipshu; Liu, Chengyu; Chen, Zhen; Su, Ching-Chiang; Hageman, Michael; Hussain, Munir; Haskell, Roy; Stefanski, Kevin; Foster, Kimberly; Gudmundsson, Olafur; Qian, Feng

    2018-01-01

    Amorphous phase separation (APS) is commonly observed in amorphous solid dispersions (ASD) when exposed to moisture. The objective of this study was to investigate: (1) the phase behavior of amorphous solid dispersions composed of a poorly water-soluble drug with extremely low crystallization propensity, BMS-817399, and PVP, following exposure to different relative humidity (RH), and (2) the impact of phase separation on the intrinsic dissolution rate of amorphous solid dispersion. Drug-polymer interaction was confirmed in ASDs at different drug loading using infrared (IR) spectroscopy and water vapor sorption analysis. It was found that the drug-polymer interaction could persist at low RH (≤75% RH) but was disrupted after exposure to high RH, with the advent of phase separation. Surface morphology and composition of 40/60 ASD at micro-/nano-scale before and after exposure to 95% RH were also compared. It was found that hydrophobic drug enriched on the surface of ASD after APS. However, for the 40/60 ASD system, the intrinsic dissolution rate of amorphous drug was hardly affected by the phase behavior of ASD, which may be partially attributed to the low crystallization tendency of amorphous BMS-817399 and enriched drug amount on the surface of ASD. Intrinsic dissolution rate of PVP decreased resulting from APS, leading to a lower concentration in the dissolution medium, but supersaturation maintenance was not anticipated to be altered after phase separation due to the limited ability of PVP to inhibit drug precipitation and prolong the supersaturation of drug in solution. This study indicated that for compounds with low crystallization propensity and high hydrophobicity, the risk of moisture-induced APS is high but such phase separation may not have profound impact on the drug dissolution performance of ASDs. Therefore, application of ASD technology on slow crystallizers could incur low risks not only in physical stability but also in dissolution performance. Copyright © 2018 American Pharmacists Association®. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  8. Pharmacological Treatment of Mood Disturbances, Aggression, and Self-Injury in Persons with Pervasive Developmental Disorders.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    King, Bryan H.

    2000-01-01

    This article reviews the psychopharmacological treatment of aggression, mood disturbances, and self-injurious behavior in persons with autistic disorder. It highlights the use of dopaminergic drugs, serotonergic drugs, opioidergic drugs, adrenergic drugs, thymoleptic drugs, and glutamatergic drugs for their potential utility in treating…

  9. Solid lipid nanoparticles suspension versus commercial solutions for dermal delivery of minoxidil.

    PubMed

    Padois, Karine; Cantiéni, Céline; Bertholle, Valérie; Bardel, Claire; Pirot, Fabrice; Falson, Françoise

    2011-09-15

    Solid lipid nanoparticles have been reported as possible carrier for skin drug delivery. Solid lipid nanoparticles are produced from biocompatible and biodegradable lipids. Solid lipid nanoparticles made of semi-synthetic triglycerides stabilized with a mixture of polysorbate and sorbitan oleate were loaded with 5% of minoxidil. The prepared systems were characterized for particle size, pH and drug content. Ex vivo skin penetration studies were performed using Franz-type glass diffusion cells and pig ear skin. Ex vivo skin corrosion studies were realized with a method derived from the Corrositex(®) test. Solid lipid nanoparticles suspensions were compared to commercial solutions in terms of skin penetration and skin corrosion. Solid lipid nanoparticles suspensions have been shown as efficient as commercial solutions for skin penetration; and were non-corrosive while commercial solutions presented a corrosive potential. Solid lipid nanoparticles suspensions would constitute a promising formulation for hair loss treatment. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  10. Comparison of the pattern, efficacy, and tolerability of self-medicated drugs in primary dysmenorrhea: A questionnaire based survey

    PubMed Central

    Sugumar, Ramya; Krishnaiah, Vasundara; Channaveera, Gokul Shetty; Mruthyunjaya, Shilpa

    2013-01-01

    Objective: To compare the pattern, efficacy, and tolerability of self-medicated drugs and to assess the adequacy of their dose in primary dysmenorrhea (PD). Materials and Methods: A survey using a self-developed, validated, objective, and structured questionnaire as a tool was conducted among subjects with PD. Statistical analysis was carried out using Chi-square test and ANOVA with post-hoc Tuckey's test. Results: Out of 641 respondents, 42% were self-medicated. The pattern of drugs used was: Dicyclomine, an unknown drug, mefenamic acid, mefenamic acid + dicyclomine, and metamizole by 35%, 29%, 26%, 9%, and 1% of respondents, respectively. Mefenamic acid + dicyclomine, the combination was the most efficacious in comparison to other drugs in moderate to severe dysmenorrhea. There was better tolerability with mefenamic acid + dicyclomine group compared to other drugs. Sub-therapeutic doses were used by 86% of self-medicating respondents. Conclusions: The prevailing self-medication practices were inappropriate in a substantial proportion of women with inadequate knowledge regarding appropriate drug choice, therapeutic doses, and their associated side effects. PMID:23716896

  11. Evaluation of in-vitro cytotoxicity and cellular uptake efficiency of zidovudine-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles modified with Aloe Vera in glioma cells.

    PubMed

    K S, Joshy; Sharma, Chandra P; Kalarikkal, Nandakumar; Sandeep, K; Thomas, Sabu; Pothen, Laly A

    2016-09-01

    Zidovudine loaded solid lipid nanoparticles of stearic acid modified with Aloe Vera (AV) have been prepared via simple emulsion solvent evaporation method which showed excellent stability at room temperature and refrigerated condition. The nanoparticles were examined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), which revealed the overlap of the AV absorption peak with the absorption peak of modified stearic acid nanoparticles. The inclusion of AV to stearic acid decreased the crystallinity and improved the hydrophilicity of lipid nanoparticles and thereby improved the drug loading efficacy of lipid nanoparticles. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) imaging revealed that, the average particle size of unmodified (bare) nanoparticles was 45.66±12.22nm and modified solid lipid nanoparticles showed an average size of 265.61±80.44nm. Solid lipid nanoparticles with well-defined morphology were tested in vitro for their possible application in drug delivery. Cell culture studies using C6 glioma cells on the nanoparticles showed enhanced growth and proliferation of cells without exhibiting any toxicity. In addition, normal cell morphology and improved uptake were observed by fluorescence microscopy images of rhodamine labeled modified solid lipid nanoparticles compared with unmodified nanoparticles. The cellular uptake study suggested that these nanoparticles could be a promising drug delivery system to enhance the uptake of antiviral drug by brain cells and it could be a suitable drug carrier system for the treatment of HIV. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  12. Self-assembled peptide-based nanostructures: Smart nanomaterials toward targeted drug delivery.

    PubMed

    Habibi, Neda; Kamaly, Nazila; Memic, Adnan; Shafiee, Hadi

    2016-02-01

    Self-assembly of peptides can yield an array of well-defined nanostructures that are highly attractive nanomaterials for many biomedical applications such as drug delivery. Some of the advantages of self-assembled peptide nanostructures over other delivery platforms include their chemical diversity, biocompatibility, high loading capacity for both hydrophobic and hydrophilic drugs, and their ability to target molecular recognition sites. Furthermore, these self-assembled nanostructures could be designed with novel peptide motifs, making them stimuli-responsive and achieving triggered drug delivery at disease sites. The goal of this work is to present a comprehensive review of the most recent studies on self-assembled peptides with a focus on their "smart" activity for formation of targeted and responsive drug-delivery carriers.

  13. Significance of excipients to enhance the bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs in oral solid dosage forms: A Review

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Vadlamudi, Manoj Kumar; Dhanaraj, Sangeetha

    2017-11-01

    Nowadays most of the drug substances are coming into the innovation pipeline with poor water solubility. Here, the influence of excipients will play a significant role to improve the dissolution of poorly aqueous soluble compounds. The drug substance needs to be dissolved in gastric fluids to get the better absorption and bioavailability of an orally administered drug. Dissolution is the rate-controlling stage for drugs which controls the rate and degree of absorption. Usually, poorly soluble oral administrated drugs show a slower dissolution rate, inconsistent and incomplete absorption which can lead to lower bioavailability. The low aqueous solubility of BCS class II and IV drugs is a major challenge in the drug development and delivery process. Several technologies have been used in an attempt to progress the bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drug compounds which include solid dispersions, lipid-based formulations, micronization, solvent evaporation, co-precipitation, ordered mixing, liquid-solid compacts, solvent deposition inclusion complexation, and steam aided granulation. In fact, most of the technologies require excipient as a carrier which plays a significant role in improving the bioavailability using Hypromellose acetate succinate, Cyclodextrin, Povidone, Copovidone, Hydroxypropyl cellulose, Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, Crospovidone, Starch, Dimethylacetamide, Polyethylene glycol, Sodium lauryl sulfate, Polysorbate, Poloxamer. Mesoporous silica and so on. This review deliberates about the excipients significance on bioavailability enhancement of drug products in a single platform along with pragmatically proved applications so that user can able to select the right excipients as per the molecule.

  14. Low circumferential voltage gradient self supporting electrode for solid oxide fuel cells

    DOEpatents

    Reichner, Philip

    1989-01-01

    The porous, self-supporting, elongated electrode is made, having at least two chambers through its axial length, the chambers separated by an electronically conductive member. This electrode can be an air electrode of a fuel cell, having a superimposed solid electrolyte and fuel electrode.

  15. Predicting Drug Use at Electronic Music Dance Events: Self-Reports and Biological Measurement

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Johnson, Mark B.; Voas, Robert A.; Miller, Brenda A.; Holder, Harold D.

    2009-01-01

    Most information on the prevalence of drug use comes from self-report surveys. The sensitivity of such information is cause for concern about the accuracy of self-report measures. In this study, self-reported drug use in the last 48 hr is compared to results from biological assays of saliva samples from 371 young adults entering clubs. The…

  16. Author financial conflicts of interest, industry funding, and clinical practice guidelines for anticancer drugs.

    PubMed

    Tibau, Ariadna; Bedard, Philippe L; Srikanthan, Amirrtha; Ethier, Josee-Lyne; Vera-Badillo, Francisco E; Templeton, Arnoud J; Ocaña, Alberto; Seruga, Bostjan; Barnadas, Agustí; Amir, Eitan

    2015-01-01

    Clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) and consensus statements (CSs) are used to apply evidence-based medicine or expert recommendations to clinical practice. Here we explore author financial conflicts of interest (FCOIs), sources of guideline funding, and their relationship with endorsement of specific drugs. An electronic search of MEDLINE was conducted to identify CPGs and CSs for common solid cancers published between January 2003 and October 2013. The search was restricted to articles evaluating systemic therapy. We extracted data on self-reported author FCOIs, funding sources, use of manuscript writers, and endorsement of specific drugs in the abstract of the article. Of 142 articles evaluated, 64% were CPGs, and 36% were CSs. The proportion of articles reporting FCOIs improved from 11% in 2003 to 93% in 2013 (P for trend < .001). Only 45% of articles explicitly reported funding sources. Of these, 65% disclosed partial or full industry sponsorship. Use of manuscript writers was declared in 13%, but many articles did not explicitly report the role of authors in the writing of the manuscript. Endorsement of specific drugs was significantly associated with author FCOIs (odds ratio [OR], 7.29; P = .001), but not with industry funding (OR, 0.95; P = .37). Reporting of FCOIs in CPGs and CSs has improved over time. Despite prevalent funding of guideline development by industry, such funding is not associated with endorsement of specific drugs. Author FCOIs are prevalent, and endorsement of a specific drug seems to be more common when authors have FCOIs with the pharmaceutical company marketing that drug. © 2014 by American Society of Clinical Oncology.

  17. Construction of drug-polymer thermodynamic phase diagrams using Flory-Huggins interaction theory: identifying the relevance of temperature and drug weight fraction to phase separation within solid dispersions.

    PubMed

    Tian, Yiwei; Booth, Jonathan; Meehan, Elizabeth; Jones, David S; Li, Shu; Andrews, Gavin P

    2013-01-07

    Amorphous drug-polymer solid dispersions have the potential to enhance the dissolution performance and thus bioavailability of BCS class II drug compounds. The principle drawback of this approach is the limited physical stability of amorphous drug within the dispersion. Accurate determination of the solubility and miscibility of drug in the polymer matrix is the key to the successful design and development of such systems. In this paper, we propose a novel method, based on Flory-Huggins theory, to predict and compare the solubility and miscibility of drug in polymeric systems. The systems chosen for this study are (1) hydroxypropyl methylcellulose acetate succinate HF grade (HPMCAS-HF)-felodipine (FD) and (2) Soluplus (a graft copolymer of polyvinyl caprolactam-polyvinyl acetate-polyethylene glycol)-FD. Samples containing different drug compositions were mixed, ball milled, and then analyzed by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The value of the drug-polymer interaction parameter χ was calculated from the crystalline drug melting depression data and extrapolated to lower temperatures. The interaction parameter χ was also calculated at 25 °C for both systems using the van Krevelen solubility parameter method. The rank order of interaction parameters of the two systems obtained at this temperature was comparable. Diagrams of drug-polymer temperature-composition and free energy of mixing (ΔG(mix)) were constructed for both systems. The maximum crystalline drug solubility and amorphous drug miscibility may be predicted based on the phase diagrams. Hyper-DSC was used to assess the validity of constructed phase diagrams by annealing solid dispersions at specific drug loadings. Three different samples for each polymer were selected to represent different regions within the phase diagram.

  18. Crystallization processes in pharmaceutical technology and drug delivery design

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shekunov, B. Yu; York, P.

    2000-04-01

    Crystallization is a major technological process for particle formation in pharmaceutical industry and, in addition, plays an important role in defining the stability and drug release properties of the final dosage forms. Industrial and regulatory aspects of crystallization are briefly reviewed with reference to solid-state properties of pharmaceuticals. Crystallization, incorporating wider definition to include precipitation and solid-state transitions, is considered in terms of preparation of materials for direct compression, formation of amorphous, solvated and polymorphic forms, chiral separation of drugs, production of materials for inhalation drug delivery and injections. Finally, recent developments in supercritical fluid particle technology is considered in relationship to the areas discussed.

  19. Alternative Manufacturing Concepts for Solid Oral Dosage Forms From Drug Nanosuspensions Using Fluid Dispensing and Forced Drying Technology.

    PubMed

    Bonhoeffer, Bastian; Kwade, Arno; Juhnke, Michael

    2018-03-01

    Flexible manufacturing technologies for solid oral dosage forms with a continuous adjustability of the manufactured dose strength are of interest for applications in personalized medicine. This study explored the feasibility of using microvalve technology for the manufacturing of different solid oral dosage form concepts. Hard gelatin capsules filled with excipients, placebo tablets, and polymer films, placed in hard gelatin capsules after drying, were considered as substrates. For each concept, a basic understanding of relevant formulation parameters and their impact on dissolution behavior has been established. Suitable matrix formers, present either on the substrate or directly in the drug nanosuspension, proved to be essential to prevent nanoparticle agglomeration of the drug nanoparticles and to ensure a fast dissolution behavior. Furthermore, convection and radiation drying methods were investigated for the fast drying of drug nanosuspensions dispensed onto polymer films, which were then placed in hard gelatin capsules. Changes in morphology and in drug and matrix former distribution were observed for increasing drying intensity. However, even fast drying times below 1 min could be realized, while maintaining the nanoparticulate drug structure and a good dissolution behavior. Copyright © 2018 American Pharmacists Association®. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  20. The Relation of Self-Esteem and Illegal Drug Usage in High School Students

    PubMed Central

    Khajehdaluee, Mohammad; Zavar, Abbas; Alidoust, Mahbobeh; Pourandi, Razieh

    2013-01-01

    Background Adolescence is the period of stress and strain. Researchers have shown that adolescents without strong social supports would have tendency towards smoking and drug abuse. Objectives This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between low self-esteem and illegal drug abuse. Materials and Methods Participants were 943 grades nine to 12 high school students, from Sarakhs during 2010 - 2011. Adolescents participated in the study, completed two self-report questionnaires. The first questionnaire included questions about individual and family information, smoking and illegal drug abuse history, and the second was the Rosenberg's self-esteem scale. Results 53.8% of participants were male (507 individuals). The mean Rosenberg self-esteem score was 19.8 + 5.2, and the most frequent obtained scores were from 22 to 30. The difference of Rosenberg self-esteem score test between students who did not use any substance and those who had a history of smoking or drug abuse like heroin, pills, alcohols, betel nut (Nas) and other drugs (such as Pan and Hookah) was significant (P < 0.001). But this difference was not significant for marijuana (hashish) and opium. The difference of mean self-esteem scores between adolescents who lived with both or one of the parents, and those who did not live with any of parents, was significant (P = 0.04). There was also a significant association between the number of children in the family and self-esteem score. Conclusions The current study showed significant association between the Rosenberg self-esteem test results and smoking, and illegal drug abuse like heroin, pills, alcohol, Nas, and other substances. Therefore, increasing self-esteem is essential for preventing the adolescents’ emotional and behavioral disorders. This fact could guide us to the new approaches for smoking and drug-abuse prevention in adolescents. PMID:24719686

  1. The relation of self-esteem and illegal drug usage in high school students.

    PubMed

    Khajehdaluee, Mohammad; Zavar, Abbas; Alidoust, Mahbobeh; Pourandi, Razieh

    2013-11-01

    Adolescence is the period of stress and strain. Researchers have shown that adolescents without strong social supports would have tendency towards smoking and drug abuse. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between low self-esteem and illegal drug abuse. Participants were 943 grades nine to 12 high school students, from Sarakhs during 2010 - 2011. Adolescents participated in the study, completed two self-report questionnaires. The first questionnaire included questions about individual and family information, smoking and illegal drug abuse history, and the second was the Rosenberg's self-esteem scale. 53.8% of participants were male (507 individuals). The mean Rosenberg self-esteem score was 19.8 + 5.2, and the most frequent obtained scores were from 22 to 30. The difference of Rosenberg self-esteem score test between students who did not use any substance and those who had a history of smoking or drug abuse like heroin, pills, alcohols, betel nut (Nas) and other drugs (such as Pan and Hookah) was significant (P < 0.001). But this difference was not significant for marijuana (hashish) and opium. The difference of mean self-esteem scores between adolescents who lived with both or one of the parents, and those who did not live with any of parents, was significant (P = 0.04). There was also a significant association between the number of children in the family and self-esteem score. The current study showed significant association between the Rosenberg self-esteem test results and smoking, and illegal drug abuse like heroin, pills, alcohol, Nas, and other substances. Therefore, increasing self-esteem is essential for preventing the adolescents' emotional and behavioral disorders. This fact could guide us to the new approaches for smoking and drug-abuse prevention in adolescents.

  2. SELF-BLM: Prediction of drug-target interactions via self-training SVM.

    PubMed

    Keum, Jongsoo; Nam, Hojung

    2017-01-01

    Predicting drug-target interactions is important for the development of novel drugs and the repositioning of drugs. To predict such interactions, there are a number of methods based on drug and target protein similarity. Although these methods, such as the bipartite local model (BLM), show promise, they often categorize unknown interactions as negative interaction. Therefore, these methods are not ideal for finding potential drug-target interactions that have not yet been validated as positive interactions. Thus, here we propose a method that integrates machine learning techniques, such as self-training support vector machine (SVM) and BLM, to develop a self-training bipartite local model (SELF-BLM) that facilitates the identification of potential interactions. The method first categorizes unlabeled interactions and negative interactions among unknown interactions using a clustering method. Then, using the BLM method and self-training SVM, the unlabeled interactions are self-trained and final local classification models are constructed. When applied to four classes of proteins that include enzymes, G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs), ion channels, and nuclear receptors, SELF-BLM showed the best performance for predicting not only known interactions but also potential interactions in three protein classes compare to other related studies. The implemented software and supporting data are available at https://github.com/GIST-CSBL/SELF-BLM.

  3. Solid surface dependent layering of self-arranged structures with fibril-like assemblies of alpha-synuclein

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bukauskas, V.; Šetkus, A.; Šimkienė, I.; Tumėnas, S.; Kašalynas, I.; Rėza, A.; Babonas, J.; Časaitė, V.; Povilonienė, S.; Meškys, R.

    2012-03-01

    In present work the formation of hybrid constructions composed of alpha-synuclein-based colloidal solutions on various solid surfaces (silica coated Si, mica, CaF2 and KBr) is investigated by scanning probe microscopy, spectrocopic ellipsometry, Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy and vibrational circular dichroism. Prior to the modification of the solids, the proteins were intentionally fibrilled under special conditions. It is proved that the multi-component coatings are self-arranged on the solid substrates. Depending on the substrate material, the interface films consisting of individual biomolecules can be detected on the solid surfaces. The coatings with fibril-like alpha-synuclein objects can be obtained on solid surfaces with negligible or comparatively thick interface films. The results are interpreted in terms of the charged surface-controlled electrostatic interaction between the substrate and the biomolecules. Solubility of solids is considered in this interpretation.

  4. Amorphization of itraconazole by inorganic pharmaceutical excipients: comparison of excipients and processing methods.

    PubMed

    Grobelny, Pawel; Kazakevich, Irina; Zhang, Dan; Bogner, Robin

    2015-01-01

    The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of solid carriers and processing routes on the properties of amorphous solid dispersions of itraconazole. Three solid carriers with a range of surface properties were studied, (1) a mesoporous silicate, magnesium aluminum silicate (Neusilin US2), (2) a nonporous silicate of corresponding composition (Veegum) and (3) a non-silicate, inorganic excipient, calcium phosphate dibasic anhydrous (A-TAB). The drug was incorporated via either solvent-deposition or ball milling. Both the maximum drug deposited by solvent-based method that produced an amorphous composite and the time for complete amorphization by co-milling was determined by X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD). Changes in the drug and excipients were monitored by nitrogen adsorption and wettability of the powder. The ability of the excipients to amorphize the drug and enhance its dissolution was related to the powder characteristics. Neusilin provided the fastest amorphization time in the mill and highest drug loading by solvent-deposition, compared with the other two excipients. Solvent-deposition provided greater dissolution enhancement than milling, due to the reduction in Neusilin porosity during high energy milling.This study confirms that substrates as well as the processing routes have notable influence on the drug deposition, amorphization, physical stability and drug in vitro release.

  5. Impact of surfactants on the crystallization of aqueous suspensions of celecoxib amorphous solid dispersion spray dried particles.

    PubMed

    Chen, Jie; Ormes, James D; Higgins, John D; Taylor, Lynne S

    2015-02-02

    Amorphous solid dispersions are frequently prepared by spray drying. It is important that the resultant spray dried particles do not crystallize during formulation, storage, and upon administration. The goal of the current study was to evaluate the impact of surfactants on the crystallization of celecoxib amorphous solid dispersions (ASD), suspended in aqueous media. Solid dispersions of celecoxib with hydroxypropylmethylcellulose acetate succinate were manufactured by spray drying, and aqueous suspensions were prepared by adding the particles to acidified media containing various surfactants. Nucleation induction times were evaluated for celecoxib in the presence and absence of surfactants. The impact of the surfactants on drug and polymer leaching from the solid dispersion particles was also evaluated. Sodium dodecyl sulfate and Polysorbate 80 were found to promote crystallization from the ASD suspensions, while other surfactants including sodium taurocholate and Triton X100 were found to inhibit crystallization. The promotion or inhibition of crystallization was found to be related to the impact of the surfactant on the nucleation behavior of celecoxib, as well as the tendency to promote leaching of the drug from the ASD particle into the suspending medium. It was concluded that surfactant choice is critical to avoid failure of amorphous solid dispersions through crystallization of the drug.

  6. Self-medication: from European regulatory directives to therapeutic strategy.

    PubMed

    Bergmann, Jean-François

    2003-06-01

    Self medications are drugs which can be used without a physician's advice or supervision. There is a clear emerging patient demand for efficient drugs available without prescription. This review summarizes the regulatory rules regarding the status of self-medication drugs in Europe and describes some situations where specific clinical trials are needed for a new drug to be registered as a self medication. These drugs not only have to offer a very positive safety profile but also a well-established level of efficacy. A nonprescription drug can only be proposed in situations where the patient himself can make a self-assessment of the medical condition and its follow-up. These products must be safe even in the event of incorrect use and must offer clear and complete information contributing to a proper use, i.e. a definition of situations where a physician's advice is necessary. For registration as an 'over-the-counter' drug, specific efficacy trials may be conducted in real self-medication situation especially when the target populations, the dosage or the indications in self medication are not the same as those evaluated previously when the drug in question had prescription status. Specific pharmacovigilance is needed and the patient, pharmacist and physician encouraged to report any adverse events. A safety survey may be necessary in some situations such as insomnia or emergency contraception. It is important for the patient, pharmacist and public health in general to distinguish the efficient and safe self medications from the nonvalidated, nonevaluated alternative medicines.

  7. Predicting final product properties of melt extruded solid dispersions from process parameters using Raman spectrometry.

    PubMed

    Vigh, Tamás; Drávavölgyi, Gábor; Sóti, Péter L; Pataki, Hajnalka; Igricz, Tamás; Wagner, István; Vajna, Balázs; Madarász, János; Marosi, György; Nagy, Zsombor K

    2014-09-01

    Raman spectrometry was utilized to estimate degraded drug percentage, residual drug crystallinity and glass-transition temperature in the case of melt-extruded pharmaceutical products. Tight correlation was shown between the results obtained by confocal Raman mapping and transmission Raman spectrometry, a PAT-compatible potential in-line analytical tool. Immediate-release spironolactone-Eudragit E solid dispersions were the model system, owing to the achievable amorphization and the heat-sensitivity of the drug compound. The deep investigation of the relationship between process parameters, residual drug crystallinity and degradation was performed using statistical tools and a factorial experimental design defining 54 different circumstances for the preparation of solid dispersions. From the examined factors, drug content (10, 20 and 30%), temperature (110, 130 and 150°C) and residence time (2.75, 11.00 and 24.75min) were found to have significant and considerable effect. By forming physically stable homogeneous dispersions, the originally very slow dissolution of the lipophilic and poorly water-soluble spironolactone was reasonably improved, making 3minute release possible in acidic medium. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  8. Pharmaceutical cocrystals: a novel approach for oral bioavailability enhancement of drugs.

    PubMed

    Chadha, Renu; Saini, Anupam; Arora, Poonam; Bhandari, Swati

    2012-01-01

    Solid dosage forms are by far the preferred drug delivery systems. However, these often face the problem of poor and erratic bioavailability during the drug development process. Numerous formulation strategies for drug delivery are currently under development, among which the solid forms such as polymorphs, solvates, salts, and cocrystals have been considered to be the most important for improving dissolution rate and bioavailability. Cocrystallization is a fairly new approach in pharmaceutical industry that can improve the solubility and, consequently, the bioactivity of the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) without compromising its structural integrity. Pharmaceutical cocrystals have found their place in drug delivery, primarily due to their ability to produce alternative, viable solid forms when a more standard approach of salt and polymorph formation fails to deliver the desired objectives. Over the past few years, a number of papers have been published focusing on a broad range of subjects, from traditional crystal engineering to structure-property relationships of cocrystals. The present review, however, illustrates how the cocrystalline forms of APIs have improved their in vitro dissolution rate and in vivo bioavailability, often correlating well with their improved solubility as well.

  9. Developing dissolution testing methodologies for extended-release oral dosage forms with supersaturating properties. Case example: Solid dispersion matrix of indomethacin.

    PubMed

    Tajiri, Tomokazu; Morita, Shigeaki; Sakamoto, Ryosaku; Mimura, Hisahi; Ozaki, Yukihiro; Reppas, Christos; Kitamura, Satoshi

    2015-07-25

    The objective of this study was to develop an in vitro dissolution test method with discrimination ability for an extended-release solid dispersion matrix of a lipophilic drug using the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) Apparatus 4, flow-through cell apparatus. In the open-loop configuration, the sink condition was maintained by manipulating the flow rate of the dissolution medium. To evaluate the testing conditions, the drug release mechanism from an extended-release solid dispersion matrix containing hydrophobic and hydrophilic polymers was investigated. As the hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) maintained concentrations of indomethacin higher than the solubility in a dissolution medium, the release of HPMC into the dissolution medium was also quantified using size-exclusion chromatography. We concluded that the USP Apparatus 4 is suitable for application to an in vitro dissolution method for orally administered extended-release solid dispersion matrix formulations containing poorly water-soluble drugs. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  10. Site specific solubility improvement using solid dispersions of HPMC-AS/HPC SSL--mixtures.

    PubMed

    Zecevic, Damir Elmar; Meier, Robin; Daniels, Rolf; Wagner, Karl-Gerhard

    2014-07-01

    Many upcoming drug candidates are pH-dependent poorly soluble weak bases in the pH range of the gastrointestinal tract. This often leads to a high in vivo variability and bioavailability issues. Aiming to overcome these limitations, the design of solid dispersions for site specific dissolution improvement or maintenance of a potent supersaturation over the entire gastro-intestinal pH-range, is proposed to assure a reliable drug therapy. Solid dispersions containing different ratios of Dipyridamole (DPD) or Griseofulvin (GRI) and the enteric polymer hydroxypropylmethylcellulose-acetate succinate (HPMC-AS) and the water soluble low-viscosity hydroxypropylcellulose (HPC-SSL) were prepared by hot melt extrusion (HME). The solid dispersions were evaluated for their solid state, dissolution characteristics applying a three pH-step dissolution method following an acidic to neutral pH transition and stability. The use of HPMC-AS in binary mixtures with DPD and GRI facilitated increased solubility and supersaturation at pH-controlled release of the preserved amorphous state of the dispersed drug, which even inverted the pH-dependent solubility profile of the weakly basic model drug (Dipyridamole). I.e. a potent site specific delivery system was created. With ternary solid dispersions of API, HPMC-AS and HPC-SSL, tailored release profiles with superior supersaturation over the applied pH-range could be obtained. At the same time, binary and ternary mixtures showed favorable stability properties at a temperature difference between glass transition temperature and the applied storage temperature of down to 16°C. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  11. A longitudinal investigation of the role of self-medication in the development of comorbid mood and drug use disorders: findings from the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC).

    PubMed

    Lazareck, Samuel; Robinson, Jennifer A; Crum, Rosa M; Mojtabai, Ramin; Sareen, Jitender; Bolton, James M

    2012-05-01

    To examine whether self-medication with drugs confers risk of comorbid mood and drug use disorders. A longitudinal, nationally representative survey was conducted by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. The National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC) assessed DSM-IV-TR psychiatric disorders, self-medication, and sociodemographic variables at 2 time points. A total of 34,653 adult, US participants completed both waves of the survey. Wave 1 was conducted between 2001 and 2002, and Wave 2 interviews took place 3 years later (2004-2005). Logistic regression and population attributable fractions were calculated to obtain estimates of the association between self-medication and incident disorders. Logistic regression analyses revealed that self-medication with drugs conferred a heightened risk of new-onset drug dependence among those with baseline mood disorders (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 7.65; 95% CI, 3.70-15.82; P < .001) and accounted for over 25% of incident drug dependence disorders among people with mood disorders. Among those with comorbid mood and drug use disorders at baseline, self-medication with drugs was associated with the persistence of drug abuse (AOR = 2.47; 95% CI, 1.34-4.56; P < .01), accounting for over one-fifth of the persistence of drug use disorders at 3-year follow-up. Self-medication with drugs among individuals with mood disorders confers substantial risk of developing incident drug dependence and is associated with the persistence of comorbid mood and drug use disorders. These results clarify a pathway that may lead to the development of mood and drug use disorder comorbidity and indicate an at-risk population, with potential points of intervention for prevention of comorbidity. © Copyright 2012 Physicians Postgraduate Press, Inc.

  12. Eutectics as improved pharmaceutical materials: design, properties and characterization.

    PubMed

    Cherukuvada, Suryanarayan; Nangia, Ashwini

    2014-01-28

    Eutectics are a long known class of multi-component solids with important and useful applications in daily life. In comparison to other multi-component crystalline solids, such as salts, solid solutions, molecular complexes and cocrystals, eutectics are less studied in terms of molecular structure organization and bonding interactions. Classically, a eutectic is defined based on its low melting point compared to the individual components. In this article, we attempt to define eutectics not just based on thermal methods but from a structural organization view point, and discuss their microstructures and properties as organic materials vis-a-vis solid solutions and cocrystals. The X-ray crystal structure of a cocrystal is different from that of the individual components whereas the unit cell of a solid solution is similar to that of one of the components. Eutectics are closer to the latter species in that their crystalline arrangement is similar to the parent components but they are different with respect to the structural integrity. A solid solution possesses structural homogeneity throughout the structure (single phase) but a eutectic is a heterogeneous ensemble of individual components whose crystal structures are like discontinuous solid solutions (phase separated). Thus, a eutectic may be better defined as a conglomerate of solid solutions. A structural analysis of cocrystals, solid solutions and eutectics has led to an understanding that materials with strong adhesive (hetero) interactions between the unlike components will lead to cocrystals whereas those having stronger cohesive (homo/self) interactions will more often give rise to solid solutions (for similar structures of components) and eutectics (for different structures of components). We demonstrate that the same crystal engineering principles which have been profitably utilized for cocrystal design in the past decade can now be applied to make eutectics as novel composite materials, illustrated by stable eutectics of the hygroscopic salt of the anti-tuberculosis drug ethambutol as a case study. A current gap in the characterization of eutectic microstructure may be fulfilled through pair distribution function (PDF) analysis of X-ray diffraction data, which could be a rapid signature technique to differentiate eutectics from their components.

  13. Evaluation and modeling of the eutectic composition of various drug-polyethylene glycol solid dispersions.

    PubMed

    Baird, Jared A; Taylor, Lynne S

    2011-06-01

    The purpose of this study was to gain a better understanding of which factors contribute to the eutectic composition of drug-polyethylene glycol (PEG) blends and to compare experimental values with predictions from the semi-empirical model developed by Lacoulonche et al. Eutectic compositions of various drug-PEG 3350 solid dispersions were predicted, assuming athermal mixing, and compared to experimentally determined eutectic points. The presence or absence of specific interactions between the drug and PEG 3350 were investigated using Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. The eutectic composition for haloperidol-PEG and loratadine-PEG solid dispersions was accurately predicted using the model, while predictions for aceclofenac-PEG and chlorpropamide-PEG were very different from those experimentally observed. Deviations in the model prediction from ideal behavior for the systems evaluated were confirmed to be due to the presence of specific interactions between the drug and polymer, as demonstrated by IR spectroscopy. Detailed analysis showed that the eutectic composition prediction from the model is interdependent on the crystal lattice energy of the drug compound (evaluated from the melting temperature and the heat of fusion) as well as the nature of the drug-polymer interactions. In conclusion, for compounds with melting points less than 200°C, the model is ideally suited for predicting the eutectic composition of systems where there is an absence of drug-polymer interactions.

  14. Self-assembled phytosterol-fructose-chitosan nanoparticles as a carrier of anticancer drug.

    PubMed

    Qiu, Yeyan; Zhu, Jun; Wang, Jianting; Gong, Renmin; Zheng, Mingming; Huang, Fenghong

    2013-08-01

    Self-assembled nanoparticles were synthesized from water-soluble fructose-chitosan, substituted by succinyl linkages with phytosterols as hydrophobic moieties for self-assembly. The physicochemical properties of the prepared self-assembled nanoparticles were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. Doxorubicin (DOX), as a model anticancer drug, was physically entrapped inside prepared self-assembled nanoparticles by the dialysis method. With increasing initial levels of the drug, the drug loading content increased, but the encapsulation efficiency decreased. The release profiles in vitro demonstrated that the DOX showed slow sustained released over 48 h, and the release rate in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) solution (pH 7.4) was much slower than in PBS solution (pH 5.5 and pH 6.5), indicating the prepared self-assembled nanoparticles had the potential to be used as a carrier for targeted delivery of hydrophobic anticancer drugs with declined cytotoxicity to normal tissues.

  15. Use of the Flory-Huggins theory to predict the solubility of nifedipine and sulfamethoxazole in the triblock, graft copolymer Soluplus.

    PubMed

    Altamimi, Mohammad A; Neau, Steven H

    2016-01-01

    Drug dispersed in a polymer can improve bioavailability; dispersed amorphous drug undergoes recrystallization. Solid solutions eliminate amorphous regions, but require a measure of the solubility. Use the Flory-Huggins Theory to predict crystalline drugs solubility in the triblock, graft copolymer Soluplus® to provide a solid solution. Physical mixtures of the two drugs with similar melting points but different glass forming ability, sulfamethoxazole and nifedipine, were prepared with Soluplus® using a quick technique. Drug melting point depression (MPD) was measured using differential scanning calorimetry. The Flory-Huggins Theory allowed: (1) interaction parameter, χ, calculation using MPD data to provide a measure of drug-polymer interaction strength and (2) estimation of the free energy of mixing. A phase diagram was constructed with the MPD data and glass transition temperature (Tg) curves. The interaction parameters with Soluplus® and the free energy of mixing were estimated. Drug solubility was calculated by the intersection of solubility equations and that of MPD and Tg curves in the phase diagram. Negative interaction parameters indicated strong drug-polymer interactions. The phase diagram and solubility equations provided comparable solubility estimates for each drug in Soluplus®. Results using the onset of melting rather than the end of melting support the use of the onset of melting. The Flory-Huggins Theory indicates that Soluplus® interacts effectively with each drug, making solid solution formation feasible. The predicted solubility of the drugs in Soluplus® compared favorably across the methods and supports the use of the onset of melting.

  16. Use of the Flory-Huggins theory to predict the solubility of nifedipine and sulfamethoxazole in the triblock, graft copolymer Soluplus.

    PubMed

    Altamimi, Mohammad A; Neau, Steven H

    2016-03-01

    Drug dispersed in a polymer can improve bioavailability; dispersed amorphous drug undergoes recrystallization. Solid solutions eliminate amorphous regions, but require a measure of the solubility. Use the Flory-Huggins Theory to predict crystalline drugs solubility in the triblock, graft copolymer Soluplus® to provide a solid solution. Physical mixtures of the two drugs with similar melting points but different glass forming ability, sulfamethoxazole and nifedipine, were prepared with Soluplus® using a quick technique. Drug melting point depression (MPD) was measured using differential scanning calorimetry. The Flory-Huggins Theory allowed: (1) interaction parameter, χ, calculation using MPD data to provide a measure of drug-polymer interaction strength and (2) estimation of the free energy of mixing. A phase diagram was constructed with the MPD data and glass transition temperature (T g ) curves. The interaction parameters with Soluplus® and the free energy of mixing were estimated. Drug solubility was calculated by the intersection of solubility equations and that of MPD and T g curves in the phase diagram. Negative interaction parameters indicated strong drug-polymer interactions. The phase diagram and solubility equations provided comparable solubility estimates for each drug in Soluplus®. Results using the onset of melting rather than the end of melting support the use of the onset of melting. The Flory-Huggins Theory indicates that Soluplus® interacts effectively with each drug, making solid solution formation feasible. The predicted solubility of the drugs in Soluplus® compared favorably across the methods and supports the use of the onset of melting.

  17. Use of surfactants as plasticizers in preparing solid dispersions of poorly soluble API: stability testing of selected solid dispersions.

    PubMed

    Ghebremeskel, Alazar N; Vemavarapu, Chandra; Lodaya, Mayur

    2006-08-01

    The purpose of the study is to evaluate the effect of surfactant-plasticizers on the physical stability of amorphous drug in polymer matrices formed by hot melt extrusion. Solid dispersions of a poorly soluble drug were prepared using PVP-K30, Plasdone-S630, and HPMC-E5 as the polymeric carriers and surfactants as plasticizers. The solid dispersions were produced by hot melt extrusion at temperatures 10 degrees C above and below the glass transition temperature (Tg) of the carrier polymers using a 16 mm-Haake Extruder. The surfactants tested in this study included Tween-80 and Docusate Sodium. The particle size of the extrudate was reduced to have mean of 100-200 micron. The physical stability of the solid dispersions produced was monitored at 30 degrees C/60% for six-months and at 60 degrees C/85% for two-months in open HDPE bottles. Modulated differential scanning calorimetry, polarized light microscopy, powder X-ray diffraction and dissolution testing was performed to assess the physical stability of solid dispersions upon stress testing. The dispersions containing HPMC-E5 were observed especially to be susceptible to physical instability under an accelerated stress conditions (60 degrees C/85%RH) of the solid dispersion. About 6% conversion of amorphous drug to crystalline form was observed. Consequently, the system exhibits similar degree of re-crystallization upon addition of the surfactant. However, under 30 degrees C/60%RH condition, the otherwise amorphous Drug-HPMC-E5 system has been destabilized by the addition of the surfactant. This effect is much more reduced in the extruded solid dispersions where polymeric carriers such as Plasdone S-603 and PVP-K30 (in addition to surfactants) are present. Furthermore, the drug release from the solid dispersions was unaffected at the stress conditions reported above. Possible reasons for the enhanced stability of the dispersions are due to the surfactants ability to lower the viscosity of the melt, increase the API solubility and homogeneity in the carrier polymer. In contrast, while it is possible for the surfactants to destabilize the system by lowering the Tg and increasing the water uptake, the study confirms that this effect is minimal. By and large, the surfactants appear to be promising plasticizers to produce solid dispersions by hot melt extrusion, in so doing improving dissolution rate without compromising the physical stability of the systems.

  18. Hair drug testing results and self-reported drug use among primary care patients with moderate-risk illicit drug use.

    PubMed

    Gryczynski, Jan; Schwartz, Robert P; Mitchell, Shannon Gwin; O'Grady, Kevin E; Ondersma, Steven J

    2014-08-01

    This study sought to examine the utility of hair testing as a research measure of drug use among individuals with moderate-risk drug use based on the internationally validated Alcohol, Smoking, and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST). This study is a secondary analysis using baseline data from a randomized trial of brief intervention for drug misuse, in which 360 adults with moderate-risk drug use were recruited from two community clinics in New Mexico, USA. The current study compared self-reported drug use on the ASSIST with laboratory analysis of hair samples using a standard commercially available 5-panel test with assay screening and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) confirmation. Both self-report and hair testing covered a 3-month period. Overall concordance between hair testing and self-report was 57.5% (marijuana), 86.5% (cocaine), 85.8% (amphetamines), and 74.3% (opioids). Specificity of hair testing at standard laboratory cut-offs exceeded 90% for all drugs, but sensitivity of hair testing relative to self-report was low, identifying only 52.3% (127/243) of self-disclosed marijuana users, 65.2% (30/46) of cocaine users, 24.2% (8/33) of amphetamine users, and 2.9% (2/68) of opioid users. Among participants who disclosed using marijuana or cocaine in the past 3 months, participants with a negative hair test tended to report lower-frequency use of those drugs (p<.001 for marijuana and cocaine). Hair testing can be useful in studies with moderate-risk drug users, but the potential for under-identification of low-frequency use suggests that researchers should consider employing low detection cut-offs and using hair testing in conjunction with self-report. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  19. Hair Drug Testing Results and Self-reported Drug Use among Primary Care Patients with Moderate-risk Illicit Drug Use

    PubMed Central

    Gryczynski, Jan; Schwartz, Robert P.; Mitchell, Shannon Gwin; O’Grady, Kevin E.; Ondersma, Steven J.

    2014-01-01

    Background This study sought to examine the utility of hair testing as a research measure of drug use among individuals with moderate-risk drug use based on the internationally-validated Alcohol, Smoking, and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST). Methods This study is a secondary analysis using baseline data from a randomized trial of brief intervention for drug misuse, in which 360 adults with moderate-risk drug use were recruited from two community clinics in New Mexico, USA. The current study compared self-reported drug use on the ASSIST with laboratory analysis of hair samples using a standard commercially-available 5-panel test with assay screening and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) confirmation. Both self-report and hair testing covered a 3 month period. Results Overall concordance between hair testing and self-report was 57.5% (marijuana), 86.5% (cocaine), 85.8% (amphetamines), and 74.3% (opioids). Specificity of hair testing at standard laboratory cut-offs exceeded 90% for all drugs, but sensitivity of hair testing relative to self-report was low, identifying only 52.3% (127/243) of self-disclosed marijuana users, 65.2% (30/46) of cocaine users, 24.2% (8/33) of amphetamine users, and 2.9% (2/68) of opioid users. Among participants who disclosed using marijuana or cocaine in the past 3 months, participants with a negative hair test tended to report lower-frequency use of those drugs (p< .001 for marijuana and cocaine). Conclusions Hair testing can be useful in studies with moderate-risk drug users, but the potential for under-identification of low-frequency use suggests that researchers should consider employing low detection cut-offs and using hair testing in conjunction with self-report. PMID:24932945

  20. Effect of particle size of drug on conversion of crystals to an amorphous state in a solid dispersion with crospovidone.

    PubMed

    Sugamura, Yuka; Fujii, Makiko; Nakanishi, Sayaka; Suzuki, Ayako; Shibata, Yusuke; Koizumi, Naoya; Watanabe, Yoshiteru

    2011-01-01

    The effect of particle size on amorphization of drugs in a solid dispersion (SD) was investigated for two drugs, indomethacin (IM) and nifedipine (NP). The SD of drugs were prepared in a mixture with crospovidone by a variety of mechanical methods, and their properties investigated by particle sizing, thermal analysis, and powder X-ray diffraction. IM, which had an initial particle size of 1 µm and tends to aggregate, was forced through a sieve to break up the particles. NP, which had a large initial particle size, was jet-milled. In both cases, reduction of the particle size of the drugs enabled transition to an amorphous state below the melting point of the drug. The reduction in particle size is considered to enable increased contact between the crospovidone and drug particles, increasing interactions between the two compounds. © 2011 Pharmaceutical Society of Japan

  1. Validating Self-Reports of Illegal Drug Use to Evaluate National Drug Control Policy: A Reanalysis and Critique

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Magura, Stephen

    2010-01-01

    Illicit drug use remains at high levels in the U.S. The federal Office of National Drug Control Policy evaluates the outcomes of national drug demand reduction policies by assessing annual changes in drug use from several federally sponsored annual national surveys. Such survey methods, relying exclusively on drug use as self-reported on…

  2. Structural investigation of chitosan-based microspheres with some anti-inflammatory drugs

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dreve, Simina; Kacso, Iren; Popa, Adriana; Raita, Oana; Dragan, Felicia; Bende, A.; Borodi, Gh.; Bratu, I.

    2011-06-01

    The use of chitosan as an excipient in oral formulations, as a drug delivery vehicle for ulcerogenic anti-inflammatory drugs and as base in polyelectrolyte complex systems, to prepare solid release systems as sponges was investigated. The preparation by double emulsification of chitosan hydrogels carrying diclofenac, acetyl-salycilic acid and hydrocortisone acetate as anti-inflammatory drugs is reported. The concentration of anti-inflammatory drug in the chitosan hydrogel generating the sponges was 0.08 mmol. Chitosan-drug loaded sponges with anti-inflammatory drugs were prepared by freeze-drying at -60 °C and 0.009 atm. Structural investigations of the solid formulations were done by Fourier-transformed infrared and ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, spectrofluorimetry, differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray diffractometry. The results indicated that the drug molecules are forming temporary chelates in chitosan hydrogels and sponges. Electron paramagnetic resonance demonstrates the presence of free radicals in a wide range and the antioxidant activity for chitosan-drug supramolecular cross-linked assemblies.

  3. 21 CFR 882.4800 - Self-retaining retractor for neurosurgery.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Self-retaining retractor for neurosurgery. 882.4800 Section 882.4800 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) MEDICAL DEVICES NEUROLOGICAL DEVICES Neurological Surgical Devices § 882.4800 Self...

  4. 21 CFR 882.4800 - Self-retaining retractor for neurosurgery.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Self-retaining retractor for neurosurgery. 882.4800 Section 882.4800 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) MEDICAL DEVICES NEUROLOGICAL DEVICES Neurological Surgical Devices § 882.4800 Self...

  5. 76 FR 58018 - Draft Guidance for Industry on Self-Selection Studies for Nonprescription Drug Products...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-09-19

    ...] Draft Guidance for Industry on Self-Selection Studies for Nonprescription Drug Products; Availability...) is announcing the availability of a draft guidance for industry entitled ``Self-Selection Studies for Nonprescription Drug Products.'' The draft guidance is intended to provide recommendations to industry on the...

  6. 21 CFR 206.3 - Definitions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 4 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Definitions. 206.3 Section 206.3 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) DRUGS: GENERAL IMPRINTING OF SOLID ORAL DOSAGE FORM DRUG PRODUCTS FOR HUMAN USE § 206.3 Definitions. The following...

  7. Validity of injecting drug users' self report of hepatitis A, B, and C.

    PubMed

    Schlicting, Erin G; Johnson, Mark E; Brems, Christiane; Wells, Rebecca S; Fisher, Dennis G; Reynolds, Grace

    2003-01-01

    To test the validity of drug users self-reports of diseases associated with drug use, in this case hepatitis A, B, and C. Injecting drug users (n = 653) were recruited and asked whether they had been diagnosed previously with hepatitis A, B, and/or C. These self-report data were compared to total hepatitis A antibody, hepatitis B core antibody, and hepatitis C antibody seromarkers as a means of determining the validity of the self-reported information. Anchorage, Alaska. Criteria for inclusion included being at least 18-years old; testing positive on urinalysis for cocaine metabolites, amphetamine, or morphine; having visible signs of injection (track marks). Serological testing for hepatitis A, B, and C. Findings indicate high specificity, low sensitivity, and low kappa coefficients for all three self-report measures. Subgroup analyses revealed significant differences in sensitivity associated with previous substance abuse treatment experience for hepatitis B self-report and with gender for hepatitis C self-report. Given the low sensitivity, the validity of drug users, self-reported information on hepatitis should be considered with caution.

  8. Molecular insights into early stage aggregation of di-Fmoc-L-lysine in binary mixture of organic solvent and water

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Huda, Md Masrul; Rai, Neeraj

    Molecular gels are relatively new class of soft materials, which are formed by the supramolecular aggregation of low molecular weight gelators (LMWGs) in organic solvents and/or water. Hierarchical self-assembly of small gelator molecules lead to three-dimensional complex fibrillar networks, which restricts the flow of solvents and results in viscous solid like materials or gels. These gels have drawn significant attentions for their potential applications for drug delivery, tissue engineering, materials for sensors etc. As of now, self-assembly of gelator molecules into one-dimensional fibers is not well understood, although that is very important to design new gelators for desired applications. Here, we present molecular dynamics study that provides molecular level insight into early stage aggregation of selected gelator, di-Fmoc-L-lysine in binary mixture of organic solvent and water. We will present the role of different functional groups of gelator molecule such as aromatic ring, amide, and carboxylic group on aggregation. We will also present the effect of concentrations of gelator and solvent on self-assembly of gelators. This study has captured helical fiber growth and branching of fiber, which is in good agreement with experimental observations.

  9. Utilization of self-medication and prescription drugs among 15-year-old children from the German GINIplus birth cohort.

    PubMed

    Italia, Salvatore; Brand, Helmut; Heinrich, Joachim; Berdel, Dietrich; von Berg, Andrea; Wolfenstetter, Silke Britta

    2015-11-01

    The objective was to analyse paediatric drug utilization in relation to self-medication, prescription drugs, and the most reported therapeutic drug categories. Data were collected for 3013 children on their utilization of drugs (4-week prevalence) from a German birth cohort study (GINIplus, 15-year follow-up) using a self-administered questionnaire. The drugs were grouped into over-the-counter drugs and prescription drugs, and were classified according to the anatomical therapeutic chemical classification system. Predictors were analysed using a logistic regression model with four independent variables (gender, study area, maternal education, and parental income). Some 69% of the reported 2489 drugs were over-the-counter drugs, and 31% were prescription drugs. The 4-week prevalence for using any type of drug was 41.0%. Drug categories with high prevalence rates of use were antiinflammatory drugs (10.3%), analgesics (7.1%), and antiallergics (5.0%). Factors associated with higher use of over-the-counter drugs were female gender (OR = 1.56, p < 0.0001) and higher maternal education (OR = 1.60, p = 0.0021; university degree vs. secondary high school). Maternal education was correlated with the use of prescribed or self-medicated antiallergics (positive association) and contraceptives (negative association). The use of antibiotics, methylphenidate, and drugs for thyroid therapy was associated with lower parental income. The use of over-the-counter drugs in 15-year-old children from the GINIplus birth cohort is very common and is predicted by socioeconomic factors such as maternal education. This has to be considered by health care managers when deciding about the exclusion of over-the-counter drugs (normally used for self-medication) from reimbursement or the deregulation of drug sales. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  10. Formulation and evaluation of chitosan solid lipid nanoparticles of carbamazepine.

    PubMed

    Nair, Rahul; Kumar, Ashok C K; Priya, Vishnu K; Yadav, Chakrapani M; Raju, Prasanna Y

    2012-06-13

    The present work aims at preparing aqueous suspension of Solid lipid Nanoparticles containing Chitosan (CT) which is a biopolymer that exhibits a number of interesting properties which include controlled drug delivery. Carbamezapine (CBZ) is a lipophilic drug which shows it antiepileptic activity by inactivating sodium channels. The solid lipid Nanoparticles (SLN) of Chitosan-CBZ were prepared by using solvent injection method using ethanol as organic solvent. The prepared SLN formulations exhibited high encapsulation efficiency, high physical stability. The drug incorporated SLNs have demonstrated that the controlled release patterns of the drug for prolonged period. The prepared SLNs were characterized for surface morphology by SEM analysis, entrapment efficiency, zeta potential, FTIR, DSC and In-vitro diffusion studies. The hydrodynamic mean diameter and zeta potential were 168.7 ± 1.8 nm and -28.9 ± 2.0 mV for SLN-chitosan-CBZ respectively. Therefore chitosan-SLN can be good candidates to encapsulate CBZ and to increase its therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of Epilepsy.

  11. Formulation and evaluation of chitosan solid lipid nanoparticles of carbamazepine

    PubMed Central

    2012-01-01

    The present work aims at preparing aqueous suspension of Solid lipid Nanoparticles containing Chitosan (CT) which is a biopolymer that exhibits a number of interesting properties which include controlled drug delivery. Carbamezapine (CBZ) is a lipophilic drug which shows it antiepileptic activity by inactivating sodium channels. The solid lipid Nanoparticles (SLN) of Chitosan-CBZ were prepared by using solvent injection method using ethanol as organic solvent. The prepared SLN formulations exhibited high encapsulation efficiency, high physical stability. The drug incorporated SLNs have demonstrated that the controlled release patterns of the drug for prolonged period. The prepared SLNs were characterized for surface morphology by SEM analysis, entrapment efficiency, zeta potential, FTIR, DSC and In-vitro diffusion studies. The hydrodynamic mean diameter and zeta potential were 168.7 ±1.8 nm and −28.9 ±2.0 mV for SLN-chitosan-CBZ respectively. Therefore chitosan-SLN can be good candidates to encapsulate CBZ and to increase its therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of Epilepsy. PMID:22695222

  12. Investigating the Dissolution Performance of Amorphous Solid Dispersions Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Proton NMR.

    PubMed

    Tres, Francesco; Coombes, Steven R; Phillips, Andrew R; Hughes, Leslie P; Wren, Stephen A C; Aylott, Jonathan W; Burley, Jonathan C

    2015-09-10

    We have investigated the dissolution performance of amorphous solid dispersions of poorly water-soluble bicalutamide in a Kollidon VA64 polymeric matrix as a function of the drug loading (5% vs. 30% bicalutamide). A combined suite of state-of-the-art analytical techniques were employed to obtain a clear picture of the drug release, including an integrated magnetic resonance imaging UV-Vis flow cell system and 1H-NMR. Off-line 1H-NMR was used for the first time to simultaneously measure the dissolution profiles and rates of both the drug and the polymer from a solid dispersion. MRI and 1H-NMR data showed that the 5% drug loading compact erodes linearly, and that bicalutamide and Kollidon VA64 are released at approximately the same rate from the molecular dispersion. For the 30% extrudate, data indicated a slower water ingress into the compact which corresponds to a slower dissolution rate of both bicalutamide and Kollidon VA64.

  13. Can consumers self-select for appropriate use of an over-the-counter statin? The Self Evaluation of Lovastatin to Enhance Cholesterol Treatment Study.

    PubMed

    Brass, Eric P; Vassil, Theodore; Replogle, Amy; Hwang, Peggy; Rusche, Steven; Shiffman, Saul; Levine, Jeffrey G

    2008-05-15

    Access to over-the-counter (OTC) statins has the potential to improve public health by reducing cardiovascular events. The Self Evaluation of Lovastatin to Enhance Cholesterol Treatment (SELECT) Study was designed to assess consumers' ability to self-select for treatment with lovastatin in an unsupervised setting. Subjects examined proposed OTC lovastatin cartons with labels that detailed an algorithm for self-selection based on age, lipid profile, and cardiovascular risk factors. Subjects viewed a carton with either a low-density lipoprotein cholesterol-based self-selection algorithm or one based on total cholesterol. Labels also contained warnings against use based on health conditions that might increase the risk of adverse events. Subjects were asked if the drug was appropriate for their use (self-assessment) and whether they would like to purchase the drug (purchase decision). A total of 1,326 consumers provided self-assessment decisions. After viewing the low-density lipoprotein cholesterol-based label, 82%, 36%, and 82% of those who self-assessed that the drug was appropriate for their use were correct with respect to the age, lipid, and risk-factor criteria, respectively. Corresponding numbers for the total cholesterol algorithm were 85%, 50% and 75%. Almost 90% of women aged <55 years who evaluated the drug indicated the drug was not right for them, and women in this age group made up only 9% of the total group of subjects who believed the drug was appropriate for their use. The label was also effective in discouraging use by women who were or may become pregnant, consumers with liver disease, and those with potential drug interactions. In conclusion, SELECT showed that consumers could use an OTC drug label in an unsupervised setting to appropriately self-select for self-management of their cholesterol with lovastatin.

  14. Self-built supercritical CO2 anti-solvent unit design, construction and operation using carbamazepine.

    PubMed

    Meng, Dan; Falconer, James; Krauel-Goellner, Karen; Chen, John J J J; Farid, Mohammed; Alany, Raid G

    2008-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to design and build a supercritical CO(2) anti-solvent (SAS) unit and use it to produce microparticles of the class II drug carbamazepine. The operation conditions of the constructed unit affected the carbamazepine yield. Optimal conditions were: organic solution flow rate of 0.15 mL/min, CO(2) flow rate of 7.5 mL/min, pressure of 4,200 psi, over 3,000 s and at 33 degrees C. The drug solid-state characteristics, morphology and size distribution were examined before and after processing using X-ray powder diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry, scanning electron microscopy and laser diffraction particle size analysis, respectively. The in vitro dissolution of the treated particles was investigated and compared to that of untreated particles. Results revealed a change in the crystalline structure of carbamazepine with different polymorphs co-existing under various operation conditions. Scanning electron micrographs showed a change in the crystalline habit from the prismatic into bundled whiskers, fibers and filaments. The volume weighted diameter was reduced from 209 to 29 mum. Furthermore, the SAS CO(2) process yielded particles with significantly improved in vitro dissolution. Further research is needed to optimize the operation conditions of the self-built unit to maximize the production yield and produce a uniform polymorphic form of carbamazepine.

  15. Self-emulsifying excipient platform for improving technological properties of alginate-hydroxypropylcellulose pellets.

    PubMed

    Mannina, Paolo; Segale, Lorena; Giovannelli, Lorella; Bonda, Andrea Foglio; Pattarino, Franco

    2016-02-29

    In this work, alginate, alginate-pectin and alginate-hydroxypropylcellulose pellets were produced by ionotropic gelation and characterized. Ibuprofen was selected as model drug; it was suspended in the polymeric solution in crystalline form or dissolved in a self-emulsifying phase and then dispersed into the polymeric solution. The self-emulsifying excipient platform composed of Labrasol (PEG-8 caprylic/capric glycerides) and d-α-tocopherol polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate (TPGS), able to solubilize the drug was used to improve the technological and biopharmaceutical properties of the alginate pellets. The pellets had diameters between 1317 and 2026 μm and a high drug content (>51%). DSC analysis showed the amorphous state of drug in the pellets containing the self-emulsifying phase. All the systems restricted drug release in conditions simulating the gastric environment and made the drug completely available at a pH value typical for the intestine. Only alginate-HPC systems containing the drug solubilized into the self-emulsifying phase showed the ability to partially control the release of ibuprofen at neutral pH. The self-emulsifying excipient platform is a useful tool to improve technological and biopharmaceutical properties of alginate-HPC pellets. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  16. Preparation and Evaluation of Solid Dispersion Tablets by a Simple and Manufacturable Wet Granulation Method Using Porous Calcium Silicate.

    PubMed

    Fujimoto, Yumi; Hirai, Nobuaki; Takatani-Nakase, Tomoka; Takahashi, Koichi

    2016-01-01

    The aim of this study was to prepare and evaluate solid dispersion tablets containing a poorly water-soluble drug using porous calcium silicate (PCS) by a wet granulation method. Nifedipine (NIF) was used as the model poorly water-soluble drug. Solid dispersion tablets were prepared with the wet granulation method using ethanol and water by a high-speed mixer granulator. The binder and disintegrant were selected from 7 and 4 candidates, respectively. The dissolution test was conducted using the JP 16 paddle method. The oral absorption of NIF was studied in fasted rats. Xylitol and crospovidone were selected as the binder and disintegrant, respectively. The dissolution rates of NIF from solid dispersion formulations were markedly enhanced compared with NIF powder and physical mixtures. Powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) confirmed the reduced crystallinity of NIF in the solid dispersion formulations. Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) showed the physical interaction between NIF and PCS in the solid dispersion formulations. NIF is present in an amorphous state in granules prepared by the wet granulation method using water. The area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC) and peak concentration (C(max)) values of NIF after dosing rats with the solid dispersion granules were significantly greater than those after dosing with NIF powder. The solid dispersion formulations of NIF prepared with PCS using the wet granulation method exhibited accelerated dissolution rates and superior oral bioavailability. This method is very simple, and may be applicable to the development of other poorly water-soluble drugs.

  17. 'At-risk' individuals' responses to direct to consumer advertising of prescription drugs: a nationally representative cross-sectional study.

    PubMed

    Khalil Zadeh, Neda; Robertson, Kirsten; Green, James A

    2017-12-06

    The factors determining individuals' self-reported behavioural responses to direct to consumer advertising of prescription drugs were explored with an emphasis on 'at-risk' individuals' responses. Nationally representative cross-sectional survey. Community living adults in New Zealand. 2057 adults (51% women). Self-reported behavioural responses to drug advertising (asking a physician for a prescription, asking a physician for more information about an illness, searching the internet for more information regarding an illness and asking a pharmacist for more information about a drug). Multivariate logistic regressions determined whether participants' self-reported behavioural responses to drug advertising were predicted by attitudes towards advertising and drug advertising, judgements about safety and effectiveness of advertised drugs, self-reported health status, materialism, online search behaviour as well as demographic variables. Identifying as Indian and to a less extent Chinese, Māori and 'other' ethnicities were the strongest predictors of one or more self-reported responses (ORs 1.76-5.00, Ps < 0.05). Poorer self-reported health status (ORs 0.90-0.94, all Ps<0.05), favourable attitude towards drug advertising (ORs 1.34-1.61, all Ps<0.001) and searching for medical information online (ORs 1.32-2.35, all Ps<0.01) predicted all self-reported behavioural outcomes. Older age (ORs 1.01-1.02, Ps<0.01), less education (OR 0.89, P<0.01), lower income (ORs 0.89-0.91, Ps<0.05) and higher materialism (ORs 1.02-1.03, Ps<0.01) also predicted one or more self-reported responses. Taken together, the findings suggest individuals, especially those who are 'at-risk' (ie, with poorer self-reported health status, older, less educated, lower income and ethnic minorities), may be more vulnerable to drug advertising and may make uninformed decisions accordingly. The outcomes raise significant concerns relating to the ethicality of drug advertising and suggest a need for stricter guidelines to ensure that drug advertisements provided by pharmaceutical companies are ethical. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2017. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

  18. ‘At-risk’ individuals’ responses to direct to consumer advertising of prescription drugs: a nationally representative cross-sectional study

    PubMed Central

    2017-01-01

    Objectives The factors determining individuals’ self-reported behavioural responses to direct to consumer advertising of prescription drugs were explored with an emphasis on ‘at-risk’ individuals’ responses. Design Nationally representative cross-sectional survey. Setting Community living adults in New Zealand. Participants 2057 adults (51% women). Primary outcome measures Self-reported behavioural responses to drug advertising (asking a physician for a prescription, asking a physician for more information about an illness, searching the internet for more information regarding an illness and asking a pharmacist for more information about a drug). Methods Multivariate logistic regressions determined whether participants’ self-reported behavioural responses to drug advertising were predicted by attitudes towards advertising and drug advertising, judgements about safety and effectiveness of advertised drugs, self-reported health status, materialism, online search behaviour as well as demographic variables. Results Identifying as Indian and to a less extent Chinese, Māori and ‘other’ ethnicities were the strongest predictors of one or more self-reported responses (ORs 1.76–5.00, Ps<0.05). Poorer self-reported health status (ORs 0.90–0.94, all Ps<0.05), favourable attitude towards drug advertising (ORs 1.34–1.61, all Ps<0.001) and searching for medical information online (ORs 1.32–2.35, all Ps<0.01) predicted all self-reported behavioural outcomes. Older age (ORs 1.01–1.02, Ps<0.01), less education (OR 0.89, P<0.01), lower income (ORs 0.89–0.91, Ps<0.05) and higher materialism (ORs 1.02–1.03, Ps<0.01) also predicted one or more self-reported responses. Conclusions Taken together, the findings suggest individuals, especially those who are ‘at-risk’ (ie, with poorer self-reported health status, older, less educated, lower income and ethnic minorities), may be more vulnerable to drug advertising and may make uninformed decisions accordingly. The outcomes raise significant concerns relating to the ethicality of drug advertising and suggest a need for stricter guidelines to ensure that drug advertisements provided by pharmaceutical companies are ethical. PMID:29217723

  19. Investigation of in situ gelling alginate formulations as a sustained release vehicle for co-precipitates of dextromethrophan and Eudragit S 100.

    PubMed

    El Maghraby, Gamal Mohamed; Elzayat, Ehab Mostafa; Alanazi, Fars Kaed

    2014-03-01

    Alginate vehicles are capable of forming a gel matrix in situ when they come into contact with gastric medium in the presence of calcium ions. However, the gel structure is pH dependent and can break after gastric emptying, leading to dose dumping. The aim of this work was to develop modified in situ gelling alginate formulations capable of sustaining dextromethorphan release throughout the gastrointestinal tract. Alginate solution (2 %, m/m) was used as a vehicle for the tested formulations. Solid matrix of the drug and Eudragit S 100 was prepared by dissolving the drug and polymer in acetone. The organic solvent was then evaporated and the deposited solid matrix was micronized, sieved and dispersed in alginate solution to obtain candidate formulations. The release behavior of dextromethorphan was monitored and evaluated in a medium simulating the gastric and intestinal pH. Drug-polymer compatibility and possible solid-state interactions suggested physical interaction through hydrogen bonding between the drug and the polymer. A significant decrease in the rate and extent of dextromethorphan release was observed with increasing Eudragit S 100 concentration in the prepared particles. Most formulations showed sustained release profiles similar to that of a commercial sustained-release liquid based on ion exchange resin. The release pattern indicated strict control of drug release both under gastric and intestinal conditions, suggesting the potential advantage of using a solid dispersion of drug-Eudragit S 100 to overcome the problem of dose dumping after the rupture of the pH dependent alginate gels.

  20. Evaluation of accelerated stability test conditions for medicated chewing gums.

    PubMed

    Maggi, Lauretta; Conte, Ubaldo; Nhamias, Alain; Grenier, Pascal; Vergnault, Guy

    2013-10-01

    The overall stability of medicated chewing gums is investigated under different storage conditions. Active substances with different chemical stabilities in solid state are chosen as model drugs. The dosage form is a three layer tablet obtained by direct compression. The gum core contains the active ingredient while the external layers are formulated to prevent gum adhesion to the punches of the tableting machine. Two accelerated test conditions (40°C/75% RH and 30°C/65% RH) are performed for 6 months. Furthermore, a long-term stability test at room conditions is conducted to verify the predictability of the results obtained from the stress tests. Some drugs are stable in all the conditions tested, but other drugs, generally considered stable in solid dosage forms, have shown relevant stability problems particularly when stress test conditions are applied to this particular semi-solid dosage forms. For less stable drugs, the stress conditions of 40°C/75% RH are not always predictable of chewing gum stability at room temperature and may produce false negative; intermediate conditions, 30°C/65% RH, are more predictive for this purpose, the results of drug content found after 6 months at intermediate stress conditions and 12 months at room conditions are generally comparable. But the results obtained show that only long-term conditions stability tests gave consistent results. During aging, the semi solid nature of the gum base itself, may also influence the drug delivery rate during chewing and great attention should be given also to the dissolution stability.

  1. A novel osmotic pump-based controlled delivery system consisting of pH-modulated solid dispersion for poorly soluble drug flurbiprofen: in vitro and in vivo evaluation.

    PubMed

    Li, Shujuan; Wang, Xiaoyu; Wang, Yingying; Zhao, Qianqian; Zhang, Lina; Yang, Xinggang; Liu, Dandan; Pan, Weisan

    2015-01-01

    In this study, a novel controlled release osmotic pump capsule consisting of pH-modulated solid dispersion for poorly soluble drug flurbiprofen (FP) was developed to improve the solubility and oral bioavailability of FP and to minimize the fluctuation of plasma concentration. The pH-modulated solid dispersion containing FP, Kollidon® 12 PF and Na2CO3 at a weight ratio of 1/4.5/0.02 was prepared using the solvent evaporation method. The osmotic pump capsule was assembled by semi-permeable capsule shell of cellulose acetate (CA) prepared by the perfusion method. Then, the solid dispersion, penetration enhancer, and suspending agents were tableted and filled into the capsule. Central composite design-response surface methodology was used to evaluate the influence of factors on the responses. A second-order polynomial model and a multiple linear model were fitted to correlation coefficient of drug release profile and ultimate cumulative release in 12 h, respectively. The actual response values were in good accordance with the predicted ones. The optimized formulation showed a complete drug delivery and zero-order release rate. Beagle dogs were used to be conducted in the pharmacokinetic study. The in vivo study indicated that the relative bioavailability of the novel osmotic pump system was 133.99% compared with the commercial preparation. The novel controlled delivery system with combination of pH-modulated solid dispersion and osmotic pump system is not only a promising strategy to improve the solubility and oral bioavailability of poorly soluble ionizable drugs but also an effective way to reduce dosing frequency and minimize the plasma fluctuation.

  2. Solubilization of the poorly water soluble drug, telmisartan, using supercritical anti-solvent (SAS) process.

    PubMed

    Park, Junsung; Cho, Wonkyung; Cha, Kwang-Ho; Ahn, Junhyun; Han, Kang; Hwang, Sung-Joo

    2013-01-30

    Telmisartan is a biopharmaceutical classification system (BCS) class II drug that has extremely low water solubility but is freely soluble in highly alkalized solutions. Few organic solvents can dissolve telmisartan. This solubility problem is the main obstacle achieving the desired bioavailability. Because of its unique characteristics, the supercritical anti-solvent (SAS) process was used to BCS class II drug in a variety of ways including micronization, amorphization and solid dispersion. Solid dispersions were prepared using hydroxypropylmethylcellulose/polyvinylpyrrolidone (HPMC/PVP) at 1:0.5, 1:1, and 1:2 weight ratios of drug to polymer, and pure telmisartan was also treated using the SAS process. Processed samples were characterized for morphology, particle size, crystallinity, solubility, dissolution rate and polymorphic stability. After the SAS process, all samples were converted to the amorphous form and were confirmed to be hundreds nm in size. Solubility and dissolution rate were increased compared to the raw material. Solubility tended to increase with increases in the amount of polymer used. However, unlike the solubility results, the dissolution rate decreased with increases in polymer concentration due to gel layer formation of the polymer. Processed pure telmisartan showed the best drug release even though it had lower solubility compared to other solid dispersions; however, because there were no stabilizers in processed pure telmisartan, it recrystallized after 1 month under severe conditions, while the other solid dispersion samples remained amorphous form. We conclude that after controlling the formulation of solid dispersion, the SAS process could be a promising approach for improving the solubility and dissolution rate of telmisartan. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  3. Physical stabilization of low-molecular-weight amorphous drugs in the solid state: a material science approach.

    PubMed

    Qi, Sheng; McAuley, William J; Yang, Ziyi; Tipduangta, Pratchaya

    2014-07-01

    Use of the amorphous state is considered to be one of the most effective approaches for improving the dissolution and subsequent oral bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs. However as the amorphous state has much higher physical instability in comparison with its crystalline counterpart, stabilization of amorphous drugs in a solid-dosage form presents a major challenge to formulators. The currently used approaches for stabilizing amorphous drug are discussed in this article with respect to their preparation, mechanism of stabilization and limitations. In order to realize the potential of amorphous formulations, significant efforts are required to enable the prediction of formulation performance. This will facilitate the development of computational tools that can inform a rapid and rational formulation development process for amorphous drugs.

  4. Extreme Activity of Drug Nanocrystals Coated with A Layer of Non-Covalent Polymers from Self-Assembled Boric Acid

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhan, Honglei; Liang, Jun F.

    2016-12-01

    Non-covalent polymers have remarkable advantages over synthetic polymers for wide biomedical applications. In this study, non-covalent polymers from self-assembled boric acid were used as the capping reagent to replace synthetic polymers in drug crystallization. Under acidic pH, boric acid self-assembled on the surface of drug nanocrystals to form polymers with network-like structures held together by hydrogen bonds. Coating driven by boric acid self-assembly had negligible effects on drug crystallinity and structure but resulted in drug nanocrystals with excellent dispersion properties that aided in the formation of a more stable suspension. Boric acid coating improved drug stability dramatically by preventing drug molecules from undergoing water hydrolysis in a neutral environment. More importantly, the specific reactivity of orthoboric groups to diols in cell glycocalyx facilitated a rapid cross-membrane translocation of drug nanocrystals, leading to efficient intracellular drug delivery, especially on cancer cells with highly expressed sialic acids. Boric acid coated nanocrystals of camptothecin, an anticancer drug with poor aqueous solubility and stability, demonstrated extreme cytotoxic activity (IC50 < 5.0 μg/mL) to cancer cells compared to synthetic polymer coated CPT nanocrystals and free CPT. Surface coating using non-covalent polymers from self-assembled boric acid will have wide biomedical applications especially in biomaterials and drug delivery field.

  5. Extreme Activity of Drug Nanocrystals Coated with A Layer of Non-Covalent Polymers from Self-Assembled Boric Acid.

    PubMed

    Zhan, Honglei; Liang, Jun F

    2016-12-09

    Non-covalent polymers have remarkable advantages over synthetic polymers for wide biomedical applications. In this study, non-covalent polymers from self-assembled boric acid were used as the capping reagent to replace synthetic polymers in drug crystallization. Under acidic pH, boric acid self-assembled on the surface of drug nanocrystals to form polymers with network-like structures held together by hydrogen bonds. Coating driven by boric acid self-assembly had negligible effects on drug crystallinity and structure but resulted in drug nanocrystals with excellent dispersion properties that aided in the formation of a more stable suspension. Boric acid coating improved drug stability dramatically by preventing drug molecules from undergoing water hydrolysis in a neutral environment. More importantly, the specific reactivity of orthoboric groups to diols in cell glycocalyx facilitated a rapid cross-membrane translocation of drug nanocrystals, leading to efficient intracellular drug delivery, especially on cancer cells with highly expressed sialic acids. Boric acid coated nanocrystals of camptothecin, an anticancer drug with poor aqueous solubility and stability, demonstrated extreme cytotoxic activity (IC 50  < 5.0 μg/mL) to cancer cells compared to synthetic polymer coated CPT nanocrystals and free CPT. Surface coating using non-covalent polymers from self-assembled boric acid will have wide biomedical applications especially in biomaterials and drug delivery field.

  6. Extreme Activity of Drug Nanocrystals Coated with A Layer of Non-Covalent Polymers from Self-Assembled Boric Acid

    PubMed Central

    Zhan, Honglei; Liang, Jun F.

    2016-01-01

    Non-covalent polymers have remarkable advantages over synthetic polymers for wide biomedical applications. In this study, non-covalent polymers from self-assembled boric acid were used as the capping reagent to replace synthetic polymers in drug crystallization. Under acidic pH, boric acid self-assembled on the surface of drug nanocrystals to form polymers with network-like structures held together by hydrogen bonds. Coating driven by boric acid self-assembly had negligible effects on drug crystallinity and structure but resulted in drug nanocrystals with excellent dispersion properties that aided in the formation of a more stable suspension. Boric acid coating improved drug stability dramatically by preventing drug molecules from undergoing water hydrolysis in a neutral environment. More importantly, the specific reactivity of orthoboric groups to diols in cell glycocalyx facilitated a rapid cross-membrane translocation of drug nanocrystals, leading to efficient intracellular drug delivery, especially on cancer cells with highly expressed sialic acids. Boric acid coated nanocrystals of camptothecin, an anticancer drug with poor aqueous solubility and stability, demonstrated extreme cytotoxic activity (IC50 < 5.0 μg/mL) to cancer cells compared to synthetic polymer coated CPT nanocrystals and free CPT. Surface coating using non-covalent polymers from self-assembled boric acid will have wide biomedical applications especially in biomaterials and drug delivery field. PMID:27934922

  7. [Knowledge, attitudes, and behaviour of the population of the Czech Republic to self-medication. III: behaviour in the area of drugs and self-medication].

    PubMed

    Drhová, L

    2005-09-01

    A large survey carried out from June to September 2002 in the territory of the Czech Republic found and analyzed the knowledge of the population of the Czech Republic in relation to self-medication and o-t-c drugs and revealed the main problematic areas from the viewpoint of the public. The survey was particularly focused on the behaviour of people in relation to packaging of OTC drugs and drug information sheets, expiration period of medicaments-advertisements for OTC drugs in the media, most frequently selected indications for self-medication, self-medication in small children, financial participation in self-medication and the resultant compliance or non-compliance, and the price of the OTC drug and dosage. The results show that 68% of respondents are able to take a medicine after its expiration period. An o-t-c drug would be bought just on the basis of television advertising by 7% of respondents, and more than a half of the respondents (57%) stated they would first consult their physician or pharmacist. In the case of a sudden ailment of a one-year-old child, 80% of respondents stated that they would contact the physician, 8% opted for self-medication. Under the assumption that an OTC drug is covered by health insurance, 27% of respondents would go to the physician, though they could buy it themselves.

  8. Coadministration of the FNIII14 Peptide Synergistically Augments the Anti-Cancer Activity of Chemotherapeutic Drugs by Activating Pro-Apoptotic Bim

    PubMed Central

    Akari, Shougo; Otsuka, Kazuki; Fujita, Motomichi; Itagaki, Keisuke; Takizawa, You-ichi; Orita, Hiroaki; Owaki, Toshiyuki; Taira, Jyunichi; Hayashi, Ryo; Kodama, Hiroaki; Fukai, Fumio

    2016-01-01

    The acquisition of drug resistance mediated by the interaction of tumor cells with the extracellular matrix (ECM), commonly referred to as cell adhesion-mediated drug resistance (CAM-DR), has been observed not only in hematopoietic tumor cells but also in solid tumor cells. We have previously demonstrated that a 22-mer peptide derived from fibronectin, FNIII14, can inhibit cell adhesion through the inactivation of β1 integrin; when coadministered with cytarabine, FNIII14 completely eradicates acute myelogenous leukemia by suppressing CAM-DR. In this study, we show that our FNIII14 peptide also enhances chemotherapy efficacy in solid tumors. Coadministration of FNIII14 synergistically enhances the cytotoxicity of doxorubicin and aclarubicin in mammary tumor and melanoma cells, respectively. The solid tumor cell chemosensitization induced by FNIII14 is dependent upon the upregulation and activation of the pro-apoptotic protein, Bim. Furthermore, the metastasis of tumor cells derived from ventrally transplanted mammary tumor grafts is suppressed by the coadministration of FNIII14 and doxorubicin. These results suggest that the coadministration of our FNIII14 peptide with chemotherapy could achieve efficient solid tumor eradication by increasing chemosensitivity and decreasing metastasis. The major causes of tumor recurrence are the existence of chemotherapy-resistant primary tumor cells and the establishment of secondary metastatic lesions. As such, coadministering FNIII14 with anti-cancer drugs could provide a promising new approach to improve the prognosis of patients with solid tumors. PMID:27622612

  9. New solid state forms of antineoplastic 5-fluorouracil with anthelmintic piperazine

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Moisescu-Goia, C.; Muresan-Pop, M.; Simon, V.

    2017-12-01

    The aim of the present study was to asses the formation of solid forms between the 5-fluorouracil chemotherapy drug and the anthelmintic piperazine. Two new solid forms of antineoplastic agent 5-fluorouracil with anthelmintic piperazine were obtained by liquid assisted ball milling and slurry crystallization methods. The Nsbnd H hydrogen bonding donors and C = O hydrogen bonding acceptors of 5-fluorouracil allow to form co-crystals with other drugs delivering improved properties for medical applications, as proved for other compounds of pharmaceutical interest. Both new solid forms were investigated using X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), differential thermal analysis (DTA) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The XRD results show that by both methods were successfully synthesized new solid forms of 5-fluorouracil with piperazine. According to FTIR results the form prepared by lichid assisted grinding process was obtained as co-crystal and the other one, prepared by slurry method, resulted as a salt.

  10. In-line NIR spectroscopy for the understanding of polymer-drug interaction during pharmaceutical hot-melt extrusion.

    PubMed

    Saerens, Lien; Dierickx, Lien; Quinten, Thomas; Adriaensens, Peter; Carleer, Robert; Vervaet, Chris; Remon, Jean Paul; De Beer, Thomas

    2012-05-01

    The aim was to evaluate near-infrared spectroscopy for the in-line determination of the drug concentration, the polymer-drug solid-state behaviour and molecular interactions during hot-melt extrusion. Kollidon® SR was extruded with varying metoprolol tartrate (MPT) concentrations (20%, 30% and 40%) and monitored using NIR spectroscopy. A PLS model allowed drug concentration determination. The correlation between predicted and real MPT concentrations was good (R(2)=0.97). The predictive performance of the model was evaluated by the root mean square error of prediction, which was 1.54%. Kollidon® SR with 40% MPT was extruded at 105°C and 135°C to evaluate NIR spectroscopy for in-line polymer-drug solid-state characterisation. NIR spectra indicated the presence of amorphous MPT and hydrogen bonds between drug and polymer in the extrudates. More amorphous MPT and interactions could be found in the extrudates produced at 135°C than at 105°C. Raman spectroscopy, DSC and ATR FT-IR were used to confirm the NIR observations. Due to the instability of the formulation, only in-line Raman spectroscopy was an adequate confirmation tool. NIR spectroscopy is a potential PAT-tool for the in-line determination of API concentration and for the polymer-drug solid-state behaviour monitoring during pharmaceutical hot-melt extrusion. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  11. Relating hydrogen-bonding interactions with the phase behavior of naproxen/PVP K 25 solid dispersions: evaluation of solution-cast and quench-cooled films.

    PubMed

    Paudel, Amrit; Nies, Erik; Van den Mooter, Guy

    2012-11-05

    In this work, we investigated the relationship between various intermolecular hydrogen-bonding (H-bonding) interactions and the miscibility of the model hydrophobic drug naproxen with the hydrophilic polymer polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) across an entire composition range of solid dispersions prepared by quasi-equilibrium film casting and nonequilibrium melt quench cooling. The binary phase behavior in solid dispersions exhibited substantial processing method dependence. The solid state solubility of crystalline naproxen in PVP to form amorphous solid dispersions was 35% and 70% w/w naproxen in solution-cast films and quench-cooled films, respectively. However, the presence of a single mixed phase glass transition indicated the amorphous miscibility to be 20% w/w naproxen for the films, beyond which amorphous-amorphous and/or crystalline phase separations were apparent. This was further supported by the solution state interactions data such as PVP globular size distribution and solution infrared spectral profiles. The borderline melt composition showed cooling rate dependence of amorphization. The glass transition and melting point depression profiles of the system were treated with the analytical expressions based on Flory-Huggins mixing theory to interpolate the equilibrium solid solubility. FTIR analysis and subsequent spectral deconvolution revealed composition and miscibility dependent variations in the strength of drug-polymer intermolecular H-bonding. Two types of H-bonded populations were evidenced from 25% w/w and 35% w/w naproxen in solution-cast films and quench-cooled films, respectively, with the higher fraction of strongly H-bonded population in the drug rich domains of phase separated amorphous film compositions and highly drug loaded amorphous quench-cooled dispersions.

  12. Formation of phenytoin nanoparticles using rapid expansion of supercritical solution with solid cosolvent (RESS-SC) process.

    PubMed

    Thakur, Ranjit; Gupta, Ram B

    2006-02-03

    Nanoparticles are of significant importance in drug delivery. Rapid expansion of supercritical solution (RESS) process can produce pure and high-quality drug particles. However, due to extremely low solubility of polar drugs in supercritical CO(2) (sc CO(2)), RESS has limited commercial applicability. To overcome this major limitation, a modified process rapid expansion of supercritical solution with solid cosolvent (RESS-SC) is proposed which uses a solid cosolvent. Here, the new process is tested for phenytoin drug using menthol solid cosolvent. Phenytoin solubility in pure sc CO(2) is only 3 micromol/mol but when menthol solid cosolvent is used the solubility is enhanced to 1,302 micromol/mol, at 196 bar and 45 degrees C. This 400-fold increase in the solubility can be attributed to the interaction between phenytoin and menthol. Particle agglomeration in expansion zone is another major issue with conventional RESS process. In proposed RESS-SC process solid cosolvent hinders the particle growth resulting in the formation of small nanoparticles. For example, the average particle size of phenytoin in conventional RESS process is 200 nm whereas, with RESS-SC process, the average particle size is 120 nm, at 96 bar and 45 degrees C. Similarly at 196 bar and 45 degrees C, 105 nm average particles were obtained by RESS and 75 nm average particles were obtained in RESS-SC process. The particles obtained were characterized by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), dynamic light scattering (DLS) and differential scanning calorimetery (DSC) analyses. Phenytoin nanoparticle production rate in RESS-SC is about 400-fold more in comparison to that in RESS process.

  13. Enhancement of solubility and antidiabetic effects of Repaglinide using spray drying technique in STZ-induced diabetic rats.

    PubMed

    Varshosaz, Jaleh; Minayian, Mohsen; Ahmadi, Mahdieh; Ghassami, Erfaneh

    2017-09-01

    The purpose of the study was to enhance the solubility of the poorly water-soluble drug, Repaglinide using spray drying based solid dispersion technique by different carriers including Eudragit E100, hydroxyl propyl cellulose Mw 80 000 and poly vinyl pyrollidone K30. Optimization of the best formulation was carried out according to drug solubility, release profile, particle size and angle of repose of the solid dispersions. The optimized sample was characterized using X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The morphology of the dispersions was studied by SEM. The blood glucose lowering effect of spray dried solid dispersions was studied in normal and streptozocin-induced diabetic rats. The results showed that Eudragit E100 in 1:3 ratio could enhance drug solubility by 100-fold. DSC studies indicated a marked change in melting point of the drug possibly due to strong hydrogen bonds between the drug and Eudragit, while FT-IR study did not show obvious interactions between them. According to XRPD results Repaglinide converted to an amorphous state in the spray dried dispersions. Spray dried Repaglinide reduced the blood glucose level significantly during the 8 h of obtaining blood samples in comparison with untreated drug (p < 0.05).

  14. Hydrogen Bonding: Between Strengthening the Crystal Packing and Improving Solubility of Three Haloperidol Derivatives.

    PubMed

    Saluja, Hardeep; Mehanna, Ahmed; Panicucci, Riccardo; Atef, Eman

    2016-06-01

    The purpose of this study is to confirm the impact of polar functional groups on inter and intra-molecular hydrogen bonding in haloperidol (HP) and droperidol (DP) and, hence, their effects on dissolution using a new approach. To confirm our theory, a new molecule: deshydroxy-haloperidol (DHP) was designed and its synthesis was requested from a contract laboratory. The molecule was then studied and compared to DP and HP. Unlike DHP, both the HP and DP molecules have hydrogen donor groups, therefore, DHP was used to confirm the relative effects of the hydrogen donor group on solubility and crystal packing. The solid dispersions of the three structurally related molecules: HP, DP, and DHP were prepared using PVPK30, and characterized using XRPD and IR. A comparative dissolution study was carried out in aqueous medium. The absence of a hydrogen bonding donor group in DHP resulted in an unexpected increase in its aqueous solubility and dissolution rate from solid dispersion, which is attributed to weaker crystal pack. The increased dissolution rate of HP and DP from solid dispersions is attributed to drug-polymer hydrogen bonding that interferes with the drug-drug intermolecular hydrogen bonding and provides thermodynamic stability of the dispersed drug molecules. The drug-drug intermolecular hydrogen bond is the driving force for precipitation and crystal packing.

  15. Physicochemical characterization of atorvastatin calcium/ezetimibe amorphous nano-solid dispersions prepared by electrospraying method.

    PubMed

    Jahangiri, Azin; Barzegar-Jalali, Mohammad; Javadzadeh, Yousef; Hamishehkar, Hamed; Adibkia, Khosro

    2017-09-01

    In the present study, electrospraying was applied as a novel method for the fabrication of amorphous nano-solid dispersions (N-SDs) of atorvastatin calcium (ATV), ezetimibe (EZT), and ATV/EZT combination as poorly water-soluble drugs. N-SDs were prepared using polyvinylpyrrolidone K30 as an amorphous carrier in 1:1 and 1:5 drug to polymer ratios and the total solid (including drug and polymer) concentrations of 10 and 20% (w/v). The prepared formulations were further investigated for their morphological, physicochemical, and dissolution properties. Scanning electron microscopy studies indicated that the morphology and diameter of the electrosprayed samples (ESs) were influenced by the solution concentration and drug:polymer ratio, so that an increase in the solution concentration resulted in fiber formation while an increase in the polymer ratio led to enhancement of the particle diameter. Differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray powder diffraction studies together with in vitro dissolution test revealed that the ESs were present in an amorphous form with improved dissolution properties. Infrared spectroscopic studies showed hydrogen-bonding interaction between the drug and polymer in ESs. Since the electrospraying method benefits from the both amorphization and nanosizing effect, this novel approach seems to be an efficient method for the fabrication of N-SDs of poorly water-soluble drugs.

  16. Tunable femtosecond lasers with low pump thresholds

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Oppo, Karen

    The work in this thesis is concerned with the development of tunable, femtosecond laser systems, exhibiting low pump threshold powers. The main motive for this work was the development of a low threshold, self-modelocked Ti:Al2O3 laser in order to replace the conventional large-frame argon-ion pump laser with a more compact and efficient all-solid-state alternative. Results are also presented for an all-solid-state, self-modelocked Cr:LiSAF laser, however most of this work is concerned with self-modelocked Ti:Al2O3 laser systems. In chapter 2, the operation of a regeneratively-initiated, and a hard-aperture self- modelocked Ti:Al2O3 laser, pumped by an argon-ion laser, is discussed. Continuous- wave oscillation thresholds as low as 160mW have been demonstrated, along with self-modelocked threshold powers as low as 500mW. The measurement and suppression of phase noise on modelocked lasers is discussed in chapter 3. This is followed by a comparison of the phase noise characteristics of the regeneratively-initiated, and hard-aperture self-modelocked Ti:Al2O3 lasers. The use of a synchronously-operating, high resolution electron-optical streak camera in the evaluation of timing jitter is also presented. In chapter 4, the construction and self-modelocked operation of an all-solid-state Ti:Al2O3 laser is described. The all-solid-state alternative to the conventional argon-ion pump laser was a continuous-wave, intracavity-frequency doubled, diode-laser pumped Nd:YLF ring laser. At a total diode-laser pump power of 10W, this minilaser was capable of producing a single frequency output of 1W, at 523.5nm in a TEM00 beam. The remainder of this thesis looks at the operation of a self-modelocked Ti:Al2O3 laser generating ultrashort pulses at wavelengths as long as 1053nm. The motive for this work was the development of an all-solid-state, self- modelocked Ti:Al2O3 laser operating at 1053nm, for use as a master oscillator in a Nd:glass power chain.

  17. Barrier coated drug layered particles for enhanced performance of amorphous solid dispersion dosage form.

    PubMed

    Puri, Vibha; Dantuluri, Ajay K; Bansal, Arvind K

    2012-01-01

    Amorphous solid dispersions (ASDs) may entail tailor-made dosage form design to exploit their solubility advantage. Surface phenomena dominated the performance of amorphous celecoxib solid dispersion (ACSD) comprising of amorphous celecoxib (A-CLB), polyvinylpyrrolidone, and meglumine (7:2:1, w/w). ACSD cohesive interfacial interactions hindered its capsule dosage form dissolution (Puri V, Dhantuluri AK, Bansal AK 2011. J Pharm Sci 100:2460-2468). Furthermore, ACSD underwent significant devitrification under environmental stress. In the present study, enthalpy relaxation studies revealed its free surface to contribute to molecular mobility. Based on all these observations, barrier coated amorphous CLB solid dispersion layered particles (ADLP) were developed by Wurster process, using microcrystalline cellulose as substrate and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), inulin, and polyvinyl acetate phthalate (PVAP) as coating excipients. Capsule formulations of barrier coated-ADLP could achieve rapid dispersibility and high drug release. Evaluation under varying temperature and RH conditions suggested the crystallization inhibitory efficiency in order of inulin < PVA ≈ PVAP; however, under only temperature treatment, crystallization inhibition increased with increase in T(g) of the coating material. Simulated studies using DSC evidenced drug-polymer mixing at the interface as a potential mechanism for surface stabilization. In conclusion, surface modification yielded a fast dispersing robust high drug load ASD based dosage form. Copyright © 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

  18. Enhanced permeability of blood-brain barrier and targeting function of brain via borneol-modified chemically solid lipid nanoparticle.

    PubMed

    Song, Hui; Wei, Man; Zhang, Nan; Li, He; Tan, Xiaochuan; Zhang, Yujia; Zheng, Wensheng

    2018-01-01

    The incidence of central nervous system disease has increased in recent years. However, the transportation of drug is restricted by the blood-brain barrier, contributing to the poor therapeutic effect in the brain. Therefore, the development of a new brain-targeting drug delivery system has become the hotspot of pharmacy. Borneol, a simple bicyclic monoterpene extracted from Dryobalanops aromatica , can direct drugs to the upper body parts according to the theory of traditional Chinese medicine. Dioleoyl phosphoethanolamine (DOPE) was chemically modified by borneol as one of the lipid materials of solid lipid nanoparticle (SLN) in the present study. The borneol-modified chemically solid lipid nanoparticle (BO-SLN/CM), borneol-modified physically solid lipid nanoparticle (BO-SLN/PM), and SLN have similar diameter (of about 87 nm) and morphological characteristics. However, BO-SLN/CM has a lower cytotoxicity, higher cell uptake, and better blood-brain barrier permeability compared with BO-SLN/PM and SLN. BO-SLN/CM has a remarkable targeting function to the brain, while BO-SLN/ PM and SLNs are concentrated at the lung. The present study provides an excellent drug delivery carrier, BO-SLN/CM, having the application potential of targeting to the brain and permeating to the blood-brain barrier.

  19. Enhanced solubility of piperine using hydrophilic carrier-based potent solid dispersion systems.

    PubMed

    Thenmozhi, Kathavarayan; Yoo, Young Je

    2017-09-01

    Piperine alkaloid, an important constituent of black pepper, exhibits numerous therapeutic properties, whereas its usage as a drug is limited due to its poor solubility in aqueous medium, which leads to poor bioavailability. Herein, a new method has been developed to improve the solubility of this drug based on the development of solid dispersions with improved dissolution rate using hydrophilic carriers such as sorbitol (Sor), polyethylene glycol (PEG) and polyvinyl pyrrolidone K30 (PVP) by solvent method. Physical mixtures of piperine and carriers were also prepared for comparison. The physicochemical properties of the prepared solid dispersions were examined using SEM, TEM, DSC, XRD and FT-IR. In vitro dissolution profile of the solid dispersions was recorded and compared with that of the pure piperine and physical mixtures. The effect of these carriers on the aqueous solubility of piperine has been investigated. The solid dispersions of piperine with Sor, PEG and PVP exhibited superior performance for the dissolution of piperine with a drug release of 70%, 76% and 89%, respectively after 2 h compared to physical mixtures and pure piperine, which could be due to its transformation from crystalline to amorphous form as well as the attachment of hydrophilic carriers to the surface of poorly water-soluble piperine. Results suggest that the piperine solid dispersions prepared with improved in vitro release exhibit potential advantage in delivering poorly water-soluble piperine as an oral supplement.

  20. ¹³C solid-state NMR analysis of the most common pharmaceutical excipients used in solid drug formulations, Part I: Chemical shifts assignment.

    PubMed

    Pisklak, Dariusz Maciej; Zielińska-Pisklak, Monika Agnieszka; Szeleszczuk, Łukasz; Wawer, Iwona

    2016-04-15

    Solid-state NMR is an excellent and useful method for analyzing solid-state forms of drugs. In the (13)C CP/MAS NMR spectra of the solid dosage forms many of the signals originate from the excipients and should be distinguished from those of active pharmaceutical ingredient (API). In this work the most common pharmaceutical excipients used in the solid drug formulations: anhydrous α-lactose, α-lactose monohydrate, mannitol, sucrose, sorbitol, sodium starch glycolate type A and B, starch of different origin, microcrystalline cellulose, hypromellose, ethylcellulose, methylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, sodium alginate, magnesium stearate, sodium laurilsulfate and Kollidon(®) were analyzed. Their (13)C CP/MAS NMR spectra were recorded and the signals were assigned, employing the results (R(2): 0.948-0.998) of GIPAW calculations and theoretical chemical shifts. The (13)C ssNMR spectra for some of the studied excipients have not been published before while for the other signals in the spectra they were not properly assigned or the assignments were not correct. The results summarize and complement the data on the (13)C ssNMR analysis of the most common pharmaceutical excipients and are essential for further NMR studies of API-excipient interactions in the pharmaceutical formulations. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  1. Study on Enhanced Dissolution of Azilsartan-Loaded Solid Dispersion, Prepared by Combining Wet Milling and Spray-Drying Technologies.

    PubMed

    Lu, Tianshu; Sun, Yinghua; Ding, Dawei; Zhang, Qi; Fan, Rui; He, Zhonggui; Wang, Jing

    2017-02-01

    The purpose of this study was to develop a combination method of wet milling and spray-drying technologies to prepare the solid dispersion and improve the dissolution rate of poorly water-soluble drug candidates. Azilsartan (AZL) was selected as the model drug for its poor water solubility. In the study, AZL-loaded solid dispersion was prepared with polyethylene glycol 6000 (PEG6000) and hydroxypropyl cellulose with super low viscosity (HPC-SL) as stabilizers by using combination of wet grinding and spray-drying methods. The high AZL loading solid dispersion was then characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Besides, dissolution test was carried out by the paddle method and stability investigation was also conducted. As a result, the dissolution rate of the solid dispersion tablets was found to be greater than conventional tablets, but in close agreement with market tablets. Furthermore, the formulation was shown to be stable at 40 ± 2°C and 75 ± 5% for at least 6 months, owing to its decreased particle size, morphology, and its crystal form. It was concluded that the combination of wet milling and spray-drying approaches to prepare solid dispersion would be a prospective method to improve the dissolution rate of poorly water-soluble drugs.

  2. Zero-order release and bioavailability enhancement of poorly water soluble Vinpocetine from self-nanoemulsifying osmotic pump tablet.

    PubMed

    El-Zahaby, Sally A; AbouGhaly, Mohamed H H; Abdelbary, Ghada A; El-Gazayerly, Omaima N

    2017-06-08

    Solid self-nanoemulsifying (S-SNEDDS) asymmetrically coated osmotic tablets of the poorly water-soluble drug Vinpocetine (VNP) were designed. The aim was to control the release of VNP by the osmotic technology taking advantage of the solubility and bioavailability-enhancing capacity of S-SNEDDS. Liquid SNEDDS loaded with 2.5 mg VNP composed of Maisine™ 35-1, Transcutol ® HP, and Cremophor ® EL was adsorbed on the solid carrier Aeroperl ® . S-SNEDDS was mixed with the osmotic tablet excipients (sodium chloride, Avicel ® , HPMC-K4M, PVP-K30, and Lubripharm ® ), then directly compressed to form the core tablet. The tablets were dip coated and mechanically drilled. A 3 2 *2 1 full factorial design was adopted. The independent variables were: type of coating material (X 1 ), concentration of coating solution (X 2 ), and number of drills (X 3 ). The dependent variables included % release at 2 h (Y 1 ), at 4 h (Y 2 ), and at 8 h (Y 3 ). The in vivo performance of the optimum formula was assessed in rabbits. Zero-order VNP release was obtained by the single drilled 1.5% Opadry ® CA coated osmotic tablets and twofold increase in VNP bioavailability was achieved. The combination of SNEDDS and osmotic pump tablet system was successful in enhancing the solubility and absorption of VNP as well as controlling its release.

  3. A Comparative Evaluation of Hydroxycamptothecin Drug Nanorods With and Without Methotrexate Prodrug Functionalization for Drug Delivery

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Guo, Fuqiang; Fan, Zhongxiong; Yang, Jinbin; Li, Yang; Wang, Yange; Zhao, Hai; Xie, Liya; Hou, Zhenqing

    2016-08-01

    We developed a novel self-targeted multi-drug co-delivery system based on rod-shaped 10-hydroxycamptothecin (CPT) nanoanticancer drug (CPT NRs) followed by a surface functionalization with self-targeting PEGylated lipid-conjugated methotrexate (MTX) pro-anticancer drug. The self-targeting effect and in vitro cell viability of the MTX-PEG-CPT NRs on HeLa cells were demonstrated by comparative cellular uptake and MTT assay of the PEG-CPT NRs. In vitro studies showed the feasibility of using this high drug-loading MTX-PEG-CPT NRs in self-targeted drug delivery, controlled-/sustained-release, and synergistic cancer therapy. More importantly, this work would stimulate interest in the use of PEGylated lipid-conjugated MTX by introducing an early-phase tumor-targeting role and then driving a late-phase anticancer role for the highly convergent design of nanomulti-drug, which may advantageously offer a new and simple strategy for simultaneously targeting and treating FA receptor-overexpressing cancer cells.

  4. Solid-in-oil nanodispersions for transdermal drug delivery systems.

    PubMed

    Kitaoka, Momoko; Wakabayashi, Rie; Kamiya, Noriho; Goto, Masahiro

    2016-11-01

    Transdermal administration of drugs has advantages over conventional oral administration or administration using injection equipment. The route of administration reduces the opportunity for drug evacuation before systemic circulation, and enables long-lasting drug administration at a modest body concentration. In addition, the skin is an attractive route for vaccination, because there are many immune cells in the skin. Recently, solid-in-oil nanodisperison (S/O) technique has demonstrated to deliver cosmetic and pharmaceutical bioactives efficiently through the skin. S/O nanodispersions are nanosized drug carriers designed to overcome the skin barrier. This review discusses the rationale for preparation of efficient and stable S/O nanodispersions, as well as application examples in cosmetic and pharmaceutical materials including vaccines. Drug administration using a patch is user-friendly, and may improve patient compliance. The technique is a potent transcutaneous immunization method without needles. © 2016 The Authors. Biotechnology Journal published by WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  5. Rapidly separating microneedles for transdermal drug delivery.

    PubMed

    Zhu, Dan Dan; Wang, Qi Lei; Liu, Xu Bo; Guo, Xin Dong

    2016-09-01

    The applications of polymer microneedles (MNs) into human skin emerged as an alternative of the conventional hypodermic needles. However, dissolving MNs require many minutes to be dissolved in the skin and typically have difficulty being fully inserted into the skin, which may lead to the low drug delivery efficiency. To address these issues, we introduce rapidly separating MNs that can rapidly deliver drugs into the skin in a minimally invasive way. For the rapidly separating MNs, drug loaded dissolving MNs are mounted on the top of solid MNs, which are made of biodegradable polylactic acid which eliminate the biohazardous waste. These MNs have sufficient mechanical strength to be inserted into the skin with the drug loaded tips fully embedded for subsequent dissolution. Compared with the traditional MNs, rapidly separating MNs achieve over 90% of drug delivery efficiency in 30s while the traditional MNs needs 2min to achieve the same efficiency. With the in vivo test in mice, the micro-holes caused by rapidly separating MNs can heal in 1h, indicating that the rapidly separating MNs are safe for future applications. These results indicate that the design of rapidly separating dissolvable MNs can offer a quick, high efficient, convenient, safe and potentially self-administered method of drug delivery. Polymer microneedles offer an attractive, painless and minimally invasive approach for transdermal drug delivery. However, dissolving microneedles require many minutes to be dissolved in the skin and typically have difficulty being fully inserted into the skin due to the skin deformation, which may lead to the low drug delivery efficiency. In this work we proposed rapidly separating microneedles which can deliver over 90% of drug into the skin in 30s. The in vitro and in vivo results indicate that the new design of these microneedles can offer a quick, high efficient, convenient and safe method for transdermal drug delivery. Copyright © 2016 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  6. Area Specific Self-Esteem, Values, and Adolescent Substance Use

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Donnelly, Joseph; Young, Michael; Pearson, Rebecca; Penhollow, Tina M.; Hernandez, Aida

    2008-01-01

    The use of illicit and licit drugs continues to be a major public health concern. Many prevention and drug education programs address this issue by attempting to enhance self-esteem. The idea is that increased levels of self-esteem will serve as a protective factor in decreasing the motivation and increasing the resistance to use drugs. This study…

  7. 21 CFR 1314.42 - Self-certification fee; time and method of fee payment.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 9 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Self-certification fee; time and method of fee payment. 1314.42 Section 1314.42 Food and Drugs DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE RETAIL SALE OF SCHEDULED LISTED CHEMICAL PRODUCTS Sales by Regulated Sellers § 1314.42 Self-certification...

  8. 21 CFR 1314.42 - Self-certification fee; time and method of fee payment.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 9 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Self-certification fee; time and method of fee payment. 1314.42 Section 1314.42 Food and Drugs DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE RETAIL SALE OF SCHEDULED LISTED CHEMICAL PRODUCTS Sales by Regulated Sellers § 1314.42 Self-certification...

  9. Human Behavioral Pharmacology, Past, Present, and Future: Symposium Presented at the 50th Annual Meeting of the Behavioral Pharmacology Society

    PubMed Central

    Comer, Sandra D.; Bickel, Warren K.; Yi, Richard; de Wit, Harriet; Higgins, Stephen T.; Wenger, Galen R.; Johanson, Chris-Ellyn; Kreek, Mary Jeanne

    2010-01-01

    A symposium held at the 50th annual meeting of the Behavioral Pharmacology Society in May 2007 reviewed progress in the human behavioral pharmacology of drug abuse. Studies on drug self-administration in humans are reviewed that assessed reinforcing and subjective effects of drugs of abuse. The close parallels observed between studies in humans and laboratory animals using similar behavioral techniques have broadened our understanding of the complex nature of the pharmacological and behavioral factors controlling drug self-administration. The symposium also addressed the role that individual differences, such as gender, personality, and genotype play in determining the extent of self-administration of illicit drugs in human populations. Knowledge of how these factors influence human drug self-administration has helped validate similar differences observed in laboratory animals. In recognition that drug self-administration is but one of many choices available in the lives of humans, the symposium addressed the ways in which choice behavior can be studied in humans. These choice studies in human drug abusers have opened up new and exciting avenues of research in laboratory animals. Finally, the symposium reviewed behavioral pharmacology studies conducted in drug abuse treatment settings and the therapeutic benefits that have emerged from these studies. PMID:20664330

  10. Phonons in quantum solids with defects. [lattice vacancies and interstitials in solid helium and metallic hydrogen

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Jacobi, N.; Zmuidzinas, J. S.

    1974-01-01

    A formalism was developed for temperature-dependent, self-consistent phonons in quantum solids with defects. Lattice vacancies and interstitials in solid helium and metallic hydrogen, as well as electronic excitations in solid helium, were treated as defects that modify properties of these systems. The information to be gained from the modified phonon spectrum is discussed.

  11. Improving the chemical stability of amorphous solid dispersion with cocrystal technique by hot melt extrusion.

    PubMed

    Liu, Xu; Lu, Ming; Guo, Zhefei; Huang, Lin; Feng, Xin; Wu, Chuanbin

    2012-03-01

    To explore in-situ forming cocrystal as a single-step, efficient method to significantly depress the processing temperature and thus minimize the thermal degradation of heat-sensitive drug in preparation of solid dispersions by melting method (MM) and hot melt extrusion (HME). Carbamazepine (CBZ)-nicotinamide (NIC) cocrystal solid dispersions were prepared with polymer carriers PVP/VA, SOLUPLUS and HPMC by MM and/or HME. The formation of cocrystal was investigated by differential scanning calorimetry and hot stage polarized optical microscopy. State of CBZ in solid dispersion was characterized by X-ray powder diffraction and optical microscopy. Interactions between CBZ, NIC and polymers were investigated by FTIR. Dissolution behaviors of solid dispersions were compared with that of pure CBZ. CBZ-NIC cocrystal with melting point of 160°C was formed in polymer carriers during heating process, and the preparation temperature of amorphous CBZ solid dispersion was therefore depressed to 160°C. The dissolution rate of CBZ-NIC cocrystal solid dispersion was significantly increased. By in-situ forming cocrystal, chemically stable amorphous solid dispersions were prepared by MM and HME at a depressed processing temperature. This method provides an attractive opportunity for HME of heat-sensitive drugs.

  12. Math anxiety, self-efficacy, and ability in British undergraduate nursing students.

    PubMed

    McMullan, Miriam; Jones, Ray; Lea, Susan

    2012-04-01

    Nurses need to be able to make drug calculations competently. In this study, involving 229 second year British nursing students, we explored the influence of mathematics anxiety, self-efficacy, and numerical ability on drug calculation ability and determined which factors would best predict this skill. Strong significant relationships (p < .001) existed between anxiety, self-efficacy, and ability. Students who failed the numerical and/or drug calculation ability tests were more anxious (p < .001) and less confident (p ≤ .002) in performing calculations than those who passed. Numerical ability made the strongest unique contribution in predicting drug calculation ability (beta = 0.50, p < .001) followed by drug calculation self-efficacy (beta = 0.16, p = .04). Early testing is recommended for basic numerical skills. Faculty are advised to refresh students' numerical skills before introducing drug calculations. Copyright © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  13. Development and optimization of solid lipid nanoparticle formulation for ophthalmic delivery of chloramphenicol using a Box-Behnken design.

    PubMed

    Hao, Jifu; Fang, Xinsheng; Zhou, Yanfang; Wang, Jianzhu; Guo, Fengguang; Li, Fei; Peng, Xinsheng

    2011-01-01

    The purpose of the present study was to optimize a solid lipid nanoparticle (SLN) of chloramphenicol by investigating the relationship between design factors and experimental data using response surface methodology. A Box-Behnken design was constructed using solid lipid (X(1)), surfactant (X(2)), and drug/lipid ratio (X(3)) level as independent factors. SLN was successfully prepared by a modified method of melt-emulsion ultrasonication and low temperature-solidification technique using glyceryl monostearate as the solid lipid, and poloxamer 188 as the surfactant. The dependent variables were entrapment efficiency (EE), drug loading (DL), and turbidity. Properties of SLN such as the morphology, particle size, zeta potential, EE, DL, and drug release behavior were investigated, respectively. As a result, the nanoparticle designed showed nearly spherical particles with a mean particle size of 248 nm. The polydispersity index of particle size was 0.277 ± 0.058 and zeta potential was -8.74 mV. The EE (%) and DL (%) could reach up to 83.29% ± 1.23% and 10.11% ± 2.02%, respectively. In vitro release studies showed a burst release at the initial stage followed by a prolonged release of chloramphenicol from SLN up to 48 hours. The release kinetics of the optimized formulation best fitted the Peppas-Korsmeyer model. These results indicated that the chloramphenicol-loaded SLN could potentially be exploited as a delivery system with improved drug entrapment efficiency and controlled drug release.

  14. Development and optimization of solid lipid nanoparticle formulation for ophthalmic delivery of chloramphenicol using a Box-Behnken design

    PubMed Central

    Hao, Jifu; Fang, Xinsheng; Zhou, Yanfang; Wang, Jianzhu; Guo, Fengguang; Li, Fei; Peng, Xinsheng

    2011-01-01

    The purpose of the present study was to optimize a solid lipid nanoparticle (SLN) of chloramphenicol by investigating the relationship between design factors and experimental data using response surface methodology. A Box-Behnken design was constructed using solid lipid (X1), surfactant (X2), and drug/lipid ratio (X3) level as independent factors. SLN was successfully prepared by a modified method of melt-emulsion ultrasonication and low temperature-solidification technique using glyceryl monostearate as the solid lipid, and poloxamer 188 as the surfactant. The dependent variables were entrapment efficiency (EE), drug loading (DL), and turbidity. Properties of SLN such as the morphology, particle size, zeta potential, EE, DL, and drug release behavior were investigated, respectively. As a result, the nanoparticle designed showed nearly spherical particles with a mean particle size of 248 nm. The polydispersity index of particle size was 0.277 ± 0.058 and zeta potential was −8.74 mV. The EE (%) and DL (%) could reach up to 83.29% ± 1.23% and 10.11% ± 2.02%, respectively. In vitro release studies showed a burst release at the initial stage followed by a prolonged release of chloramphenicol from SLN up to 48 hours. The release kinetics of the optimized formulation best fitted the Peppas–Korsmeyer model. These results indicated that the chloramphenicol-loaded SLN could potentially be exploited as a delivery system with improved drug entrapment efficiency and controlled drug release. PMID:21556343

  15. Self assembled materials: design strategies and drug delivery perspectives.

    PubMed

    Verma, Gunjan; Hassan, P A

    2013-10-28

    Self assembly of small molecules in complex supramolecular structures provides a new avenue in the development of materials for drug delivery applications. Owing to the low aqueous solubility of various drugs, an effective delivery system is often required to reach sufficient drug bioavailability and/or to facilitate clinical use. Micelles, amphiphilic gels, vesicles (liposomes), nanodisks, cubosomes, colloidosomes, tubules, microemulsions, lipid particles, polyelectrolyte capsules etc. are some of the intriguing structures formed via self assembly. As well as enabling improved solubilization, such materials can be tuned to offer a range of other advantages, including controlled or stimuli sensitive drug release, protection from drug hydrolysis and chemical or enzymatic degradation, a reduction in toxicity, improvement of drug availability, prevention of RES uptake or selective targeting to organelles etc. Such multiple functionalities can be brought together by self assembly of different functional molecules. This route offers a cost effective means of developing drug delivery carriers tailored to specific needs. Our current understanding of the microstructure evolution of self assembled materials will go a long way towards designing/selecting molecules to create well defined structures. We believe that most of the potential resources mentioned above are untapped and that there is a need to further strengthen research in this area to fully exploit their potential. Selective cross linking of core or shell, stimuli sensitive amphiphiles, prodrug amphiphiles, antibody coupled amphiphiles etc. are only some of the new approaches for the development of effective drug delivery systems via self assembly.

  16. Role of the Strength of Drug-Polymer Interactions on the Molecular Mobility and Crystallization Inhibition in Ketoconazole Solid Dispersions.

    PubMed

    Mistry, Pinal; Mohapatra, Sarat; Gopinath, Tata; Vogt, Frederick G; Suryanarayanan, Raj

    2015-09-08

    The effects of specific drug-polymer interactions (ionic or hydrogen-bonding) on the molecular mobility of model amorphous solid dispersions (ASDs) were investigated. ASDs of ketoconazole (KTZ), a weakly basic drug, with each of poly(acrylic acid) (PAA), poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (PHEMA), and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) were prepared. Drug-polymer interactions in the ASDs were evaluated by infrared and solid-state NMR, the molecular mobility quantified by dielectric spectroscopy, and crystallization onset monitored by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and variable temperature X-ray diffractometry (VTXRD). KTZ likely exhibited ionic interactions with PAA, hydrogen-bonding with PHEMA, and weaker dipole-dipole interactions with PVP. On the basis of dielectric spectroscopy, the α-relaxation times of the ASDs followed the order: PAA > PHEMA > PVP. In addition, the presence of ionic interactions also translated to a dramatic and disproportionate decrease in mobility as a function of polymer concentration. On the basis of both DSC and VTXRD, an increase in strength of interaction translated to higher crystallization onset temperature and a decrease in extent of crystallization. Stronger drug-polymer interactions, by reducing the molecular mobility, can potentially delay the crystallization onset temperature as well as crystallization extent.

  17. An in-plane solid-liquid-solid growth mode for self-avoiding lateral silicon nanowires.

    PubMed

    Yu, Linwei; Alet, Pierre-Jean; Picardi, Gennaro; Roca i Cabarrocas, Pere

    2009-03-27

    We report an in-plane solid-liquid-solid (IPSLS) mode for obtaining self-avoiding lateral silicon nanowires (SiNW) in a reacting-gas-free annealing process, where the growth of SiNWs is guided by liquid indium drops that transform the surrounding a-SiratioH matrix into crystalline SiNWs. The SiNWs can be approximately mm long, with the smallest diameter down to approximately 22 nm. A high growth rate of >10(2) nm/s and rich evolution dynamics are revealed in a real-time in situ scanning electron microscopy observation. A qualitative growth model is proposed to account for the major features of this IPSLS SiNW growth mode.

  18. Confronting Death From Drug Self-Intoxication (DDSI): Prevention Through a Better Definition

    PubMed Central

    Smith, Gordon S.; Caine, Eric D.; Kapusta, Nestor D.; Hanzlick, Randy L.; Larkin, G. Luke; Naylor, Charles P. E.; Nolte, Kurt B.; Miller, Ted R.; Putnam, Sandra L.; De Leo, Diego; Kleinig, John; Stack, Steven; Todd, Knox H.; Fraser, David W.

    2014-01-01

    Suicide and other self-directed violence deaths are likely grossly underestimated, reflecting inappropriate classification of many drug intoxication deaths as accidents or unintentional and heterogeneous ascertainment and coding practices across states. As the tide of prescription and illicit drug-poisoning deaths is rising, public health and research needs would be better satisfied by considering most of these deaths a result of self-intoxication. Epidemiologists and prevention scientists could design better intervention strategies by focusing on premorbid behavior. We propose incorporating deaths from drug self-intoxication and investigations of all poisoning deaths into the National Violent Death Reporting System, which contains misclassified homicides and undetermined intent deaths, to facilitate efforts to comprehend and reverse the surging rate of drug intoxication fatalities. PMID:25320874

  19. "Overconfidence" versus "helplessness": A qualitative study on abstinence self-efficacy of drug users in a male compulsory drug detention center in China.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Yan; Feng, Bing; Geng, Wenxiu; Owens, Laurence; Xi, Juzhe

    2016-08-31

    Compulsory drug detention is the most frequent way to control drug use in China; however, it has often been criticized. This qualitative study aimed to investigate abstinence self-efficacy and its sources of drug users in a compulsory male drug detention center in Shanghai, China, and the attitudes of the drug users to this form of rehabilitation. Thirty-six participants were interviewed (semi-structured, in depth) about their history of drug use and rehabilitation, self-evaluation of addiction, motivations to abstain, plans for the future and attitudes toward rehabilitation. A thematic analysis was undertaken of the transcripts with responses to interview questions being coded for content. Two main types of self-efficacy were found - "overconfidence" (n = 16) and "helplessness" (n = 17). Overconfident participants underestimated their levels of addiction, overestimated their self-control and held external motivations and attributions. In contrast, helpless participants overestimated their levels of addiction, underestimated their self-control and had internal motivations and attributions. Compared to overconfident participants, helpless participants had more relapse history, and were more inclined to interpret relapse as a failure and attribute relapse to themselves. More helpless participants were abandoned by their family members, and received blame from the family members instead of encouragement, but their family members motivated them to abstain. Helpless participants experienced more negative emotions and had worse physical status. They said compulsory detention was a strong support for them and was the most effective way to abstain; while overconfident participants said compulsory detention was not necessary and not useful. It is important to increase the motivation of overconfident drug users and the perceived control of helpless drug users. Compulsory drug detention has strengths in supporting drug users who feel helpless to resist drug use. Adjustments and improvements of compulsory drug detention are suggested.

  20. Self-assembling toxin-based nanoparticles as self-delivered antitumoral drugs.

    PubMed

    Sánchez-García, Laura; Serna, Naroa; Álamo, Patricia; Sala, Rita; Céspedes, María Virtudes; Roldan, Mònica; Sánchez-Chardi, Alejandro; Unzueta, Ugutz; Casanova, Isolda; Mangues, Ramón; Vázquez, Esther; Villaverde, Antonio

    2018-03-28

    Loading capacity and drug leakage from vehicles during circulation in blood is a major concern when developing nanoparticle-based cell-targeted cytotoxics. To circumvent this potential issue it would be convenient the engineering of drugs as self-delivered nanoscale entities, devoid of any heterologous carriers. In this context, we have here engineered potent protein toxins, namely segments of the diphtheria toxin and the Pseudomonas aeruginosa exotoxin as self-assembling, self-delivered therapeutic materials targeted to CXCR4 + cancer stem cells. The systemic administration of both nanostructured drugs in a colorectal cancer xenograft mouse model promotes efficient and specific local destruction of target tumor tissues and a significant reduction of the tumor volume. This observation strongly supports the concept of intrinsically functional protein nanoparticles, which having a dual role as drug and carrier, are designed to be administered without the assistance of heterologous vehicles. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  1. Protein-only, antimicrobial peptide-containing recombinant nanoparticles with inherent built-in antibacterial activity.

    PubMed

    Serna, Naroa; Sánchez-García, Laura; Sánchez-Chardi, Alejandro; Unzueta, Ugutz; Roldán, Mónica; Mangues, Ramón; Vázquez, Esther; Villaverde, Antonio

    2017-09-15

    The emergence of bacterial antibiotic resistances is a serious concern in human and animal health. In this context, naturally occurring cationic antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) might play a main role in a next generation of drugs against bacterial infections. Taking an innovative approach to design self-organizing functional proteins, we have generated here protein-only nanoparticles with intrinsic AMP microbicide activity. Using a recombinant version of the GWH1 antimicrobial peptide as building block, these materials show a wide antibacterial activity spectrum in absence of detectable toxicity on mammalian cells. The GWH1-based nanoparticles combine clinically appealing properties of nanoscale materials with full biocompatibility, structural and functional plasticity and biological efficacy exhibited by proteins. Because of the largely implemented biological fabrication of recombinant protein drugs, the protein-based platform presented here represents a novel and scalable strategy in antimicrobial drug design, that by solving some of the limitations of AMPs offers a promising alternative to conventional antibiotics. The low molecular weight antimicrobial peptide GWH1 has been engineered to oligomerize as self-assembling protein-only nanoparticles of around 50nm. In this form, the peptide exhibits potent and broad antibacterial activities against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, without any harmful effect over mammalian cells. As a solid proof-of-concept, this finding strongly supports the design and biofabrication of nanoscale antimicrobial materials with in-built functionalities. The protein-based homogeneous composition offer advantages over alternative materials explored as antimicrobial agents, regarding biocompatibility, biodegradability and environmental suitability. Beyond the described prototype, this transversal engineering concept has wide applicability in the design of novel nanomedicines for advanced treatments of bacterial infections. Copyright © 2017 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  2. Consumer cost sharing and use of biopharmaceuticals for rheumatoid arthritis.

    PubMed

    Robinson, James C

    2013-06-01

    To evaluate the effect of consumer cost sharing on use of physician-administered and patient self-administered specialty drugs for rheumatoid arthritis. Multivariate statistical analysis of probability and use of physician-administered specialty drugs, patient self-injected specialty drugs, non-biologic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs, and symptom relief drugs. Analyses were conducted for patients enrolling in preferred provider organization (PPO) plans and health maintenance organization (HMO) plans with different cost-sharing requirements, adjusted for patient demographics, health status, and geographical location. Professional, facility, and pharmaceutical claims for beneficiaries of CalPERS, the public employee insurance purchasing alliance in California, for 2008-2009. Consumer cost-sharing requirements were obtained for each type of drug and service for each type of insurance plan. PPO insurance enrollees face substantially higher cost sharing for physician-administered specialty drugs, compared with HMO enrollees in CalPERS. PPO patients with rheumatoid arthritis are only half as likely as HMO enrollees to choose a physician-administered specialty drug (4.2% vs 9.3%) (P ≤.05), and use 25% less of the drugs if they use any ($10,356 vs $13,678) (P ≤.05). They are 30% more likely to use a self-administered specialty drug than are HMO enrollees (29.3% vs 22.1%) (P ≤.05), and use 35% more of the drugs if any ($16,015 vs $12,378) (P ≤.05). Consumer cost sharing reduces the use of physician-administered specialty drugs for rheumatoid arthritis. The higher use of patient self-administered specialty drugs suggests that the disincentives for use of physician-administered drugs were offset by an increased incentive to use self-administered drugs.

  3. Development and evaluation of nitrendipine loaded solid lipid nanoparticles: influence of wax and glyceride lipids on plasma pharmacokinetics.

    PubMed

    Kumar, Venishetty Vinay; Chandrasekar, Durairaj; Ramakrishna, Sistla; Kishan, Veerabrahma; Rao, Yamsani Madhusudan; Diwan, Prakash Vamanrao

    2007-04-20

    Nitrendipine is an antihypertensive drug with poor oral bioavailability ranging from 10 to 20% due to the first pass metabolism. For improving the oral bioavailability of nitrendipine, nitrendipine loaded solid lipid nanoparticles have been developed using triglyceride (tripalmitin), monoglyceride (glyceryl monostearate) and wax (cetyl palmitate). Poloxamer 188 was used as surfactant. Hot homogenization of melted lipids and aqueous phase followed by ultrasonication at temperature above the melting point of lipid was used to prepare SLN dispersions. SLN were characterized for particle size, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency and crystallinity of lipid and drug. In vitro release studies were performed in phosphate buffer of pH 6.8 using Franz diffusion cell. Pharmacokinetics of nitrendipine loaded solid lipid nanoparticles after intraduodenal administration to conscious male Wistar rats was studied. Bioavailability of nitrendipine was increased three- to four-fold after intraduodenal administration compared to that of nitrendipine suspension. The obtained results are indicative of solid lipid nanoparticles as carriers for improving the bioavailability of lipophilic drugs such as nitrendipine by minimizing first pass metabolism.

  4. Distributed Drug Discovery: Advancing Chemical Education through Contextualized Combinatorial Solid-Phase Organic Laboratories

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Scott, William L.; Denton, Ryan E.; Marrs, Kathleen A.; Durrant, Jacob D.; Samaritoni, J. Geno; Abraham, Milata M.; Brown, Stephen P.; Carnahan, Jon M.; Fischer, Lindsey G.; Glos, Courtney E.; Sempsrott, Peter J.; O'Donnell, Martin J.

    2015-01-01

    The Distributed Drug Discovery (D3) program trains students in three drug discovery disciplines (synthesis, computational analysis, and biological screening) while addressing the important challenge of discovering drug leads for neglected diseases. This article focuses on implementation of the synthesis component in the second-semester…

  5. Solid Organ Transplants in HIV-infected Patients

    PubMed Central

    Harbell, Jack; Terrault, Norah A.; Stock, Peter

    2018-01-01

    There is a growing need for kidney and liver transplants in persons living with HIV. Fortunately, with the significant advances in antiretroviral therapy and management of opportunistic infections, HIV infection is no longer an absolute contraindication for solid organ transplantation. Data from several large prospective multi-center cohort studies have shown that solid organ transplantation in carefully selected HIV-infected individuals is safe. However, significant challenges have been identified including prevention of acute rejection, management of drug-drug interactions and treatment of recurrent viral hepatitis. This article reviews the selection criteria, outcomes, and special management considerations for HIV-infected patients undergoing liver or kidney transplantation. PMID:23893004

  6. Predicting solubilisation features of ternary phase diagrams of fully dilutable lecithin linker microemulsions.

    PubMed

    Nouraei, Mehdi; Acosta, Edgar J

    2017-06-01

    Fully dilutable microemulsions (μEs), used to design self-microemulsifying delivery system (SMEDS), are formulated as concentrate solutions containing oil and surfactants, without water. As water is added to dilute these systems, various μEs are produced (water-swollen reverse micelles, bicontinuous systems, and oil-swollen micelles), without the onset of phase separation. Currently, the formulation dilutable μEs follows a trial and error approach that has had a limited success. The objective of this work is to introduce the use of the hydrophilic-lipophilic-difference (HLD) and net-average-curvature (NAC) frameworks to predict the solubilisation features of ternary phase diagrams of lecithin-linker μEs and the use of these predictions to guide the formulation of dilutable μEs. To this end, the characteristic curvatures (Cc) of soybean lecithin (surfactant), glycerol monooleate (lipophilic linker) and polyglycerol caprylate (hydrophilic linker) and the equivalent alkane carbon number (EACN) of ethyl caprate (oil) were obtained via phase scans with reference surfactant-oil systems. These parameters were then used to calculate the HLD of lecithin-linkers-ethyl caprate microemulsions. The calculated HLDs were able to predict the phase transitions observed in the phase scans. The NAC was then used to fit and predict phase volumes obtained from salinity phase scans, and to predict the solubilisation features of ternary phase diagrams of the lecithin-linker formulations. The HLD-NAC predictions were reasonably accurate, and indicated that the largest region for dilutable μEs was obtained with slightly negative HLD values. The NAC framework also predicted, and explained, the changes in microemulsion properties along dilution lines. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  7. Analysis and quantification of self-medication patterns of customers in community pharmacies in southern Chile.

    PubMed

    Fuentes Albarrán, Katherine; Villa Zapata, Lorenzo

    2008-12-01

    Self-medication refers to using drugs which have not been prescribed, recommended or controlled by a licensed health care specialist. Marketing, in Chile only admitted for over-the-counter medications, influences the practice of self-medication and extends it to prescription drugs. Thus, a complex self-medication process is started, due to reuse of a previous prescription, using drugs purchased directly at the pharmacy or drugs coming from family first-aid kits. The purpose of this study is to determine the frequency of self-medication, the type of medications involved, the dosages used, and the reasons for this practice. An observation-based cross-sectional study was carried out at three pharmacies belonging to a pharmacy chain in the city of Valdivia (southern Chile). In addition, a previously validated form was used. Customers who requested over-the-counter medications were surveyed to identify the patterns that foster the self-medication practice. Of 909 surveyed customers, 75% self-medicate. Of these, 31% stated that they commonly self-medicate due to suffering from light symptoms, such as headaches (19%), the common cold (8.8%), sore muscles (6.7%), and bone pains (5.3%). The group of medications most requested in this study was nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (33%), with diclofenac sodium being the most used (14%). Influence from other people did not exceed 20% and reusing prior prescriptions reached 46%. There were significant differences when assessing consumer knowledge, reading of information leaflets, and opinions about self-medication at each surveyed pharmacy (P < 0.001). Most consumers at the surveyed pharmacies use medications without proper knowledge of their benefits, treatment method, and duration. Drug dispensing at community pharmacies should include active pharmacist involvement to divulge the sensible use of drugs.

  8. Application of Solid-State NMR Relaxometry for Characterization and Formulation Optimization of Grinding-Induced Drug Nanoparticle.

    PubMed

    Ueda, Keisuke; Higashi, Kenjirou; Moribe, Kunikazu

    2016-03-07

    The formation mechanism of drug nanoparticles was investigated using solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) techniques for the efficient discovery of an optimized nanoparticle formulation. The cogrinding of nifedipine (NIF) with polymers, including hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) was performed to prepare the NIF nanoparticle formulations. Then, solid-state NMR relaxometry was used for the nanometer-order characterization of NIF in the polymer matrix. Solid-state NMR measurements revealed that the crystal size of NIF was reduced to several tens of nanometers with amorphization of NIF by cogrinding with HPMC and SDS for 100 min. Similarly, the size of the NIF crystal was reduced to less than 90 nm in the 40 min ground mixture of NIF/PVP/SDS. Furthermore, 100 min grinding of NIF/PVP/SDS induced amorphization of almost all the NIF crystals followed by nanosizing. The hydrogen bond between NIF and PVP led to the efficient amorphization of NIF in the NIF/PVP/SDS system compared with NIF/HPMC/SDS system. The efficient nanosizing of the NIF crystal in the solid state, revealed by the solid-state NMR relaxation time measurements, enabled the formation of large amounts of NIF nanoparticles in water followed by the polymer dissolution. In contrast, excess amorphization of the NIF crystals failed to efficiently prepare the NIF nanoparticles. The solid-state characterization of the crystalline NIF revealed good correlation with the NIF nanoparticles formation during aqueous dispersion. Furthermore, the solid-state NMR measurements including relaxometry successfully elucidated the nanometer-order dispersion state of NIF in polymer matrix, leading to the discovery of optimized conditions for the preparation of suitable drug nanoparticles.

  9. Solid Phase Microextraction and Related Techniques for Drugs in Biological Samples

    PubMed Central

    Moein, Mohammad Mahdi; Said, Rana; Bassyouni, Fatma

    2014-01-01

    In drug discovery and development, the quantification of drugs in biological samples is an important task for the determination of the physiological performance of the investigated drugs. After sampling, the next step in the analytical process is sample preparation. Because of the low concentration levels of drug in plasma and the variety of the metabolites, the selected extraction technique should be virtually exhaustive. Recent developments of sample handling techniques are directed, from one side, toward automatization and online coupling of sample preparation units. The primary objective of this review is to present the recent developments in microextraction sample preparation methods for analysis of drugs in biological fluids. Microextraction techniques allow for less consumption of solvent, reagents, and packing materials, and small sample volumes can be used. In this review the use of solid phase microextraction (SPME), microextraction in packed sorbent (MEPS), and stir-bar sorbtive extraction (SBSE) in drug analysis will be discussed. In addition, the use of new sorbents such as monoliths and molecularly imprinted polymers will be presented. PMID:24688797

  10. Physical stability of amorphous acetanilide derivatives improved by polymer excipients.

    PubMed

    Miyazaki, Tamaki; Yoshioka, Sumie; Aso, Yukio

    2006-08-01

    Crystallization rates of drug-polymer solid dispersions prepared with acetaminophen (ACA) and p-aminoacetanilide (AAA) as model drugs, and polyvinylpyrrolidone and polyacrylic acid (PAA) as model polymers were measured in order to further examine the significance of drug-polymer interactions. The crystallization of AAA and ACA was inhibited by mixing those polymers. The most effective inhibition was observed with solid dispersions of AAA and PAA. The combination of AAA and PAA showed a markedly longer enthalpy relaxation time relative to drug alone as well as a higher T(g) than predicted by the Gordon-Taylor equation, indicating the existence of a strong interaction between the two components. These observations suggest that crystallization is effectively inhibited by combinations of drug and polymer that show a strong intermolecular interaction due to proton transfer between acidic and basic functional groups.

  11. The role of human drug self-administration procedures in the development of medications

    PubMed Central

    Comer, SD; Ashworth, JB; Foltin, RW; Johanson, CE; Zacny, JP; Walsh, SL

    2008-01-01

    The purpose of this review is to illustrate the utility and value of employing human self-administration procedures in medication development, including abuse liability assessments of novel medications and evaluation of potential pharmacotherapies for substance use disorders. Traditionally, human abuse liability testing has relied primarily on subjective reports describing drug action by use of questionnaires; similarly, drug interactions between putative treatment agents and the drugs of abuse have relied on these measures. Subjective reports are highly valued because they provide qualitative and quantitative information about the characteristics of central and peripheral pharmacodynamic effects as well as safety and tolerability. However, self-administration procedures directly examine the behavior of interest – that is, drug taking. The present paper 1) reviews the most commonly used human self-administration procedures, 2) discusses the concordance of subjective reports and self-administration within the context of medications development for substance use disorders, focusing primarily on illustrative examples from development efforts with opioid and cocaine dependence, and 3) explores the utility of applying self-administration procedures to assess the abuse liability of novel compounds, including “abuse deterrent” formulations (ADFs). The review will focus on opioid and cocaine dependence because a rich database from both clinical laboratory and clinical trial research exists for these two drug classes. The data reviewed suggest that drug-induced changes in self-administration and subjective effects are not always concordant. Therefore, assessment of self-administration in combination with subjective effects provides a more comprehensive picture that may have improved predictive validity for translating to the clinical setting. PMID:18436394

  12. Pharmaceutical spray drying: solid-dose process technology platform for the 21st century.

    PubMed

    Snyder, Herman E

    2012-07-01

    Requirement for precise control of solid-dosage particle properties created with a scalable process technology are continuing to expand in the pharmaceutical industry. Alternate methods of drug delivery, limited active drug substance solubility and the need to improve drug product stability under room-temperature conditions are some of the pharmaceutical applications that can benefit from spray-drying technology. Used widely for decades in other industries with production rates up to several tons per hour, pharmaceutical uses for spray drying are expanding beyond excipient production and solvent removal from crystalline material. Creation of active pharmaceutical-ingredient particles with combinations of unique target properties are now more common. This review of spray-drying technology fundamentals provides a brief perspective on the internal process 'mechanics', which combine with both the liquid and solid properties of a formulation to enable high-throughput, continuous manufacturing of precision powder properties.

  13. Artificial neural networks in evaluation and optimization of modified release solid dosage forms.

    PubMed

    Ibrić, Svetlana; Djuriš, Jelena; Parojčić, Jelena; Djurić, Zorica

    2012-10-18

    Implementation of the Quality by Design (QbD) approach in pharmaceutical development has compelled researchers in the pharmaceutical industry to employ Design of Experiments (DoE) as a statistical tool, in product development. Among all DoE techniques, response surface methodology (RSM) is the one most frequently used. Progress of computer science has had an impact on pharmaceutical development as well. Simultaneous with the implementation of statistical methods, machine learning tools took an important place in drug formulation. Twenty years ago, the first papers describing application of artificial neural networks in optimization of modified release products appeared. Since then, a lot of work has been done towards implementation of new techniques, especially Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) in modeling of production, drug release and drug stability of modified release solid dosage forms. The aim of this paper is to review artificial neural networks in evaluation and optimization of modified release solid dosage forms.

  14. Artificial Neural Networks in Evaluation and Optimization of Modified Release Solid Dosage Forms

    PubMed Central

    Ibrić, Svetlana; Djuriš, Jelena; Parojčić, Jelena; Djurić, Zorica

    2012-01-01

    Implementation of the Quality by Design (QbD) approach in pharmaceutical development has compelled researchers in the pharmaceutical industry to employ Design of Experiments (DoE) as a statistical tool, in product development. Among all DoE techniques, response surface methodology (RSM) is the one most frequently used. Progress of computer science has had an impact on pharmaceutical development as well. Simultaneous with the implementation of statistical methods, machine learning tools took an important place in drug formulation. Twenty years ago, the first papers describing application of artificial neural networks in optimization of modified release products appeared. Since then, a lot of work has been done towards implementation of new techniques, especially Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) in modeling of production, drug release and drug stability of modified release solid dosage forms. The aim of this paper is to review artificial neural networks in evaluation and optimization of modified release solid dosage forms. PMID:24300369

  15. Preparation and Evaluation of Montelukast Sodium Loaded Solid Lipid Nanoparticles

    PubMed Central

    Priyanka, K; Sathali, A Abdul Hasan

    2012-01-01

    Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) are an alternative carrier system used to load the drug for targeting, to improve the bioavailability by increasing its solubility, and protecting the drug from presystemic metabolism. The avoidance of presystemic metabolism is due to the nano-metric size range, so that the liver cannot uptake the drug from the delivery system and is not metabolized by the liver. Montelukast sodium is an anti-asthmatic drug, because of its poor oral bioavailability, presystemic metabolism, and decreased half-life; it was chosen to formulate as the solid lipid nanoparticle (SLN) system by hot homogenization followed by an ultrasonication method, to overcome the above. Compritol ATO 888, stearic acid, and glyceryl monostearate were used as a lipid matrix and polyvinyl alcohol as a surfactant. The prepared formulations have been evaluated for entrapment efficiency, drug content, in vitro drug release, particle size analysis, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform-infrared studies (FT-IR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and stability. Particle size analysis revealed that the SLN prepared from the higher melting point lipid showed a larger particle size and with increased carbon chain length of the fatty acids. Entrapment efficiency (EE) was ranging from 42% to 92%. In vitro release studies showed maximum cumulative drug release was obtained for F 1 (59.1%) containing stearic acid, and the lowest was observed for F 18 (28.1%) containing compritol ATO 888 after 12 h and all the formulations followed first-order release kinetics. FT-IR and DSC studies revealed no interaction between drug and lipids. Studies showed that increase in lipid concentration, increased particle size, EE, and maintained the sustained release of drug. Among all, compritol ATO 888 was chosen as the best lipid for formulating SLN because it had high EE and sustained the drug release. PMID:23112531

  16. ¹³C solid-state NMR analysis of the most common pharmaceutical excipients used in solid drug formulations Part II: CP kinetics and relaxation analysis.

    PubMed

    Pisklak, Dariusz Maciej; Zielińska-Pisklak, Monika; Szeleszczuk, Łukasz; Wawer, Iwona

    2016-04-15

    Excipients used in the solid drug formulations differ in their NMR relaxation and (13)C cross-polarization (CP) kinetics parameters. Therefore, experimental parameters like contact time of cross-polarization and repetition time have a major impact on the registered solid state NMR spectra and in consequence on the results of the NMR analysis. In this work the CP kinetics and relaxation of the most common pharmaceutical excipients: anhydrous α-lactose, α-lactose monohydrate, mannitol, sucrose, sorbitol, sodium starch glycolate type A and B, starch of different origin, microcrystalline cellulose, hypromellose, ethylcellulose, methylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, sodium alginate, magnesium stearate, sodium laurilsulfate and Kollidon(®) were analyzed. The studied excipients differ significantly in their optimum repetition time (from 5 s to 1200 s) and T(1ρ)(I) parameters (from 2 ms to 73 ms). The practical use of those differences in the excipients composition analysis was demonstrated on the example of commercially available tablets containing indapamide as an API. The information presented in this article will help to choose the correct acquisition parameters and also will save the time and effort needed for their optimization in the NMR analysis of the solid drug formulations. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  17. Increased physical stability and improved dissolution properties of itraconazole, a class II drug, by solid dispersions that combine fast- and slow-dissolving polymers.

    PubMed

    Six, Karel; Verreck, Geert; Peeters, Jef; Brewster, Marcus; Van Den Mooter, Guy

    2004-01-01

    Solid dispersions were prepared of itraconazole-Eudragit E100, itraconazole-PVPVA64, and itraconazole-Eudragit E100/PVPVA64 using a corotating twin-screw hot-stage extruder. Modulated temperature differential scanning calorimetry (MTDSC) was used to evaluate the miscibility of the extrudates, and dissolution experiments were performed in simulated gastric fluid without pepsin (SGF(sp)). Itraconazole and Eudragit E100 are miscible up to 13% w/w drug loading. From that concentration on, phase separation is observed. Pharmaceutical performance of this dispersion was satisfactory because 80% of the drug dissolved after 30 min. Extrudates of itraconazole and PVPVA64 were completely miscible but the pharmaceutical performance was low, with 45% of drug dissolved after 3 h. Combination of both polymers in different ratios, with a fixed drug loading of 40% w/w, was evaluated. MTDSC results clearly indicated a two-phase system consisting of itraconazole-Eudragit E100 and itraconazole-PVPVA64 phases. In these extrudates, no free crystalline or glassy clusters of itraconazole were observed; all itraconazole was mixed with one of both polymers. The pharmaceutical performance was tested in SGF(sp) for different polymer ratios, and Eudragit E100/PVPVA64 ratios of 50/50 and 60/40 showed significant increases in dissolution rate and level. Polymer ratios of 70/30 and 80/20, on the other hand, had a release of 85% after 30 min. Precipitation of the drug was never observed. The combination of the two polymers provides a solid dispersion with good dissolution properties and improved physical stability compared with the binary solid dispersions of itraconazole. Copyright 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

  18. Melt extrusion vs. spray drying: The effect of processing methods on crystalline content of naproxen-povidone formulations.

    PubMed

    Haser, Abbe; Cao, Tu; Lubach, Joe; Listro, Tony; Acquarulo, Larry; Zhang, Feng

    2017-05-01

    Our hypothesis is that melt extrusion is a more suitable processing method than spray drying to prepare amorphous solid dispersions of drugs with a high crystallization tendency. Naproxen-povidone K25 was used as the model system in this study. Naproxen-povidone K25 solid dispersions at 30% and 60% drug loadings were characterized by modulated DSC, powder X-ray diffraction, FT-IR, and solid-state 13 C NMR to identify phase separation and drug recrystallization during processing and storage. At 30% drug loading, hydrogen bond (H-bond) sites of povidone K25 were not saturated and the glass transition (T g ) temperature of the formulation was higher. As a result, both melt-extruded and spray-dried materials were amorphous initially and remained so after storage at 40°C. At 60% drug loading, H-bond sites were saturated, and T g was low. We were not able to prepare amorphous materials. The initial crystallinity of the formulations was 0.4%±0.2% and 5.6%±0.6%, and increased to 2.7%±0.3% and 21.6%±1.0% for melt-extruded and spray-dried materials, respectively. Spray-dried material was more susceptible to re-crystallization during processing, due to the high diffusivity of naproxen molecules in the formulation matrix and lack of kinetic stabilization from polymer solution. A larger number of crystalline nucleation sites and high surface area made the spray-dried material more susceptible to recrystallization during storage. This study demonstrated the unique advantages of melt extrusion over spray drying for the preparation of amorphous solid dispersions of naproxen at high drug level. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  19. Self-Reported Drug and Alcohol Use and Attitudes toward Drug Testing in High Schools with Random Student Drug Testing

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    DuPont, Robert L.; Campbell, Michael D.; Campbell, Teresa G.; Shea, Corinne L.; DuPont, Helen S.

    2013-01-01

    Many schools implement random student drug testing (RSDT) programs as a drug prevention strategy. This study analyzes self-report surveys of students in eight secondary schools with well-established RSDT programs, comparing students who understood they were subject to testing and students who understood they were not subject to testing. Students…

  20. CO Self-Shielding as a Mechanism to Make O-16 Enriched Solids in the Solar Nebula

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Nuth, Joseph A. III; Johnson, Natasha M.; Hill, Hugh G. M.

    2014-01-01

    Photochemical self-shielding of CO has been proposed as a mechanism to produce solids observed in the modern, O-16 depleted solar system. This is distinct from the relatively O-16 enriched composition of the solar nebula, as demonstrated by the oxygen isotopic composition of the contemporary sun. While supporting the idea that self-shielding can produce local enhancements in O-16 depleted solids, we argue that complementary enhancements of O-16 enriched solids can also be produced via CO-16 based, Fischer-Tropsch type (FTT) catalytic processes that could produce much of the carbonaceous feedstock incorporated into accreting planetesimals. Local enhancements could explain observed O-16 enrichment in calcium-aluminum-rich inclusions (CAIs), such as those from the meteorite, Isheyevo (CH/CHb), as well as in chondrules from the meteorite, Acfer 214 (CH3). CO selfshielding results in an overall increase in the O-17 and O-18 content of nebular solids only to the extent that there is a net loss of CO-16 from the solar nebula. In contrast, if CO-16 reacts in the nebula to produce organics and water then the net effect of the self-shielding process will be negligible for the average oxygen isotopic content of nebular solids and other mechanisms must be sought to produce the observed dichotomy between oxygen in the Sun and that in meteorites and the terrestrial planets. This illustrates that the formation and metamorphism of rocks and organics need to be considered in tandem rather than as isolated reaction networks.

  1. Intracranial Self-Stimulation to Evaluate Abuse Potential of Drugs

    PubMed Central

    Miller, Laurence L.

    2014-01-01

    Intracranial self-stimulation (ICSS) is a behavioral procedure in which operant responding is maintained by pulses of electrical brain stimulation. In research to study abuse-related drug effects, ICSS relies on electrode placements that target the medial forebrain bundle at the level of the lateral hypothalamus, and experimental sessions manipulate frequency or amplitude of stimulation to engender a wide range of baseline response rates or response probabilities. Under these conditions, drug-induced increases in low rates/probabilities of responding maintained by low frequencies/amplitudes of stimulation are interpreted as an abuse-related effect. Conversely, drug-induced decreases in high rates/probabilities of responding maintained by high frequencies/amplitudes of stimulation can be interpreted as an abuse-limiting effect. Overall abuse potential can be inferred from the relative expression of abuse-related and abuse-limiting effects. The sensitivity and selectivity of ICSS to detect abuse potential of many classes of abused drugs is similar to the sensitivity and selectivity of drug self-administration procedures. Moreover, similar to progressive-ratio drug self-administration procedures, ICSS data can be used to rank the relative abuse potential of different drugs. Strengths of ICSS in comparison with drug self-administration include 1) potential for simultaneous evaluation of both abuse-related and abuse-limiting effects, 2) flexibility for use with various routes of drug administration or drug vehicles, 3) utility for studies in drug-naive subjects as well as in subjects with controlled levels of prior drug exposure, and 4) utility for studies of drug time course. Taken together, these considerations suggest that ICSS can make significant contributions to the practice of abuse potential testing. PMID:24973197

  2. ZnO nanoneedle/H2O solid-liquid heterojunction-based self-powered ultraviolet detector

    PubMed Central

    2013-01-01

    ZnO nanoneedle arrays were grown vertically on a fluorine-doped tin oxide-coated glass by hydrothermal method at a relatively low temperature. A self-powered photoelectrochemical cell-type UV detector was fabricated using the ZnO nanoneedles as the active photoanode and H2O as the electrolyte. This solid-liquid heterojunction offers an enlarged ZnO/water contact area and a direct pathway for electron transport simultaneously. By connecting this UV photodetector to an ammeter, the intensity of UV light can be quantified using the output short-circuit photocurrent without a power source. High photosensitivity, excellent spectral selectivity, and fast photoresponse at zero bias are observed in this UV detector. The self-powered behavior can be well explained by the formation of a space charge layer near the interface of the solid-liquid heterojunction, which results in a built-in potential and makes the solid-liquid heterojunction work in photovoltaic mode. PMID:24103153

  3. 78 FR 21611 - Guidance for Industry on Self-Selection Studies for Nonprescription Drug Products; Availability

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-04-11

    ... recommendations regarding study design, study conduct, and final reporting of self-selection studies. The guidance...] Guidance for Industry on Self-Selection Studies for Nonprescription Drug Products; Availability AGENCY... announcing the availability of a guidance for industry entitled ``Self-Selection Studies for Nonprescription...

  4. Supercritical fluid precipitation of ketoprofen in novel structured lipid carriers for enhanced mucosal delivery--a comparison with solid lipid particles.

    PubMed

    Gonçalves, V S S; Matias, A A; Rodríguez-Rojo, S; Nogueira, I D; Duarte, C M M

    2015-11-10

    Structured lipid carriers based on mixture of solid lipids with liquid lipids are the second generation of solid lipid particles, offering the advantage of improved drug loading capacity and higher storage stability. In this study, structured lipid carriers were successfully prepared for the first time by precipitation from gas saturated solutions. Glyceryl monooleate (GMO), a liquid glycerolipid, was selected in this work to be incorporated into three solid glycerolipids with hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) ranging from 1 to 13, namely Gelucire 43/01™, Geleol™ and Gelucire 50/13™. In general, microparticles with a irregular porous morphology and a wide particle size distribution were obtained. The HLB of the individual glycerolipids might be a relevant parameter to take into account during the processing of solid:liquid lipid blends. As expected, the addition of a liquid lipid into a solid lipid matrix led to increased stability of the lipid carriers, with no significant modifications in their melting enthalpy after 6 months of storage. Additionally, Gelucire 43/01™:GMO particles were produced with different mass ratios and loaded with ketoprofen. The drug loading capacity of the structured lipid carriers increased as the GMO content in the particles increased, achieving a maximum encapsulation efficiency of 97% for the 3:1 mass ratio. Moreover, structured lipid carriers presented an immediate release of ketoprofen from its matrix with higher permeation through a mucous-membrane model, while solid lipid particles present a controlled release of the drug with less permeation capacity. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  5. Mechanism-based selection of stabilization strategy for amorphous formulations: Insights into crystallization pathways.

    PubMed

    Edueng, Khadijah; Mahlin, Denny; Larsson, Per; Bergström, Christel A S

    2017-06-28

    We developed a step-by-step experimental protocol using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), dynamic vapour sorption (DVS), polarized light microscopy (PLM) and a small-scale dissolution apparatus (μDISS Profiler) to investigate the mechanism (solid-to-solid or solution-mediated) by which crystallization of amorphous drugs occurs upon dissolution. This protocol then guided how to stabilize the amorphous formulation. Indapamide, metolazone, glibenclamide and glipizide were selected as model drugs and HPMC (Pharmacoat 606) and PVP (K30) as stabilizing polymers. Spray-dried amorphous indapamide, metolazone and glibenclamide crystallized via solution-mediated nucleation while glipizide suffered from solid-to-solid crystallization. The addition of 0.001%-0.01% (w/v) HPMC into the dissolution medium successfully prevented the crystallization of supersaturated solutions of indapamide and metolazone whereas it only reduced the crystallization rate for glibenclamide. Amorphous solid dispersion (ASD) formulation of glipizide and PVP K30, at a ratio of 50:50% (w/w) reduced but did not completely eliminate the solid-to-solid crystallization of glipizide even though the overall dissolution rate was enhanced both in the absence and presence of HPMC. Raman spectroscopy indicated the formation of a glipizide polymorph in the dissolution medium with higher solubility than the stable polymorph. As a complementary technique, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of indapamide and glibenclamide with HPMC was performed. It was revealed that hydrogen bonding patterns of the two drugs with HPMC differed significantly, suggesting that hydrogen bonding may play a role in the greater stabilizing effect on supersaturation of indapamide, compared to glibenclamide. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  6. Actigraphy-based sleep parameters during the reinstatement of methamphetamine self-administration in rhesus monkeys.

    PubMed

    Berro, Laís F; Andersen, Monica L; Tufik, Sergio; Howell, Leonard L

    2016-04-01

    The objective of this study was to investigate nighttime activity of nonhuman primates during extinction and cue- and drug-primed reinstatement of methamphetamine self-administration. Adult rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta; n = 5) self-administered methamphetamine (0.01 mg/kg/injection, i.v.) under a fixed-ratio 20 schedule of reinforcement. Saline infusions were then substituted for methamphetamine and stimulus light (drug-conditioned stimulus presented during drug self-administration) withheld until subjects reached extinction criteria. Drug- and cue-induced reinstatement effects were evaluated after i.v. noncontingent priming injections of methamphetamine (0.03, 0.1, or 0.3 mg/kg). Activity-based sleep measures were evaluated with Actiwatch monitors a week before (baseline nighttime activity parameters) and throughout the protocol. Although methamphetamine self-administration did not significantly affect nighttime activity compared to baseline, sleeplike parameters were improved during extinction compared to self-administration maintenance. Priming injection of 0.1 mg/kg methamphetamine, but not 0.03 or 0.3 mg/kg, induced significant reinstatement effects. These behavioral responses were accompanied by nighttime outcomes, with increased sleep fragmentation and decreased sleep efficiency in the night following 0.1 mg/kg methamphetamine-induced reinstatement. In the absence of both drug and drug-paired cues (extinction conditions), nighttime activity decreased compared to self-administration maintenance. Additionally, effective reinstatement conditions impaired sleeplike measures. Our data indicate that the reintroduction of the stimulus light as a drug-paired cue increased nighttime activity. (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved).

  7. Theoretical and experimental investigation of drug-polymer interaction and miscibility and its impact on drug supersaturation in aqueous medium.

    PubMed

    Baghel, Shrawan; Cathcart, Helen; O'Reilly, Niall J

    2016-10-01

    Amorphous solid dispersions (ASDs) have the potential to offer higher apparent solubility and bioavailability of BCS class II drugs. Knowledge of the solid state drug-polymer solubility/miscibility and their mutual interaction are fundamental requirements for the effective design and development of such systems. To this end, we have carried out a comprehensive investigation of various ASD systems of dipyridamole and cinnarizine in polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and polyacrylic acid (PAA) at different drug loadings. Theoretical and experimental examinations (by implementing binary and ternary Flory-Huggins (F-H) theory) related to drug-polymer interaction/miscibility including solubility parameter approach, melting point depression method, phase diagram, drug-polymer interaction in the presence of moisture and the effect of drug loading on interaction parameter were performed. The information obtained from this study was used to predict the stability of ASDs at different drug loadings and under different thermal and moisture conditions. Thermal and moisture sorption analysis not only provided the composition-dependent interaction parameter but also predicted the composition dependent miscibility. DPM-PVP, DPM-PAA and CNZ-PAA systems have shown molecular level mixing over the complete range of drug loading. For CNZ-PVP, the presence of a single Tg at lower drug loadings (10, 20 and 35%w/w) indicates the formation of solid solution. However, drug recrystallization was observed for samples with higher drug weight fractions (50 and 65%w/w). Finally, the role of polymer in maintaining drug supersaturation has also been explored. It has been found that drug-polymer combinations capable of hydrogen-bonding in the solution state (DPM-PVP, DPM-PAA and CNZ-PAA) are more effective in preventing drug crystallization compared to the drug-polymer systems without such interaction (CNZ-PVP). The DPM-PAA system outperformed all other ASDs in various stability conditions (dry-state, in the presence of moisture and in solution state), which was attributed to the drug's low crystallization tendency, the strong DPM-PAA interaction, the robustness of this interaction against moisture or water and the ability of PAA in maintaining DPM supersaturation. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  8. Biomanufacturing and self-propulsion dynamics of nanoscale bacteria-enabled autonomous delivery systems

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Traore, Mahama A.; Behkam, Bahareh, E-mail: behkam@vt.edu; School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061

    Flagellated bacteria have superb self-propulsion capabilities and are able to effectively move through highly viscous fluid and semi-solid (porous) environments. This innate aptitude has been harvested for whole-cell actuation of bio-hybrid microrobotic systems with applications in directed transport and microassembly. In this work, we present the biomanufacturing of Nanoscale Bacteria-Enabled Autonomous Delivery Systems (NanoBEADS) by controlled self-assembly and investigate the role of nanoparticle load on the dynamics of their self-propulsion in aqueous environments. Each NanoBEADS agent is comprised of spherical polystyrene nanoparticles assembled onto the body of a flagellated Escherichia coli bacterium. We demonstrate that the NanoBEADS assembly configuration ismore » strongly dependent upon the nanoparticles to bacteria ratio. Furthermore, we characterized the stochastic motion of the NanoBEADS as a function of the quantity and size of the nanoparticle load and computationally analyzed the effect of the nanoparticle load on the experienced drag force. We report that the average NanoBEADS swimming speed is reduced to 65% of the free-swimming bacteria speed (31 μm/s) at the highest possible load. NanoBEADS can be utilized as single agents or in a collaborative swarm in order to carry out specific tasks in a wide range of applications ranging from drug delivery to whole cell biosensing.« less

  9. Formulation and Evaluation of Solid Lipid Nanoparticles of Ramipril

    PubMed Central

    Ekambaram, P; Abdul, Hasan Sathali A

    2011-01-01

    Solid lipid nanoparticles are typically spherical with an average diameter between 1 and 1000 nm. It is an alternative carrier system to tradition colloidal carriers, such as, emulsions, liposomes, and polymeric micro and nanoparticles. Ramipril is an antihypertensive agent used in the treatment of hypertension. Its oral bioavailability is 28% and it is rapidly excreted through the renal route. This drug has many side effects such as, postural hypotension, hyperkalemia, and angioedema, when given as an immediate dosage form. To overcome the side effects and to increase the bioavailability of ramipril, solid lipid nanoparticles of ramipril are prepared by using lipids (glyceryl monostearate and glyceryl monooleate) with stabilizers (tween 80, poloxamer 188, and span 20). The prepared formulations have been evaluated for entrapment efficiency, drug content, in-vitro drug release, particle size analysis, scanning electron spectroscopy, Fourier transform-infrared studies, and stability. A formulation containing glyceryl monooleate, stabilized with span 20 as surfactant showed prolonged drug release, smaller particle size, and narrow particle size distribution, as compared to other formulations with different surfactants and lipids. PMID:21897661

  10. Processing of carbamazepine-PEG 4000 solid dispersions with supercritical carbon dioxide: preparation, characterisation, and in vitro dissolution.

    PubMed

    Moneghini, M; Kikic, I; Voinovich, D; Perissutti, B; Filipović-Grcić, J

    2001-07-03

    The purpose of this study was to apply the attractive technique of the supercritical fluid to the preparation of solvent-free solid dispersions. In particular, the gas antisolvent crystallisation technique (GAS), using supercritical carbon dioxide as processing medium, has been considered to prepare an enhanced release dosage form for of the poorly soluble carbamazepine, employing PEG 4000 as a hydrophilic carrier. The physical characterisation of the systems using laser granulometer, powder X-ray diffraction, thermal analyses, and scanning electron microscopy was carried out in order to understand the influence of this technological process on the physical status of the drug. The results of the physical characterisation attested a substantial correspondence of the solid state of the drug before and after treatment with GAS technique, whereas a pronounced change in size and morphology of the drug crystals was noticed. The dramatic reduction of the dimensions and the better crystal shape, together with the presence of the hydrophilic polymer determined a remarkable enhancement of the in vitro drug dissolution rate.

  11. The runway model of drug self-administration

    PubMed Central

    Ettenberg, Aaron

    2009-01-01

    Behavioral scientists have employed operant runways as a means of investigating the motivational impact of incentive stimuli for the better part of the past 100 years. In this task, the speed with which a trained animal traverses a long straight alley for positive incentive stimuli, like food or water, provides a reliable index of the subject’s motivation to seek those stimuli. The runway is therefore a particularly appropriate tool for investigating the drug-seeking behavior of animals working for drugs of abuse. The current review describes our laboratory’s work over the past twenty years developing and implementing an operant runway model of drug self-administration. Procedures are described that methodologically dissociate the antecedent motivational processes that induce an animal to seek a drug, from the positive reinforcing consequences of actually earning the drug. Additional work is reviewed on the use of the runway method as a means of modeling the factors that often result in a “relapse” of drug self-administration after a period of abstinence (i.e., a response reinstatement test), as are runway studies that revealed the presence of opposing positive and negative consequences of self-administered cocaine. This body of work suggests that the runway method has served as a powerful behavioral tool for the study of the behavioral and neurobiological basis of drug self-administration. PMID:19032964

  12. Role of Self-Association and Supersaturation in Oral Absorption of a Poorly Soluble Weakly Basic Drug.

    PubMed

    Narang, Ajit S; Badawy, Sherif; Ye, Qingmei; Patel, Dhaval; Vincent, Maria; Raghavan, Krishnaswamy; Huang, Yande; Yamniuk, Aaron; Vig, Balvinder; Crison, John; Derbin, George; Xu, Yan; Ramirez, Antonio; Galella, Michael; Rinaldi, Frank A

    2015-08-01

    Precipitation of weakly basic drugs in intestinal fluids can affect oral drug absorption. In this study, the implications of self-association of brivanib alaninate in acidic aqueous solution, leading to supersaturation at basic pH condition, on its solubility and oral absorption were investigated. Self-association of brivanib alaninate was investigated by proton NMR spectroscopy, surface tension measurement, dynamic light scattering, isothermal titration calorimetry, and molecular modeling. Drug solubility was determined in various pH media, and its tendency to supersaturate upon pH shift was investigated in buffered and biorelevant aqueous solutions. Pharmacokinetic modeling of human oral drug absorption was utilized for parameter sensitivity analyses of input variables. Brivanib alaninate exhibited continuous, and pH- and concentration-dependent self-association. This phenomenon resulted in positive deviation of drug solubility at acidic pH and the formation of a stable supersaturated drug solution in pH-shift assays. Consistent with the supersaturation phenomenon observed in vitro, oral absorption simulations necessitated invoking long precipitation time in the intestine to successfully predict in vivo data. Self-association of a weakly basic drug in acidic aqueous solution can increase its oral absorption by supersaturation and precipitation resistance at the intestinal pH. This consideration is important to the selection of parameters for oral absorption simulation.

  13. Enhanced intestinal permeability and oral bioavailability of enalapril maleate upon complexation with the cationic polymethacrylate Eudragit E100.

    PubMed

    Ramírez-Rigo, María V; Olivera, María E; Rubio, Modesto; Manzo, Ruben H

    2014-05-13

    The low bioavailability of enalapril maleate associated to its instability in solid state motivated the development of a polyelectrolyte-drug complex between enalapril maleate and the cationic polymethacrylate Eudragit E100. The solid complexes were characterized by DSC-TG, FT-IR and X-ray diffraction. Their aqueous dispersions were evaluated for drug delivery in bicompartimental Franz cells and electrokinetic potentials. Stability in solid state was also evaluated using an HPLC-UV stability indicating method. Absorption of enalapril maleate was assessed thorough the rat everted gut sac model. In addition, urinary recovery after oral administration in rats was used as an indicator of systemic exposition. The solid materials are stable amorphous solids in which both moieties of enalapril maleate are ionically bonded to the polymer. Their aqueous dispersions exhibited controlled release over more than 7h in physiologic saline solution, being ionic exchange the fundamental mechanism that modified the extent and rate of drug release. Intestinal permeation of enalapril maleate was 1.7 times higher in the presence of the cationic polymer. This increase can be related with the capacity to adhere the mucosa due to the positive zeta potential of the complexes. As a consequence bioavailability was significantly improved (1.39 times) after oral administration of the complexes. In addition, no signs of chemical decomposition were observed after a 14months period. The results indicated that the products are new chemical entities that improve unfavorable properties of a useful drug. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  14. S-layer fusion protein as a tool functionalizing emulsomes and CurcuEmulsomes for antibody binding and targeting

    PubMed Central

    Ucisik, Mehmet H.; Küpcü, Seta; Breitwieser, Andreas; Gelbmann, Nicola; Schuster, Bernhard; Sleytr, Uwe B.

    2015-01-01

    Selective targeting of tumor cells by nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems is highly desirable because it maximizes the drug concentration at the desired target while simultaneously protecting the surrounding healthy tissues. Here, we show a design for smart nanocarriers based on a biomimetic approach that utilizes the building principle of virus envelope structures. Emulsomes and CurcuEmulsomes comprising a tripalmitin solid core surrounded by phospholipid layers are modified by S-layer proteins that self-assemble into a two-dimensional array to form a surface layer. One significant advantage of this nanoformulation is that it increases the solubility of the lipophilic anti-cancer agent curcumin in the CurcuEmulsomes by a factor of 2700. In order to make the emulsomes specific for IgG, the S-layer protein is fused with two protein G domains. This S-layer fusion protein preserves its recrystallization characteristics, forming an ordered surface layer (square lattice with 13 nm unit-by-unit distance). The GG domains are presented in a predicted orientation and exhibit a selective binding affinity for IgG. PMID:25734967

  15. Self-esteem evaluation in children and adolescents suffering from ADHD.

    PubMed

    Mazzone, Luigi; Postorino, Valentina; Reale, Laura; Guarnera, Manuela; Mannino, Valeria; Armando, Marco; Fatta, Laura; De Peppo, Lavinia; Vicari, Stefano

    2013-01-01

    Several recent studies investigated the relationship between self-esteem and ADHD, however, the results are still controversial. In the present study we analyze the characteristics of self-esteem in a sample of children and adolescents suffering from ADHD, with a particular focus on the relationship between ADHD symptoms severity and treatment strategies. A total of 85 patients with ADHD (44 drug-free and 41 drug-treated, 23 of which atomoxetine-treated and 18 Methylphenidate-treated) and 26 healthy controls were enrolled in the study in order to evaluate self-esteem using the Self-esteem Multidimensional Test (TMA). ADHD subjects revealed lower scores on all self-esteem domains compared to controls. Both ADHD drug-free (47.1%) and ADHD drug-treated (44.1%) groups showed significantly higher rates of subjects in the pathological range as compared to normal control group (8.8%) (p <.001) with a higher percentage of subjects in the pathological range. Among ADHD drug-treated subjects, the methylphenidate group showed higher self-esteem scores as compared to the atomoxetine group. A lower self-esteem profile is more common in subjects suffering from ADHD than in healthy controls, suggesting the importance of an early detection of psychological well-being in these children in order to reduce the ADHD symptoms long-term impacts.

  16. Self-Esteem Evaluation in Children and Adolescents Suffering from ADHD

    PubMed Central

    Mazzone, Luigi; Postorino, Valentina; Reale, Laura; Guarnera, Manuela; Mannino, Valeria; Armando, Marco; Fatta, Laura; De Peppo, Lavinia; Vicari, Stefano

    2013-01-01

    Background: Several recent studies investigated the relationship between self-esteem and ADHD, however, the results are still controversial. In the present study we analyze the characteristics of self-esteem in a sample of children and adolescents suffering from ADHD, with a particular focus on the relationship between ADHD symptoms severity and treatment strategies. Methods: A total of 85 patients with ADHD (44 drug-free and 41 drug-treated, 23 of which atomoxetine-treated and 18 Methylphenidate-treated) and 26 healthy controls were enrolled in the study in order to evaluate self-esteem using the Self-esteem Multidimensional Test (TMA). Results: ADHD subjects revealed lower scores on all self-esteem domains compared to controls. Both ADHD drug-free (47.1%) and ADHD drug-treated (44.1%) groups showed significantly higher rates of subjects in the pathological range as compared to normal control group (8.8%) (p <.001) with a higher percentage of subjects in the pathological range. Among ADHD drug-treated subjects, the methylphenidate group showed higher self-esteem scores as compared to the atomoxetine group. Conclusion: A lower self-esteem profile is more common in subjects suffering from ADHD than in healthy controls, suggesting the importance of an early detection of psychological well-being in these children in order to reduce the ADHD symptoms long-term impacts. PMID:23878614

  17. Directing the phase behavior of polyelectrolyte complexes using chiral patterned peptides

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Pacalin, Naomi M.; Leon, Lorraine; Tirrell, Matthew

    Polyelectrolyte complexes (PECs) have a broad range of promising applications as soft materials due to their self-assembly and diversity of structure and chemical composition. Peptide polymer PECs are highly biocompatible and biodegradable, making them particularly useful for encapsulation of food additives and flavors, micellar drug delivery, medical and underwater adhesives, fetal membrane patches, and scaffolds for cell growth in tissue engineering. While parameters affecting PEC formation and stability in regards to charge effects are well researched, little is known about the effects of van der Waals interactions, hydrogen bonding, and secondary structure in these materials. Peptide chirality provides a uniquemore » opportunity to manipulate PEC phase to modulate the amount of solid-like (precipitate) or liquid-like (coacervate) character by influencing hydrogen bonding interactions among peptide chains. In previous work, we showed that chiral peptides form solid complexes, while complexes with even one racemic peptide were fluid. This raised the interesting question of how long a homochiral sequence must be to result in solid phase formation. In this work, we designed chiral patterned peptides of polyglutamic acid and polylysine ranging from 50 to 90% L-chiral residues with increasing numbers of sequential L-chiral residues before a chirality change. These polymers were mixed together to form PECs. We observed that 8 or more sequential L-chiral residues are necessary to achieve both the appearance of a precipitate phase and sustained beta-sheets in the complex, as determined by optical imaging and FTIR Spectroscopy. Less homochiral content results in formation of a coacervate phase. Thus, we show that chiral sequence can be used to control the phase transition of PECs. Understanding how to manipulate PEC phase using chiral sequence as presented here may enable tuning of the material properties to achieve the desired mechanical strength for coatings and polymer brushes, or the most effective molecular release kinetics for drug delivery applications, for example.« less

  18. Directing the phase behavior of polyelectrolyte complexes using chiral patterned peptides

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pacalin, Naomi M.; Leon, Lorraine; Tirrell, Matthew

    2016-10-01

    Polyelectrolyte complexes (PECs) have a broad range of promising applications as soft materials due to their self-assembly and diversity of structure and chemical composition. Peptide polymer PECs are highly biocompatible and biodegradable, making them particularly useful for encapsulation of food additives and flavors, micellar drug delivery, medical and underwater adhesives, fetal membrane patches, and scaffolds for cell growth in tissue engineering. While parameters affecting PEC formation and stability in regards to charge effects are well researched, little is known about the effects of van der Waals interactions, hydrogen bonding, and secondary structure in these materials. Peptide chirality provides a unique opportunity to manipulate PEC phase to modulate the amount of solid-like (precipitate) or liquid-like (coacervate) character by influencing hydrogen bonding interactions among peptide chains. In previous work, we showed that chiral peptides form solid complexes, while complexes with even one racemic peptide were fluid. This raised the interesting question of how long a homochiral sequence must be to result in solid phase formation. In this work, we designed chiral patterned peptides of polyglutamic acid and polylysine ranging from 50 to 90% L-chiral residues with increasing numbers of sequential L-chiral residues before a chirality change. These polymers were mixed together to form PECs. We observed that 8 or more sequential L-chiral residues are necessary to achieve both the appearance of a precipitate phase and sustained β-sheets in the complex, as determined by optical imaging and FTIR Spectroscopy. Less homochiral content results in formation of a coacervate phase. Thus, we show that chiral sequence can be used to control the phase transition of PECs. Understanding how to manipulate PEC phase using chiral sequence as presented here may enable tuning of the material properties to achieve the desired mechanical strength for coatings and polymer brushes, or the most effective molecular release kinetics for drug delivery applications, for example.

  19. A self-assembled polyjuglanin nanoparticle loaded with doxorubicin and anti-Kras siRNA for attenuating multidrug resistance in human lung cancer.

    PubMed

    Wen, Zhong-Mei; Jie, Jing; Zhang, Yuan; Liu, Han; Peng, Li-Ping

    2017-12-02

    Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer-associated mortality worldwide, which has a low survival rate. Multidrug resistance (MDR) is a major obstacle that hinders the treatment of lung cancer. Doxorubicin (DOX) is an anthracycline glycoside antibiotic, having a broad spectrum of anticancer activity against various solid tumors. Juglanin is a natural production, mainly extracted from green walnut husks of Juglans mandshurica, exhibiting various bioactivities. Here, we demonstrated that the combination of drug, gene and nanoparticle overcame MDR, inhibiting lung cancer progression. A novel nanoparticular pre-chemosensitizer was applied to develop a self-assembled nanoparticle formula of amphiphilic poly(juglanin (Jug) dithiodipropionic acid (DA))-b-poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)-siRNA Kras with DOX in the core (DOX/PJAD-PEG-siRNA). The formed nanoparticles, appeared spherical shape, had mean particle size of 81.8 nm, and the zeta potential was -18.62 mV. The in vitro drug release results suggested that a sustained release was observed in DOX/PJAD-PEG-siRNA nanoparticles compared to the free DOX. Jug could improve the cytotoxicity of DOX to cancer cells with MDR. Oncogene, Kras, was dose-dependently reduced by treatment of DOX/PJAD-PEG-siRNA nanoparticles. Additionally, P-glycoprotein (MDR1) and c-Myc, contributing to tumor progression, were suppressed by the nanoparticles, while p53 was improved in drug-resistant cells. Colony formation analysis suggested that DOX/PJAD-PEG-siRNA nanoparticles showed the most effective role in reducing cancer cell proliferation. In vivo, DOX/PJAD-PEG-siRNA nanoparticles reduced tumor growth compared to the free DOX, accompanied with reduced KI-67 and enhanced TUNEL positive levels in drug-resistant xenografted nude mice. Thus, the findings above indicated that juglanin, as a chemosensitizer, potentiate the anti-cancer role of DOX in drug-resistant cancer cells. And the nanoparticles exhibited stronger antitumor efficiency, suggesting potential value in the treatment of lung cancer. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Inc.

  20. Use of a screening method to determine excipients which optimize the extent and stability of supersaturated drug solutions and application of this system to solid formulation design.

    PubMed

    Vandecruys, Roger; Peeters, Jef; Verreck, Geert; Brewster, Marcus E

    2007-09-05

    Assessing the effect of excipients on the ability to attain and maintain supersaturation of drug-based solution may provide useful information for the design of solid formulations. Judicious selection of materials that affect either the extent or stability of supersaturating drug delivery systems may be enabling for poorly soluble drug candidates or other difficult-to-formulate compounds. The technique suggested herein is aimed at providing a screening protocol to allow preliminary assessment of these factors based on small to moderate amounts of drug substance. A series of excipients were selected that may, by various mechanisms, affect supersaturation including pharmaceutical polymers such as HMPC and PVP, surfactants such as Polysorbate 20, Cremophor RH40 and TPGS and hydrophilic cyclodextrins such as HPbetaCD. Using a co-solvent based method and 25 drug candidates, the data suggested, on the whole, that the surfactants and the selected cyclodextrin seemed to best augment the extent of supersaturation but had variable benefits as stabilizers, while the pharmaceutical polymers had useful effect on supersaturation stability but were less helpful in increasing the extent of supersaturation. Using these data, a group of simple solid dosage forms were prepared and tested in the dog for one of the drug candidates. Excipients that gave the best extent and stability for the formed supersaturated solution in the screening assay also gave the highest oral bioavailability in the dog.

  1. Application of film-casting technique to investigate drug-polymer miscibility in solid dispersion and hot-melt extrudate.

    PubMed

    Parikh, Tapan; Gupta, Simerdeep Singh; Meena, Anuprabha K; Vitez, Imre; Mahajan, Nidhi; Serajuddin, Abu T M

    2015-07-01

    Determination of drug-polymer miscibility is critical for successful development of solid dispersions. This report details a practical method to predict miscibility and physical stability of drug with various polymers in solid dispersion and, especially, in melt extrudates by applying a film-casting technique. Mixtures of itraconazole (ITZ) with hydroxypropylmethylcellulose phthalate (HPMCP), Kollidon(®) VA 64, Eudragit(®) E PO, and Soluplus(®) were film-casted, exposed to 40°C/75% RH for 1 month and then analyzed using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), powder X-ray diffractometry, and polarized light microscopy (PLM). ITZ had the highest miscibility with HPMCP, being miscible at drug to polymer ratio of 6:4 (w/w). There was a downward trend of lower miscibility with Soluplus(®) (miscible at 3:7, w/w, and a few microcrystals present at 4:6, w/w), Kollidon(®) VA 64 (2:8, w/w) and Eudragit(®) E PO (<1:9, w/w). PLM was found more sensitive to detect drug crystallization than DSC and powder X-ray diffractometry. There was general correlation between results of film casting and hot-melt extrusion (HME) using a twin screw extruder. For ITZ-Soluplus(®) mixtures, HME at 4:6 (w/w) resulted in a single phase, whereas drug crystallization was observed at higher drug load. HME of ITZ-Kollidon(®) VA 64 mixtures also correlated well with the miscibility predicted by film casting. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association.

  2. Incubation of cue-induced reinstatement of cocaine, but not sucrose, seeking in C57BL/6J mice.

    PubMed

    Nugent, Alexandria L; Anderson, Ethan M; Larson, Erin B; Self, David W

    2017-08-01

    Prior studies have shown that drug-seeking behaviors increase, rather than dissipate, over weeks to months after withdrawal from drug self-administration. This phenomenon - termed incubation - suggests that drug-craving responses elicited by conditioned environmental or discrete cues may intensify over pronged abstinence. While most of this work is conducted in rats with intravenous drug self-administration models, there is less evidence for incubation in mice that have greater utility for molecular genetic analysis and perturbation. We tested whether incubation of cocaine-seeking behavior is evident in C57BL/6J mice following 3weeks (5days/week) of cocaine self-administration in 2h self-administration sessions. We compared cocaine-seeking (drug-paired lever) responses 1, 7, or 28days after withdrawal from cocaine self-administration, and over similar times following sucrose pellet self-administration. We found that the initial re-exposure to the self-administration test chambers elicited increased reward-seeking behavior in both sucrose and cocaine self-administering mice, with maximal responses found at 7days compared to 1 or 28days after self-administration with either reinforcer. However, following extinction training, reinstatement of cocaine seeking reinforced by response-contingent presentation of reward-associated cues (tone/light) was significantly higher after 28days compared to 1 or 7days following cocaine self-administration. In contrast, cue-induced reinstatement of sucrose-paired lever pressing did not increase over this time frame, demonstrating a drug-specific incubation effect not seen with a natural reward. Thus, C57BL/6J mice display incubation of cue-induced reinstatement of cocaine seeking similar to findings with rats, but only show a transient incubation of context-induced cocaine seeking. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  3. Multi-Layer Self-Nanoemulsifying Pellets: an Innovative Drug Delivery System for the Poorly Water-Soluble Drug Cinnarizine.

    PubMed

    Shahba, Ahmad Abdul-Wahhab; Ahmed, Abid Riaz; Alanazi, Fars Kaed; Mohsin, Kazi; Abdel-Rahman, Sayed Ibrahim

    2018-04-25

    Beside their solubility limitations, some poorly water-soluble drugs undergo extensive degradation in aqueous and/or lipid-based formulations. Multi-layer self-nanoemulsifying pellets (ML-SNEP) introduce an innovative delivery system based on isolating the drug from the self-nanoemulsifying layer to enhance drug aqueous solubility and minimize degradation. In the current study, various batches of cinnarizine (CN) ML-SNEP were prepared using fluid bed coating and involved a drug-free self-nanoemulsifying layer, protective layer, drug layer, moisture-sealing layer, and/or an anti-adherent layer. Each layer was optimized based on coating outcomes such as coating recovery and mono-pellets%. The optimized ML-SNEP were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X-ray diffraction (XRD), in vitro dissolution, and stability studies. The optimized ML-SNEP were free-flowing, well separated with high coating recovery. SEM showed multiple well-defined coating layers. The acidic polyvinylpyrrolidone:CN (4:1) solution presented excellent drug-layering outcomes. DSC and XRD confirmed CN transformation into amorphous state within the drug layer. The isolation between CN and self-nanoemulsifying layer did not adversely affect drug dissolution. CN was able to spontaneously migrate into the micelles arising from the drug-free self-nanoemulsifying layer. ML-SNEP showed superior dissolution compared to Stugeron® tablets at pH 1.2 and 6.8. Particularly, on shifting to pH 6.8, ML-SNEP maintained > 84% CN in solution while Stugeron® tablets showed significant CN precipitation leaving only 7% CN in solution. Furthermore, ML-SNEP (comprising Kollicoat® Smartseal 30D) showed robust stability and maintained > 97% intact CN within the accelerated storage conditions. Accordingly, ML-SNEP offer a novel delivery system that combines both enhanced solubilization and stabilization of unstable poorly soluble drugs.

  4. Drug suicide: a sex-equal cause of death in 16 European countries.

    PubMed

    Värnik, Airi; Sisask, Merike; Värnik, Peeter; Wu, Jing; Kõlves, Kairi; Arensman, Ella; Maxwell, Margareth; Reisch, Thomas; Gusmão, Ricardo; van Audenhove, Chantal; Scheerder, Gert; van der Feltz-Cornelis, Christina M; Coffey, Claire; Kopp, Maria; Szekely, Andras; Roskar, Saska; Hegerl, Ulrich

    2011-01-29

    There is a lack of international research on suicide by drug overdose as a preventable suicide method. Sex- and age-specific rates of suicide by drug self-poisoning (ICD-10, X60-64) and the distribution of drug types used in 16 European countries were studied, and compared with other self-poisoning methods (X65-69) and intentional self-injury (X70-84). Data for 2000-04/05 were collected from national statistical offices. Age-adjusted suicide rates, and age and sex distributions, were calculated. No pronounced sex differences in drug self-poisoning rates were found, either in the aggregate data (males 1.6 and females 1.5 per 100,000) or within individual countries. Among the 16 countries, the range (from some 0.3 in Portugal to 5.0 in Finland) was wide. 'Other and unspecified drugs' (X64) were recorded most frequently, with a range of 0.2-1.9, and accounted for more than 70% of deaths by drug overdose in France, Luxembourg, Portugal and Spain. Psychotropic drugs (X61) ranked second. The X63 category ('other drugs acting on the autonomic nervous system') was least frequently used. Finland showed low X64 and high X61 figures, Scotland had high levels of X62 ('narcotics and hallucinogens, not elsewhere classified') for both sexes, while England exceeded other countries in category X60. Risk was highest among the middle-aged everywhere except in Switzerland, where the elderly were most at risk. Suicide by drug overdose is preventable. Intentional self-poisoning with drugs kills as many males as females. The considerable differences in patterns of self-poisoning found in the various European countries are relevant to national efforts to improve diagnostics of suicide and appropriate specific prevention. The fact that vast majority of drug-overdose suicides came under the category X64 refers to the need of more detailed ICD coding system for overdose suicides is needed to permit better design of suicide-prevention strategies at national level.

  5. Preparation, characterization and in vitro evaluation of solid dispersions containing docetaxel.

    PubMed

    Chen, Jie; Qiu, Liyan; Hu, Minxin; Jin, Yi; Han, Jieru

    2008-06-01

    Solid dispersions using water-soluble carriers were studied for improving the dissolution of docetaxel, a poorly soluble compound. In order to obtain the most optimized formulation, we prepared many solid dispersions with different carriers, different solvents, or at a series of drug-to-carrier ratios, and compared their dissolution. The accumulative dissolution of docetaxel from poloxamer 188 was more excellent than that from PVP(k30) and glyceryl monostearate, and the dissolution of docetaxel from solid dispersion was markedly higher than that of pure docetaxel; meanwhile the increased dissolution was partly dependent on the ratios of docetaxel and poloxamer 188. The ethanol used to prepare solid dispersion is of more significant effect on the dissolution of docetaxel than that of acetone. The docetaxel/poloxamer 188 system was characterized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X-ray diffractometry (XRD), and environmental scanning electron microscope (ESEM). The results of DSC, XRD, and ESEM analyses of docetaxel/poloxamer 188 system showed that there are intermolecular interactions between docetaxel and poloxamer, and the crystallinity of docetaxel disappeared. These results show that solid dispersion is a promising approach of developing docetaxel drug formulates.

  6. Investigation of solid phase composition on tablet surfaces by grazing incidence X-ray diffraction.

    PubMed

    Koradia, Vishal; Tenho, Mikko; Lopez de Diego, Heidi; Ringkjøbing-Elema, Michiel; Møller-Sonnergaard, Jørn; Salonen, Jarno; Lehto, Vesa-Pekka; Rantanen, Jukka

    2012-01-01

    To investigate solid state transformations of drug substances during compaction using grazing incidence X-ray diffraction (GIXD). The solid forms of three model drugs-theophylline (TP), nitrofurantoin (NF) and amlodipine besylate (AMB)-were compacted at different pressures (from 100 to 1000 MPa); prepared tablets were measured using GIXD. After the initial measurements of freshly compacted tablets, tablets were subjected to suitable recrystallization treatment, and analogous measurements were performed. Solid forms of TP, NF and AMB showed partial amorphization as well as crystal disordering during compaction; the extent of these effects generally increased as a function of pressure. The changes were most pronounced at the outer surface region. The different solid forms showed difference in the formation of amorphicity/crystal disordering. Dehydration due to compaction was observed for the TP monohydrate, whereas hydrates of NF and AMB were stable towards dehydration. With GIXD measurements, it was possible to probe the solid form composition at the different depths of the tablet surfaces and to obtain depth-dependent information on the compaction-induced amorphization, crystal disordering and dehydration.

  7. Improved intestinal absorption of a poorly water-soluble oral drug using mannitol microparticles containing a nanosolid drug dispersion.

    PubMed

    Nishino, Yukiko; Kubota, Aya; Kanazawa, Takanori; Takashima, Yuuki; Ozeki, Tetsuya; Okada, Hiroaki

    2012-11-01

    A nozzle for a spray dryer that can prepare microparticles of water-soluble carriers containing various nanoparticles in a single step was previously developed in our laboratory. To enhance the solubility and intestinal absorption of poorly water-soluble drugs, we used probucol (PBL) as a poorly water-soluble drug, mannitol (MAN) as a water-soluble carrier for the microparticles, and EUDRAGIT (EUD) as a polymer vehicle for the solid dispersion. PBL-EUD-acetone-methanol and aqueous MAN solutions were simultaneously supplied through different liquid passages of the spray nozzle and dried together. PBL-EUD solid dispersion was nanoprecipitated in the MAN solution using an antisolvent mechanism and rapidly dried by surrounding it with MAN. PBL in the dispersion vehicle was amorphous and had higher physical stability according to powder X-ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry analysis. The bioavailability of PBL in PBL-EUD S-100-MAN microparticles after oral administration in rats was markedly higher (14- and 6.2-fold, respectively) than that of the original PBL powder and PBL-MAN microparticles. These results demonstrate that the composite microparticles containing a nanosized solid dispersion of a poorly water-soluble drug prepared using the spray nozzle developed by us should be useful to increase the solubility and bioavailability of drugs after oral administration. Copyright © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  8. Generic maintenance immunosuppression in solid organ transplant recipients.

    PubMed

    Ensor, Christopher R; Trofe-Clark, Jennifer; Gabardi, Steven; McDevitt-Potter, Lisa M; Shullo, Michael A

    2011-11-01

    Survival after solid organ transplantation has increased in the era of tacrolimus and mycophenolate. This increased survival could be due in part to the broad clinical use of these potent and specific agents for maintenance immunosuppression. These drugs have enhanced specificity and potency for T and B lymphocytes compared with their predecessors, cyclosporine and azathioprine. Between 2008 and 2010, the United States Food and Drug Administration approved several generic formulations of both tacrolimus and mycophenolate mofetil. Deciding whether generic products can be safely substituted for the innovator product is a clinical dilemma similar to that which occurred when generic formulations of cyclosporine became available. We describe the concerns regarding generic immunosuppression use, summarize expert opinion and consensus statements in transplantation, analyze the potential impact of generic substitution, and provide estimates of populations affected based on generic drug market penetration. Formulary considerations such as cost, availability, and potential drug ordering and drug selection errors are described, and transplant coordinator and patient perspectives are reviewed. Finally, general recommendations about the use of generic maintenance immunosuppression in solid organ transplant recipients are provided. Although more research is needed to confirm clinical and therapeutic equivalence and pharmacoeconomic benefit, generic immunosuppressants can be safely substituted for innovator products as long as patients consistently receive the same product, patients and clinicians are aware of when substitutions occur, and enhanced therapeutic drug monitoring is provided during the transition.

  9. Design and in vivo evaluation of solid lipid nanoparticulate systems of Olanzapine for acute phase schizophrenia treatment: Investigations on antipsychotic potential and adverse effects.

    PubMed

    Joseph, Emil; Reddi, Satish; Rinwa, Vibhu; Balwani, Garima; Saha, Ranendra

    2017-06-15

    The present paper discusses the design, characterization and in vivo evaluation of glyceryl monostearate nanoparticles of Olanzapine, an atypical antipsychotic drug for acute schizophrenia treatment, during which hospitalization is mandatory and adverse effects are at its peak. The solid lipid nanoparticulate system was obtained by emulsification-ultra sonication technique wherein three factors such as solid lipid content, concentration of surfactant and drug: solid lipid ratio were selected at three different levels in order to study their influence on significant characteristic responses such as particle size, encapsulation efficiency and drug content. A Box Behnken design with 17 runs involving whole factors at three levels was employed for the study. The optimized formulation was further coated with Polysorbate 80 in order to enhance its brain targeting potential through endocytosis transport process via blood brain barrier. The designed formulations were pre-clinically tested successfully in Wistar rat model for in vivo antipsychotic efficacy (apomorphine induced psychosis) and adverse effects (weight gain study for 28days). The results obtained indicated that solid lipid nanoparticles had very narrow size distribution (151.29±3.36nm) with very high encapsulation efficiency (74.51±1.75%). Morphological studies by SEM have shown that solid lipid nanoparticles were spherical in shape with smooth surface. Olanzapine-loaded nanoparticles prepared from solid lipid, extended the release of drug for 48h, as found by the in vitro release studies. The formulations also exhibited high redispersibility after freeze-drying and stability study results demonstrated good stability, with no significant change for a period of 6months. In vivo evaluation and adverse effects studies of Olanzapine-loaded nanoparticulate systems in animal model have demonstrated an improved therapeutic efficacy than pure Olanzapine. The antipsychotic effect of drug loaded nanoparticulate systems was maintained for 48h as compared to 8h antipsychotic action of pure Olanzapine solution. The weight gain studies for 28days demonstrated a significant inhibition in weight gain for Olanzapine-loaded nanoparticulate systems as compared to the pure Olanzapine. The present research findings indicate that OLN-loaded nanoparticulate systems may be highly promising for effective delivery of Olanzapine with better efficacy and minimum adverse effects. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  10. Combining piracetam and lithium salts: ionic co-crystals and co-drugs?

    PubMed

    Braga, Dario; Grepioni, Fabrizia; Maini, Lucia; Capucci, Davide; Nanna, Saverio; Wouters, Johan; Aerts, Luc; Quéré, Luc

    2012-08-25

    Mechanochemical reaction of solid piracetam with the inorganic salts LiCl and LiBr yields ionic co-crystals which are also co-drugs, characterized by markedly different thermal properties with respect to pure components, also depending on the method for preparation and/or conditions of measurements; single crystal and powder X-ray diffraction at variable temperatures, DSC, TGA, hot stage microscopy (HSM) and intrinsic dissolution rate have been used to fully characterize the solid products.

  11. Hansen solubility parameters (HSP) for prescreening formulation of solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN): in vitro testing of curcumin-loaded SLN in MCF-7 and BT-474 cell lines.

    PubMed

    Doktorovova, Slavomira; Souto, Eliana B; Silva, Amélia M

    2018-01-01

    Curcumin, a phenolic compound from turmeric rhizome (Curcuma longa), has many interesting pharmacological effects, but shows very low aqueous solubility. Consequently, several drug delivery systems based on polymeric and lipid raw materials have been proposed to increase its bioavailability. Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN), consisting of solid lipid matrix and a surfactant layer can load poorly water-soluble drugs, such as curcumin, deliver them at defined rates and enhance their intracellular uptake. In the present work, we demonstrate that, despite the drug's affinity to lipids frequently used in SLN production, the curcumin amount loaded in most SLN formulations may be too low to exhibit anticancer properties. The predictive curcumin solubility in solid lipids has been thoroughly analyzed by Hansen solubility parameters, in parallel with the lipid-screening solubility tests for a range of selected lipids. We identified the most suitable lipid materials for curcumin-loaded SLN, producing physicochemically stable particles with high encapsulation efficiency (>90%). Loading capacity of curcumin in SLN allowed preventing the cellular damage caused by cationic SLN on MCF-7 and BT-474 cells but was not sufficient to exhibit drug's anticancer properties. But curcumin-loaded SLN exhibited antioxidant properties, substantiating the conclusions that curcumin's effect in cancer cells is highly dose dependent.

  12. The Feasibility of Xpert MTB/RIF Testing to Detect Rifampicin Resistance among Childhood Tuberculosis for Prevalence Surveys in Northern China.

    PubMed

    Lu, Jie; Li, Huimin; Dong, Fang; Shi, Jin; Yang, Hui; Han, Shujing; Chu, Ping; Zhao, Yanlin; Song, Wenqi; Guo, Yongli; Zhao, Shunying

    2017-01-01

    Drug resistance surveillance is crucial for control of drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB). However, limited data exists on the burden of drug-resistant TB in children. The goal of this work was to generate prevalence data regarding rifampicin- (RIF-) resistant childhood TB in northern China and to test the feasibility of Xpert for surveying pediatric TB drug resistance prevalence. We enrolled 362 clinically diagnosed childhood TB patients and collected sputum, gastric lavage aspirate (GLA), bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), and cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) samples. Xpert and solid culture were utilized to detect RIF resistance. The detection rate of Xpert-positive TB among new clinically diagnosed TB cases was 38.4% (139/362), significantly higher than that of solid culture-positive TB (16.3%, 59/362, P < 0.01). Notably, Xpert-positive rates differed significantly by sample type, with the highest positive rate for GLA (51.2%). The unit testing costs per RIF-resistant TB patient were $828.41 for solid culture and $761.86 for Xpert. Our data demonstrate that the prevalence of RIF resistance among childhood TB cases in our study (6.9%) is comparable to the national RIF resistance prevalence level of new cases (6.7%). In addition, Xpert is superior to the solid culture for RIF resistance survey in the childhood TB patients.

  13. An investigation into the use of polymer blends to improve the printability of and regulate drug release from pharmaceutical solid dispersions prepared via fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing.

    PubMed

    Alhijjaj, Muqdad; Belton, Peter; Qi, Sheng

    2016-11-01

    FDM 3D printing has been recently attracted increasing research efforts towards the production of personalized solid oral formulations. However, commercially available FDM printers are extremely limited with regards to the materials that can be processed to few types of thermoplastic polymers, which often may not be pharmaceutically approved materials nor ideal for optimizing dosage form performance of poor soluble compounds. This study explored the use of polymer blends as a formulation strategy to overcome this processability issue and to provide adjustable drug release rates from the printed dispersions. Solid dispersions of felodipine, the model drug, were successfully fabricated using FDM 3D printing with polymer blends of PEG, PEO and Tween 80 with either Eudragit E PO or Soluplus. As PVA is one of most widely used polymers in FDM 3D printing, a PVA based solid dispersion was used as a benchmark to compare the polymer blend systems to in terms of processability. The polymer blends exhibited excellent printability and were suitable for processing using a commercially available FDM 3D printer. With 10% drug loading, all characterization data indicated that the model drug was molecularly dispersed in the matrices. During in vitro dissolution testing, it was clear that the disintegration behavior of the formulations significantly influenced the rates of drug release. Eudragit EPO based blend dispersions showed bulk disintegration; whereas the Soluplus based blends showed the 'peeling' style disintegration of strip-by-strip. The results indicated that interplay of the miscibility between excipients in the blends, the solubility of the materials in the dissolution media and the degree of fusion between the printed strips during FDM process can be used to manipulate the drug release rate of the dispersions. This brings new insight into the design principles of controlled release formulations using FDM 3D printing. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  14. Fabrication of ultrathin solid electrolyte membranes of β-Li 3PS 4 nanoflakes by evaporation-induced self-assembly for all-solid-state batteries

    DOE PAGES

    Wang, Hui; Hood, Zachary D.; Xia, Younan; ...

    2016-04-25

    All-solid-state lithium batteries are attractive candidates for next-generation energy storage devices because of their anticipated high energy density and intrinsic safety. Owing to their excellent ionic conductivity and stability with metallic lithium anodes, nanostructured lithium thiophosphate solid electrolytes such as β-Li 3PS 4 have found use in the fabrication of all-solid lithium batteries for large-scale energy storage systems. However, current methods for preparing air-sensitive solid electrolyte membranes of lithium thiophosphates can only generate thick membranes that compromise the battery's gravimetric/volumetric energy density and thus its rate performance. To overcome this limitation, the solid electrolyte's thickness needs to be effectively decreasedmore » to achieve ideal energy density and enhanced rate performance. In this paper, we show that the evaporation-induced self-assembly (EISA) technique produces ultrathin membranes of a lithium thiophosphate solid electrolyte with controllable thicknesses between 8 and 50 μm while maintaining the high ionic conductivity of β-Li 3PS 4 and stability with metallic lithium anodes up to 5 V. Finally, it is clearly demonstrated that this facile EISA approach allows for the preparation of ultrathin lithium thiophosphate solid electrolyte membranes for all-solid-state batteries.« less

  15. Pathways linking family stress to youth delinquency and substance use: Exploring the mediating roles of self-efficacy and future orientation.

    PubMed

    Voisin, Dexter R; Kim, Dong Ha; Bassett, Sarah M; Marotta, Phillip L

    2018-03-01

    African American adolescents in poorer neighborhoods experience significant sanctions related to drug use and delinquency. Parental stress (i.e. substance use, mental distress, and incarceration) is associated with youth drug use and delinquency. We examined whether high self-esteem and positive future orientation mediated parental stress and youth substance use and delinquency. Demographic, family stress, future orientation, self-esteem, and drug use data were collected from 578 youths. Major findings indicated that self-esteem mediated the relationship between family stress and both drug use and delinquency. Future mediated the relationship between family stress and delinquency. Resiliency factors may promote positive development for low-income youth.

  16. Study of liquid?liquid demixing from drug solution

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lafferrère, Laurent; Hoff, Christian; Veesler, Stéphane

    2004-09-01

    In pharmaceutical industry, a deep understanding of the phase diagram is required in design of crystallization processes. We have investigated the phase diagram of a pharmaceutical compound (C 35H 41Cl 2N 3O 2) in a mixture of ethanol/water. This phase diagram exhibits a solid-solid (polymorphism) and a liquid-liquid-phase separation (LLPS) as a function of temperature and drug substance concentration. This study focuses on the LLPS which is metastable with respect to the crystallization of the two polymorphs FI and FII of C 35H 41Cl 2N 3O 2 in an ethanol/water mixture. The LLPS is metastable towards the solubility curve on the whole solvent-solute concentrations and temperature range studied. The LLPS occurred within the metastable zone for crystallization. In our experiments the liquid-liquid-phase transition prevented the drug from crystallizing, while it changed the medium and the conditions of crystallization, which consequently affected the process. The coexistence curves for the liquid phases, also named TL-L boundary, and the spinodal line were measured for a ternary mixture of water-drug-ethanol at atmospheric pressure over a temperature range of 10-50°C. This temperature range corresponds to that used in the crystallization process. Static Light Scattering, HPLC measurements and Karl-Fischer titration were applied to investigate the drug-phase diagram. The isoplethe section of the phase diagram exhibits four regions: one homogeneous (one liquid) and three two-phases (two regions with one liquid+one solid and one region with two liquids), the two solids phases being two polymorphs.

  17. Ultrasonic vocalization in rats self-administering heroin and cocaine in different settings: evidence of substance-specific interactions between drug and setting.

    PubMed

    Avvisati, Riccardo; Contu, Laura; Stendardo, Emiliana; Michetti, Caterina; Montanari, Christian; Scattoni, Maria Luisa; Badiani, Aldo

    2016-04-01

    Clinical and preclinical evidence indicates that the setting of drug use affects drug reward in a substance-specific manner. Heroin and cocaine co-abusers, for example, indicated distinct settings for the two drugs: heroin being used preferentially at home and cocaine preferentially outside the home. Similar results were obtained in rats that were given the opportunity to self-administer intravenously both heroin and cocaine. The goal of the present study was to investigate the possibility that the positive affective state induced by cocaine is enhanced when the drug is taken at home relative to a non-home environment, and vice versa for heroin. To test this hypothesis, we trained male rats to self-administer both heroin and cocaine on alternate days and simultaneously recorded the emission of ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs), as it has been reported that rats emit 50-kHz USVs when exposed to rewarding stimuli, suggesting that these USVs reflect positive affective states. We found that Non-Resident rats emitted more 50-kHz USVs when they self-administered cocaine than when self-administered heroin whereas Resident rats emitted more 50-kHz USVs when self-administering heroin than when self-administering cocaine. Differences in USVs in Non-Resident rats were more pronounced during the first self-administration (SA) session, when the SA chambers were completely novel to them. In contrast, the differences in USVs in Resident rats were more pronounced during the last SA sessions. These findings indicate that the setting of drug taking exerts a substance-specific influence on the ability of drugs to induce positive affective states.

  18. A Novel Procedure for Evaluating the Reinforcing Properties of Tastants in Laboratory Rats: Operant Intraoral Self-administration

    PubMed Central

    Levy, AnneMarie; Limebeer, Cheryl L.; Ferdinand, Justin; Shillingford, Ucal; Parker, Linda A.; Leri, Francesco

    2014-01-01

    This paper describes a novel method for studying the bio-behavioral basis of addiction to food. This method combines the surgical component of taste reactivity with the behavioral aspects of operant self-administration of drugs. Under very brief general anaesthesia, rats are implanted with an intraoral (IO) cannula that allows delivery of test solutions directly in the oral cavity. Animals are then tested in operant self-administration chambers whereby they can press a lever to receive IO infusions of test solutions. IO self-administration has several advantages over experimental procedures that involve drinking a solution from a spout or operant responding for solid pellets or solutions delivered in a receptacle. Here, we show that IO self-administration can be employed to study self-administration of high fructose corn syrup (HFCS). Rats were first tested for self-administration on a progressive ratio (PR) schedule, which assesses the maximum amount of operant behavior that will be emitted for different concentrations of HFCS (i.e. 8%, 25%, and 50%). Following this test, rats self-administered these concentrations on a continuous schedule of reinforcement (i.e. one infusion for each lever press) for 10 consecutive days (1 session/day; each lasting 3 hr), and then they were retested on the PR schedule. On the continuous reinforcement schedule, rats took fewer infusions of higher concentrations, although the lowest concentration of HFCS (8%) maintained more variable self-administration. Furthermore, the PR tests revealed that 8% had lower reinforcing value than 25% and 50%. These results indicate that IO self-administration can be employed to study acquisition and maintenance of responding for sweet solutions. The sensitivity of the operant response to differences in concentration and schedule of reinforcement makes IO self-administration an ideal procedure to investigate the neurobiology of voluntary intake of sweets. PMID:24561923

  19. Solubilization of poorly water-soluble drugs using solid dispersions.

    PubMed

    Tran, Thao T-D; Tran, Phuong H-L; Khanh, Tran N; Van, Toi V; Lee, Beom-Jin

    2013-08-01

    Many new drugs have been discovered in pharmaceutical industry and exposed their surprised potential therapeutic effects. Unfortunately, these drugs possess low absorption and bioavailability since their solubility limitation in water. Solid dispersion (SD) is the current technique gaining so many attractions from scientists due to its effect on improving solubility and dissolution rate of poorly water-soluble drugs. A number of patents including the most recent inventions have been undertaken in this review to address various respects of this strategy in solubilization of poorly watersoluble drugs including type of carriers, preparation methods and view of technologies used to detect SD properties and mechanisms with the aim to accomplish a SD not only effective on enhanced bioavailability but also overcome difficulties associated with stability and production. Future prospects are as well discussed with an only hope that many developments and researches in this field will be successfully reached and contributed to commercial use for treatment as much as possible.

  20. An in-vitro evaluation of silicone elastomer latex for topical drug delivery.

    PubMed

    Li, L C; Vu, N T

    1995-06-01

    A silicone elastomer latex was evaluated as a topical drug-delivery system. With the addition of a fumed silica and the removal of water, the latex produced elastomeric solid films. The water vapour permeability of the solid film was found to be a function of the film composition. An increase in silica content and the incorporation of a water-soluble component, PEG 3350, rendered the silicone elastomer-free film even more permeable to water vapour. The release of hydrocortisone from the elastomer film can be described by a matrix-diffusion-controlled mechanism. Drug diffusion is thought to occur through the hydrophobic silicone polymer network and the hydrated hydrophilic silica region in the film matrix. Silicone elastomer film with a higher silica content exhibited a faster drug-release rate. The addition of PEG 3350 to the film further enhanced the drug-release rate.

  1. Massive intoxication involving unusual high concentration of amitriptyline.

    PubMed

    Margalho, Cláudia; Barroso, Mário; Gallardo, Eugenia; Monsanto, Paula; Vieira, Duarte Nuno

    2007-08-01

    Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant widely used in the treatment of depression. Antidepressant drugs are among the most commonly encountered causes of self-poisoning, as illustrated by several published cases in the literature. This investigation reports a case of massive amitriptyline intoxication, involving a 44-year old female found dead in bed. The presence of this tricyclic antidepressant was revealed by a routine screening procedure. The concentration was calculated by gas chromatography/ electron ionization-mass spectrometry in the selected ion monitoring mode after solid-phase extraction using proadifen as internal standard and was in the post-mortem whole blood sample 85.9 mug/mL. This value was much higher than the reported toxic values ever found in the literature, and may therefore have caused the victim's death. Nortriptyline was also detected in the toxic concentration range, as well as therapeutic levels of diazepam and nor-diazepam. Taking into account both the available circumstantial information and toxicological results, it is very likely that death was caused by self-poisoning. Human & Experimental Toxicology (2007) 26, 667-670.

  2. Preparation and characterization of injectable Mitoxantrone poly (lactic acid)/fullerene implants for in vivo chemo-photodynamic therapy.

    PubMed

    Li, Zhi; Zhang, Fei-long; Pan, Li-li; Zhu, Xia-li; Zhang, Zhen-zhong

    2015-08-01

    Fullerene (C60) L-phenylalanine derivative attached with poly (lactic acid) (C60-phe-PLA) was developed to prepare injectable Mitoxantrone (MTX) multifunctional implants. C60-phe-PLA was self-assembled to form microspheres consisting of a hydrophilic antitumor drug (MTX) and a hydrophobic block (C60) by dispersion-solvent diffusion method. The self-assembled microspheres showed sustained release pattern almost 15days in vitro release experiments. According to the tissue distribution of C57BL mice after intratumoral administration of the microspheres, the MTX mainly distributed in tumors, and rarely in heart, liver, spleen, lung, and kidney. Photodynamic antitumor efficacy of blank microsphere was realized. Microspheres afforded high antitumor efficacy without obvious toxic effects to normal organs, owing to its significantly increased MTX tumor retention time, low MTX levels in normal organs and strong photodynamic activity of PLA-phe-C60. These C60-phe-PLA microspheres may be promising for the efficacy with minimal side effects in future treatment of solid tumors. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  3. Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS): a probe for molecular organisation in self-assembled biomimetic systems.

    PubMed

    Fong, Celesta; Dong, Aurelia W; Hill, Anita J; Boyd, Ben J; Drummond, Calum J

    2015-07-21

    Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) has been shown to be highly sensitive to conformational, structural and microenvironmental transformations arising from subtle geometric changes in molecular geometry in self-assembling biomimetic systems. The ortho-positronium (oPs) may be considered an active probe that can provide information on intrinsic packing and mobility within low molecular weight solids, viscous liquids, and soft matter systems. In this perspective we provide a critical overview of the literature in this field, including the evolution of analysis software and experimental protocols with commentary upon the practical utility of PALS. In particular, we discuss how PALS can provide unique insight into the macroscopic transport properties of several porous biomembrane-like nanostructures and suggest how this insight may provide information on the release of drugs from these matrices to aid in developing therapeutic interventions. We discuss the potentially exciting and fruitful application of this technique to membrane dynamics, diffusion and permeability. We propose that PALS can provide novel molecular level information that is complementary to conventional characterisation techniques.

  4. Measuring symptoms as a critical component of drug development and evaluation in hematological diseases

    PubMed Central

    Williams, Loretta A; Yucel, Emre; Cortes, Jorge E; Cleeland, Charles S

    2014-01-01

    With the rapid development of new therapies for patients with hematological malignancies, there is an increasing need for patient report of symptom status during all phases of drug testing. The patient’s perspective on new treatments reflects treatment tolerability as well as symptom benefit, and may assist patients and clinicians in choosing treatments. Inclusion of patient-reported outcomes, more common in solid-tumor than hematological trials, provides early information about symptoms to guide decisions about appropriate dosing and supportive care needs. We provide a historical overview of the use of patient-reported outcomes and symptom assessment in solid-tumor and hematological drug development, and offer recommendations about methodological issues in the monitoring of symptoms in the drug development process in hematological clinical trials. PMID:24910769

  5. Stress Levels of Recovering Drug Addicts.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    LaMon, Brent C.; Alonzo, Anthony

    It appears that chronic drug use may develop as a means of coping in which individuals use self-medication to produce a more desirable state of being. Because drugs are often used to cope with stress, this study examined stress among recovering male drug addicts (N=23) from an urban substance abuse program by administering a self-report inventory…

  6. Memory enhancing drugs and Alzheimer's disease: enhancing the self or preventing the loss of it?

    PubMed

    Dekkers, Wim; Rikkert, Marcel Olde

    2007-06-01

    In this paper we analyse some ethical and philosophical questions related to the development of memory enhancing drugs (MEDs) and anti-dementia drugs. The world of memory enhancement is coloured by utopian thinking and by the desire for quicker, sharper, and more reliable memories. Dementia is characterized by decline, fragility, vulnerability, a loss of the most important cognitive functions and even a loss of self. While MEDs are being developed for self-improvement, in Alzheimer's Disease (AD) the self is being lost. Despite this it is precisely those patients with AD and other forms of dementia that provide the subjects for scientific research on memory improvement. Biomedical research in the field of MEDs and anti-dementia drugs appears to provide a strong impetus for rethinking what we mean by 'memory', 'enhancement', 'therapy', and 'self'. We conclude (1) that the enhancement of memory is still in its infancy, (2) that current MEDs and anti-dementia drugs are at best partially and minimally effective under specific conditions, (3) that 'memory' and 'enhancement' are ambiguous terms, (4) that there is no clear-cut distinction between enhancement and therapy, and (5) that the research into MEDs and anti-dementia drugs encourages a reductionistic view of the human mind and of the self.

  7. Oral drug delivery in personalized medicine: unmet needs and novel approaches.

    PubMed

    Wening, Klaus; Breitkreutz, Jörg

    2011-02-14

    Increasing knowledge into personalized medicine has demonstrated the need for individual dosing. Drug dosage forms are urgently needed enabling an individual therapy, especially for oral drug delivery. This review is focusing on approaches for solid and liquid oral dosage forms for individual dosing. The proposed dosage forms and devices may be distinguished into assembling and partition concepts and have been categorized regarding their applicability, costs, dose flexibility and potential benefits. Opportunities, challenges and further unmet needs are elaborated and critically discussed. Liquid dosage forms can be accurately dosed by novel dropping tubes or oral syringes, but less precisely by dosing spoons and cups. Breaking scored tablets into fragments show major risks such as inaccurate dosing, formation of potent dust and stability issues of the residual segments. Novel approaches are proposed for solid dosage forms enabling a flexible and appropriate therapy such as various dispensers for multiparticulate drug formulations. However, most of the proposals still have to prove their applicability in practice. Promising concepts are the solid dosage pen and drug-loaded oral films which can be cut in individual sections enabling freely selectable doses. Further research and development are required for novel dosage forms and medical devices appropriate for individualized therapy. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  8. Targeting doxorubicin encapsulated in stealth liposomes to solid tumors by non thermal diode laser.

    PubMed

    Ghannam, Magdy M; El Gebaly, Reem; Fadel, Maha

    2016-04-05

    The use of liposomes as drug delivery systems is the most promising technique for targeting drug especially for anticancer therapy. In this study sterically stabilized liposomes was prepared from DPPC/Cholesterol/PEG-PE encapsulated doxorubicin. The effect of lyophilization on liposomal stability and hence expiration date were studied. Moreover, the effect of diode laser on the drug released from liposomesin vitro and in vivo in mice carrying implanted solid tumor were also studied. The results indicated that lyophilization of the prepared liposomes encapsulating doxorubicin led to marked stability when stored at 5 °C and it is possible to use the re-hydrated lyophilized liposomes within 12 days post reconstitution. Moreover, the use of low energy diode laser for targeting anticancer drug to the tumor cells is a promising method in cancer therapy. We can conclude that lyophilization of the liposomes encapsulating doxorubicin lead to marked stability for the liposomes when stored at 5 °C. Moreover, the use of low energy diode laser for targeting anticancer drug to the tumor cells through the use of photosensitive sterically stabilized liposomes loaded with doxorubicin is a promising method. It proved to be applicable and successful for treatment of Ehrlich solid tumors implanted in mice and eliminated toxic side effects of doxorubicin.

  9. Amphipathic dextran-doxorubicin prodrug micelles for solid tumor therapy.

    PubMed

    Jin, Rong; Guo, Xuelian; Dong, Lingli; Xie, Enyuan; Cao, Aoneng

    2017-10-01

    A group of micelles self-assembled from deoxycholic acid-doxorubicin-conjugated dextran (denoted as Dex-DCA-DOX) prodrugs were designed and prepared for pH-triggered drug release and cancer chemotherapy. These prodrugs could be successfully produced by chemically coupling hydrophobic deoxycholic acid (DCA) to dextran hydrazine (denoted as Dex-NHNH 2 ) and hydrazone linker formation between doxorubicin (DOX) and Dex-NHNH 2 . These Dex-DCA-DOX prodrugs self-assembled to form micelles under physiological conditions with varied particle sizes depending on molecular weight of dextran, degree of substitution (DS) of DCA and DOX. After optimization, Dex10k-DCA9-DOX5.5 conjugate comprising dextran of 10kDa, DCA of DS 9 and DOX loading content of 5.5wt%, formed the micelles with the smallest size (110nm). These prodrug micelles could slowly liberate DOX under physiological conditions but efficiently released the drug at an acidified endosomal pH by the hydrolysis of acid-labile hydrazone linker. In vitro cytotoxicity experiment indicated that Dex10k-DCA9-DOX5.5 micelles exerted marked antitumor activity against MCF-7 and SKOV-3 cancer cells. Besides, intravenous administration of the micelles afforded growth inhibition of SKOV-3 tumor bearing in nude mice at a dosage of 2.5mg per kg with anti-cancer efficacy comparable to free DOX-chemotherapy but low systemic toxicity. This study highlights the feasibility of bio-safe and efficient dextran-based prodrug micelles designed for cancer chemotherapy. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  10. [Self-treatment of fever in the northern district of Dakar, Senegal].

    PubMed

    Ndiaye, P; Tal-Dia, A; Diedhiou, A; Juergens-Behr, A; Lemort, J P

    2006-02-01

    Malaria is assimilated with its cardinal symptom, i.e., fever. Treatment of fever with antimalarial drugs is crucial to the prevention of malaria-related death in Senegal. The objective of this study was to analyze fever-treatment practices as a basis for making realistic recommendations for self-treatment in the northern health district of Dakar, Senegal. This cross-sectional study was conducted from March 1 to April 30, 2003. The population included all patients with body temperature higher or equal to 37.5 degrees C (99.5 degrees F) associated with at least one of the following symptoms: headache, shivering, vomiting and diarrhoea. Study endpoints included demographic data and fever treatment modalities including the nature, dosage, and duration of the drugs used. Malaria was suspected in 180 of the 271 patients enrolled in the study. Treatment had already been undertaken in 134 patients including 108 (81%) who had initiated self-treatment. Drugs included antipyretics, antibiotics, and/or antimalarials. Antimalarial drug dosage was incorrect in 84% of those who initiated self-treatment. Dosage errors involved number of daily doses (55%), duration of treatment (13%), or both (32%). Only 45% of patients fully completed treatment. Medical advice was sought in 30% of the cases and drugs were obtained over the counter in pharmacies in 59%. Patients under the age of 15 years were significantly more likely to initiate self-treatment (p=6.10-6), to treat symptoms early, and to use an antimalarial (p=4.10-6). Although self-treatment shortened the delay between onset of symptoms and initiation of treatment, it is likely that indiscriminate and incomplete treatment is responsible for development of resistance to chloroquine in the northern health district of Dakar. Strategies must be adapted to numerous local factors influencing self-treatment including the availability of health-care services and drugs of quality. Special attention must be given to the improvement of antimalarial drug packaging and of the awareness of people that provide self-treatment drugs.

  11. Solid-phase synthesis of self-assembling multivalent π-conjugated peptides

    DOE PAGES

    Sanders, Allix M.; Kale, Tejaswini S.; Katz, Howard E.; ...

    2017-02-07

    Here, we present a completely solid-phase synthetic strategy to create three- and four-fold peptide-appended π-electron molecules, where the multivalent oligopeptide presentation is dictated by the symmetries of reactive handles placed on discotic π-conjugated cores. Carboxylic acid and anhydride groups were viable amidation and imidation partners, respectively, and oligomeric π-electron discotic cores were prepared through Pd-catalyzed cross-couplings. Due to intermolecular hydrogen bonding between the three or four peptide axes, these π-peptide hybrids self-assemble into robust one-dimensional nanostructures with high aspect ratios in aqueous solution. The preparation of these systems via solid-phase methods will be detailed along with their self-assembly properties, asmore » revealed by steady-state spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy and electrical characterization using field-effect transistor measurements.« less

  12. Cermet materials prepared by combustion synthesis and metal infiltration

    DOEpatents

    Holt, Joseph B.; Dunmead, Stephen D.; Halverson, Danny C.; Landingham, Richard L.

    1991-01-01

    Ceramic-metal composites (cermets) are made by a combination of self-propagating high temperature combustion synthesis and molten metal infiltration. Solid-gas, solid-solid and solid-liquid reactions of a powder compact produce a porous ceramic body which is infiltrated by molten metal to produce a composite body of higher density. AlN-Al and many other materials can be produced.

  13. Planetesimal formation in self-gravitating discs - dust trapping by vortices

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gibbons, P. G.; Mamatsashvili, G. R.; Rice, W. K. M.

    2015-11-01

    The mechanism through which metre-sized boulders grow to km-sized planetesimals in protoplanetary discs is a subject of active research, since it is critical for planet formation. To avoid spiralling into the protostar due to aerodynamic drag, objects must rapidly grow from cm-sized pebbles, which are tightly coupled to the gas, to large boulders of 1-100 m in diameter. It is already well known that overdensities in the gaseous component of the disc provide potential sites for the collection of solids, and that significant density structures in the gaseous component of the disc (e.g. spiral density waves) can trap solids efficiently enough for the solid component of the disc to undergo further gravitational collapse due to their own self-gravity. In this work, we employ the PENCIL CODE to conduct local shearing sheet simulations of massive self-gravitating protoplanetary discs, to study the effect of anticyclonic transient vortices, or eddies, on the evolution of solids in these discs. We find that these types of structures are extremely efficient at concentrating small and intermediate-sized dust particles with friction times comparable to, or less than, the local orbital period of the disc. This can lead to significant over-densities in the solid component of the disc, with density enhancements comparable to, and even higher, than those within spiral density waves; increasing the rate of gravitational collapse of solids into bound structures.

  14. Polymer Self-Assembled Nanostructures as Innovative Drug Nanocarrier Platforms.

    PubMed

    Pippa, Natassa; Pispas, Stergios; Demetzos, Costas

    2016-01-01

    Polymer self-assembled nanostructures are used in pharmaceutical sciences as bioactive molecules' delivery systems for therapeutic and diagnostic purposes. Micelles, polyelectrolyte complexes, polymersomes, polymeric nanoparticles, nanogels and polymer grafted liposomes represent delivery vehicles that are marketed and/or under clinical development, as drug formulations. In this mini-review, these, recently appeared in the literature, innovative polymer drug nanocarrier platforms are discussed, starting from their technological development in the laboratory to their potential clinical use, through studies of their biophysics, thermodynamics, physical behavior, morphology, bio-mimicry, therapeutic efficacy and safety. The properties of an ideal drug delivery system are the structural control over size and shape of drug or imaging agent cargo/domain, biocompatibility, nontoxic polymer/ pendant functionality and the precise, nanoscale container and/or scaffolding properties with high drug or imaging agent capacity features. Self-assembled polymer nanostructures exhibit all these properties and could be considered as ideal drug nanocarriers through control of their size, structure and morphology, with the aid of a large variety of parameters, in vitro and in vivo. These modern trends reside at the interface of soft matter self-assembly and pharmaceutical sciences and the technologies for health. Great advantages related to basic science and applications are expected by understanding the self-assembly behavior of these polymeric nanotechnological drug delivery systems, created through bio-inspiration and biomimicry and have potential utilization into clinical applications.

  15. Dissolution of solid lipid extrudates in biorelevant media.

    PubMed

    Witzleb, R; Müllertz, A; Kanikanti, V-R; Hamann, H-J; Kleinebudde, P

    2012-01-17

    Solid lipid extrudates with the model drug praziquantel were produced with chemically diverse lipids and investigated regarding their dissolution behaviour in different media. The lipids used in this study were glyceryl tripalmitate, glyceryl dibehenate, glyceryl monostearate, cetyl palmitate and solid paraffin. Thermoanalytical and dissolution behaviour was investigated directly after extrusion and after 3 and 6 months open storage at 40°C/75% RH. Dissolution studies were conducted in hydrochloric acid (HCl) pH 1.2 with different levels of polysorbate 20 and with a biorelevant medium containing pancreatic lipase, bile salts and phospholipids. Furthermore, the impact of lipid digestion on drug release was studied using in vitro lipolysis. The release of praziquantel from cetyl palmitate and glyceryl monostearate in the biorelevant medium was much faster than in HCl, whereas there was hardly any difference for the other lipids. It was shown that drug release from glyceryl monostearate matrices is driven by both solubilisation and enzymatic degradation of the lipid, whereas dissolution from cetyl palmitate extrudates is dependent only on solubilisation by surfactants in the medium. Moreover, storage influenced the appearance of the extrudate surface and the dissolution rate for all lipids except solid paraffin. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  16. One day access to a running wheel reduces self-administration of d-methamphetamine, MDMA and Methylone

    PubMed Central

    Aarde, Shawn M.; Miller, Michelle L.; Creehan, Kevin M.; Vandewater, Sophia A.; Taffe, Michael A.

    2015-01-01

    Background Exercise influences drug craving and consumption in humans and drug self-administration in laboratory animals, but the effects can be variable. Improved understanding of how exercise affects drug intake or craving would enhance applications of exercise programs to human drug users attempting cessation. Methods Rats were trained in the intravenous self-administration (IVSA) of d-methamphetamine (METH; 0.05 mg/kg/inf), 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA; 0.5 mg/kg/inf) or methylone (0.5 mg/kg/inf). Once IVSA was established, the effect of ~22 hrs of wheel access in the home cage on subsequent drug taking was assessed in a two cohort crossover design. Results Provision of home cage wheel access during the day prior to IVSA sessions significantly decreased the self-administration of METH, MDMA and methylone. At the individual level, there was no correlation between the amount a rat used the wheel and the size of the individual’s decrease in drug intake. Conclusions Wheel access can reduce self-administration of a variety of psychomotor stimulants. It does so immediately, i.e., without a need for weeks of exercise prior to drug access. This study therefore indicates that future mechanistic investigations should focus on acute effects of exercise. In sum, the results predict that exercise programs can be used to decrease stimulant drug use in individuals even with no exercise history and an established drug taking pattern. PMID:25863714

  17. What You Need To Know about Drug Testing in Schools.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Office of National Drug Control Policy, Washington, DC.

    The Office of National Drug Control policy has put together this guide to assist educators, parents, and community leaders in determining whether student drug testing is appropriate for their schools. The aim is to provide anyone considering a drug-testing program in his or her community with a broad understanding of the issue and solid,…

  18. Cocaine self-administration punished by i.v. histamine in rat models of high and low drug abuse vulnerability: Effects of saccharin preference, impulsivity, and sex

    PubMed Central

    Holtz, Nathan A.; Anker, Justin J.; Regier, Paul S.; Claxton, Alex; Carroll, Marilyn E.

    2015-01-01

    A key feature of substance use disorders is continued drug consumption despite aversive consequences. This has been modeled in the animal laboratory by pairing drug self-administration with electric shock, thereby punishing drug intake (Deroche-Gamonet et al. 2004). In the present experiments, we examined the effects of punishment on i.v. cocaine self-administration by adding histamine to the cocaine solution in three different animal models of high and low vulnerability to drug abuse: rats selectively bred for high (HiS) and low (LoS) saccharin consumption, rats selected for high (HiI) and low (LoI) impulsivity, and sex differences. Animals were allowed to self-administer cocaine (0.4 mg/kg/infusion) to establish a baseline of operant responding. Histamine (4.0 mg/kg/infusion) was then added directly into the cocaine solution and its consequent effects on self-administration were compared to baseline. The histamine + cocaine solution was then replaced with a cocaine-only solution, and the rats' operant responding was again measured and compared to baseline. Concurrent histamine exposure was effective in reducing cocaine consumption in all groups of rats; however, LoS and female rats took longer to return to baseline levels of cocaine consumption after histamine was removed compared to HiS and male rats. These data suggest the reduction of drug self-administration by aversive consequences may differ in groups that vary in drug use vulnerability, and these results may inform pharmacological strategies that enhance the negative aspects of drug consumption. PMID:23948673

  19. Pragmatic medicine in solid cancer: a translational alternative to precision medicine

    PubMed Central

    Brábek, Jan; Rosel, Daniel; Fernandes, Michael

    2016-01-01

    The precision medicine (PM) initiative is a response to the dismal outlook in solid cancer. Despite heterogeneity, common mechanistic denominators may exist across the spectrum of solid cancer. A shift from conventional research and development (R&D) toward PM will require conceptual and structural change. As individuals and as a society, we welcome innovation, but question change. We ask: In solid cancer, does PM identify and address the causes of prior failures, and, if so, are the proposed solutions feasible? And, when may we expect safer, more effective and affordable drugs in the clinic? Considerations that prompt a pragmatic rethink include a failure analysis of translational R&D in solid cancer suggesting that trials and regulations need to be aligned with the natural history of the disease. In successful therapeutic interventions in chronic, complex disease, surrogate markers and endpoints should be consistent with the Prentice’s criteria. In solid cancer, drug induced tumor shrinkage, is a drug effect and not a disease response; tumor shrinkage does not reflect nor predict interruption of the disease. Overall, we support a pragmatic, multidisciplinary, and collaborative R&D, and suggest that direction be set by clinical need and utility, and by questions, not answers. PM will prove worthwhile if it could improve clinical outcomes. The lag in therapeutics relative to diagnostics is a cause for confusion. Overdiagnosis adds to fear and harm, especially in the absence of effective interventions. A revised initiative that prioritizes metastasis research could replicate the successful HIV/AIDS model in solid cancer. A pragmatic approach may further translational efforts toward meaningfully effective, generally available, and affordable solutions. PMID:27103822

  20. Determination of the mechanical properties of solid and cellular polymeric dosage forms by diametral compression.

    PubMed

    Blaesi, Aron H; Saka, Nannaji

    2016-07-25

    At present, the immediate-release solid dosage forms, such as the oral tablets and capsules, are granular solids. They release drug rapidly and have adequate mechanical properties, but their manufacture is fraught with difficulties inherent in processing particulate matter. Such difficulties, however, could be overcome by liquid-based processing. Therefore, we have recently introduced polymeric cellular (i.e., highly porous) dosage forms prepared from a melt process. Experiments have shown that upon immersion in a dissolution medium, the cellular dosage forms with polyethylene glycol (PEG) as excipient and with predominantly open-cell topology disintegrate by exfoliation, thus enabling rapid drug release. If the volume fraction of voids of the open-cell structures is too large, however, their mechanical strength is adversely affected. At present, the common method for determining the tensile strength of brittle, solid dosage forms (such as select granular forms) is the diametral compression test. In this study, the theory of diametral compression is first refined to demonstrate that the relevant mechanical properties of ductile and cellular solids (i.e., the elastic modulus and the yield strength) can also be extracted from this test. Diametral compression experiments are then conducted on PEG-based solid and cellular dosage forms. It is found that the elastic modulus and yield strength of the open-cell structures are about an order of magnitude smaller than those of the non-porous solids, but still are substantially greater than the stiffness and strength requirements for handling the dosage forms manually. This work thus demonstrates that melt-processed polymeric cellular dosage forms that release drug rapidly can be designed and manufactured to have adequate mechanical properties. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier B.V.

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