U.S. patent application number 09/356649 was filed with the patent office on 2001-06-07 for potassium calcium citrate compositions and methods therefor.
Invention is credited to ALEXANDRIDES, GEORGE, PAK, CHARLES Y. C., WALSDORF, NEILL B..
Application Number | 20010003002 09/356649 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 23402339 |
Filed Date | 2001-06-07 |
United States Patent
Application |
20010003002 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
PAK, CHARLES Y. C. ; et
al. |
June 7, 2001 |
POTASSIUM CALCIUM CITRATE COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS THEREFOR
Abstract
A composition useful as a dietary supplement for providing
potassium, calcium, and citrate is presented, as well as processes
for producing the composition, and methods for using the
composition as a dietary supplement. Administration of the
composition counters bone loss associated with aging or menopause
by providing bioavailable calcium and, simultaneously, delivering
alkali load. In addition, administration of the composition
produces a substantial increase in urinary citrate, which counters
kidney-stone formation.
Inventors: |
PAK, CHARLES Y. C.; (DALLAS,
TX) ; ALEXANDRIDES, GEORGE; (SAN ANTONIO, TX)
; WALSDORF, NEILL B.; (SAN ANTONIO, TX) |
Correspondence
Address: |
AKIN, GUMP, STRAUSS
HAUER & FELD, L.L.P.
300 Convent Street,
Suite 1500
San Antonio
TX
78205
US
|
Family ID: |
23402339 |
Appl. No.: |
09/356649 |
Filed: |
July 19, 1999 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
424/600 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61P 3/14 20180101; A61P
3/12 20180101; A61K 31/19 20130101; A61K 33/00 20130101; A61K
2300/00 20130101; A61K 33/06 20130101; A23L 33/165 20160801; A61K
33/06 20130101; A61P 19/10 20180101; A61K 33/06 20130101; A61P
19/08 20180101 |
Class at
Publication: |
424/600 |
International
Class: |
A61K 033/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A composition useful as a dietary supplement to provide
potassium, calcium, and citrate, said composition comprising high
bulk density potassium calcium citrate as a single compound,
wherein potassium, calcium, and citrate in the single compound are
in a molar ratio of 1:1:1.
2. The composition of claim 1 wherein said composition has a bulk
density ranging between about 0.9 g/cc to about 1.3 g/cc.
3. The composition of claim 1 wherein said composition has a bulk
density ranging between about 0.9 g/cc to about 1.1 g/cc.
4. The composition of claim I wherein said composition is in a unit
dosage form so as to deliver about 5 meq potassium, about 10 meq
calcium, and about 15 meq citrate in each dosage unit.
5. A composition useful as a dietary supplement to provide
potassium, calcium, and citrate, said composition comprising high
bulk density potassium calcium citrate as a single compound,
wherein potassium, calcium, and citrate in the single compound are
in a molar ratio of 4:1:2, respectively.
6. The composition of claim 5 wherein said composition has a bulk
density ranging between about 0.9 g/cc to about 1.3 g/cc.
7. The composition of claim 5 wherein said composition has a bulk
density ranging between about 0.9 g/cc to about 1.1 g/cc.
8. The composition of claim 5 wherein said composition is in a unit
dosage form so as to deliver about 10 meq potassium, about 5 meq
calcium, and about 15 meq citrate in each dosage unit.
9. The composition of claim 1 wherein the moisture content of said
composition is less than about five weight percent.
10. The composition of claim 5 wherein the moisture content of said
composition is less than about five weight percent.
11. A composition comprising high bulk density potassium calcium
citrate as a single compound having the chemical formula
KCa(OOCCH.sub.2COHCOOCH.- sub.2COO).
12. A composition comprising high bulk density potassium calcium
citrate as a single compound having the chemical formula
K.sub.4Ca(OOCCH.sub.2COH- COOCH.sub.2COO).sub.2.
13. A process for producing a composition having a water content of
less than about 5 weight percent, said composition comprising high
bulk density potassium calcium citrate as a single compound,
wherein potassium, calcium, and citrate in the single compound are
in a molar ratio of 1:1:1, the process comprising the steps of:
mixing citric acid, a calcium compound, and water to form a first
mixture wherein citric acid and calcium are in approximately 1:1
molar ratio; adding a potassium compound to form a second mixture
wherein potassium and citric acid are in approximately 1:1 molar
ratio and the second mixture has a water content of between about
10 weight percent and about 75 weight percent; and drying and
milling said second mixture to a water content of less than about 5
weight percent to produce the composition.
14. The process of claim 13 wherein the composition has a bulk
density between about 0.9 g/cc and about 1.1 g/cc.
15. A composition produced by the process of claim 13.
16. A composition produced by the process of claim 14.
17. A process for producing a composition having a water content of
less than about 5 weight percent, said composition comprising high
bulk density potassium calcium citrate as a single compound,
wherein potassium, calcium, and citrate in the single compound are
in a molar ratio of 4:1:2, respectively, the process comprising the
steps of: mixing citric acid, a calcium compound, and water to form
a first mixture wherein citric acid and calcium are in
approximately 2:1 molar ratio, respectively; adding a potassium
compound to form a second mixture wherein potassium and citric acid
are in approximately 2:1 molar ratio, respectively, and the second
mixture has a water content of between about 10 weight percent and
about 75 weight percent; and drying and milling said second mixture
to a water content of less than about 5 weight percent to produce
the composition.
18. The process of claim 17 wherein the composition has a bulk
density between about 0.9 g/cc and about 1.1 g/cc.
19. A composition produced by the process of claim 17.
20. A composition produced by the process of claim 18.
21. The process of claim 13 wherein the second mixture has a water
content of between about 10 weight percent and about 25 weight
percent.
22. The process of claim 21 wherein the calcium compound is
selected from the group consisting of calcium oxide, calcium
carbonate, calcium hydroxide, and mixtures thereof.
23. The process of claim 22 wherein the calcium compound is calcium
oxide.
24. The process of claim 22 wherein the calcium compound is calcium
carbonate.
25. The process of claim 22 wherein the calcium compound is calcium
hydroxide.
26. The process of claim 21 wherein the potassium compound is
selected from the group consisting of potassium carbonate,
potassium hydroxide, potassium bicarbonate, and mixtures
thereof.
27. The process of claim 26 wherein the potassium compound is
potassium carbonate.
28. The process of claim 17 wherein the second mixture has a water
content of between about 10 weight percent and about 25 weight
percent.
29. The process of claim 28 wherein the calcium compound is
selected from the group consisting of calcium oxide, calcium
carbonate, calcium hydroxide, and mixtures thereof.
30. The process of claim 29 wherein the calcium compound is calcium
oxide.
31. The process of claim 29 wherein the calcium compound is calcium
carbonate.
32. The process of claim 29 wherein the calcium compound is calcium
hydroxide.
33. The process of claim 28 wherein the potassium compound is
selected from the group consisting of potassium carbonate,
potassium hydroxide, potassium bicarbonate, and mixtures
thereof.
34. The process of claim 33 wherein the potassium compound is
potassium carbonate.
35. A method for providing potassium, calcium, and citrate to a
subject in need thereof, the method comprising the step of
administering the composition of claim 1 to the subject.
36. A method for providing potassium, calcium, and citrate to a
subject in need thereof, the method comprising the step of
administering the composition of claim 1 to the subject.
37. A method for delivering a more-than-modest level of alkali load
to a subject in need thereof, the method comprising the step of
administering the composition of claim 1 to the subject.
38. A method for delivering a more-than-modest level of alkali load
to a subject in need thereof, the method comprising the step of
administering the composition of claim 5 to the subject.
39. A method for countering osteoporosis in a subject in need
thereof, the method comprising the step of administering the
composition of claim 1 to the subject.
40. A method for countering osteoporosis in a subject in need
thereof, the method comprising the step of administering the
composition of claim 5 to the subject.
41. A method for countering bone loss in a subject in need thereof,
the method comprising the step of administering the composition of
claim 1 to the subject.
42. A method for countering bone loss in a subject in need thereof,
the method comprising the step of administering the composition of
claim 5 to the subject.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a composition comprising
high bulk density potassium calcium citrate as a single compound,
wherein the molar ratio of potassium to calcium to citrate in the
single compound is 1:1:1, or 4:1:2, respectively. The present
invention also relates to processes for producing the composition
in a solid form having a bulk density from about 0.8 g/cc to about
1.3 g/cc, as well as methods for using the composition as a dietary
supplement, for example, to counter bone loss while avoiding
kidney-stone formation.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Mineral compositions are commonly taken as dietary aids,
either as therapeutic preparations directed to a specific medical
problem or as general nutritional supplements. Among useful dietary
supplements are dosage units of calcium citrate, orally
administered in solid or liquid form (U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,772,467,
4,814,177, and 4,851,221; each patent herein incorporated by
reference). Oral administration of calcium citrate as a nutritional
supplement both modestly increases levels of urinary citrate and
provides bioavailable calcium. By modestly increasing levels of
urinary citrate, administration of calcium citrate counters calcium
nephrolithiasis (i.e., formation of calcium-containing kidney
stones). Furthermore, calcium is more readily absorded when
administered as calcium citrate than as calcium carbonate, i.e.,
the administration of calcium citrate provides calcium that is more
bioavailable. Improved absorption of calcium allows more effective
treatment of calcium-deficiency conditions like osteoporosis.
[0003] Osteoporosis--a condition in which an affected person's
bones become increasingly porous, brittle, and subject to fracture,
owing to loss of calcium and other mineral components--is common in
older persons, particularly in postmenopausal women. Bone loss may
also be associated with a variety of other conditions, including
those brought on by long-term steroid therapy and certain endocrine
disorders. If not countered, osteoporosis or bone loss may lead to
fractures of the spine, hip, and long bones.
[0004] Certain drugs that block bone destruction may help avert the
progression of postmenopausal osteoporosis. The most potent of
these drugs are found among a class of synthetic compounds called
bisphosphonates. Alendronate
(4-amino-1-hydroxybutylidene-1,1-bisphosphon- ic acid), which is
approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treatment of
osteoporosis, has been shown to produce a transient increase in
spine and hip bone density, as well as to reduce spinal fractures.
Alendronate's long-term effects are not known, however, and it may
cause esophageal ulcers. Estrogen replacement therapy has shown
effectiveness in countering postmenopausal osteoporosis. However,
estrogen may increase the risk of breast cancer, and may cause
discomforting side effects, such as vaginal bleeding, if it is
given intermittently with progesterone, which is usually
recommended. Estrogen analogs may overcome some of the side effects
of estrogen, but cause others, such as hot flashes and blood
clots.
[0005] Intake of calcium offers potentially a safer and more
natural means of averting postmenopausal osteoporosis. Both the FDA
and the National Institutes of Health have endorsed adequate intake
of calcium as a means of countering the bone loss that occurs with
menopause in women, and with aging in both men and women.
[0006] Calcium's action in countering bone loss has been ascribed
to its ability to suppress secretion of parathyroid hormone (PTH),
a hormone that stimulates bone resorption or destruction (e.g., see
McKane, W R et al., 1996, J. Clin. Endocrin. & Metab.
81:1699-1703). Moreover, calcium ensures adequate mineralization of
bone by providing an essential component of bone. The average
weight percent of calcium in the human body is approximately 1.4,
and approximately 99 percent of calcium in the human body is found
in skeletal structures. Consistent with these facts,
supplementation of the diet with calcium can be an important
element of preventing and treating osteoporosis, as well as bone
loss associated with other pathologies, such as chronic diarrheal
syndrome. Supplementation of diet with calcium may also be an
important element of treating other conditions, including
hypoparathyroidism, renal osteodystrophy, hypertension, and
phosphate accumulation in chronic renal failure.
[0007] The use of dietary supplements that provide calcium,
however, has limitations. For example, the amount of calcium
absorbed from supplements taken daily tends to decline with time
(e.g., see Sakaee et al., 1994, J Urology 152:324-27). In addition,
intake of additional calcium may promote the formation of
calcium-containing kidney stones. The risk of such kidney-stone
formation (i.e., calcium nephrolithiasis) may be particularly high
in patients with hypercalciuria, especially when the hypercalciuria
results because of excess calcium absorption from the
gastrointestinal (GI) tract (as in absorptive hypercalciuria).
[0008] The chemical form in which dietary calcium supplements are
administered is of consequence for their capacity to provide
bioavailable calcium as well as their propensity to promote
kidney-stone formation. As noted previously, when calcium is orally
administered as calcium citrate, calcium absorption is greater than
when calcium is administered as calcium carbonate (e.g., see Harvey
et al., 1990, J Am. Coll. of Nutr., 9(6):583-587; Dawson-Hughes et
al., 1990, N. Eng. J Med. 223:878-83). Not only is calcium more
bioavailable when administered as calcium citrate, calcium-citrate
administration also has a mild citraturic effect. Administration of
calcium as calcium citrate modestly increases the level of urinary
citrate, which retards formation of kidney stones (Harvey et al.,
1985, J Clin. Endocrin. & Metab. 61:1223-25).
[0009] However, supplements other than calcium citrate have greater
citraturic effects, including, in order of increasing
effectiveness, potassium bicarbonate, potassium citrate, and
magnesium potassium citrate. U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,895,980, 4,985,593,
5,219,889 and 5,432,200 (each incorporated herein by reference)
relate to compositions of, as well as to methods for making and
using, magnesium potassium citrate.
[0010] In studies comparing citraturic effects of potassium citrate
and potassium bicarbonate, potassium citrate has been shown to
produce more prominent levels of urinary citrate than equivalent
amounts of potassium bicarbonate (Sakhaee, K. et al., 1992, J
Urology, 147:975-976). While the citraturic action of potassium
citrate was attributable mostly to its delivery of alkali load, its
citraturic action also resulted from renal excretion of absorbed
citrate escaping in vivo metabolism. Consequently, oral
administration of potassium bicarbonate, because it also delivered
alkali load, also had a citraturic effect, but less than that of
potassium citrate.
[0011] Delivering alkali load is not only a mechanism for inducing
a citraturic effect, but it also represents an additional mechanism
for countering bone loss (Sebastian A. et al., 1994, N. Eng. J.
Med., 330:1776-1781). Thus, potassium citrate, for example, may be
administered not only to provide a citraturic effect to counter
formation of kidney stones, but also independently to counter bone
loss by delivering alkali load. Delivering alkali load counters
bone loss by partly compensating for the cumulative buffering
effect that skeletal sources provide against diet-dependent acid
production (Sebastian A. et al., 1994, N. Eng. J Med.,
330:1776-1781). Age-related reductions in bone mass appear to
result at least in part from this cumulative buffering effect. In
postmenopausal women, for example, the oral administration of
potassium bicarbonate at a dose sufficient to deliver alkali load
improves calcium and phosphorus balance, and appears both to reduce
bone resorption and to increase the rate of bone formation. As
another example, oral administration of potassium bicarbonate, but
apparently not sodium bicarbonate, also reduces urinary calcium
excretion and improves calcium balance in healthy men (Lemann et
al., 1989, Kidney Int'l 35:688-695).
[0012] Contrasting the calcium-balance effects of potassium
bicarbonate with those of sodium bicarbonate indicates that
potassium alone, independent of bicarbonate, may trigger a
reduction urinary calcium excretion. Consequently, while
preliminary in nature, these results indicate that the provision of
potassium itself may have a role in countering kidney-stone
formation by reducing urinary calcium excretion.
[0013] Use of a dietary supplement consisting essentially of
calcium and citrate has been recognized both to provide calcium
and, as an ancillary benefit, to deliver a small or modest level of
alkali load (U.S. Pat. No. 4,851,221, previously incorporated by
reference). However, since the alkali load level delivered by a
dietary supplement like a calcium citrate generally correlates with
cations absorbed, and since absorption of calcium cations from a
dietary supplement like a calcium citrate may be relatively small,
the alkali load level delivered by a dietary supplement consisting
essentially of calcium and citrate is relatively quite modest.
Furthermore, since absorption of calcium cations may be attenuated
over time, the alkali load level delivered by a dietary supplement
consisting essentially of calcium and citrate also may be
attenuated over time.
[0014] A mineral composition comprising magnesium potassium citrate
in a single salt (having a molar ratio of magnesium to potassium to
citrate of 1:4:2, respectively) is useful as a dietary supplement
to overcome certain renal losses of magnesium and potassium, as
well as to increase urinary excretion of electrolytes (U.S. Pat.
Nos. 4,895,980, 4,985,593, 5,219,889, and 5,432,200; each
previously incorporated by reference). While the mineral
composition comprising magnesium potassium citrate in a single salt
delivers, as a dietary supplement, a significant level of alkali
load, it is not a source of calcium. Furthermore, while the mineral
composition provides magnesium, magnesium neither suppresses
secretion of PTH nor ensures adequate mineralization of bone. In
general, magnesium is not a physiological substitute for calcium. A
mineral composition, amenable for administration as a dietary
supplement, that simultaneously provides bioavailable calcium and
delivers a more-than-modest level of alkali load, while countering
kidney-stone formation, is desirable.
1 ABBREVIATIONS DPD: deoxypyridinoline FDA: Food and Drug
Administration GF: glomerular filtrate GI: gastrointestinal meq:
milliequivalents mmol: millimoles PCC: potassium calcium citrate
PTH: parathyroid hormone
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0015] The present invention provides compositions comprising high
bulk density potassium calcium citrate (PCC) as a single compound,
processes for producing these PCC compositions, and methods for
using them as dietary supplements to counter, for example, bone
loss while avoiding kidney-stone formation. In addition to
alleviating calcium-deficiency conditions, administration of these
PCC compositions delivers a more-than-modest level of alkali load.
As a result, patients in need of both calcium and alkali load may
take one type of supplement rather than two types (i.e., one type
to provide calcium and another type to deliver alkali load).
Consequently, for patients in need of both calcium and alkali load,
the availability of compositions comprising high bulk density PCC
as a single compound is particularly beneficial in terms of patient
compliance.
[0016] Physiological studies, as reported herein, demonstrate that
administration of a PCC composition as a dietary supplement, while
providing bioavailable calcium, simultaneously delivers alkali load
at a level greater than the modest level delivered by a dietary
supplement consisting essentially of calcium and citrate (where an
equivalent amount of calcium is provided by administration of
either supplement). Significant increases in urinary pH on
administration of the PCC composition evidence delivery of this
level of alkali load. The increases in urinary pH also evidence a
means by which administration of a PCC composition counters
kidney-stone formation. The physiological studies further
demonstrate that administration of the PCC composition provides
unexpectedly profound citraturic effects.
[0017] Thus, administration of a PCC composition counters
kidney-stone formation by increasing urinary pH and by providing
unexpectedly profound citraturic effects, as well as, at least
potentially, by providing potassium instead of sodium.
Consequently, among other advantages conferred, embodiments of the
present invention counter bone loss (by both providing calcium and
delivering more-than-modest levels of alkali load) and kidney-stone
formation (by increasing urinary pH, providing unexpectedly
profound citraturic effects, and providing potassium instead of
sodium).
[0018] By both providing calcium (e.g., at a dose of 0.5-2.0 g
calcium per day) and delivering more-than-modest levels of alkali
load (while simultaneously countering kidney-stone formation),
dietary supplementation with embodiments of the present invention
can be an important element of preventing and treating
osteoporosis, as well as bone loss associated with other
pathologies, such as chronic diarrheal syndrome, osteomalacia,
rickets, and renal osteodystrophy. By providing calcium (e.g., at a
dose of 0.5-2.0 g calcium per day) (while simultaneously countering
kidney-stone formation), dietary supplementation with embodiments
of the present invention may also be indicated for treating other
medical conditions for which dietary supplementation with calcium
may be desireable, including hypoparathyroidism, hypertension, and
phosphate accumulation in chronic renal failure. By providing
potassium (e.g., at a dose of 20-60 milliequivalents (meq)
potassium per day), dietary supplementation with embodiments of the
present invention may also be useful for countering certain
potassium-deficiency conditions.
[0019] In particular, the invention provides a composition useful
as a dietary supplement to provide potassium, calcium, and citrate,
said composition comprising high bulk density potassium calcium
citrate as a single compound, wherein the molar ratio of potassium
to calcium to citrate in the single compound is 1:1:1. As used
herein, "high bulk density" means a bulk density that is from about
0.8 g/cc to about 1.3 g/cc for a solid form (e.g., a granulated or
powdered form) of the PCC composition, after the container (e.g., a
graduated cylinder) used to measure the solid form's volume is
tapped to settle the solid form within the container. In a related
embodiment, the invention provides the composition having a bulk
density ranging between about 0.9 g/cc to about 1.3 g/cc, or, more
preferably, between about 0.9 g/cc to about 1.1 g/cc. A related
embodiment of the invention provides the composition in a unit
dosage form that provides about 5 meq potassium, about 10 meq
calcium, and about 15 meq citrate in each dosage unit.
[0020] Another aspect of the invention provides a composition
useful as a dietary supplement to provide potassium, calcium, and
citrate, said composition comprising high bulk density potassium
calcium citrate as a single compound, wherein the molar ratio of
potassium to calcium to citrate in the single compound is 4:1:2,
respectively. In a related embodiment, the invention provides the
composition having a bulk density ranging between about 0.9 g/cc to
about 1.3 g/cc, or, more preferably, between about 0.9 g/cc to
about 1.1 g/cc. A related embodiment of the invention provides the
composition in a unit dosage form that provides about 10 meq
potassium, about 5 meq calcium, and about 15 meq citrate in each
dosage unit.
[0021] In related embodiments, compositions comprising high bulk
density potassium calcium citrate as a single compound and having a
moisture content of less than about 5 percent, whether the molar
ratio of potassium to calcium to citrate in the single compound is
1:1:1, or 4:1:2, respectively, are also provided by the
invention.
[0022] Related embodiments of the invention provide a composition
comprising high bulk density potassium calcium citrate as a single
compound having the chemical formula
KCa(OOCCH.sub.2COHCOOCH.sub.2COO),
[0023] while other embodiments of the invention provide a
composition comprising high bulk density potassium calcium citrate
as a single compound having the chemical formula
K.sub.4Ca(OOCCH.sub.2COHCOOCH.sub.2COO).sub.2.
[0024] Depending on the distribution of electrons shared between
substituent atoms, chemical bonds joining potassium, calcium, and
citrate moieties in a single compound of potassium calcium citrate
may vary between being somewhat covalent in nature to being largely
ionic in nature, regardless of whether the high bulk density
potassium calcium citrate as a single compound has a molar ratio of
potassium to calcium to citrate in the single compound of 1:1:1 (or
has the chemical formula
KCa(OOCCH.sub.2COHCOOCH.sub.2COO))
[0025] or 4:1:2, respectively (or has the chemical formula
K.sub.4Ca(OOCCH.sub.2COHCOOCH.sub.2COO).sub.2).
[0026] In particular, while binding of potassium and citrate
moieties may be largely ionic in nature, binding of calcium and
citrate moieties may involve the formation of a chelation complex
that can be thought of as including bonds formed through
coordination covalency. In solid form, high bulk density potassium
calcium citrate occurs as a single compound, in 1:1:1, or 4:1:2,
respectively, molar ratio. On dissolving in aqueous solution (e.g.,
on contact with gastric juices after ingestion of a PCC
composition), it is expected, however, to be ionized primarily into
potassium ions, calcium ions, and citrate ions (or ions of calcium
citrate complexes). Consequently, given its capacity for
ionization, such high bulk density potassium calcium citrate as a
single compound may also be described as high bulk density
potassium calcium citrate in a single salt, wherein the single salt
is a dual mineral salt.
[0027] In another aspect, the invention provides process for
producing a composition having a water content of less than about 5
weight percent, said composition comprising high bulk density
potassium calcium citrate as a single compound, wherein potassium,
calcium, and citrate in the single compound are in a molar ratio of
1:1:1, the process comprising the steps of: mixing citric acid, a
calcium compound, and water to form a first mixture wherein citric
acid and calcium are in approximately 1:1 molar ratio; adding a
potassium compound to form a second mixture wherein potassium and
citric acid are in approximately 1:1 molar ratio and the second
mixture has a water content of between about 10 weight percent and
about 75 weight percent; and drying and milling said second mixture
to a water content of less than about 5 weight percent to produce
the composition. In another embodiment, the invention also provides
process in which the composition produced by such process has a
bulk density between about 0.9 g/cc and about 1.1 g/cc. In other
embodiments, compositions produced by such processes are also
provided by the invention. In further embodiments, the invention
provides such processes wherein the second mixture has a water
content of between about 10 weight percent and about 25 weight
percent. In further embodiments, the invention provides such
processes wherein the calcium compound is selected from the group
consisting of calcium oxide, calcium carbonate, calcium hydroxide,
and mixtures thereof. In additional embodiments, the invention
provides such processes wherein the potassium compound is selected
from the group consisting of potassium carbonate, potassium
hydroxide, potassium bicarbonate, and mixtures thereof.
[0028] In a related aspect, the invention provides a process for
producing a composition having a water content of less than about 5
weight percent, said composition comprising high bulk density
potassium calcium citrate as a single compound, wherein potassium,
calcium, and citrate in the single compound are in a molar ratio of
4:1:2, respectively, the process comprising the steps of: mixing
citric acid, a calcium compound, and water to form a first mixture
wherein citric acid and calcium are in approximately 2:1 molar
ratio, respectively; adding a potassium compound to form a second
mixture wherein potassium and citric acid are in approximately 2:1
molar ratio, respectively, and the second mixture has a water
content of between about 10 weight percent and about 75 weight
percent; and drying and milling said second mixture to a water
content of less than about 5 weight percent to produce the
composition. In another embodiment, the invention also provides
process in which the composition produced by such process has a
bulk density between about 0.9 g/cc and about 1.1 g/cc. In other
embodiments, compositions produced by such processes are also
provided by the invention. In further embodiments, the invention
provides such processes wherein the second mixture has a water
content of between about 10 weight percent and about 25 weight
percent. In further embodiments, the invention provides such
processes wherein the calcium compound is selected from the group
consisting of calcium oxide, calcium carbonate, calcium hydroxide,
and mixtures thereof. In additional embodiments, the invention
provides such processes wherein the potassium compound is selected
from the group consisting of potassium carbonate, potassium
hydroxide, potassium bicarbonate, and mixtures thereof.
[0029] A method for providing potassium, calcium, and citrate, and
a method for delivering a more-than-modest level of alkali load, to
a subject in need thereof, are also provided by the invention, as
are a method for countering bone loss, and a method for countering
osteoporosis, in a subject in need thereof, such methods, in
certain embodiments, comprising the step of administering as a
dietary supplement to the subject a composition comprising high
bulk density potassium calcium citrate as a single compound, the
molar ratio of potassium to calcium to citrate in the single
compound being either 1:1:1, or 4:1:2, respectively. The subject in
need of any of such methods may be a subject susceptible to
kidney-stone formation.
[0030] Other features and advantages of the invention will be
apparent from the following description of the preferred
embodiments thereof, and from the claims. Following long-standing
patent law convention, the terms "a" and "an" mean "one or more"
when used in this application, including the claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0031] The following drawings form part of the present
specification and are included to further demonstrate certain
aspects of the present invention. The invention may be better
understood by reference to one or more of these drawings in
combination with the detailed description of specific embodiments
presented herein.
[0032] In the drawings, significant-difference levels for
treatments of PCC composition or calcium citrate (ULTRADENSE.TM.
CITRACAL.RTM.) versus placebo are represented as follows:
[0033] *(p<0.05);
[0034] **(p<0.01); and,
[0035] +(p<0.001).
[0036] Lines for different treatments are represented as
follows:
[0037] PCC composition (.circle-solid.--.circle-solid.);
[0038] calcium citrate (.DELTA.--.DELTA.); and,
[0039] placebo (.box-solid.--.box-solid.).
[0040] Methodologies of the treatments are detailed in Example 7,
infra.
[0041] FIG. 1. Effect of PCC composition, calcium citrate, and
placebo on serum calcium (mg/dl).
[0042] FIG. 2. Effect of PCC composition, calcium citrate, and
placebo on urinary calcium (mg/dl GF).
[0043] FIG. 3. Effect of PCC composition, calcium citrate, and
placebo on serum PTH (pg/ml).
[0044] FIG. 4. Effect of PCC composition, calcium citrate, and
placebo on urinary DPD (mmol/4 hr).
[0045] FIG. 5. Effect of PCC composition, calcium citrate, and
placebo on urinary ammonium (meq/4 hr).
[0046] FIG. 6. Effect of PCC composition, calcium citrate, and
placebo on urinary pH.
[0047] FIG. 7. Effect of PCC composition, calcium citrate, and
placebo on urinary citrate (mg/4 hr).
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0048] Compositions comprising high bulk density PCC as a single
compound are provided by the present invention. High bulk density
PCC as a single compound is synthesized by reacting stoichiometric
quantities of citric acid, a calcium compound, and a potassium
compound. A reaction in which equimolar amounts of potassium,
calcium, and citrate are complexed as a single compound may be
represented as follows:
K.sup.++Ca.sup.2++H.sub.3C.sub.6H.sub.5O.sub.7.fwdarw.KCaC.sub.6H.sub.5O.s-
ub.7+3H.sup.+.
[0049] While not wanting to be bound by theory, a likely structural
formula for this single compound is: 1
[0050] A reaction in which molar amounts of potassium, calcium, and
citrate--in a 4:1:2, respectively, molar ratio--are complexed as a
single compound may be represented as follows:
4K.sup.++Ca.sup.2++2H.sub.3C.sub.6H.sub.5O.sub.7.fwdarw.K.sub.4Ca(C.sub.6H-
.sub.5O.sub.7).sub.2+6H.sup.+.
[0051] While not wanting to be bound by theory, a likely structural
formula for this single compound is: 2
[0052] Either reaction is preferably initiated by the slow addition
of the calcium compound to a mixture of water and citric acid,
followed by the slow introduction of the potassium compound to the
reaction mixture.
[0053] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the
calcium compound is selected from the group consisting of calcium
carbonate, calcium oxide, calcium hydroxide, and mixtures thereof.
Calcium oxide is the preferred calcium compound from a cost
standpoint, although the use of calcium carbonate will provide
better control over the temperature of the reaction mixture.
[0054] The potassium compound is preferably selected from the group
consisting of potassium carbonate, potassium hydroxide, potassium
bicarbonate, and mixtures thereof. Potassium carbonate is generally
preferred because of its lower cost.
[0055] Citric acid and water are mixed with agitation, and calcium
compound and potassium compound are thereafter sequentially mixed
with the citric acid to produce a dense, hydrated second mixture.
This dense, hydrated second mixture may be initially characterized
as being a thick "slush" comprising potassium, calcium, and citrate
in a mole proportion of about 1:1:1, or about 4:1:2, respectively,
depending on the molar amounts of reactant compounds used.
[0056] During addition of the calcium or potassium compound, the
temperature of the mixture is desirably controlled between about
10.degree. C. and about 70.degree. C. by controlling compound
addition rates. A preferred temperature range for the reaction
mixture is from about 15.degree. C. to about 60.degree. C., with a
most preferred temperature range being from about 20.degree. C. to
about 50.degree.C.
[0057] The hydrated second mixture preferably has a moisture
content between about 15 weight percent and about 25 weight
percent. If the moisture content falls below about 10 weight
percent, the reaction likely will be incomplete. While a hydrated
second mixture with a moisture content above about 25 weight
percent (for example, 50 or 75 weight percent or more) may be used
to produce a bulk or granulated composition, more time and/or
energy is required to lower the moisture content of the mixture,
with the mixture retaining a paste-like consistency for a longer
period. The need to use a longer period of time and/or more energy
to lower the moisture content of the second mixture is economically
disadvantageous.
[0058] This hydrated second mixture is thereafter preferably
blended in a ribbon mixer to a granular mass consisting of granules
and lumps. The mass is then dried and milled to produce a bulk form
of PCC composition, i.e., a granulated PCC composition, having a
maximum particle size of about {fraction (1/16)}inch (i.e., about
0.16 cm) in diameter and having a moisture content ranging between
about 0 weight percent and about 5 weight percent. The granulated
form thus produced has a bulk density (weight or mass per gross
volume of granules) ranging from about 0.8 g/cc to about 1.3 g/cc,
preferably from about 0.9 g/cc to about 1.3 g/cc, and most
preferably from about 0.9 g/cc to about 1.1 g/cc. The granulated
form, with or without further milling and sizing, provides
pharmaceutically-acceptable material suitable for producing PCC
composition in unit dosage form. The granulated form is a preferred
precursor for the production of tablets, or other
orally-administered forms, of PCC composition. It represents a
densified source for providing potassium, calcium, and citrate, as
well as for delivering a more-than-modest level of alkali load.
Furthermore, the granulated form is compressible, with appropriate
tableting aids.
[0059] A tablet form of a PCC composition is produced by subjoining
and blending a bulk PCC composition, a lubricant such as stearic
acid, calcium stearate, magnesium stearate, zinc stearate, talc,
mineral oil, or the like, and a wax material such as carnauba wax
or polyethylene glycol. In certain embodiments, granulating agents
such as ethyl cellulose, povidone, polyethylene glycol, shellac,
methyl cellulose, or the like are also added to the blend. In
certain embodiments, an aroma enhancer, such as ethyl vanillin, for
example, may be included to provide a pleasant aroma.
Pharmaceutically-acceptable tableting binders, lubricants,
disintegrants, carriers, and excipients known in the pharmaceutical
arts in light of the present disclosure are usable in the
production of tablets or other solid forms of the present invention
(See, e.g., Remington: The Science and Practice of Pharmacy,
Gennaro, A R (ed.), 1995, Mack Publ. Co., Easton, Pa., p. 1615,
incorporated herein by reference). The resulting compositions are
then fed through a multiple-station tablet press. Multiple-station
tablet presses such as a Manesty Mark 345 station press, a Fette 45
station press, or a Manesty rotopress-37 station press, for
example, may be used, but the formation of tablets of PCC
compositions are not limited to such presses.
[0060] Preferred tablets of a PCC composition comprising high bulk
density potassium calcium citrate as a single compound, in 1:1:1
molar ratio, preferably comprise about 13.4 weight percent
potassium, about 13.7 weight percent calcium, and about 64.7 weight
percent citrate, with the remaining about 8.2 weight percent being
lubricant, wax material, granulating agent, tableting binder,
disintegrant, carrier, excipient, or other additive. Preferred
tablets of a PCC composition comprising high bulk density potassium
calcium citrate as a single compound, in 4:1:2, respectively, molar
ratio, preferably comprise about 25.0 weight percent potassium,
about 6.4 weight percent calcium, and about 60.4 weight percent
citrate, with the remaining about 8.2 weight percent being
lubricant, wax material, granulating agent, tableting binder,
disintegrant, carrier, excipient, or other additive.
[0061] Further processing to improve tablets of a PCC composition
physically and aesthetically may be accomplished by tablet-coating
procedures well known to those skilled in relevant pharmaceutical
arts in light of the present disclosure. For example, a film
coating may be added to protect tablet ingredients from moisture,
oxygen, or light; or to mask any undesirable taste or appearance.
Suitable coating agents include cellulose, hydroxypropylmethyl
cellulose, cellulose phthalate, methacrylic copolymer, polyethylene
glycol, polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), sugar, titanium dioxide, talc,
and shellac. An enteric coating may be employed, as well as
coloring agents for identification, and, if desired, the solid form
may be polished with a waxy composition, such as carnuba wax.
Coating procedures are by conventional pharmaceutical pan-coating
technology known to those of skill in this art in light of this
disclosure.
[0062] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the PCC
composition is a composition comprising high bulk density potassium
calcium citrate as a single compound in 1:1:1 molar ratio. In an
example of this preferred embodiment, the PCC composition is a
potent delivery system yielding 5 meq of potassium (about 195 mg),
10 meq of calcium (about 200 mg), and 15 meq of citrate (about 945
mg) from each PCC tablet (about 1.34 g total, excluding lubricants,
waxy materials, granulating agents, binders, disintegrants,
carriers, excipients, coating materials, or the like). In another
preferred embodiment of the invention, the PCC composition is a
composition comprising high bulk density potassium calcium citrate
as a single compound in 4:1:2, respectively, molar ratio. In an
example of this preferred embodiment, the PCC composition is a
potent delivery system yielding 10 meq of potassium (about 391 mg),
5 meq of calcium (about 100 mg), and 15 meq of citrate (about 945
mg) from each PCC tablet (about 1.44 g total, excluding lubricants,
waxy materials, granulating agents, binders, disintegrants,
carriers, excipients, coating materials, or the like).
[0063] PCC compositions may be orally administered directly as
supplements in tablet or other solid forms, or indirectly after
being dissolved in a liquid to produce a beverage form. Solid forms
suitable for oral administration include tablets, lozenges,
chewable tablets, granules, bulk powder, or the like, as well as
capsules containing granules or powder.
[0064] As used herein, a composition "delivering alkali load" means
that the composition is delivering for absorption through a GI
tract mineral cations that are not degraded (though anions are
metabolized). As used herein, a "modest level" of alkali load means
the level of alkali load delivered on administration of a
supplement consisting essentially of calcium and citrate (such as
the calcium-citrate supplement of Example 7, infra).
[0065] The level of alkali load that is delivered on administration
of a PCC composition or a supplement consisting essentially of
calcium and citrate correlates with cations absorbed through a GI
tract. Because potassium cations are more readily absorbed through
a GI tract than calcium cations, the level of alkali load delivered
by a PCC composition is greater than a modest level of alkali load,
where the calcium content provided by the calcium-citrate
supplement that delivers the modest level of alkali load is
approximately identical to the calcium content provided by the PCC
composition. In other words, administration of PCC composition
delivers a more-than-modest level of alkali load.
[0066] As used herein, "delivering a more-than-modest level" of
alkali load by a PCC composition means delivering a level of alkali
load greater than the "modest level" of alkali load delivered by a
supplement consisting essentially of calcium and citrate, where the
calcium content provided by the calcium-citrate supplement that
delivers the modest level of alkali load is approximately identical
to the calcium content provided by the PCC composition.
[0067] Levels of alkali load delivered are measured by analysis of
urinary electrolytes. Measuring alkali load by analysis of urinary
electrolytes (in particular, urinary non-combustible anions and
urinary non-combustible cations) correlates closely with measuring
alkali load by analysis of food and fecal electrolytes (Oh, MS,
1989, Kidney Int'l 36:915-17). Subtracting the level of urinary
non-combustible anions from the level of urinary non-combustible
cations results in a net alkali absorption value. A positive value
is generated when the net alkali absorption value provided by a
supplement consisting essentially of calcium and citrate is
subtracted from the net alkali absorption value provided by a PCC
composition, where the amount of calcium administered in the
supplements compared is approximately identical. As indicated by
the positive value, the level of alkali load corresponding to that
delivered by a PCC composition is a more-than-modest level of
alkali load. A "calcium load" test as described in Example 7,
infra, provides a context for determining net alkali absorption
values.
[0068] Measuring changes in levels of urinary ammonium may also be
used to indicate levels of alkali load delivered. A decline in
urinary ammonium is associated with delivering alkali load. In
addition, measuring changes in urinary pH levels may be used to
indicate levels of alkali load delivered. An increase in urinary pH
is associated with delivering alkali load. Measuring changes in
levels of urinary ammonium and/or urinary pH may also be used to
demonstrate that the level of alkali load corresponding to that
delivered by administration as a dietary supplement of a PCC
composition is a more-than-modest level of alkali load. A "calcium
load" test as described in Example 7, infra, also provides a
context for determinations of changes in levels of urinary ammonium
and/or urinary pH. As used herein, "increasing urinary pH" and
"increasing urinary citrate" are described by the experimental
protocol followed in Example 7, infra.
[0069] As used herein, "drying and milling said second mixture to a
water content of less than about 5 weight percent to produce the
composition" includes the meaning that, in drying the second
mixture comprising water and high bulk density potassium calcium
citrate as a single compound (whether having a molar ratio of
potassium to calcium to citrate of either 1:1:1 or 4:1:2,
respectively) to a water content of less than about 5 weight
percent, intermediate solid forms that are milled may have a water
content of more, or less, than about 5 weight percent. Under this
meaning, an intermediate solid form having a water content of more
than about 5 weight percent may be milled, with the resulting
granules being further dried to a water content of less than about
5 weight percent. In addition, under this meaning, an intermediate
solid form having a water content of less than about 5 weight
percent may be milled, with additional drying of the resulting
granules either being, or not being, necessary to produce samples
of PCC composition having a water content of less than about 5
weight percent, depending on the distribution of water content in
the intermediate solid form before milling.
[0070] In addition, "bulk density" is to be distinguished from
simple "density." As used herein, "bulk density" refers to the
weight or mass of a granulated or powdered form of PCC composition
per tapped gross volume of the granulated or powdered form. Tapped
gross volume is the sum of the volume of particles (granular or
powdered) themselves in the granulated or powdered form of the PCC
composition plus the volume of interparticle interstices, after the
container (e.g., a graduated cylinder) holding the granulated or
powdered form of the PCC composition is tapped to settle the
particles of the PCC composition. Furthermore, "high bulk density"
as used herein means a bulk density that is from about 0.8 g/cc to
about 1.3 g/cc for such tapped granulated or powdered form of the
PCC composition.
[0071] As used herein, "administering a composition" or
"administering the composition" means administering to a subject a
PCC composition either directly in tablet or other solid form, or
indirectly as a beverage after dissolving a solid form of a PCC
composition in a liquid. Typically, such a composition is orally
administered so that the subject receives beneficial mineral
supplementation. The subject may be human, or a nonhuman animal
subject. A subject in need of such a composition may simply, or
additionally, be a subject susceptible to kidney-stone formation.
Target dosages for administering a PCC composition to a human
subject, for example, are set so that a subject receives from about
0.5 gram to about 2.0 grams calcium daily. Target dosages for
administering such a composition to a nonhuman animal subject, on
the other hand, are adjusted, for example, based on the body mass
of the animal.
[0072] As used herein, "unit dosage form" means one tablet or other
type of solid form composition comprising high bulk density
potassium calcium citrate as a single compound--in 1:1:1, or 4:1:2,
respectively, molar ratio--suitable for administration as, for
example, one lozenge, one chewable tablet, or one capsule (or
spoonful measure) containing granulated or powdered forms. Each
"dosage unit" may be administered directly in tablet or other solid
form, or, indirectly as a beverage, after dissolving a tablet or
other solid form composition comprising high bulk density potassium
calcium citrate as a single compound--in 1:1: 1, or 4:1:2,
respectively, molar ratio--in a liquid. Administration is
preferably oral.
[0073] The following examples are included to demonstrate preferred
embodiments of the invention. It should be appreciated by those of
skill in the art that the techniques disclosed in the following
examples represent techniques discovered by the inventor to
function well in the practice of the invention, and thus can be
considered to constitute preferred modes for its practice. However,
those of skill in the art should, in light of the present
disclosure, appreciate that, while changes can be made in specific
techniques disclosed, yet like or similar results may be obtained
without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
EXAMPLE 1
Tablets of PCC Composition (1:1:1 Molar Ratio)
[0074] Citric acid (120 g, 0.625 moles) powder and water (30 g)
were thoroughly mixed in a large beaker. Calcium oxide (35.0 g,
0.624 moles) was added with rapid stirring. Potassium carbonate
(43.2 g, 0.313 moles) powder was introduced in four approximately
equal portions, each portion added after the carbon dioxide
(CO.sub.2) evolution had slowed or ceased. Water (10 g) was added
to complete the reaction. After drying, the material was sized and
found to have a bulk density slightly greater than 1.1 g/cc. Bulk
density was determined by an Archimedean method. This dense
granulated form of PCC composition (1:1:1 molar ratio) was
subjected to compression tableting with the aid of a binder and
lubricant. Tablets of PCC composition (1:1:1 molar ratio) providing
5 meq potassium (about 195 mg), 10 meq calcium (about 200 mg), and
15 meq citrate (about 945 mg) were produced.
[0075] Tablets of PCC composition (1:1:1 molar ratio) were also
produced on a large scale. Citric acid (48.03 kg, 250 moles) powder
and water (10 kg) were placed in a Colton 3 cu. ft. ribbon mixer
and blended for two minutes. Calcium oxide (14.02 kg, 250 moles)
was added in approximately three equal portions, three minutes
apart with continuous mixing. Potassium carbonate (17.3 kg, 125
moles) was added in approximately three equal portions five minutes
apart with continuous mixing. Water (10 kg) is added in order to
complete the reaction. Mixing continued for 2-5 minutes. The
resulting granular material was placed on trays and dried at
150.degree. F. (66.degree. C.) for six hours. The dried product was
sized and its bulk density was determined to be about 1.1 g/cc. The
sizing was done using a Fitzmill Model No. 6 mill equipped with a
3162AA screen.
[0076] The dried granulated form of PCC composition (1:1:1 molar
ratio) was subjoined with 1.0 weight percent magnesium stearate,
and 10 weight percent carnauba wax. The composition was then
tableted in a multiple station tablet press to form tablets of PCC
composition (1:1:1 molar ratio) each providing at least about 195
mg potassium, 200 mg calcium, and 945 mg citrate. Multiple station
tablet presses such as a Colton #216-16 station press, a Vector
#247-41 station press, or a Manesty rotopress-37 station press, for
example, may be used. The tablets thus obtained may be final
products or may be further processed.
[0077] Further processing to improve these tablets physically and
aesthetically may be accomplished by tablet-coating procedures well
known to those skilled in relevant pharmaceutical arts in light of
the present disclosure. For example, a coating comprising
hydroxypropylmethylcellulos- e, titanium dioxide, and talc was
placed on these tablets. This coating procedure was by conventional
pharmaceutical pan-coating technology.
EXAMPLE 2
PCC Composition (1:1:1 Molar Ratio) Produced Using Calcium
Carbonate
[0078] Procedure of Example 1 for large-scale production was
followed with the calcium oxide being replaced by calcium carbonate
(25.03 kg, 250 moles). A granulated PCC composition comprising PCC
in 1:1:1 molar ratio and having a bulk density of about 1.05 g/cc
was produced.
EXAMPLE 3
PCC Composition (1:1:1 Molar Ratio) Produced Using Calcium
Hydroxide
[0079] Procedure of Example 1 for large-scale production was
followed with the calcium oxide being replaced by calcium hydroxide
(18.52 kg, 250 moles). A granulated PCC composition comprising PCC
in 1:1:1 molar ratio and having a bulk density of about 1.05 g/cc
was produced.
EXAMPLE 4
PCC Composition (1:1:1 Molar Ratio) Produced Using Potassium
Bicarbonate
[0080] The procedures of Examples 1, 2, and 3 are followed using
potassium bicarbonate instead of potassium carbonate. However,
since the mole amount of potassium in a mole of potassium
bicarbonate is half the mole amount of potassium in a mole of
potassium carbonate, the mole amount of potassium bicarbonate (250
moles, or 25.03 kg) used is twice the mole amount of potassium
carbonate (125 moles) used in Examples 1, 2, and 3. A granulated
PCC composition comprising PCC in 1:1:1 molar ratio and having a
bulk density of about 1.05 g/cc is produced.
EXAMPLE 5
PCC Composition (1:1:1 Molar Ratio) Produced Using Potassium
Hydroxide
[0081] The procedures of Examples 1, 2, and 3 are followed using
potassium hydroxide instead of potassium carbonate. However, since
the mole amount of potassium in a mole of potassium hydroxide is
half the mole amount of potassium in a mole of potassium carbonate,
the mole amount of potassium hydroxide (250 moles, or 14.03 kg)
used is twice the mole amount of potassium carbonate (125 moles)
used in Examples 1, 2, and 3. A granulated PCC composition
comprising PCC in 1:1:1 molar ratio and having a bulk density of
about 1.05 g/cc is produced.
EXAMPLE 6
PCC Composition (4:1:2 Molar Ratio)
[0082] Citric acid (120 g, 0.625 moles) powder and water (30 g) are
thoroughly mixed in a large beaker. Calcium oxide (17.5 g, 0.312
moles) is added with rapid stirring. Potassium carbonate (86.4 g,
0.625 moles) powder is introduced in four approximately equal
portions, each portion added after the CO.sub.2 evolution had
slowed or ceased. Water (10 g) is added to complete the reaction.
After drying, the material is sized and found to have a bulk
density between 0.9 and 1.3 g/cc. Bulk density is determined by an
Archimedean method. This dense granulated form of PCC composition
comprising high bulk density PCC in 4:1:2, respectively, molar
ratio is subjected to compression tableting with the aid of a
binder and lubricant, and tablets providing 10 meq potassium (about
391 mg), 5 meq (about 100 mg) calcium, and 15 meq (about 945 mg)
citrate are produced.
[0083] Tablets of PCC composition (4:1:2 molar ratio) may also be
produced on a large scale. Citric acid (24.01 kg, 125 moles) powder
and water (5 kg) are placed in a Colton 3 cu. ft. ribbon mixer and
blended for two minutes. Calcium oxide (3.51 kg, 62.5 moles) is
added in approximately three equal portions, three minutes apart
with continuous mixing. Potassium carbonate (17.28 kg, 125 moles)
is added in approximately three equal portions five minutes apart
with continuous mixing. Water (5 kg) is added in order to complete
the reaction. Mixing is continued for 2-5 minutes. Resulting
granular material is placed in trays and dried at 150.degree. F.
(66.degree. C.) for six hours. The dried product is sized using a
Fitzmill Model No. 6 mill equipped with a 3162AA screen.
[0084] PCC composition (4:1:2 molar ratio) may also be produced
using the preceding large-scale procedure with calcium oxide being
replaced by calcium carbonate (6.26 kg, 62.5 moles) or calcium
hydroxide (4.63 kg, 62.5 moles). Similarly, PCC composition (4:1:2
molar ratio) may be produced using the preceding large-scale
procedure with potassium carbonate being replaced by potassium
bicarbonate (25.0 kg, 250 moles) or potassium hydroxide (14.03 kg,
250 moles).
[0085] The dried composition comprising high bulk density PCC as a
single compound in 4:1:2, respectively, molar ratio is subjoined
with 1.0 weight percent magnesium stearate, and 10 weight percent
carnauba wax. The resulting composition is then tableted in a
multiple station tablet press to form tablets of PCC composition
(4:1:2 molar ratio) wherein each tablet provides about 391 mg
potassium, about 100 mg calcium, and about 945 mg citrate. Multiple
station tablet presses such as a Colton #216-16 station press, a
Vector #247-41 station press, or a Manesty rotopress-37 station
press, for example, may be used. The tablets thus obtained may be
final products or may be further processed. Further processing to
improve these tablets physically and aesthetically may be
accomplished by tablet-coating procedures well known to those
skilled in relevant pharmaceutical arts in light of the present
disclosure, as noted in the previous examples for PCC composition
(1:1:1 molar ratio).
EXAMPLE 7
Physiological Studies Comparing PCC Composition to Calcium
Citrate
[0086] The present example provides physiological studies in which
500 mg calcium was administered orally in the form of tablets of
PCC composition (1:1:1 molar ratio) or tablets of calcium citrate
to each of six volunteers. The calcium citrate administered was a
dense tablet form of calcium citrate (i.e., ULTRADENSE.TM.
CITRACAL.RTM. comprising calcium citrate having a molar ratio of
calcium to citrate of 3:2, respectively) as described in U.S. Pat.
No. 4,814,177 (previously incorporated by reference). The
volunteers were characterized as physiologicaly "normal." Each
subject underwent three phases of study in random order, with each
phase corresponding to a separate "calcium load" test. In one test,
tablets of PCC composition (1:1:1 molar-ratio) providing 500 mg (25
meq) calcium, 12.5 meq potassium, and 37.5 meq citrate (that is,
tablets of PCC composition providing 12.5 mmoles each of potassium,
calcium, and citrate) were orally administered to each subject
after an overnight fast. In separate tests, tablets of calcium
citrate (providing 500 mg, i.e., 25 meq, calcium and 25 meq
citrate), or placebo (containing only excipient) were also
administered to each subject. Before each administration or load, a
two-hour fasting urine sample (Control) was collected. Four hours
after each load, a urine sample (Experimental) was again collected.
A venous blood sample was taken just before (Control) and at four
hours after (Experimental) the load.
[0087] In order to determine levels of serum calcium (FIG. 1) and
serum parathyroid hormone (PTH) (FIG. 3), measurements were made
directly of the venous blood samples obtained just before (Control)
and at four hours after (Experimental) treatment administration.
Measured values were expressed in units of milligrams per deciliter
(mg/dl) and picograms per milliliter (pg/ml) for serum calcium and
serum PTH levels, respectively.
[0088] Urine samples were measured for creatinine, as well as for
calcium, deoxypyridinoline (DPD), ammonium, pH, and citrate.
Urinary calcium (FIG. 2) levels were measured directly from
two-hour fasting urines (Control) and from urines collected four
hours after (Experimental) treatment administration; measured
values were expressed in units of milligrams per deciliter
glomerular filtrate (mg/dl GF). Measured values for pH (FIG. 6) are
independent of volume. Urinary DPD (FIG. 4) levels were expressed
as millimoles per four hours (mmol/4 hr); urinary ammonium (FIG. 5)
levels were expressed in units of milliequivalents per four hours
(meq/4 hr); and urinary citrate (FIG. 7) levels were expressed in
units of mg per four hours (mg/4 hr). Measurements were taken from
two-hour fasting urines and from urines collected four hours after
(Experimental) treatment administration. In order to estimate
Control values for urinary DPD, ammonium, and citrate in units of
mmol/4 hr (DPD), meq/4 hr (ammonium), or mg/4 hr (citrate), values
measured from two-hour fasting urines were multiplied by two to
obtain four-hour Control values. Measurements from urine samples
collected four hours after treatment administration were used,
without adjustment, as Experimental values.
[0089] Levels of serum calcium (FIG. 1) and urinary calcium (FIG.
2) did not appreciably change after administration of placebo, but
increased after administration of PCC composition and calcium
citrate. Significantly higher experimental values were obtained on
administration of PCC composition or calcium citrate than on
administration of placebo, but between PCC composition and
calcium-citrate administrations, experimental values for serum
calcium levels did not significantly differ. Thus, administering
500 mg calcium in the form of either tablets of PCC composition or
tablets of calcium citrate significantly enhanced the amount of
calcium absorbed from GI tracts of the subjects.
[0090] Levels of serum PTH (FIG. 3) remained substantially constant
after administration of placebo, but decreased after administration
of either PCC composition or calcium citrate. Significantly lower
experimental values of serum PTH were obtained on administration of
PCC composition or calcium citrate than on administration of
placebo, but experimental values were not significantly different
between PCC composition and calcium-citrate administrations. Thus,
PCC composition was shown to be as effective as calcium citrate in
suppressing PTH secretion and thereby would be expected to be
effective in inhibiting bone destruction.
[0091] Levels of urinary DPD (FIG. 4), a marker for bone
destruction, did decrease after administration of either PCC
composition or calcium citrate. However, experimental values of
urinary DPD obtained on administration of either PCC composition or
calcium citrate did not decrease significantly versus those values
obtained on administration of placebo.
[0092] Levels of urinary ammonium (FIG. 5) decreased
non-significantly on administration of PCC composition, calcium
citrate, or placebo. Experimental values of urinary ammonium
obtained on administration of PCC composition were lower than those
obtained on administration of placebo, but experimental values
obtained on administration of calcium citrate were not. Consistent
with these trends, but of statistical significance, urinary pH
(FIG. 6) increased significantly on administration of PCC
composition, but not on administration of either calcium citrate or
placebo. Experimental values of urinary pH obtained on
administration of PCC composition were significantly higher those
obtained on administration of placebo, but those obtained on
administration of calcium citrate were not. Thus, experimental
values of urinary pH indicated that, during the four hours after
loading, administration of PCC composition delivered alkali load,
but calcium-citrate administration did not. More specifically, the
provision by administration of PCC composition, versus
calcium-citrate administration, of a greater net increase in
urinary pH demonstrated that administration of PCC composition
delivered a more-than-modest level of alkali load.
[0093] Levels of urinary citrate (FIG. 7) also markedly increased
on administration of PCC composition, but not on administration of
either calcium citrate or placebo. Experimental values of urinary
citrate obtained on administration of PCC composition were
significantly greater than those obtained on administration of
placebo, while those obtained on administration of calcium citrate
were not. Thus, during the four hours after loading, administration
of PCC composition enhanced urinary citrate excretion, but
calcium-citrate administration did not. Administration of PCC
composition likely increases urinary citrate excretion both by
providing citrate that escapes in vivo metabolism and by delivering
a more-than-modest level of alkali load. However, as for potassium
citrate, the profound citraturic action of PCC composition is
likely attributable predominantly to its delivery of alkali
load.
EXAMPLE 8
Dietary Supplementation and Methods of Treatment
[0094] A subject who may benefit from dietary supplementation with
a PCC composition, or an alcohol-mixed composition, is identified.
For example, a human (or nonhuman animal) subject susceptible to
the development of osteoporosis or bone loss, or who has already
suffered osteoporosis or bone loss, is identified using diagnostic
indicators, for example, such as the subject's age, sex, bone
density, history of fractures, or steroid therapy experience. Such
a subject would also be identified as potentially benefiting from
dietary supplementation with a PCC composition. Similarly, a human
(or nonhuman animal) subject having, or susceptible to, conditions
other than osteoporosis in which calcium administration may be
therapeutic, including hypoparathyroidism, renal osteodystrophy,
hypertension, bone loss in chronic diarrheal syndrome,
osteomalacia, rickets, and phosphate accumulation in chronic renal
failure, is identified. Such a human (or nonhuman animal) subject
would also be identified as potentially benefiting from dietary
supplementation with a PCC composition.
[0095] PCC composition is administered to a human subject in need
thereof so that the subject receives beneficial mineral
supplementation, for example, from about 0.5 gram to about 2.0
grams calcium daily. Typically, a tablet of PCC composition (1:1:1
molar-ratio) contains 200 mg calcium, so that a human subject would
ingest from 2 to 10 tablets daily. A tablet of PCC composition
(4:1:2 molar-ratio) typically contains 100 mg calcium, so that a
human subject would ingest from 5 to 20 tablets daily.
Administration is preferably oral, and may proceed either directly
by ingesting a solid form, such as a tablet, or indirectly by
drinking liquid in which a solid form, such as a tablet, has been
dissolved.
[0096] Administration of a PCC composition to a nonhuman animal
subject is accomplished using administration techniques available
from veterinary medicine in light of the present disclosure.
[0097] Administration of PCC composition to a subject provides
calcium and, simultaneously, delivers a more-than-modest level of
alkali load. The latter is also manifested by an increase in
urinary pH. The alkali load delivered helps to avert, for example,
development of osteoporosis or bone loss, and/or helps to counter
osteoporosis or bone loss already suffered (for example, in a
postmenopausal woman or an elderly man). Administration of PCC
composition as dietary supplement also reduces the risk of
nephrolithiasis (i.e., kidney-stone formation) through provision of
increases in urinary pH and citraturic effect, as well as, at least
potentially, by providing potassium instead of sodium.
* * * * *