U.S. patent application number 12/213087 was filed with the patent office on 2008-10-16 for controlled release composition.
This patent application is currently assigned to BM RESEARCH A/S. Invention is credited to Daniel Bar-Shalom.
Application Number | 20080254124 12/213087 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 8091111 |
Filed Date | 2008-10-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080254124 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Bar-Shalom; Daniel |
October 16, 2008 |
Controlled release composition
Abstract
A composition for controlled delivery of at least one active
substance into an aqueous medium by erosion at a preprogrammed rate
of at least one surface of the composition, comprising a matrix
comprising the active substance, the matrix being erodible in the
aqueous medium in which the composition is to be used, and a
coating having at least one opening exposing at least one surface
of said matrix, the coating comprising a first cellulose derivative
which has thermoplastic properties and which is substantially
insoluble in the aqueous medium in which the composition is to be
used, and at least one of a second cellulose derivative which is
soluble or dispersible in water, a plasticizer, and a filler. The
coating is a coating which crumbles and/or erodes upon exposure to
the aqueous medium such as a body fluid. The first cellulose
derivative may be, e.g., ethylcellulose, cellulose acetate,
cellulose propionate or cellulose nitrate, and the second cellulose
derivative may be, e.g. methylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose or
salts thereof, cellulose acetate phthalate, microcrystalline
cellulose, ethylhydroxyethylcellulose, ethylmethylcellulose,
hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxyethylmethylcellulose,
hydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose,
hydroxymethylcellulose or hydroxymethylpropylcellulose.
Inventors: |
Bar-Shalom; Daniel;
(Kokkedal, DK) |
Correspondence
Address: |
FOLEY AND LARDNER LLP;SUITE 500
3000 K STREET NW
WASHINGTON
DC
20007
US
|
Assignee: |
BM RESEARCH A/S
|
Family ID: |
8091111 |
Appl. No.: |
12/213087 |
Filed: |
June 13, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10827521 |
Apr 20, 2004 |
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12213087 |
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08693254 |
Aug 19, 1996 |
6787156 |
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PCT/DK95/00080 |
Feb 23, 1995 |
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10827521 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
424/486 ;
424/488 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61K 9/282 20130101;
A61K 9/2866 20130101; A61K 9/0092 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
424/486 ;
424/488 |
International
Class: |
A61K 9/10 20060101
A61K009/10 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Feb 23, 1994 |
DK |
DK 0222/94 |
Claims
1. A composition for controlled delivery of at least one active
substance into an aqueous medium by erosion at a preprogrammed rate
of at least one surface of the composition, comprising i) a matrix
comprising the active substance, the matrix being erodible in the
aqueous medium in which the composition is to be used, and ii) a
coating having at least one opening exposing at least one surface
of said matrix, the coating comprising a) a first cellulose
derivative which has thermo-plastic properties and which is
substantially insoluble in the aqueous medium in which the
composition is to be used, and at least one of b) a second
cellulose derivative which is soluble or dispersible in water, c) a
plasticizer, and d) a filler, said coating being a coating which
crumbles and/or erodes upon exposure to the aqueous medium, in
particular a body fluid, at a rate which is equal to or slower than
the rate at which the matrix erodes in the aqueous medium, allowing
exposure of said surface of the matrix to the aqueous medium to be
controlled.
2. A composition according to claim 1 wherein any exposed matrix
surfaces erode at a substantially constant rate.
3. A composition according to claim 1 wherein, in the aqueous
medium in which the composition is to be used, the coating does not
completely crumble or erode before the matrix has completely
eroded.
4. A composition according to claim 1 in which said first cellulose
derivative is a cellulose ether which, when heated, is shapeable by
molding or extrusion, including injection molding, blow molding and
compression molding.
5. A composition according to claim 4 in which the cellulose ether
comprises at least one ethylcellulose.
6. A composition according to claim 5 in which said ethyl-cellulose
has an ethoxyl content in the range of 44.5-52.5%.
7. A composition according to claim 6 in which said ethyl-cellulose
has an ethoxyl content in the range of 45.0-49.5%.
8. A composition according to claim 1 in which said first cellulose
derivative is selected from the group consisting of cellulose
acetate, cellulose propionate and cellulose nitrate.
9. A composition according to claim 1 in which said second
cellulose derivative is selected from the group consisting of
methylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose and salts thereof,
cellulose acetate phthalate, microcrystalline cellulose,
ethylhydroxyethylcellulose, ethylmethylcellulose,
hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxyethylmethylcellulose,
hydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose,
hydroxymethylcellulose and hydroxymethylpropylcellulose.
10. A composition according to claim 9 in which said salt of
carboxymethylcellulose is selected from the group consisting of
alkali metal and alkaline earth metal salts.
11. A composition according to claim 9 in which said second
cellulose derivative is pharmaceutical quality
hydroxypropylmethylcellulose.
12. A composition according to claim 1 in which said plasticizer is
selected from the group consisting of phosphate esters; phthalate
esters; amides; mineral oils; fatty acids and esters thereof with
polyethylene glycol, glycerin or sugars; fatty alcohols and ethers
thereof with polyethylene glycol, glycerin or sugars; and vegetable
oils.
13. A composition according to claim 12 in which said fatty alcohol
is selected from the group consisting of cetostearyl alcohol, cetyl
alcohol, stearyl alcohol, oleyl alcohol and myristyl alcohol.
14. A composition according to claim 1 in which said plasticizer is
a non-ionic surfactant.
15. A composition according to claim 1 in which said filler is
selected from conventional tablet or capsule excipients.
16. A composition according to claim 15 in which the filler is a
diluent, a binder, a lubricant or a disintegrant.
17. A composition according to claim 1 in which the matrix and/or
the coating further comprises a water soluble antioxidant, a lipid
soluble antioxidant and/or a preservative.
18. A composition according to claim 1 in which the matrix
comprises a crystalline polyethylene glycol polymer and at least
one non-ionic emulsifier dispersed in the polyethylene glycol
matrix in an amount of 2-50% by weight of the crystalline polymer
and the non-ionic emulsifier, the non-ionic emulsifier having at
least one domain which is compatible with the polyethylene glycol
polymer and being selected from fatty acid esters and fatty alcohol
ethers, the active substance being substantially homogeneously
dispersed in the polyethylene glycol matrix and/or located in
geometrically well-defined zones within the matrix, the non-ionic
emulsifier and/or the active substance reducing the water affinity
of domains between grains and in cracks in the crystalline polymer
matrix and in the crystalline polymer matrix itself, thereby
substantially eliminating water diffusion in the interface between
the polymer crystals, so that erosion of the matrix is
predominantly effected by the dissolving action of the aqueous
medium on any matrix surfaces exposed to the medium.
19. A composition according to claim 18 in which the polyethylene
glycol polymer has a molecular weight of at least 20,000
daltons.
20. A composition according to claim 19 in which the polyethylene
glycol polymer has a molecular weight in the range of 20,000-35,000
daltons.
21. A composition according to claim 18 in which the polyethylene
glycol polymer has a molecular weight of less than 20,000
daltons.
22. A composition according to claim 18 wherein the non-ionic
emulsifier is a polyethylene glycol stearate.
23. A composition according to claim 1 wherein the matrix
comprising the active substance comprises d) a third cellulose
derivative which has thermoplastic properties and which is
substantially insoluble in the aqueous medium in which the
composition is to be used, and at least one of e) a fourth
cellulose derivative which is soluble or dispersible in water, f) a
second plasticizer, and g) a second
24.-27. (canceled)
28. A method for producing a composition for controlled delivery of
at least one active substance into an aqueous medium by erosion at
a preprogrammed rate of at least one surface of the composition,
the method of comprising forming, by means that include extrusion
or injection moulding, i) a matrix comprising the active substance,
the matrix being erodible in the aqueous medium in which the
composition is to be used, and ii) a coating having at least one
opening exposing at least one surface of said matrix, the coating
comprising a) a first cellulose derivative which has thermoplastic
properties and which is substantially insoluable in the aqueous
medium in which the composition is to be used, and at least one of
b) a second cellulose derivative which is soluable or dispersible
in water, c) a plasticizer, and d) a filler, said coating being a
coating which crumbles and/or erodes upon exposure to the aqueous
medium, in particular a body fluid, at a rate which is equal to or
slower than the rate at which the matrix erodes in the aqueous
medium, allowing exposure of said surface of the matrix to the
aqueous medium to be controlled.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a composition for
controlled delivery of an active substance into an aqueous
medium.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] It is known to obtain sustained release of an active
substance, e.g. a pharmaceutically active powder, by embedding it
in a matrix of an insoluble substance from which the active
substance will gradually diffuse. Sustained release of an active
substance contained in a tablet core may also be achieved by
applying to the core a semi-permeable coating through which water
and dissolved active substance may diffuse or an insoluble coating
provided with a hole through which the active substance is
released. Gradual release of an active substance may furthermore be
obtained by microencapsulating particles of an active substance in
one or more layers of film which may be of different types, e.g. of
a type which mediates diffusion of the active substance or release
thereof in the intestines.
[0003] These conventional ways of providing sustained release of an
active substance have certain drawbacks, in that it is difficult to
maintain a constant concentration of the active substance, for
example a constant concentration of a pharmaceutically active
substance in plasma for the entire period when the dosage form is
present in the body. In particular, this may be the problem with
drugs which have a brief half-life in the body. Furthermore, the
penetration of water through diffusion coatings may cause
hydrolysis of active substances which are unstable in an aqueous
environment.
[0004] WO 89/09066 discloses a composition for controlled delivery
of an active substance into an aqueous phase by erosion at a
substantially constant rate of a surface or surfaces of the
composition, the composition containing a) a matrix of a
crystalline polyethylene glycol polymer with a molecular weight of
at least 20,000 daltons, b) at least one non-ionic emulsifier
dispersed in the polyethylene glycol matrix in an amount of 2-50%
by weight of the crystalline polymer and the non-ionic emulsifier,
the non-ionic emulsifier having at least one domain which is
compatible with the polyethylene glycol polymer and being selected
from fatty acid esters and fatty alcohol ethers, and c) at least
one active substance substantially homogeneously dispersed in the
polyethylene glycol matrix and/or located in geometrically
well-defined zones within the composition, the non-ionic emulsifier
and/or the active substance reducing the water affinity of domains
between grains and in cracks in the crystalline polymer matrix and
in the crystalline polymer matrix itself, thereby substantially
eliminating water diffusion in the interface between the polymer
crystals, so that the erosion is predominantly effected by the
dissolving action of an aqueous medium on a surface or surfaces of
the composition exposed to the medium.
[0005] Other controlled release compositions based on this
principle are disclosed in WO 91/04015, which relates to
compositions that provide a regulated non-initial burst release of
an active substance at a predetermined time.
[0006] The present invention is a further development based on the
inventions disclosed in WO 89/09066 and WO 91/04015. In particular,
the present invention provides a novel coating based on certain
cellulose derivatives, the coating being particularly suitable for
controlled release compositions with a matrix containing an active
substance, e.g. a matrix such as that disclosed WO 89/09066.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] The present invention thus relates to a composition for
controlled delivery of at least one active substance into an
aqueous medium by erosion at a preprogrammed rate of at least one
surface of the composition, comprising [0008] i) a matrix
comprising the active substance, the matrix being erodible in the
aqueous medium in which the composition is to be used, and [0009]
ii) a coating having at least one opening exposing at least one
surface of said matrix, the coating comprising [0010] a) a first
cellulose derivative which has thermoplastic properties and which
is substantially insoluble in the aqueous medium in which the
composition is to be used, [0011] and at least one of [0012] b) a
second cellulose derivative which is soluble or dispersible in
water, [0013] c) a plasticizer, and [0014] d) a filler, said
coating being a coating which crumbles and/or erodes upon exposure
to the aqueous medium, in particular a body fluid, at a rate which
is equal to or slower than the rate at which the matrix erodes in
the aqueous medium, allowing exposure of said surface of the matrix
to the aqueous medium to be controlled.
[0015] The combination of the matrix and the active substance must
be substantially impenetrable to fluids of the aqueous phase, for
example body fluids present where the composition of the invention
is introduced into the body (e.g. in the gastrointestinal tract,
including the rectum, in the vagina or subcutaneously) or into a
body cavity via a catheter (e.g. the urinary bladder, the gall
bladder, the uterus, a central nervous system cavity,
infectious/malignant/post-operative cavities, etc.), in order to
avoid degradation of the active substance residing in the matrix
due to the action of water in the case of an active sub-stance
which is susceptible to hydrolysis. The inclusion of the active
substance in a matrix into which water diffusion is substantially
eliminated will thus impart stability to the composition, so that
the active substance will remain active even when the composition
has been exposed to body fluids or other fluids for a period of
time. As the fluids can only act on the surface of a matrix of this
type, the active substance embedded therein is only exposed to the
fluids in question when it is released or immediately prior to its
release from the matrix. A matrix of a type which is substantially
impenetrable to water will therefore ensure the stability of the
active substance in the matrix until the time when the active
substance is actually released, and will also ensure that release
of the active substance takes place at a controlled and
reproducible rate, since the release proceeds gradually from the
surface or surfaces of the matrix exposed to the fluids in
question.
[0016] Due to the controlled release of the active substance from
the composition of the invention, it is possible to obtain a
substantially constant rate of release or a controlled pulsatile
release of the active substance over a specific period of time.
Adherence to a strict dosage regimen, e.g. requiring administration
of a drug at set intervals up to several times a day, may therefore
be dispensed with. Furthermore, it is possible to include two or
more different active substances in the composition of the
invention, adapted to be released at different concentrations
and/or intervals, thus making it easier for patients to follow a
prescribed regimen.
[0017] An additional advantage of the composition of the invention
is that it may be produced by relatively simple and inexpensive
methods, e.g. by extrusion, as will be explained in more detail
below. Furthermore, the composition allows for the incorporation of
high concentrations of the active substance relative to the
composition's size. This is obviously a great advantage, notably
when the composition is to be used for the delivery of a
pharmaceutically active substance, since it allows for the delivery
of the required amount of the active substance without the
composition being unnecessarily large. Compositions of the
invention in which the matrix contains a surface active agent may
furthermore be used for the delivery of sparingly soluble or
non-soluble pharmaceutical powders which can otherwise be difficult
to administer, since such substances are compatible with the
lipophilic domains of the surface active agent.
DETAILED DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION
[0018] A suitable matrix for use in the compositions of the
invention is one of the type described in WO 89/09066 or WO
91/04015, to which reference is made and which are incorporated
herein by reference, i.e. a matrix containing a crystalline
polyethylene glycol polymer with a molecular weight of at least
20,000 daltons in which at least one non-ionic emulsifier is
dispersed. A preferred non-ionic emulsifier for use in the matrix
is polyethylene glycol stearate. Preferred polyethylene glycols for
use in the matrix have a molecular weight in the range of
20,000-35,000 daltons. However, while WO 89/09066 discloses
matrices containing a crystalline polyethylene glycol polymer with
a molecular weight of at least 20,000 daltons, interesting
compositions according to the present invention also include those
in which the matrix contains a polyethylene glycol polymer with a
molecular weight of less than 20,000 daltons.
[0019] The crystalline polymer matrix must have a melting point
which is above the temperature of the aqueous medium in which the
composition of the invention is to be used. Thus, the polymer(s)
employed in the matrix will suitably have a melting point of about
20-120.degree. C., typically about 30-100.degree. C., more
typically about 40-80.degree. C., depending on how the composition
is to be employed. In particular, when the composition of the
invention is used for the delivery of a drug for human or
veterinary use, the matrix will suitably have a melting point of
about 40-80.degree. C.
[0020] Alternatively, the matrix may be of the same basic type as
the coating, i.e. comprising a thermoplastic and substantially
insoluble cellulose derivative, e.g. ethylcellulose, as well as at
least one other cellulose derivative and/or a plasticizer and/or a
filler. In a matrix of this type the cellulose derivative(s), the
plasticizer and the filler may be selected from the corresponding
cellulose derivatives, plasticizers and fillers described below in
connection with the coating. The specific compounds and amounts
thereof used for the matrix in this case would of course have to be
adapted to the particular coating used for any given composition,
so that the desired erosion pattern and release of the active
substance into the aqueous medium is obtained.
[0021] As mentioned above, the coating is one which crumbles and/or
erodes upon exposure to an aqueous medium at a rate which is equal
to or slower than the rate at which the matrix erodes in the same
aqueous medium. Exposure of the surface of the matrix to the
aqueous medium is thereby controlled, so that the desired release
profile of the active substance in the matrix is obtained.
[0022] As mentioned above, the first cellulose derivative is one
which has thermoplastic properties, i.e. it softens upon heating.
The first cellulose derivative may be a cellulose ether which, when
heated, is shapeable by molding or extrusion, including injection
molding, blow molding and compression molding. A preferred
cellulose ether is ethylcellulose, typically an ethylcellulose with
an ethoxyl content in the range of 44.5-52.5%, such as in the range
of 45.0-46.5% or in the range of 48.0-49.5%. Typical commercially
available ethylcellulose products have an ethoxyl content of
45.0-49.5%, corresponding to 2.25-2.58 ethoxyl groups per
anhydroglucose unit.
[0023] The first cellulose derivative may furthermore be selected
from the group consisting of cellulose acetate, cellulose
propionate and cellulose nitrate.
[0024] The second cellulose derivative is typically selected from
the group consisting of methylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose and
salts thereof, cellulose acetate phthalate, microcrystalline
cellulose, ethylhydroxyethylcellulose, ethylmethylcellulose,
hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxyethylmethylcellulose,
hydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose,
hydroxymethylcellulose and hydroxymethylpropylcellulose. When the
second cellulose derivative is a salt of carboxymethylcellulose,
the salt will typically be selected from the group consisting of
alkali metal and alkaline earth metal salts.
[0025] Currently preferred compounds for use as the second
cellulose derivative pharmaceutical quality
hydroxypropylmethylcellulose or carboxymethylcellulose.
[0026] The use of a plasticizer will often be desirable in order to
improve the processibility of the ethylcellulose or other first
cellulose derivative, e.g. to adjust the softening point of the
ethylcellulose. When the coating contains a plasticizer, this is
typically selected from the group consisting of phosphate esters;
phthalate esters; amides; mineral oils; fatty acids and esters
thereof with polyethylene glycol, glycerin or sugars; fatty
alcohols and ethers thereof with polyethylene glycol, glycerin or
sugars; and vegetable oils. Suitable fatty alcohols are cetostearyl
alcohol, cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, oleyl alcohol and myristyl
alcohol.
[0027] The plasticizer may also be a non-ionic surfactant, e.g. a
non-ionic surfactant is selected from the group consisting of
diacetylated monoglycerides, diethylene glycol monostearate,
ethylene glycol monostearate, glyceryl monooleate, glyceryl
monostearate, propylene glycol monostearate, macrogol esters,
macrogol stearate 400, macrogol stearate 2000, polyoxyethylene 50
stearate, macrogol ethers, cetomacrogol 1000, lauromacrogols,
nonoxinols, octoxinols, tyloxapol, poloxamers, polyvinyl alcohols,
polysorbate 20, polysorbate 40, polysorbate 60, polysorbate 65,
polysorbate 80, polysorbate 85, sorbitan monolaurate, sorbitan
monooleate, sorbitan monopalmitate, sorbitan monostearate, sorbitan
sesquioleate, sorbitan trioleate, sorbitan tristearate and sucrose
esters.
[0028] The plasticizer may further be selected from the group
consisting of methyl abietate, acetyl tributyl citrate, acetyl
triethyl citrate, diisooctyl adipate, amyl oleate, butyl
ricinoleate, benzyl benzoate, butyl and glycol esters of fatty
acids, butyl diglycol carbonate, butyl oleate, butyl stearate,
di(.beta.-methoxyethyl) adipate, dibutyl sebacate, dibutyl
tartrate, diisobutyl adipate, dihexyl adipate, triethylene glycol
di(2-ethyl butyrate), polyethylene glycol di(2-ethyl hexoate),
diethylene glycol monolaurate, monomeric polyethylene ester,
hydrogenated methyl ester of rosin, methoxyethyl oleate,
butoxyethyl stearate, butyl phthalyl butyl glycolate, glycerol
tributyrate, triethylene glycol dipelargonate,
.beta.-(p-tert.-amylphenoxy)ethanol,
.beta.(p-tert.-butylphenoxy)ethanol,
.beta.-(p-tert.-butylphenoxyethyl)acetate,
bis(.beta.-p-tert.-butylphenoxydiethyl)ether, camphor, Cumar W-1,
Cumar MH-1, Cumar V-1, diamyl phthalate, (diamylphenoxy) ethanol,
diphenyl oxide, technical hydroabietyl alcohol, beckolin, benzene
hexahydrochloride, Clorafin.RTM. 40, Piccolastic.RTM. A-5,
Piccolastic.RTM. A-25, Flexol B-400, Glycerol .alpha.-methyl
.alpha.-phenyl ether, chlorinated naphthalene, HB-40,
monoamylphthalate, Nevillac 10. Q-nitro-diphenyl and Paracril
26.
[0029] When the coating contains a filler, the filler is preferably
a conventional tablet or capsule excipient such as a diluent, a
binder, a lubricant or a disintegrant.
[0030] Diluents for use as fillers may be selected from the group
consisting of dicalcium phosphate, calcium sulfate, sugars,
including lactose and sucrose, dextrin, cellulose, cellulose
derivatives, kaolin, mannitol, dry starch, glucose, sorbitol, and
inositol.
[0031] Suitable binders are those selected from the group
consisting of acacia, sodium alginate, starch, gelatin,
saccharides, including glucose, sucrose, dextrose and lactose,
molasses, extract of Irish moss, panwar gum, ghatti gum, mucilage
of isapol husk, carboxymethylcellulose, methylcellulose, veegum,
larch arabolactan, polyethylene glycols, ethylcellulose, water,
alcohols, waxes, and polyvinylpyrrolidone.
[0032] Suitable lubricants are those selected from the group
consisting of talc, magnesium stearate, calcium stearate, stearic
acid, hydrogenated vegetable oils, sodium benzoate, sodium
chloride, leucine, carbowax 4000, magnesium lauryl sulfate, and
colloidal silicon dioxide.
[0033] Suitable disintegrants are those selected from the group
consisting of starches, clays, cellulose derivatives including
croscarmellose, gums, algins, combinations of hydrocarbonates with
weak acids, crospovidone, sodium starch glycolate, agar, cation
exchange resins, citrus pulp, veegum HV, natural sponge, and
bentonite.
[0034] Compositions according to the invention may further comprise
a water soluble antioxidant, a lipid soluble anti-oxidant and/or a
preservative in either the matrix or the coating. Suitable
antioxidants and preservatives may be selected from the group
consisting of ascorbyl palmitate, benzoic acid, benzyl
hydroxybenzoate, bronopol, butyl hydroxybenzoate, butylated
hydroxyanisole, butylated hydroxytoluene, chlorbutol, cinnamic
acid, dehydroacetic acid, diethyl pyrocarbonate, diphenyl, dodecyl
gallate, ethoxyquin, ethyl gallate, ethyl hydroxybenzoate, gallic
acid, isoascorbic acid, methyl hydroxybenzoate, monothioglycerol,
nordihydroguaiaretic acid, octyl gallate, pentachlorophenol,
phenethyl alcohol, phenoxyethanol, phenylmercuric acetate,
phenylmercuric borate, phenylmercuric nitrate, Q-phenylphenol,
potassium metabisulphite, potassium sorbate, propyl gallate, propyl
hydroxybenzoate, sodium benzoate, sodium butyl hydroxybenzoate,
sodium dehydroacetate, sodium diacetate, sodium ethyl
hydroxybenzoate, sodium formaldehyde-sulphoxylate, sodium
isoascorbate, sodium metabisulphite, sodium methyl hydroxybenzoate,
sodium Q-phenylphenol, sodium propyl hydroxybenzoate, sodium
sulphite, anhydrous sodium sulphite, sorbic acid, sulphur dioxide,
and thiodipropionic acid.
[0035] The coating may be designed so that its longitudinal erosion
rate is substantially the same as the longitudinal erosion rate of
the matrix, whereby the matrix and the coating will erode
longitudinally towards the center of the composition at
substantially the same rate. Such a coating would be suitable for a
rod-shaped composition having an opening in the coating at each
end. Thus, when the matrix has been completely eroded by the
aqueous medium, the coating will also be substantially completely
eroded. A composition having such a coating has the advantage of
being completely biodegraded upon release of the active
substance.
[0036] The coating may also be in which, in the aqueous medium in
which the composition is to be used, the coating does not
completely crumble or erode before the matrix has completely
eroded. A coating of this type would remain more or less intact as
long as it was supported by the matrix containing the active
substance, but it would lack the ability to remain intact after
erosion of the matrix, whereby it would then disintegrate or
crumble, so that it would not remain in e.g. a human or animal for
any significant amount of time after the complete erosion of the
matrix and the release of the active substance.
[0037] The active substance to be delivered by the composition
according to the invention can be a drug for human or veterinary
use, a vitamin or other nutritional supplement, a disinfectant, a
deodorant or another substance to be administered continuously in
an aqueous environment.
[0038] The composition of the invention is especially suitable for
the delivery of an active substance which is a pharmaceutically
active substance, in particular a pharmaceutically active powder.
The pharmaceutically active substance or substances included in the
composition of the invention may be selected from many therapeutic
categories, in particular from substances which may advantageously
be administered orally, rectally, vaginally or subcutaneously, or
administered to a body cavity (e.g. the urinary bladder, the gall
bladder, the uterus, a central nervous system cavity,
infectious/malignant/post-operative cavities, etc.). Examples of
such substances are antimicrobial agents, analgesics,
antiinflammatory agents, counterirritants, coagulation modifying
agents, diuretics, sympathomimetics, anorexics, antacids and other
gastrointestinal agents, antiparasitics, antidepressants,
antihypertensives, anticholinergics, stimulants, antihormones,
central and respiratory stimulants, drug antagonists,
lipid-regulating agents, uricosurics, cardiac glycosides,
electrolytes, ergot and derivatives thereof, expectorants,
hypnotics and sedatives, antidiabetic agents, dopaminergic agents,
antiemetics, muscle relaxants, para-sympathomimetics,
anticonvulsants, antihistamines, .beta.-blockers, purgatives,
antiarrhytmics, contrast materials, radiopharmaceuticals,
antiallergic agents, tranquilizers, vasodilators, antiviral agents,
and antineoplastic or cytostatic agents or other agents with
anticancer properties, or a combination thereof. Other suitable
active substances may be selected from contraceptives and vitamins
as well as micro- and macronutrients.
[0039] The composition is in addition suitable for the delivery of
polypeptides, for example hormones such as growth hormones, enzymes
such as lipases, proteases, carbohydrases, amylases, lactoferrin,
lactoperoxidases, lysozymes, nanoparticles, etc., and antibodies.
The composition may also be employed for the delivery of
microorganisms, either living, attenuated or dead, for example
bacteria, e.g. gastrointestinal bacteria such as streptococci, e.g.
S. faecium, Bacillus spp. such as B. subtilis and B. licheniformis,
lactobacteria, Aspergillus spp., bifidogenic factors, or viruses
such as indigenous vira, enterovira, bacteriophages, e.g. as
vaccines, and fungi such as baker's yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae
and fungi imperfecti. The composition may also be used for the
delivery of active agents in specialized carriers such as
liposomes, cyclodextrines, nanoparticles, micelles and fats.
[0040] One of the uses for which the composition of the invention
is well-suited is the delivery of antimicrobial agents to the
vagina. Examples of such agents are antifungals, for example
imidazole antifungals such as clotrimazole, econazol, ketoconazole
and miconazole, polyene antifungal antibiotics such as nystatin,
and antiprotozoals such as metronidazole and ornidazole.
[0041] A pharmaceutically active powder to be administered by the
composition of the invention will suitably have a particle size of
from about 0.1 .mu.m to about 500 .mu.m, typically from about 0.5
.mu.m to about 300 .mu.m, more typically from about 1 .mu.m to
about 200 .mu.m, especially from about 5 .mu.m to about 100
.mu.m.
[0042] The active substance will suitably be present in an amount
of up to about 60%, typically up to about 50%, by weight of the
composition. An active substance content of about 70% is
contemplated to be the maximum content which still allows for a
sufficient content of the crystalline polymer matrix and the
non-ionic emulsifier in the composition. The active substance may,
on the other hand, be present in the composition in much smaller
amounts, depending on the nature and strength of the active
substance in question.
[0043] Diffusion of water into the composition is substantially
limited to the surface layer of the matrix, whereby any exposed
matrix surfaces are eroded at a substantially constant and
pH-independent rate. As a result, a substantially zero order
release of the active substance is obtained, the term "zero order"
referring to the fact that the release rate of the active substance
is substantially constant with time, when the active substance is
substantially homogeneously distributed in the matrix. In the case
of the active substance being located in geometrically well-defined
zones within the matrix, the result of the constant erosion rate of
the matrix will be a strictly controlled pulsatile release of the
active ingredient.
[0044] The geometric form of the composition is important for the
obtainment of the above-mentioned controlled zero order or
pulsatile release. Thus, in a preferred version of the invention,
the composition of the invention has a geometric shape which
enables a substantially constant surface area to become exposed
during erosion of the matrix. The composition may thus e.g. have
the shape of a cylindrical rod provided with a cellulose
derivative-based coating of the type described above.
[0045] While the composition will typically be in the form of a rod
or cylinder, it may also have another shape which allows the active
substance to be released at the desired preprogrammed rate. The
term "cylindrical rod" as used in the context of the present
invention is understood to comprise not only those geometrical
forms having a substantially circular cross-section, but also other
substantially cylindrical forms, e.g. those having a somewhat
flattened cross-section, for example a substantially oval or
ellipse shaped cross-section.
[0046] It will also be understood by a person skilled in the art
that the specific finished form of the composition of the invention
may comprise certain minor modifications in order to facilitate the
use of the composition in question. For example, a cylindrical
rod-shaped composition for delivery of a pharmaceutical powder may
have rounded ends so as to avoid possible injury or discomfort when
the composition is introduced into the body.
[0047] As mentioned above, the active substance can be
substantially homogeneously dispersed in the crystalline polymer
matrix, in which case a substantially zero order release of the
active substance is obtained. Alternatively, a pulsatile release of
the active substance may be obtained in a composition of the
invention which comprises alternating layers. A pulsatile release
may thus be obtained with a composition having the above-mentioned
shape of a cylindrical rod and comprising alternating substantially
transverse layers of 1) a layer comprising the crystalline polymer
matrix, and 2) a layer comprising the active ingredient. If
desired, the active ingredient may also be dispersed in the
crystalline polymer matrix. In a composition comprising alternating
layers, the alternating layers may comprise two or more different
active substances.
[0048] These two release patterns (i.e. zero order and pulsatile)
may also be combined so that a uniform release of one active
substance (for example at a fairly low dosage level) alternates
with the release in bursts of the same or another active substance
(for example at a higher dosage level).
[0049] The composition of the invention may be produced by various
methods which are either known per se in the pharmaceutical
industry or which, for example, are used in the production of
polymer-based materials, depending upon the desired embodiment and
the materials employed in the composition in question. As mentioned
above, one advantage of the composition according to the invention
is that it may be produced by methods which are relatively simple
and inexpensive.
[0050] The composition may be produced by, for example,
co-extrusion of the coating with the matrix and the active
substance, extrusion and dip coating, injection molding and dip
coating, or by extrusion or injection molding.
[0051] For the preparation of a composition having a matrix of a
crystalline polymer and a non-ionic emulsifier, these ingredients
will typically be mixed while heating at a temperature sufficient
to melt the polymer, and while stirring, so as to obtain a
substantially homogeneous mixture. In the case of the active
substance being included in the matrix, it may either be added to
the molten mixture of the polymer and the non-ionic emulsifier or
it may be added to the mixture prior to heating. The molten mixture
is then e.g. extruded or injected, as explained below. For the
preparation of a composition for pulsatile release of the active
substance, the active substance may conveniently be included in
matrix material, the mixture of the active substance and the matrix
material being e.g. extruded or injected in layers which alternate
with layers of the matrix without the active substance.
[0052] For the production of a composition which has the shape of a
cylindrical rod, the matrix material comprising the active
substance may be injected into a pre-formed tube which forms the
coating. Alternatively, a cylindrical rod-shaped composition may be
produced by injecting alternating layers comprising at least,
respectively, the matrix material and the active substance into
said tube. A cylindrical rod-shaped composition may also be
produced by, for example, extruding the matrix material with the
active substance dispersed therein, followed by dip coating; or by
co-extrusion of a) the matrix material with the active substance
dispersed therein and b) the coating.
[0053] A cylindrical rod shaped composition may also be produced by
injection molding, including two-component or multiple-component
injection molding, of the coating and the matrix comprising the
active substance. Injection molding is especially suitable for the
coatings used according to the present invention. Typically, a
cylinder which functions as a coating is produced in a first step
around a solid core of e.g. steel, after which the matrix is
produced in a second step or, alternatively, multiple steps, by
injection of the matrix material after removal of the steel core.
This method has the advantage of being simple and well-suited for
mass production.
[0054] Production methods which involve co-extrusion are also
advantageous, as they are also simple and inexpensive methods
suitable for mass production. The rod or tube which is produced by
co-extrusion or extrusion is then cut into smaller segments of an
appropriate size. The composition may then be finished, for example
by rounding the ends of the individual cylindrical rods.
[0055] It will be clear to persons skilled in the art that the
amount of active substance and the dimensions and specific form of
the composition of the invention will of course vary according to
the nature of the active substance in question as well as the
intended use of the composition. The particular dose to be
administered to a person or animal when the composition is used for
the delivery of a pharmaceutically active powder will thus depend
on such factors as the condition and age of the patient and the
particular condition to be treated.
[0056] The present invention is further illustrated by the
following non-limiting examples.
EXAMPLE 1
[0057] A composition according to the invention was prepared from
the following ingredients:
TABLE-US-00001 % by weight Coating Ethylcellulose (Dow Chem. Co.)
50 (ethoxyl content 45-46.5%) Hydroxymethylcellulose 20
Carboxymethylcellulose 5 Cetostearyl alcohol 20 Titanium dioxide 5
Matrix Polyethylene glycol 35,000 50 Polyethylene glycol 2000 10
stearate Potato starch 39 Tartrazine 1
[0058] The coating was prepared by first mixing the ethylcellulose
with the hydroxymethylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose and
titanium dioxide, after which melted cetostearyl alcohol was added.
After mixing in a high speed dry mixer (Robot Coupe) for about 2
minutes, the mixture was dried in an oven at 100.degree. C. for
about 30 minutes. The mixture was then allowed to cool to room
temperature, after which it had a suitable consistency for being
fed into an injection moulding machine.
[0059] The matrix was prepared by first mixing the PEG 35,000, the
potato starch and the tartrazine together in a high speed dry mixer
(Robot Coupe). The PEG 2000 stearate was then melted on a heating
plate at a temperature of 100.degree. C. and added to the mixture
of the other 3 ingredients while mixing. After mixing for 2 minutes
the mixture was allowed to cool to room temperature and was ready
to be fed into an injection moulding machine.
[0060] The composition was prepared by injection moulding (Arbourg
Allrounder) using a single unit mould, resulting in a composition
containing a cylindrical inner matrix with dimensions of 4.times.12
mm and a coating with thickness of 0.5 mm.
[0061] Both the coating and matrix mixtures were easy to feed into
the injection moulding machine and performed well in the mould. An
analysis of the dissolution of the composition prepared as above in
a dissolution tester (US-Paddle) with saline as an aqueous medium
showed a zero order release of the tartrazine in the matrix over a
period of 12 hours. After 24 hours the coating was slightly
weakened and slightly eroded at the surface.
[0062] The same composition was then taken orally by volunteers and
isolated in feces after a transit time of 16-48 hours. (A total of
8 units with varying passage times were evaluated). After passage
through the gastrointestinal tract about 20-30% by weight of the
coating of the composition had been eroded from its surface, and
the coating was soft and weak. It is believed that a longer passage
time (longer retention in the gastrointestinal tract) would result
in the complete erosion/dissolution of the coating.
EXAMPLE 2
[0063] A composition according to the invention was prepared from
the following ingredients:
TABLE-US-00002 % by weight Coating Ethylcellulose (Dow Chem. Co.)
50 (ethoxyl content 45-46.5%) Hydroxymethylcellulose 17.5
Carboxymethylcellulose 7.5 Cetostearyl alcohol 20 Titanium dioxide
5 Matrix Polyethylene glycol 35,000 37 Polyethylene glycol 2000 10
stearate Potato starch 49 Tartrazine 1 Hydroxymethylcellulose 3
[0064] The coating was prepared as described above in Example
1.
[0065] The matrix was also prepared as described above in Example
1, the hydroxymethylcellulose being mixed together with the PEG
35,000, the potato starch and the tartrazine in the initial mixing
step.
[0066] A composition having the same dimensions as that of Example
1 was prepared as described in Example 1.
[0067] Also the coating and matrix mixtures of this Example were
easy to feed into the injection moulding machine and performed well
in the mould. An analysis (using the method described in Example 1)
of the dissolution of the composition showed a zero order release
of the tartrazine in the matrix over a period of 28 hours. After 36
hours the coating was slightly eroded and weak, as was the case
with the composition of Example 1. The erosion and
weakening/softening of the coating after passage through the
gastrointestinal tract of human volunteers was also of the same
extent and character as observed with the coating of Example 1.
* * * * *