U.S. patent number RE47,084 [Application Number 15/166,566] was granted by the patent office on 2018-10-16 for oral medicinal product with modified release of at least one active principle in multimicrocapsular form.
This patent grant is currently assigned to FLAMEL IRELAND LIMITED. The grantee listed for this patent is FLAMEL IRELAND LIMITED. Invention is credited to Catherine Castan, Florence Guimberteau, Remi Meyrueix, Gerard Soula.
United States Patent |
RE47,084 |
Castan , et al. |
October 16, 2018 |
Oral medicinal product with modified release of at least one active
principle in multimicrocapsular form
Abstract
The field of the invention is that of oral pharmaceutical
medicinal products or compositions, more particularly of the type
of those comprising one or more active principles. The aim of the
invention is to provide an improved oral medicinal product that can
be administered in one or more daily doses, with modified release
of active principle (in particular an active principle), for
improving the prophylactic and therapeutic efficacy of such a
medicinal product. This aim is achieved by means of the
multimicrocapsular oral pharmaceutical form according to the
invention in which the release of the AP is controlled by means of
a double mechanism of triggering the release: "time triggering" and
"pH triggering". This medicinal product comprises microcapsules
with modified release of active principle, each containing a core
comprising the active principle and one or more swelling agents,
and at least one coating making possible the modified release of
the active principle.
Inventors: |
Castan; Catherine (Soucieu en
Jarest, FR), Guimberteau; Florence (Montussan,
FR), Meyrueix; Remi (Lyons, FR), Soula;
Gerard (Meyzieu, FR) |
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
FLAMEL IRELAND LIMITED |
Dublin |
N/A |
IE |
|
|
Assignee: |
FLAMEL IRELAND LIMITED (Dublin,
IE)
|
Family
ID: |
34636531 |
Appl.
No.: |
15/166,566 |
Filed: |
May 27, 2016 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
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60605680 |
Aug 30, 2004 |
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60524991 |
Nov 25, 2003 |
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Reissue of: |
10996780 |
Nov 24, 2004 |
8734850 |
May 27, 2014 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61P
9/04 (20180101); A61P 9/10 (20180101); A61K
9/1658 (20130101); A61K 9/1635 (20130101); A61K
31/403 (20130101); A61P 9/12 (20180101); A61K
31/403 (20130101); A61K 9/2077 (20130101); A61K
9/1635 (20130101); A61K 9/1641 (20130101); A61K
9/2077 (20130101); A61K 9/1641 (20130101); A61K
9/1658 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
A61K
9/16 (20060101); A61K 31/403 (20060101); A61K
9/20 (20060101); A61K 9/22 (20060101) |
Field of
Search: |
;424/490 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Foreign Patent Documents
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1 101 490 |
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May 2001 |
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EP |
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1 101 490 |
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May 2001 |
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EP |
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96/19201 |
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Jun 1996 |
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WO |
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99/24017 |
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May 1999 |
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WO |
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99/52526 |
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Oct 1999 |
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WO |
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01/05430 |
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Jan 2001 |
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WO |
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01/35958 |
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May 2001 |
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WO |
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02/065834 |
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Aug 2002 |
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WO |
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02/092078 |
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Nov 2002 |
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WO |
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WO-03/030378 |
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Apr 2003 |
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WO |
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WO-03030378 |
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Apr 2003 |
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WO |
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03/097018 |
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Nov 2003 |
|
WO |
|
Other References
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Primary Examiner: Kugel; Timothy J.
Parent Case Text
The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 60/524,991, filed Nov. 25, 2003 and U.S.
Provisional Patent Application No. 60/605,680, filed Aug. 30, 2004.
The present application is related to U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 10/996,780, filed Nov. 24, 2004; U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 10/997,836, filed Nov. 24, 2004; and French
Patent Application No. FR 0452748, filed Nov. 24, 2004.
Claims
The invention claimed is:
1. An oral medicinal product comprising a plurality of
microcapsules with modified release of active principle(s), wherein
at least one .[.of said microcapsules.]. .Iadd.microcapsule
.Iaddend.individually comprises: a microparticle comprising at
least one active principle having a solubility of less than 20 g/L
.[.(with the exclusion of carvedilol).]. and a swelling agent; and
one coating on said microparticle making possible the modified
release of the at least one active principle, said release being
controlled by means of two distinct triggering mechanisms, wherein
a first triggering mechanism is based on a variation in pH and
wherein a second triggering mechanism is based on release of the at
least one active principle after a predetermined period of
residence in the stomach, wherein said coating confers on the
microcapsules an in vitro dissolution behavior such that: at
constant pH 1.4, the dissolution profile comprises a lag phase of
less than or equal to 7 hours, and a change from pH 1.4 to pH 7.0
results in a release phase that begins without any lag time;
wherein said swelling agent is capable of increasing the
permeability of the coating for modified release of the .Iadd.at
least one .Iaddend.active principle; wherein said swelling agent is
selected from the group consisting of crosslinked
polyvinylpyrrolidones, crosslinked carboxyalkylcelluloses,
polacrilin potassium and mixtures thereof; .Iadd.and .Iaddend.
.[.and.]. wherein the fraction by weight of the at least one active
.[.principle(s).]. .Iadd.principle .Iaddend.released during the lag
phase is less than or equal to 15% by weight per hour.
2. The medicinal product according to claim 1, wherein the swelling
agent is chosen from those that allow the microcapsules to release
in vitro at least 50% by weight of the .Iadd.at least one
.Iaddend.active principle after 16 hours at pH 1.4.
3. The medicinal product according to claim 1, wherein the swelling
agent is in the form of microparticles with a mean diameter of
between 5 and 200 .mu.m.
4. The medicinal product according to claim 1, wherein the swelling
agent is present in an amount of between 3 and 40% by weight
relative to the total mass of the microcapsules.
5. The medicinal product according to claim 1, further comprising
at least one wetting agent, contained in the microparticle,
selected from the group consisting of anionic surfactants, nonionic
surfactants, and mixtures thereof.
6. The medicinal product according to claim 1, wherein the
microcapsules are capable of releasing in vitro at least 80% by
weight of the .Iadd.at least one .Iaddend.active .[.principle(s).].
.Iadd.principle .Iaddend.after 12 hours at pH=7.0.
7. The medicinal product according to claim 1, wherein at least one
.[.of said modified-release microcapsules.]. .Iadd.microcapsule
.Iaddend.comprises a microparticle comprising a neutral core, and
at least one active layer comprising at least one active
principle.
8. The medicinal product according to claim 1, wherein .[.at least
one of.]. the coating making possible .Iadd.the .Iaddend.modified
release of the .Iadd.at least one .Iaddend.active
.[.principle(s).]. .Iadd.principle .Iaddend.comprises a composite
material comprising: at least one hydrophilic polymer A carrying
groups that are ionized at neutral pH and at least one hydrophobic
compound B; representing a mass fraction of .ltoreq.40% weight
relative to the total mass of the microcapsules; and wherein the
microcapsules have a mean diameter of less than 2000 .mu.m.
9. The medicinal product according to claim 8, wherein the weight
ratio of B/A is between 0.2 and 1.5; and the hydrophobic compound B
is selected from products that are crystalline in the solid state
and that have a melting point T.sub.mB.gtoreq.40.degree. C.
10. The medicinal product according to either of claims 8 and 9,
wherein the hydrophilic polymer A is selected from the group
consisting of copolymers of (meth)acrylic acid, copolymers of
(meth)acrylic acid alkyl ester, cellulose phthalate, cellulose
acetate phthalate, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose phthalate,
hydroxypropylmethylcellulose acetates succinate; and mixtures
thereof.
11. The medicinal product according to one of claims 8 and 9,
wherein the compound B is selected from the group consisting of
vegetable waxes, mixtures of vegetable waxes, hydrogenated
vegetable oils, mixtures of hydrogenated vegetable oils, diesters
of glycerol and fatty acid, triesters of glycerol and fatty acid,
yellow wax, lanolin, cetyl alcohol, and mixtures thereof.
12. The medicinal product according to claim 11, wherein compound B
is selected from the group consisting of: hydrogenated cottonseed
oil, hydrogenated soybean seed oil, hydrogenated palm oil, glyceryl
behenate, hydrogenated castor oil, tristearin, tripalmitin,
trimyristin, yellow wax, hard fat, fat that is useful as
suppository bases, anhydrous dairy fats, lanolin, glyceryl
palmitostearate, glyceryl stearate, lauryl macrogolglycerides,
cetyl alcohol, polyglyceryl diisostearate, and mixtures
thereof.
13. The medicinal product according to claim 8 wherein the coating
making possible the .Iadd.modified .Iaddend.release of the at least
one active .[.principle(s) of the microcapsules with modified
release of active.]. principle comprises a single coating film
comprising the composite material AB.
14. The medicinal product according to claim 1, said product
comprising a mixture of more than one population of microunits,
.[.each microunit containing at least one.]. .Iadd.the populations
of microunits comprising .Iaddend.active principle(s), .[.(with the
exclusion of carvedilol),.]. and wherein the populations differ
from one another in that they have different in vitro dissolution
profiles for at least one pH value of between 1.4 and 7.4.
15. The medicinal product according to claim 14, wherein each
population of microunits comprises a population of microcapsules
with modified release of active principle(s), and wherein at least
one population of microcapsules with modified release of active
principle(s) differs from at least one other population of
microcapsules with modified release of active principle(s) through
their respective triggering pHs.
16. The medicinal product according to claim 14, comprising at
least two populations of microunits, wherein each population of
microunits comprises a population of microcapsules with modified
release of active principle(s), and wherein at least one population
of microcapsules with modified release of active principle(s)
differs from at least one other population of microcapsules with
modified release of active principle(s) through their respective
triggering times.
17. The medicinal product according to claim 14, wherein said
product comprises: i. at least one population of microunits
containing active principle(s) that allows immediate release of the
active principle(s); ii. at least one population P1 of
microcapsules with modified release of active principle(s); and
iii. at least one population P2 of microcapsules with modified
release of active principle(s); and wherein the respective
triggering pHs of P1 and of P2 differ by at least 0.5 of a pH
unit.
18. The medicinal product according to claim 14, wherein the
respective triggering pH of each of the more than one population of
.[.microcapsules with modified release of active principle(s).].
.Iadd.microunits .Iaddend.is between 5 and 7.
19. The medicinal product according to claim 14, wherein said
product comprises: i. at least one population of microunits
containing active principle(s) and allowing immediate release of
the active principle(s); ii. at least one population P1' of
microunits containing active principle(s), wherein the P1'
population of microunits comprises microcapsules with modified
release of the active principle(s) having a triggering pH .[.is.].
equal to 5.5; and iii. at least one population P2' of microunits
containing active principle(s), wherein the P2' population of
microunits comprises microcapsules with modified release of the
active principle(s) having a triggering pH equal to 6.0 or 6.5.
20. The medicinal product according to claim 14, wherein said
product has the following in vitro release profile: less than 20%
of the active principle(s) is released after 2 hours at pH=1.4;
.Iadd.and .Iaddend.at least 50% of the active principle(s) is
released after 16 hours at pH=1.4.
21. The medicinal product according to claim 14, wherein said
product comprises at least one population of microunits containing
active principle(s) with immediate release, the behavior of which
in an in vitro dissolution test is such that at least 80% of the
active principle(s) is released in 1 hour at any pH of between 1.4
and 7.4.
22. The medicinal product according to claim 14, wherein the
microunits containing active principle(s) contain active
principle(s) in an amount that is between 5 and 80% by weight on a
dry basis relative to the total mass of the microunits.
23. The medicinal product according to claim 1, wherein the product
is provided in the form of a single daily oral dose comprising from
5,000 to 500,000 microcapsules with modified release of active
principle(s).
24. The medicinal product according to claim 1, wherein at least
one of the at least one active .[.principle(s).]. .Iadd.principle
.Iaddend.is selected from the group consisting of: antiulcer
agents, antidiabetic agents, anticoagulants, antithrombics, blood
lipid-lowering agents, .[.antiarythmics.].
.Iadd.antiarrhythmics.Iaddend., vasodilators, anti-angina agents,
antihypertensives, vasoprotective agents, fertility promoters,
inducers and inhibitors of uterine labor, contraceptives,
antibiotics, antifungal agents, antiviral agents, anticancer
agents, anti-inflammatories, analgesics, antiepileptics,
antiparkinsonian agents, neuroleptics, hypnotics, anxiolytics,
psychostimulants, antimigraine agents, antidepressants,
antitussives, antihistamines or antiallergic agents, agents for
combating congestive heart failure, angina pectoris, left
ventricular hypertrophy, cardiac .[.arythmias.].
.Iadd.arrhythmias.Iaddend., myocardial infarctions, reflex
tachycardia, ischaemic heart disease, atheromatosis, hypertension
related to diabetes mellitus, portal hypertension, dizziness,
bradycardia, arterial hypotension, hydrosodic retention, acute
kidney failure, orthostatic hypotension, cerebral congestion, and
mixtures thereof.
25. The medicinal product according to claim 1, wherein at least
one of the at least one active .[.principle(s).]. .Iadd.principle
.Iaddend.is selected from the group of products consisting of:
acetylsalicylic acid, carbamazepine, pentoxifylline, prazosine,
acyclovir, nifedipine, diltiazem, naproxen, ibuprofen,
flurbiprofen, ketoprofen, fenoprofen, indomethacin, diclofenac,
fentiazac, oestradiol valerate, metoprolol, sulpiride, captopril,
cimetidine, zidovudine, nicardipine, terfenadine, atenolol,
salbutamol, carbamazepine, ranitidine, enalapril, simvastatin,
fluoxetine, alprazolam, famotidine, ganciclovir, famciclovir,
spironolactone, 5-asa, quinidine, perindopril, morphine,
pentazocine, paracetamol, omeprazole, lansoprazole, metoclopramide,
aminosalicylic acid, nalidixic acid, amoxicillin, amoxicillin and
potassium clavulanate, ampicillin, ampicillin and sulbactam,
azithromycin, bacampicillin, carbenicillin indanyl sodium .[.(and
other carbenicillin salts).]., .Iadd.other carbenicillin salts,
.Iaddend.capreomycin, cefadroxil, cefazolin, cephalexin,
cephalothin, cephapirin, cephacelor, cefprozil, cephadrine,
cefamandole, cefonicide, ceforanide, cefuroxime, cefixime,
cefoperazone, cefotaxime, cefpodoxime, ceftaxidime, ceftibuten,
ceftizoxime, ceftriaxone, cefepime, cefinetazole, cefotetan,
cefoxitin, ciprofloxacine, clarithromycin, clindamycin,
clofazimine, cloxacillin, cotriamoxazole, cycloserine,
dicloxacillin, dirithromycin, erythromycin .[.(and erythromycin
salts such as estolate, ethylsuccinate, gluceptate, lactobionate,
stearate).]., .Iadd.erythromycin estolate, erythromycin
ethylsuccinate, erythromycin gluceptate, erythromycin lactobionate,
erythromycin stearate, .Iaddend.ethambutol-HCl .[.and.]..Iadd.,
.Iaddend.other .Iadd.ethambutol .Iaddend.salts, ethionamide,
fosfomycin, imipenem, isoniazide, levofloxacine, lomefloxacine,
loracarbef, methicillin, methenamine, metronidazole,
metoclopramide, mezlocillin, nafcillin, nitrofurantoin,
norfloxacin, novobiocin, ofloxacin, oxacillin, penicillin V,
penicillin salts, penicillin complexes, pentamidine, piperacillin,
piperacillin and tazobactam, sparfloxacin, sulphacytine,
sulphamerazine, sulphamethazine, sulphamethixole, sulphasalazine,
sulphisoxazole, sulphapyrizine, sulphadiazine, sulphmethoxazole,
sulphapyridine, ticarcillin, ticarcillin and potassium clavulanate,
trimethoprime, trimetrexate, troleanomycin, vancomycin, verapamil
and mixtures thereof.
26. A method of therapeutic treatment, wherein the treatment
comprises oral administration, according to a given dosage, of a
medicinal product of claim 1.
27. The medicinal product according to claim 14, wherein one
population of microunits consists of microunits that allow
immediate release of the active principle(s).
28. The medicinal product according to claim 5, wherein the at
least one wetting agent is selected from the group consisting of
alkali metal salts of fatty acids, alkaline-earth metal salts of
fatty acids, polyoxyethylenated oils,
polyoxyethylene-polyoxypropylene copolymers, polyoxyethylenated
esters of sorbitan, polyoxyethylenated derivatives of castor oil,
calcium stearate, magnesium stearate, aluminum stearate, zinc
stearate, sodium stearylfumarate, glyceryl behenate, and mixtures
thereof.
.Iadd.29. A composition comprising a plurality of microcapsules,
wherein at least one microcapsule individually comprises: a
microparticle comprising at least one active principle having a
solubility of less than 20 g/L and a swelling agent; and one
coating on said microparticle making possible modified release of
the at least one active principle, wherein said coating confers on
the microcapsules an in vitro dissolution behavior such that: at
constant pH 1.4, the dissolution profile comprises a lag phase of
less than or equal to 7 hours, and a change from pH 1.4 to pH 7.0
results in a release phase that begins without any lag time;
wherein said swelling agent is capable of increasing the
permeability of the coating for modified release of the at least
one active principle; wherein said swelling agent is selected from
the group consisting of crosslinked polyvinylpyrrolidones,
crosslinked carboxyalkylcelluloses, polacrilin potassium and
mixtures thereof; and wherein the fraction by weight of the at
least one active principle released during the lag phase is less
than or equal to 15% by weight per hour..Iaddend.
.Iadd.30. The composition of claim 29, wherein the composition is
an oral pharmaceutical form in the form of a tablet, powder,
sachet, liquid suspension, or capsule..Iaddend.
.Iadd.31. The composition of claim 29, wherein said swelling agent
is selected from the group consisting of crosslinked
carboxymethylcelluloses..Iaddend.
.Iadd.32. The composition of claim 31, wherein said swelling agent
is sodium croscarmellose..Iaddend.
.Iadd.33. The composition of claim 29, wherein said swelling agent
allows the microcapsules to release in vitro at least 50% by weight
of the at least one active principle after 16 hours at pH
1.4..Iaddend.
.Iadd.34. The composition of claim 29, wherein the swelling agent
is in the form of microparticles with a mean diameter of between 5
and 200 .mu.m..Iaddend.
.Iadd.35. The composition of claim 29, wherein the swelling agent
is in the form of microparticles with a mean diameter of between 10
and 50 .mu.m..Iaddend.
.Iadd.36. The composition of claim 29, wherein said swelling agent
is present in an amount of 4 to 30% by weight relative to the total
mass of the microcapsules..Iaddend.
.Iadd.37. The composition of claim 29, wherein said swelling agent
is present in an amount of 4 to 30% by weight relative to the total
mass of the microcapsules..Iaddend.
.Iadd.38. The composition of claim 29, wherein said swelling agent
is present in an amount of 5 to 25% by weight relative to the total
mass of the microcapsules..Iaddend.
.Iadd.39. The composition of claim 29, further comprising at least
one wetting agent, contained in the microparticle, said at least
one wetting agent selected from the group consisting of anionic
surfactants, nonionic surfactants, and mixtures
thereof..Iaddend.
.Iadd.40. The composition of claim 39, wherein said at least one
wetting agent is selected from the group consisting of: alkali
metal salts of fatty acids, alkaline-earth metal salts of fatty
acids, and combinations thereof..Iaddend.
.Iadd.41. The composition of claim 40, wherein said at least one
wetting agent is selected from the group consisting of: alkali
metal salts of stearic acid, alkali metal salts of oleic acid
alkaline-earth metal salts of stearic acid, alkaline-earth metal
salts of oleic acid and combinations thereof..Iaddend.
.Iadd.42. The composition of claim 40, wherein said at least one
wetting agent is selected from the group consisting of:
polyoxyethylenated oils, polyoxyethylene-polyoxypropylene
copolymers, polyoxyethylenated esters of sorbitan,
polyoxyethylenated derivatives of castor oil, stearates, calcium
stearate, magnesium stearate, aluminum stearate, zinc stearate,
stearyl fumarates, sodium stearyl fumarate, glyceryl behenate, and
combinations thereof..Iaddend.
.Iadd.43. The composition of claim 42, wherein said at least one
wetting agent is polyoxyethylenated hydrogenated castor
oil..Iaddend.
.Iadd.44. The composition of claim 29, wherein said at least one
microcapsule releases in vitro at least 80% by weight of the at
least one active principle after 12 hours at pH=7.0..Iaddend.
.Iadd.45. The composition of claim 29, wherein at least one
microcapsule comprises a microparticle comprising a neutral core,
and at least one active layer comprising at least one active
principle..Iaddend.
.Iadd.46. The composition of claim 45, wherein said neutral core
comprises sucrose, dextrose, lactose, or combinations
thereof..Iaddend.
.Iadd.47. The composition of claim 45, wherein said neutral core
comprises a cellulose microsphere..Iaddend.
.Iadd.48. The composition of claim 45, wherein said neutral core
has a mean diameter of between 1 and 800 .mu.m..Iaddend.
.Iadd.49. The composition of claim 45, wherein said neutral core
has a mean diameter of between 20 and 500 .mu.m..Iaddend.
.Iadd.50. The composition of claim 45, wherein said swelling agent
is contained in said at least one active layer..Iaddend.
.Iadd.51. The composition of claim 45, wherein said at least one
active layer comprises the at least one active principle, at least
one swelling agent, at least one binder, and at least one
surfactant..Iaddend.
.Iadd.52. The composition of claim 29, wherein said coating
represents a mass fraction of less than or equal to 30% by weight
relative to the total mass of the microcapsules..Iaddend.
.Iadd.53. The composition of claim 29, wherein said coating
comprises a composite material, wherein the composite material
comprises: at least one hydrophilic polymer A carrying groups that
are ionized at neutral pH and at least one hydrophobic compound B;
and wherein said coating represents a mass fraction of less than or
equal to 40% by weight relative to the total mass of the
microcapsules; and wherein the microcapsules have a mean diameter
of less than 2000 .mu.m..Iaddend.
.Iadd.54. The composition of claim 53, wherein the weight ratio of
B to A is between 0.2 and 1.5; and the hydrophobic compound B is
selected from products that are crystalline in the solid state and
that have a melting point T.sub.mB more than or equal to 40.degree.
C..Iaddend.
.Iadd.55. The composition of claim 53, wherein the hydrophilic
polymer A is selected from the group consisting of: copolymers of
(meth)acrylic acid, copolymers of (meth)acrylic acid alkyl ester,
cellulose phthalate, cellulose acetate phthalate,
hydroxypropylmethylcellulose phthalate,
hydroxypropylmethylcellulose acetate succinate and mixtures
thereof..Iaddend.
.Iadd.56. The composition of claim 53, wherein the compound B is
selected from the group consisting of vegetable waxes, mixtures of
vegetable waxes, hydrogenated vegetable oils, mixtures of
hydrogenated vegetable oils, diesters of glycerol and fatty acid,
triesters of glycerol and fatty acid, yellow wax, lanolin, cetyl
alcohol and mixtures thereof..Iaddend.
.Iadd.57. The composition of claim 56, wherein the compound B is
selected from the group consisting of: hydrogenated cottonseed oil,
hydrogenated soybean seed oil, hydrogenated palm oil, glyceryl
behenate, hydrogenated castor oil, tristearin, tripalmitin,
trimyristin, yellow wax, hard fat, fat that is useful as
suppository bases, anhydrous dairy fats, lanolin, glyceryl
palmitostearate, glyceryl stearate, lauryl macrogolglycerides,
cetyl alcohol, polyglyceryl diisostearate, and mixtures
thereof..Iaddend.
.Iadd.58. The composition of claim 53, wherein said coating
comprises a single coating film comprising the composite material
AB..Iaddend.
.Iadd.59. The composition of claim 29, said composition comprising
a mixture of more than one population of microcapsules, each
population of microcapsules containing at least one active
principle, and wherein the populations differ from one another in
that they have different in vitro dissolution profiles for at least
one pH value of between 1.4 and 7.4..Iaddend.
.Iadd.60. The composition of claim 59, wherein at least one
population of microcapsules differs from at least one other
population of microcapsules through their respective triggering
pHs..Iaddend.
.Iadd.61. The composition of claim 60, wherein the respective
triggering pH of each of the more than one population of
microcapsules is between 5 and 7..Iaddend.
.Iadd.62. The composition of claim 59, comprising at least two
populations of microcapsules, and wherein at least one population
of microcapsules differs from at least one other population of
microcapsules through their respective triggering
times..Iaddend.
.Iadd.63. The composition of claim 59, said composition comprising:
i. at least one immediate release active principle; ii. at least
one population P1 of microcapsules with modified release of the at
least one active principle; and iii. at least one population P2 of
microcapsules with modified release of the at least one active
principle; and wherein the respective triggering pHs of P1 and of
P2 differ by at least 0.5 of a pH unit..Iaddend.
.Iadd.64. The composition of claim 59, said composition comprising:
i. at least one immediate release active principle; ii. at least
one population of microcapsules with modified release of the at
least one active principle and having a triggering pH equal to 5.5;
and iii. at least one population of microcapsules with modified
release of the at least one active principle and having a
triggering pH equal to 6.0 or 6.5..Iaddend.
.Iadd.65. The composition of claim 59, said composition having the
following in vitro release profile: less than 20% of the at least
one active principle is released after 2 hours at pH=1.4; and at
least 50% of the at least one active principle is released after 16
hours at pH=1.4..Iaddend.
.Iadd.66. The composition of claim 59, wherein the populations of
microcapsules contain the at least one active principle in an
amount that is between 5 and 80% by weight on a dry basis relative
to the total mass of the microcapsules..Iaddend.
.Iadd.67. The composition of claim 59, wherein the populations of
microcapsules contain the at least one active principle in an
amount that is between 10 and 70% by weight on a dry basis relative
to the total mass of the microcapsules..Iaddend.
.Iadd.68. The composition of claim 59, wherein the populations of
microcapsules contain the at least one active principle in an
amount that is between 15 and 60% by weight on a dry basis relative
to the total mass of the microcapsules..Iaddend.
.Iadd.69. The composition of claim 29, said composition comprising
at least one active principle with immediate release, the behavior
of which in an in vitro dissolution test is such that at least 80%
of the at least one active principle is released in 1 hour at any
pH of between 1.4 and 7.4..Iaddend.
.Iadd.70. The composition of claim 29, wherein said composition is
provided in the form of a single daily oral dose..Iaddend.
.Iadd.71. The composition of claim 29, comprising from 5,000 to
500,000 microcapsules with modified release of the at least one
active principle..Iaddend.
.Iadd.72. The composition of claim 29, wherein at least one of the
at least one active principle is selected from the group consisting
of: antiulcer agents, antidiabetic agents, anticoagulants,
antithrombics, blood lipid-lowering agents, antiarrhythmics,
vasodilators, anti-angina agents, antihypertensives, vasoprotective
agents, fertility promoters, inducers and inhibitors of uterine
labor, contraceptives, antibiotics, antifungal agents, antiviral
agents, anticancer agents, anti-inflammatories, analgesics,
antiepileptics, antiparkinsonian agents, neuroleptics, hypnotics,
anxiolytics, psychostimulants, antimigraine agents,
antidepressants, antitussives, antihistamines or antiallergic
agents, agents for combating congestive heart failure, angina
pectoris, left ventricular hypertrophy, cardiac arythmias,
myocardial infarctions, reflex tachycardia, ischaemic heart
disease, atheromatosis, hypertension related to diabetes mellitus,
portal hypertension, dizziness, bradycardia, arterial hypotension,
hydrosodic retention, acute kidney failure, orthostatic
hypotension, cerebral congestion, and mixtures
thereof..Iaddend.
.Iadd.73. The composition of claim 29, wherein at least one of the
at least one active principle is selected from the group of
products consisting of: acetylsalicylic acid, carbamazepine,
pentoxifylline, prazosine, acyclovir, nifedipine, diltiazem,
naproxen, ibuprofen, flurbiprofen, ketoprofen, fenoprofen,
indomethacin, diclofenac, fentiazac, oestradiol valerate,
metoprolol, sulpiride, captopril, cimetidine, zidovudine,
nicardipine, terfenadine, atenolol, salbutamol, carbamazepine,
ranitidine, enalapril, simvastatin, fluoxetine, alprazolam,
famotidine, ganciclovir, famciclovir, spironolactone, 5-asa,
quinidine, perindopril, morphine, pentazocine, paracetamol,
omeprazole, lansoprazole, metoclopramide, aminosalicylic acid,
nalidixic acid, amoxicillin, amoxicillin and potassium clavulanate,
ampicillin, ampicillin and sulbactam, azithromycin, bacampicillin,
carbenicillin indanyl sodium, and other carbenicillin salts,
capreomycin, cefadroxil, cefazolin, cephalexin, cephalothin,
cephapirin, cephacelor, cefprozil, cephadrine, cefamandole,
cefonicide, ceforanide, cefuroxime, cefixime, cefoperazone,
cefotaxime, cefpodoxime, ceftaxidime, ceftibuten, ceftizoxime,
ceftriaxone, cefepime, cefinetazole, cefotetan, cefoxitin,
ciprofloxacine, clarithromycin, clindamycin, clofazimine,
cloxacillin, cotriamoxazole, cycloserine, dicloxacillin,
dirithromycin, erythromycin, erythromycin estolate, erythromycin
ethylsuccinate, erythromycin gluceptate, erythromycin lactobionate,
erythromycin stearate, ethambutol-HCl, other ethambutol salts,
ethionamide, fosfomycin, imipenem, isoniazide, levofloxacine,
lomefloxacine, loracarbef, methicillin, methenamine, metronidazole,
metoclopramide, mezlocillin, nafcillin, nitrofurantoin,
norfloxacin, novobiocin, ofloxacin, oxacillin, penicillin V,
penicillin salts, penicillin complexes, pentamidine, piperacillin,
piperacillin and tazobactam, sparfloxacin, sulphacytine,
sulphamerazine, sulphamethazine, sulphamethixole, sulphasalazine,
sulphisoxazole, sulphapyrizine, sulphadiazine, sulphmethoxazole,
sulphapyridine, ticarcillin, ticarcillin and potassium clavulanate,
trimethoprime, trimetrexate, troleanomycin, vancomycin, verapamil
and mixtures thereof..Iaddend.
.Iadd.74. A method of therapeutic treatment, wherein the treatment
comprises oral administration, according to a given dosage, of a
composition of claim 29..Iaddend.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The field of the present invention is that of microparticulate
systems with delayed and controlled release of active principle(s),
AP(s), intended for oral administration.
The APs envisaged in the present invention are in particular those
which have an absorption that is essentially limited to the upper
parts of the gastrointestinal tract, located upstream of the colon
(of the ileocaecal junction), and which represent a large majority
of pharmaceutical active principles. The active principles most
specially targeted are active principles with "low solubility".
More precisely, the invention relates to a microparticulate
pharmaceutical form with delayed and controlled release for which
the controlled release phase is triggered in a definite manner by
virtue of a double mechanism: "time-dependent" release triggered
after a certain amount of time spent in the stomach, and
"pH-dependent" release triggered by a change in pH when the
particles enter the small intestine and which begins without any
lag time. The microparticles of the present invention are
microcapsules containing at least one active principle (AP), with
the exclusion of carvedilol, of mean particle size less than 2000
microns, individually coated with a coating film allowing delayed
and controlled release of the AP.
The invention also relates to the microcapsules with modified
release of at least one active principle, taken as such.
In the present disclosure, the expression "active principle with
low solubility" denotes any active principle, with the exclusion of
carvedilol, having a solubility of less than or equal to
approximately 50 g/l, preferably less than or equal to
approximately 20 g/l, even more preferably less than or equal to
approximately 5 g/l and, for example, less than or equal to 0.1
g/l.
In the present disclosure, the term "microcapsules" denotes
microparticles of active principle that are film-coated with at
least one coating allowing modified release of at least one active
principle (in particular an active principle with low
solubility).
In the present disclosure, the term "carvedilol" denotes carvedilol
per se, one or more pharmaceutically acceptable salts of
carvedilol, or one or more pharmaceutically acceptable esters of
carvedilol or any mixture of these active agents.
In the present disclosure, the expression "modified release"
denotes, without distinction, a prolonged release of the active
principle(s), beginning as soon as the microcapsules are brought
into contact with the dissolving medium and ranging from 0.5 h to
24 h, preferably from 1 to 10 h, or a release of the active
principle(s) that begins only after a predetermined period of time
(lag time) ranging, for example, from 0.5 to several hours, with a
time for release of 50% of the active principle(s) which is
typically several hours and which can range from 0.5 to 30 hours,
for example.
In the present disclosure, the expression "immediate release"
denotes a release of the active principle(s) that begins as soon as
the pharmaceutical form is brought into contact with the dissolving
medium (in vivo or in vitro) with a time for release of 80% of the
active principle(s) which is less than or equal to 1 h and, for
example, less than or equal to 20 min.
The systems with delayed and controlled release of active
principle(s) are particularly useful when it is desirable, for
chronobiological reasons, for the active principle(s) to be
"bioabsorbed" at a precise time in the day in order to be in phase
with the circadian cycle. It may, for example, be advantageous for
the active principle(s) to be bioabsorbed very early in the morning
in order to ensure therapeutic coverage when the patient wakes up,
without however forcing him or her to wake up early. To do this,
the pharmaceutical system ingested by the patient, for example in
the evening after the meal, must allow a delayed release of the
active principle(s).
Given that another rule imposed on the specialist in galenics is to
guarantee that the medicinal product prescribed will be absorbed by
the patient, it is essential, in the case of a delayed release
form, to be entirely sure that the active principle will be
released at a given instant so as to obtain the therapeutic effect.
Now, it has to be noted that the delayed-release forms that existed
until recent times could not definitely ensure release of the AP
within a prescribed period, which can be vital for the patient in
certain pathologies, such as, for example, that of cardiovascular
diseases.
Another desired property for systems with delayed and controlled
release of active principle(s) is an improvement in the plasma
concentration profile obtained after administration. The targeted
goal is to obtain a plasma profile that is maintained above the
effective therapeutic concentration for as long as possible in
order to maximize the duration of action of the active
principle(s), and therefore its (their) therapeutic efficacy. This
goal comes up against the residence time of the active principle(s)
in the blood compartment, which is most commonly much less than a
day. To achieve this aim, it would therefore be advisable to
prolong the bioabsorption time of the active principle(s), AP(s),
through a judicious adjustment of the release of the active
principle(s) in front of its (their) bioabsorption window, in the
upper parts of the gastrointestinal tract.
Various forms with modified release of active principle(s) have
been developed, in order to attempt to solve the abovementioned
problems of chronotherapy and of maintenance of a high plasma
profile for as long as possible.
pH-dependent delayed-release forms are thus known, which are
obtained by coating the active principle(s) by means of an enteric
polymer layer, for example a layer of copolymer of methacrylic acid
and of methacrylic acid methyl ester: EUDRAGIT.RTM. L. This type of
enteric coating is known to exhibit a reduced permeability under
the acidic pH conditions of the stomach and to dissolve when the pH
goes back up to a value close to that which reigns in the small
intestine, thus releasing the active principle(s). However, the
intraindividual and interindividual variability of the gastric pH
conditions and of the gastric emptying time do not make it possible
to definitely ensure release of the active principle(s) after a
given period of time.
Systems with delayed release that is purely dependent on the time
after ingestion ("time-dependent") are, moreover, known, i.e.
systems for which the release of the active principle(s) is
initiated after a given period of time spent in the
gastrointestinal tract, which are not satisfactory either. In fact,
due to the intraindividual and interindividual variability in
gastric residence time, the release of the active principle(s) can
occur after said active principle(s) has(have) passed in front of
its(their) absorption window, which is located, for most active
principles, in the upper parts of the gastrointestinal tract. The
bioabsorption can thus be very poor or even zero.
However, it needed the advent of the multimicroparticulate
pharmaceutical system as disclosed in PCT patent application
WO-A-03/030878 to obtain very significant progress, in particular
with regard to the abovementioned problems of chronotherapy and of
maintenance of a high plasma profile for as long as possible. This
system with delayed, controlled and definite release of the active
principle(s) is characterized by a double mechanism for triggering
the release of the active principle(s): "time-dependent" release
triggered after a controlled period of time in the stomach, without
change in pH, and "pH-dependent" release triggered by a rise in pH
when the pharmaceutical form enters the intestine. These two
factors triggering the release of the active principle(s) are
placed in series and confer on the pharmaceutical system a great
safety of use. The release of the active principle(s) is thus
guaranteed after a preset lag time, even if the variation in pH has
not intervened as a trigger, i.e. even if the pharmaceutical form
has not passed from the stomach into the intestine. These
microcapsules with a diameter between 200 and 600 microns are
characterized by a coating film based on a hydrophilic polymer A of
the EUDRAGIT.RTM. L type combined with a hydrophobic compound B,
such as a vegetable wax (LUBRITAB.RTM.), with a melting temperature
of between 40 and 90.degree. C.; the B/A ratio=0.2-1.5. The in
vitro dissolving behavior of these microcapsules is such that, at
constant pH 1.4, a lag phase of between 1 and 5 hours is observed,
followed by an active principle release phase, and such that the
change from pH 1.4 to pH 6.8 results in release of the active
principle without any lag time in vitro.
The multimicroparticulate pharmaceutical system according to PCT
patent application WO-A-03/030878 also makes it possible to adjust
the lag time preceding the release of the AP in the stomach by
taking into consideration the physiological conditions of the
gastrointestinal tract in humans. This advantageous modality is
thus a means of minimizing the interindividual variability of the
absorption of the AP. In fact, according to the well known results
of Davis et al., J. of Controlled Release, 2, 27-38 (1985), the
residence time of a preparation in the stomach is very variable, of
the order of 0.5 to 10 hours. Now, precisely, the abovementioned
system makes it possible to release the active principle in the
stomach after a given lag time, which is constant and within this
0.5-10 hour range, in such a way that, from one individual to
another, or even from one day to another for the same individual,
the action time for the medicinal product is the same.
In fact, the microparticulate oral pharmaceutical form with delayed
and controlled release of AP, according to WO-A-03/03878, has
simultaneously the following properties: the release of the AP can
be initiated in two ways: by time-dependent release when the amount
of time spent by the particles in the stomach exceeds a period of 5
hours; by pH-dependent release, which begins without any lag time
when the system passes into the intestine and when the pH
increases. These two factors triggering the release of AP placed in
series guarantee release of the AP after a preset lag time, even if
the variation in pH has not intervened as a trigger; it consists of
a plurality of small microcapsules of coated AP; the mass fraction
of coating excipients is limited.
It should be noted that the problem of maintaining a high plasma
profile for as long as possible can be solved, in accordance with
the invention according to WO-A-03/03878, by using a mixture of
microcapsules with different profiles of delayed and controlled
release. This makes it possible to produce release profiles
exhibiting several waves of release or providing, by means of
appropriate regulation of the various fractions, a constant level
of concentration of the active principle(s) in the plasma.
TECHNICAL PROBLEM
It nevertheless remains that this microparticulate oral
pharmaceutical form with delayed and controlled release of active
principle(s), according to WO-A-03/03878, can be further
improved.
In fact, it is known that, in order to be released, a
microencapsulated active principle must first of all be reached by
the fluids of the gastrointestinal tract, which must, in order to
do this, cross the coating film of the microcapsules. The
microencapsulated active principle can then dissolve in these
fluids. The solution of active principle thus obtained can then
diffuse out through the coating film(s) of the microcapsules. Thus,
in order to obtain a lag time of between 0.5 and 7 h, for example
of 2-3 h, it is important for the coating film of the microcapsules
to have a sufficient thickness (in .mu.m) and/or to represent a
sufficient degree of coating DC (as % by weight) in order for the
time of entry of a liquid such as water or a gastrointestinal tract
fluid into the microcapsule allows delayed release of the active
principle. This floor value may, for example, correspond to a DC of
10-40%, for example.
However, when the thickness of the film-coating is sufficient to
result in a lag time, it has been possible to observe that, in the
case of active principles with low solubility, the "time-dependent"
release, just like the "pH-dependent" release, of the active
principle are still as effective, but become slower, which can harm
the bioavailability. For example, at least 80% by weight of the
active principle is not released after, for example, 16 h at
pH=7.0, in an in vitro dissolution test carried out according to
the indications of the European Pharmacopoeia, 4th edition,
entitled: "Dissolution test for solid oral forms": type II
dissolutest carried out under SINK conditions, maintained at
37.degree. C. and agitated at 100 rpm.
There exists therefore, at this time, a need for a
multimicrocapsular oral medicinal product or pharmaceutical
composition, with modified release of active principle(s), which is
of the type of those disclosed in WO-A-03/030878 and which improves
them, by making it possible in particular to obtain, for active
principles with low solubility, release of the active principle
according to a double mechanism of "time-dependent" and
"pH-dependent" triggering, with faster release times which make it
possible to optimize the bioabsorption of the active principle(s),
whatever the mechanism for triggering this release.
OBJECTIVES
One of the essential objectives of the invention is to provide an
oral medicinal product that is improved with respect to that
described in WO-A-03/03878, precisely a multimicrocapsular oral
medicinal product with modified release of active principle(s), in
particular of active principle(s) with low solubility or
solubilities, which guarantees correct functioning of the double
mechanism of "time-dependent" and "pH-dependent" triggering of the
release of the active principle, in particular for active
principles with low solubilities.
Another essential objective of the invention is to provide a
multimicrocapsular oral medicinal product with modified release of
active principle(s), which makes it possible to judiciously adjust
the release kinetics of the active principle all along its window
of absorption in the gastrointestinal tract in order for the plasma
concentration profile to be maintained above the effective
therapeutic concentration for as long as possible, and in
particular for a period of time greater than that of the
immediate-release form.
Another essential objective of the invention is to provide a
multimicrocapsular oral medicinal product with modified release of
active principle(s), which proposes a solution suitable for the
problem of chronotherapy and for the difficulties of adherence
pertaining thereto.
Another essential objective of the invention is to provide a
multimicrocapsular oral medicinal product with modified release of
active principle(s), which makes it possible to readily combine at
least two active principles in the same pharmaceutical form.
Another essential objective of the invention is to provide a
multimicrocapsular oral medicinal product with modified release of
active principle(s), which, unlike the compact monolithic forms,
provides a decreased interindividual variability.
Another essential objective of the invention is to provide a
multimicrocapsular oral medicinal product with modified release of
active principle(s), which allows an increase in the
gastrointestinal transit time and absorption of the active
principle in the upper parts of the gastrointestinal tract.
Another essential objective of the invention is to provide a
multimicrocapsular oral medicinal product with modified release of
active principle(s), this medicinal product being able to exist in
a presentation form that can be administered once a day, which
would represent significant progress, in particular in terms of the
patient adhering to the treatment.
Another essential objective of the invention is to provide a
multimicrocapsular oral medicinal product with modified release of
active principle(s), which may be produced according to a sound
industrial process.
Another essential objective of the invention is to provide a
multimicrocapsular oral medicinal product with modified release of
active principle(s), which is easy to prepare, for example by
depositing a coating by spraying onto microparticles containing
active principle with low solubility.
Another essential objective of the invention is to provide a
multimicrocapsular oral medicinal product with modified release of
active principle(s), capable of exhibiting high contents of active
principle(s), for example up to 60% by weight of the
microcapsules.
Another essential objective of the invention is to provide an oral
medicinal product with modified release of active principle(s),
containing a plurality of microcapsules and having a
dose-independent active principle release profile, in vitro.
Another essential objective of the invention is to provide a
multimicrocapsular oral medicinal product with modified release of
active principle(s), in which the microcapsules are nonenteric,
i.e. they do not release the active principle only when the pH
changes from 1.4 to 7.0 (gastric pH=>intestinal pH).
Another essential objective of the invention is to provide a
multimicrocapsular oral medicinal product with modified release of
active principle(s), which makes it possible to obtain a plasma
concentration (C24h) of active principle(s) 24 h after
administration per os that is as high as possible.
Another essential objective of the invention is to provide
microcapsules with modified release of active principles that can
be used in particular for preparing a medicinal product as defined
by the specifications stated in the above objectives.
BRIEF DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION
These objectives, among others, are achieved by means of the
invention which relates, firstly, to an oral medicinal product
comprising a plurality of microcapsules with modified release of
active principle(s), at least some of said microcapsules
individually consisting of a microparticle comprising at least one
active principle--in particular at least one active principle with
low solubility--(with the exclusion of carvedilol) coated with at
least one coating for modified release of the active principle(s),
said release being controlled by means of two distinct triggering
mechanisms, one being based on a variation in pH and the other
allowing the release of the active principle(s) after a
predetermined period of residence in the stomach, said coating also
conferring on the microcapsules an in vitro dissolution behavior
such that: at constant pH 1.4, the dissolution profile comprises a
lag phase of less than or equal to 7 hours, preferably less than or
equal to 5 hours, and even more preferably of between 1 and 5
hours; the change from pH 1.4 to pH 7.0 results in a release phase
that begins without any lag time; this medicinal product being
characterized in that at least some of said microcapsules comprise
at least one swelling agent, and in that the fraction by weight of
the active principle(s) released during the lag phase is less than
or equal to 15% by weight per hour, preferably less than or equal
to 10% by weight per hour, and even more preferably less than or
equal to 5% by weight per hour.
The in vitro dissolution behavior is determined according to the
indications of the European Pharmacopoeia, 4th edition, entitled:
"Dissolution test for solid oral forms": type II dissolutest
performed under SINK conditions, maintained at 37.degree. C. and
agitated at 100 rpm.
The medicinal product according to the invention overcomes the
abovementioned technical problem, namely the release of active
principle(s), AP(s), with low solubility according to a double
mechanism of "time-dependent" and "pH-dependent" triggering, by
accelerating the release of the active principle, in particular
compared to the release times obtained by means of the invention
according to WO-A-03/03878. In doing this, the medicinal product
according to the invention ultimately improves the prophylactic and
therapeutic efficacy of such active principles with low
solubility.
However, the medicinal product according to the invention is also
interesting in that it provides in particular the following
advantages: the possibility of simple combined use of at least two
active principle(s); decreased interindividual variability; an
increase in the gastrointestinal transit time and absorption of the
active principle in the upper parts of the gastrointestinal tract;
proportionality between the dose and the pharmacokinetic profile;
ease of ingestion by the patient and the possibility of
administration, for example, once a day, which is an indication of
the treatment being adhered to by the patient and therefore of the
effectiveness being guaranteed; reproducibility of the kinetics of
release, from one industrial batch to another; therefore possible
industrial development, without this harming the therapeutic
performance of the active principle(s) encapsulated (for example
active principles with low solubility); easy and economical
preparation, for example by depositing a coating by spraying onto
microparticles containing active principle with low solubility;
possibility of having high concentrations of active principle(s),
for example up to 60% by weight of the microcapsules; plurality of
microcapsules and having a dose-independent active principle
release profile, in vitro; nonenteric microcapsules, i.e. that do
not release the active principle only when the pH changes from 1.4
to 7.0 (gastric pH=>intestinal pH); plasma concentration of
active principle(s) 24 h after administration per os close to or
greater than that which would be obtained with an immediate-release
form taken in several doses.
DETAILED DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with the invention, the swelling agent comprises at
least one hydrophilic pharmaceutically acceptable compound
exhibiting a degree of swelling in water at 25.degree. C. of
greater than or equal to 10% by weight, preferably greater than or
equal to 15% by weight, and even more preferably greater than or
equal to 20%.
According to a notable characteristic of the invention, the
swelling agent is chosen from those that allow the microcapsules to
release at least 50% by weight of the active principle after 16 h
at pH=1.4 and after a lag phase of less than or equal to 7 hours,
preferably less than or equal to 5 hours, and even more preferably
of between 1 and 5 hours, in an in vitro dissolution test carried
out according to the indications of the European Pharmacopoeia, 4th
edition, entitled: "Dissolution Test for Solid Oral Forms": type II
dissolutest performed under SINK conditions, maintained at
37.degree. C. and agitated at 100 rpm.
In accordance with the invention, it is possible to adjust the rate
of release at pH=1.4 of the active principle(s) out of the
microcapsules by judiciously choosing the concentration (Cd) of
swelling agent.
When the swelling agent is in microparticulate form, the size (Sd)
of the particles of swelling agent is advantageously chosen within
the ranges of mean diameter in .mu.m of between 5 and 200 .mu.m,
and preferably between 10 and 50 .mu.m.
The concentration (Cd) of swelling agent is chosen within the
following ranges of % by weight relative to the total mass of the
microcapsules:
3.ltoreq.Cd.ltoreq.40,
preferably 4.ltoreq.Cd.ltoreq.30,
and even more preferably 5.ltoreq.Cd.ltoreq.25.
According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the swelling
agent is chosen from the group of products below: crosslinked
polyvinylpyrrolidones (e.g. polyplasdone or crospovidone),
crosslinked carboxyalkylcelluloses: crosslinked
carboxymethylcelluloses (e.g. crosslinked sodium croscarmellose),
and also high molar mass hydrophilic polymers (greater than or
equal to 100 000 D), such as: polyvinylpyrrolidones, polyalkylene
oxides (e.g. polyethylene oxide or polypropylene oxide),
(hydroxy)(alkyl)celluloses (e.g. hydroxypropylcellulose,
hydroxypropylmethylcellulose), carboxyalkylcelluloses (e.g.
carboxymethylcellulose), celluloses (powder or microcrystalline),
modified starches (for example modified with sodium glycolate),
natural starches (for example cornstarch, wheat starch or potato
starch), sodium alginate, polacrilin potassium, and mixtures
thereof.
Even more preferably, the swelling agent is chosen from the
subgroup of products below: crosslinked polyvinylpyrrolidones (e.g.
polyplasdone or crospovidone), and crosslinked
carboxyalkylcelluloses: crosslinked carboxymethylcelluloses (e.g.
crosslinked sodium croscarmellose).
In order to overcome the eventuality where active principles (for
example with low solubility) are poorly wetted by water and
therefore have a tendency to agglomerate, it is proposed, according
to an advantageous variant of the invention, to operate such that
the medicinal product comprises at least one wetting agent,
preferably chosen from the group of products below: anionic
surfactants, preferably from the subgroup of alkali metal or
alkaline-earth metal salts of fatty acids, stearic acid and/or
oleic acid being preferred, and/or nonionic surfactants, preferably
from the subgroup below: polyoxyethylenated oils, preferably
polyoxyethylenated hydrogenated castor oil,
polyoxyethylene-polyoxypropylene copolymers, polyoxyethylenated
esters of sorbitan, polyoxyethylenated derivatives of castor oil,
stearates, preferably calcium stearate, magnesium stearate,
aluminum stearate or zinc stearate, stearylfumarates, preferably
sodium stearylfumarate, glyceryl behenate, and mixtures
thereof.
Advantageously, the medicinal product according to the invention
comprises microcapsules of active principle(s) capable of releasing
at least 80% by weight of the active principle(s), after 12 h at
pH=7.0, in an in vitro dissolution test carried out according to
the indications of the European Pharmacopoeia, 4th edition,
entitled: "Dissolution Test for Solid Oral Forms": type II
dissolutest performed under SINK conditions, maintained at
37.degree. C. and agitated at 100 rpm.
The medicinal product according to the invention is
multimicrocapsular, i.e. it comprises, inter alia, microcapsules
consisting of microparticles of coated or film-coated active
principle. These microparticles of active principle may, for
example, be microparticles of the (pure) crude active principle in
pulverulent form, matrix granules of active principle with various
other ingredients, or alternatively neutral microspheres, for
example made of cellulose or of sugar, coated with at least one
layer comprising active principle.
The microcapsules of active principle with modified release are
comparable to microunits containing at least one active principle
and forming at least some of the elements constituting the
medicinal product according to the invention.
Each microcapsule can comprise one or more active principles that
are identical to or different from one another.
The medicinal product according to the invention can comprise
microunits of active principle other than microcapsules. These may
be, for example, microparticles with immediate release of active
principle(s). The latter may be, for example, noncoated
microparticles of active principle(s) that are of the same type as
those used in the preparation of the microcapsules according to the
invention.
Each microparticle may comprise one or more active principles that
are identical to or different from one another.
In addition, all the microunits (microparticles and/or
microcapsules) constituting the medicinal product according to the
invention may be made up of various populations of microunits,
these populations differing from one another at least through the
nature of the active principle(s) contained in these microunits
and/or through the composition of the coating.
As regards the structure of the microcapsules used in the medicinal
product according to the invention, two preferred embodiments of
the structure of the microcapsules are given in detail hereinafter,
without any implied limitation.
According to a first embodiment, at least some of the microcapsules
with modified release of active principle(s) each comprise: a
microparticle of active principle(s) coated with at least one
coating for modified release of the active principle(s).
Preferably, the microparticle of active principle(s) is a granule
comprising the active principle(s) and one or more pharmaceutically
acceptable excipients.
Advantageously, the swelling agent(s) is (are) contained in the
microparticles (e.g. granule).
As regards the wetting agent(s), it (they) is (are) preferably
contained in the microparticle (e.g. granule) and/or in the coating
for modified release of the active principle(s).
According to a second embodiment, at least some of the
microcapsules with modified release of active principle(s) each
comprise: a neutral core, at least one active layer comprising the
active principle(s) and coating the neutral core, and at least one
coating for modified release of the active principle(s).
According to a first possibility, the neutral core contains sucrose
and/or dextrose and/or lactose.
According to a second possibility, the neutral core is a cellulose
microsphere.
Advantageously, the neutral core has a mean diameter of between 1
and 800 .mu.m, and preferably of between 20 and 500 .mu.m.
The active layer may optionally comprise, besides the active
principle(s), one or more pharmaceutically acceptable
excipients.
Advantageously, the swelling agent(s) is (are) contained in the
active layer.
For example, this active layer comprises the active principle, at
least one swelling agent, at least one binder and at least one
surfactant.
As regards the wetting agent(s), it (they) is (are) preferably
contained in the active layer.
With regard, now, to the composition of the coating of the
microcapsules with modified release of active principle(s), the
present invention also consisted in selecting microcapsules having
the following specificities: the coating making possible modified
release of the active principle(s) comprises a composite material
comprising: at least one hydrophilic polymer A carrying groups that
are ionized at neutral pH, at least one hydrophobic compound B;
representing a mass fraction (% weight relative to the total mass
of the microcapsules).ltoreq.40; and their mean diameter is less
than 2000 .mu.m, and preferably between 50 and 800 .mu.m, and even
more preferably between 100 and 600 .mu.m.
According to another advantageous characteristic, the composite
material AB for the coating making possible modified release of the
active principle with low solubility is such that: the B/A weight
ratio is between 0.2 and 1.5, preferably between 0.5 and 1.0, and
the hydrophobic compound B is selected from products that are
crystalline in the solid state and that have a melting point
T.sub.mB.gtoreq.40.degree. C., preferably
T.sub.mB.gtoreq.50.degree. C., and even more preferably 40.degree.
C..ltoreq.T.sub.mB.ltoreq.90.degree. C.
According to an embodiment of predilection, the hydrophilic polymer
A is chosen from: A.a copolymers of (meth)acrylic acid and of
(meth)acrylic acid alkyl ester, and mixtures thereof; A.b cellulose
derivatives, preferably cellulose acetates, cellulose phthalates,
cellulose succinates and mixtures thereof, and even more preferably
hydroxypropylmethylcellulose phthalates,
hydroxypropylmethylcellulose acetates, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose
succinates and mixtures thereof; and mixtures thereof.
The polymers A that are even more preferred are copolymers of
(meth)acrylic acid and of (meth)acrylic acid alkyl (e.g.
C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkyl) esters. These copolymers are, for example,
of the type of those sold by the company Rohm Pharma Polymers under
the registered trade marks EUDRAGIT.RTM., series L and S (such as,
for example, EUDRAGIT.RTM. L100, S100, L30 D-55 and L100-55). These
copolymers are anionic enteric copolymers that are soluble in
aqueous medium at pHs above those encountered in the stomach.
Still according to the embodiment of predilection, the compound B
is chosen from the group of products below: B.a vegetable waxes
taken on their own or as mixtures with one another; B.b
hydrogenated vegetable oils taken on their own or as mixtures with
one another; B.c mono- and/or di- and/or triesters of glycerol and
of at least one fatty acid; B.d mixtures of monoesters, of diesters
and of triesters of glycerol and of at least one fatty acid; B.e
and mixtures thereof.
Even more preferably, the compound B is chosen from the group of
following products: hydrogenated cottonseed oil, hydrogenated
soybean seed oil, hydrogenated palm oil, glyceryl behenate,
hydrogenated castor oil, tristearin, tripalmitin, trimyristin,
yellow wax, hard fat or fat that is useful as suppository bases,
anhydrous dairy fats, lanolin, glyceryl palmitostearate, glyceryl
stearate, lauryl macrogolglycerides, cetyl alcohol, polyglyceryl
diisostearate, diethylene glycol monostearate, ethylene glycol
monostearate, omega 3 and any mixture thereof, preferably from the
subgroup of following products: hydrogenated cottonseed oil,
hydrogenated soybean seed oil, hydrogenated palm oil, glyceryl
behenate, hydrogenated castor oil, tristearin, tripalmitin,
trimyristin and any mixture thereof.
In practice, and without this being limiting, it is preferable for
the compound B to be chosen: from the group of products sold under
the following trade marks: Dynasan.RTM., Cutina.RTM.,
Hydrobase.RTM., Dub.RTM., Castorwax.RTM., Croduret.RTM.,
Compritol.RTM., Sterotex.RTM., Lubritab.RTM., Apifil.RTM.,
Akofine.RTM., Softtisan.RTM., Hydrocote.RTM., Livopol.RTM., Super
Hartolan.RTM., MGLA.RTM., Corona.RTM., Protalan.RTM., Akosoft.RTM.,
Akosol.RTM., Cremao.RTM., Massupol.RTM., Novata.RTM.,
Suppocire.RTM., Wecobee.RTM., Witepsol.RTM., Lanolin.RTM.,
Incromega.RTM., Estaram.RTM., Suppoweiss.RTM., Gelucire.RTM.,
Precirol.RTM., Emulcire.RTM., Plurol diisostearique.RTM.,
Geleol.RTM., Hydrin.RTM. and Monthyle.RTM., and mixtures thereof;
and also from the group of additives for which the codes are as
follows: E 901, E 907, E 903 and mixtures thereof; and, preferably,
from the group of products sold under the following trade marks:
Dynasan.RTM. P60, Dynasan.RTM. 114, Dynasan.RTM. 116, Dynasan.RTM.
118, Cutina.RTM. HR, Hydrobase.RTM. 66-68, Dub.RTM. HPH,
Compritol.RTM. 888, Sterotex.RTM. NF, Sterotex.RTM. K,
Lubritab.RTM. and mixtures thereof.
According to another advantageous characteristic of the invention,
the coating for modified release of the active principle with low
solubility is free of talc.
According to another notable characteristic resulting from the
preparation of the microcapsules, the active principle is deposited
onto the core by means of techniques known to those skilled in the
art, for example the technique of "spray coating" in a fluidized
air bed, wet granulation, compacting, extrusion-spheronization,
etc.
Advantageously, the coating of the microcapsules may comprise,
besides the essential constituents A and B, other conventional
ingredients known to those skilled in the art, such as in
particular: colorants, plasticizers, for instance dibutyl sebacate,
hydrophilic compounds, for instance cellulose and its derivatives
or polyvinylpyrrolidone and its derivatives, and mixtures
thereof.
Without it being limiting and according to an even more preferred
embodiment, the coating of the microcapsules with modified release
of active principle comprises a single composite AB coating
film.
In quantitative terms, the coating monolayer can represent, for
example, at most 40%, preferably at most 30%, by weight of the
microcapsules. Such a limited amount of coating makes it possible
to produce pharmaceutical units each containing a high dose of
active principle, without exceeding a size that is totally
unacceptable with regard to swallowing. This can only improve
adherence to and therefore the success of the treatment.
The mechanism of triggering the release of the active principle
with low solubility without variation in pH, after a predetermined
period of residence in the stomach, results in particular from the
control of the rate of hydration of the microcapsules and/or of the
dissolution of one or more components of the microcapsules. For
example, and without wishing to be limiting, the hydration of the
microcapsule can be controlled: by the presence, in the
microcapsules, of hydrophilic products which make it possible to
adjust the osmotic pressure or to cause swelling of the
microcapsules; or by regulation of the water-permeability of the
coating film; or by creation of a microporosity in the coating
film; or even by hydration or dissolution of a compound of the
coating film.
One of the determining advantages of the multimicrocapsular
pharmaceutical system with delayed and controlled release of active
principle(s)--for example of principle(s) with low
solubility--according to the invention, is to involve, in vivo, two
factors triggering the release of the active principle(s)--for
example of the principle(s) with low solubility--in the
gastrointestinal tract, namely: the amount of time spent in the
stomach: "time-triggered" release, the variation in pH:
"pH-triggered" release.
These two factors triggering the release of the active
principle(s)--for example of principle(s) with low solubility--are
in series, such that they confer on the pharmaceutical system a
great safety of use. Release of the active principle(s)--for
example of the principle(s) with low solubility--is thus guaranteed
after a preset lag time, even if the variation in pH has not
intervened as a trigger. The problems of interindividual
variability are thus overcome. The therapeutic efficacy of the
medicinal product comprising such a pharmaceutical system is
ensured, observing a predetermined chronobiology that is suitable
for the targeted therapeutic performance level.
In addition, for any active principle (e.g. with low solubility)
for which the window of absorption is limited to the upper parts of
the gastrointestinal tract, it is particularly advantageous for the
form with delayed and then with prolonged and controlled release to
be made up of a plurality of microcapsules. In fact, for such a
pharmaceutical form, the dose of active principle (e.g. with low
solubility) to be administered is divided up between a large number
of microcapsules (typically 5,000-50,000) and, as a result,
exhibits the following intrinsic advantages: The amount of time
spent by the microcapsules in the upper parts of the
gastrointestinal tract can be prolonged, which ensures an increase
in the amount of time spent by the active principle with low
solubility in passing in front of the windows of absorption, and
thus maximizes the bioavailability of the active principle with low
solubility. The use of a mixture of microcapsules having different
delayed and controlled release profiles makes it possible to
produce release profiles exhibiting several waves of release or
providing, by means of suitable regulation of the various
fractions, a constant level of concentration in the plasma of the
active principle with low solubility. The variability in gastric
emptying is less, since the emptying which here takes place over a
large number of particles is statistically more reproducible. A
situation where the tissues come into contact with a high dose of
active principle with low solubility, "dose dumping", is prevented.
Each microcapsule in fact contains only a very low dose of active
principle with low solubility. The risk of deterioration of the
tissues due to a local overconcentration of aggressive active
principle with low solubility is thus avoided. It is possible to
provide these microcapsules in the form of a sachet, a gelatin
capsule or a tablet. When the dose of active principle with low
solubility is high (500 mg or more), the monolithic forms are too
large to be easily swallowed. It is then particularly advantageous
to have a microparticulate form which provides delayed and
controlled release of the active principle (in particular with low
solubility) and that those skilled in the art can formulate as
tablets that can disintegrate or as sachets.
The multimicrocapsular pharmaceutical system according to the
invention makes it possible to safely provide a delayed and
controlled release of the active principle with low solubility in
the gastrointestinal tract, by virtue of two triggers, and to thus
avoid the interindividual and intraindividual variability of the
gastric emptying conditions, while at the same time being
economically viable and easy to ingest (optimized adherence to the
treatment).
Another subject of the invention concerns an oral medicinal product
comprising a plurality of microcapsules with modified release of
active principle(s), at least some of said microcapsules
individually consisting of a microparticle comprising at least one
active principle--in particular at least one active principle with
low solubility--(with the exclusion of carvedilol), coated with at
least one coating for modified release of the active principle(s),
said release being controlled by means of two distinct triggering
mechanisms, one based on a variation in pH and the other allowing
release of the active principle(s) after a predetermined residence
time in the stomach, said coating: also conferring on the
microcapsules an in vitro dissolution behavior (determined
according to the indications of the European Pharmacopoeia, 4th
edition, entitled: "Dissolution Test for Solid Oral Forms": type II
dissolutest performed under SINK conditions, maintained at
37.degree. C. and agitated at 100 rpm) such that: at constant pH
1.4, the dissolution profile comprises a lag phase of less than or
equal to 7 hours, preferably less than or equal to 5 hours, and
even more preferably of between 1 and 5 hours; at least 50% by
weight of the active principle(s) is released after 16 h at pH 1.4;
the change from pH 1.4 to pH 7.0 results in a release phase that
begins without any lag time; and comprising a composite material
comprising at least one hydrophilic polymer A carrying groups that
are ionized at neutral pH and at least one hydrophobic compound B;
this medicinal product being characterized in that at least some of
said microcapsules comprise at least one release helper capable of
increasing the permeability of the coating for modified release of
the active principle(s), and in that the fraction by weight of the
active principle(s) released during the lag phase is less than or
equal to 15% by weight per hour, preferably less than or equal to
10% by weight per hour, and even more preferably less than or equal
to 5% by weight per hour.
It in fact appeared to be useful in accordance with the invention
to provide for, in the microcapsules, one or more helpers capable
of increasing the permeability of the coating so as to reduce the
release time, in particular for active principles with low
solubility.
Advantageously, the release helper consists of at least one
swelling agent, as defined above.
The medicinal product according to this other subject of the
invention is also notable in that the coating of the microcapsules
included in this medicinal product confers on said microcapsules an
in vitro dissolution behavior (determined according to the
indications of the European Pharmacopoeia, 4th edition, entitled:
"Dissolution Test for Solid Oral Forms": type II dissolutest
performed under SINK conditions, maintained at 37.degree. C. and
agitated at 100 rpm), such that at least 50% by weight of the
active principle(s) is released after 16 h at pH 1.4.
The fact that the medicinal product according to the invention
consists of a plurality of microunits makes it possible to obtain
another essential characteristic of the invention, according to
which the medicinal product comprises a mixture of various
populations of microunits containing active principle(s) (with the
exclusion of carvedilol), these populations differing from one
another through their respective in vitro dissolution profiles, for
at least one pH value of between 1.4 and 7.4.
This essential characteristic makes it possible to obtain an
increase in the bioabsorption time for the active principle(s) and
therefore in the time during which the plasma concentration is
greater than the minimum effective concentration of this active
principle.
In fact, the mixture of various populations of microunits (e.g.
microcapsules with modified release of active principle and,
optionally, microparticles with immediate release of active
principle) results in a preferential release of the active
principle(s) at different sites in the gastrointestinal tract, over
the entire extent of the window of bioabsorption of the active
principle(s) in the gastrointestinal tract.
According to an advantageous embodiment of this characteristic of
mixture of various populations of microunits, the medicinal product
according to the invention is characterized in that the microunits
are microcapsules with modified release of active principle(s) and,
optionally, microunits with immediate release of active
principle(s).
Advantageously, the populations of microcapsules with modified
release of active principle(s) differ through their respective
triggering pHs.
The populations of microcapsules with modified release of active
principle(s) can not only differ through their respective
triggering pHs, but also through their respective triggering times,
or even through their respective triggering pHs and times.
According to a preferred embodiment of this property of mixing
populations, the medicinal product comprises: i. at least one
population of microunits containing active principle with immediate
release; ii. at least one population P1 of microcapsules with
modified release of active principle(s); and iii. at least one
population P2 of microcapsules with modified release of active
principle(s); and, moreover, the respective triggering pHs of P1
and of P2 differ by at least 0.5 of a pH unit, preferably by at
least 0.8 of a pH unit, and even more preferably by at least 0.9 of
a pH unit.
According to a preferred arrangement relating to the triggering pHs
that differentiate the various populations of microcapsules with
modified release of active principle(s), said respective triggering
of pHs are between 5 and 7.
According to another variant of the preferred embodiment of this
property of mixing populations, the medicinal product comprises: i.
at least one population of microunits containing active
principle(s) with immediate release; ii. at least one population
P1' of microunits containing active principle(s), made up of
microcapsules with modified release of the active principle(s), for
which the triggering pH is equal to 5.5; and iii. at least one
population P2' of microunits containing active principle(s), made
up of microcapsules with modified release of the active
principle(s), for which the triggering pH is equal to 6.0 or
6.5.
The release profile (measured in an in vitro release test as
defined above) for the microcapsules with modified release used in
the abovementioned mixtures of various populations of microunits
(for example P1 & P2 or P1' & P2') may be, for example, as
indicated below: less than 20% of the active principle(s) is
released after 2 hours at pH=1.4; at least 50% of the active
principle(s) is released after 16 hours at pH=1.4.
When the medicinal product according to the invention comprises at
least one population of microunits containing active principle(s)
with immediate release, this population can advantageously be
defined by means of its behavior in an in vitro dissolution test,
said behavior being such that at least 80% of the active
principle(s) is released in 1 hour at a pH of between 1.4 and
7.4.
According to an advantageous property of the invention, the
proportion of active principle(s) with low solubility in the
microunits containing active principle(s) (expressed as % by weight
on a dry basis relative to the total mass of the microunits) is
between 5 and 80, preferably between 10 and 70, and even more
preferably between 15 and 60.
Preferably, the microunits containing active principle(s) with
immediate release are noncoated microparticles.
Without wishing to be limiting, it should nevertheless be
underlined that the medicinal product according to the invention is
particularly interesting in that it can be provided in the form of
a single daily oral dose comprising from 5,000 to 50,000 microunits
containing active principle(s), or from 5,000 to 50,000
microcapsules with modified release of active principle(s).
This plurality of microcapsules illustrated by the numerical
examples mentioned above constitutes a pharmaceutical form that is
perfectly well tolerated by the mammalian organism.
These microcapsules are all the more interesting since the
production thereof is carried out simply and economically according
to techniques well known to those skilled in the art, for example
the technique of spray coating in a fluidized air bed, wet
granulation, compacting, extrusion-spheronization, etc.
For further details regarding the preparation of these
microcapsules, in particular in their embodiment with a neutral
core coated with at least one active layer comprising active
principle(s) and with at least one outer coating making possible
modified release of the active principle(s), reference will be made
to the content of PCT application WO-A-FR03/030878, whose content
is integrated into the present disclosure by reference.
The medicinal product in the multimicroparticulate oral
pharmaceutical forms according to the invention can be a tablet,
advantageously an orally dispersible tablet, a powder, a liquid
suspension or a gelatin capsule containing microcapsules.
In other words, this medicinal product can be provided in the form
of a sachet of microcapsule powder, a liquid suspension of
microcapsules, a tablet obtained from microcapsules, or a gelatin
capsule containing microcapsules.
These tablets, gelatin capsules, powders and suspensions may
consist of mixtures of the various populations of microunits, and
in particular of microcapsules of active principle(s) according to
the invention, preferably combining therewith microunits or
microparticles with immediate release of active principle with low
solubility (for example granules).
Moreover, the invention is directed towards the use of the
microcapsules with modified release of the active principle(s) as
defined above, and, optionally, of the microunits containing active
principle(s) with immediate release, for preparing pharmaceutical
or dietetic, microparticulate oral pharmaceutical forms, preferably
in the form of tablets, which are advantageously orally
dispersible, powders or gelatin capsules.
In addition, the invention relates to the microcapsules as defined
above, taken as such.
Preferably, the active principle(s) may be chosen from at least one
of the following major varieties of active substances, e.g.:
antiulcer agents, antidiabetic agents, anticoagulants,
antithrombics, blood lipid-lowering agents, antiarythmics,
vasodilators, anti-angina agents, antihypertensives, vasoprotective
agents, fertility promoters, inducers and inhibitors of uterine
labor, contraceptives, antibiotics, antifungal agents, antiviral
agents, anticancer agents, anti-inflammatories, analgesics,
antiepileptics, antiparkinsonian agents, neuroleptics, hypnotics,
anxiolytics, psychostimulants, antimigraine agents,
antidepressants, antitussives, antihistamines or anti-allergic
agents, agents for combating congestive heart failure, angina
pectoris, left ventricular hypertrophy, cardiac arythmias,
myocardial infarctions, reflex tachycardia, ischaemic heart
disease, atheromatosis, hypertension related to diabetes mellitus,
portal hypertension, dizziness, bradycardia, arterial hypotension,
hydrosodic retention, acute kidney failure, orthostatic hypotension
and cerebral congestion,
and mixtures thereof.
As examples of active principles which may be contained in the
medicinal product according to the invention, mention may be made
of those chosen from the group of the following compounds:
acetylsalicylic acid, carbamazepine, pentoxifylline, prazosine,
acyclovir, nifedipine, diltiazem, naproxen, ibuprofen,
flurbiprofen, ketoprofen, fenoprofen, indomethacin, diclofenac,
fentiazac, oestradiol valerate, metoprolol, sulpiride, captopril,
cimetidine, zidovudine, nicardipine, terfenadine, atenolol,
salbutamol, carbamazepine, ranitidine, enalapril, simvastatin,
fluoxetine, alprazolam, famotidine, ganciclovir, famciclovir,
spironolactone, 5-asa, quinidine, perindopril, morphine,
pentazocine, paracetamol, omeprazole, lansoprazole, metoclopramide,
aminosalicylic acid, nalidixic acid, amoxicillin, amoxicillin and
potassium clavulanate, ampicillin, ampicillin and sulbactam,
azithromycin, bacampicillin, carbenicillin indanyl sodium (and
other carbenicillin salts), capreomycin, cefadroxil, cefazolin,
cephalexin, cephalothin, cephapirin, cephacelor, cefprozil,
cephadrine, cefamandole, cefonicide, ceforanide, cefuroxime,
cefixime, cefoperazone, cefotaxime, cefpodoxime, ceftaxidime,
ceftibuten, ceftizoxime, ceftriaxone, cefepime, cefinetazole,
cefotetan, cefoxitin, ciprofloxacine, clarithromycin, clindamycin,
clofazimine, cloxacillin, cotriamoxazole, cycloserine,
dicloxacillin, dirithromycin, erythromycin (and erythromycin salts
such as estolate, ethylsuccinate, gluceptate, lactobionate,
stearate), ethambutol-HCl and other salts, ethionamide, fosfomycin,
imipenem, isoniazide, levofloxacine, lomefloxacine, loracarbef,
methicillin, methenamine, metronidazole, metoclopramide,
mezlocillin, nafcillin, nitrofurantoin, norfloxacin, novobiocin,
ofloxacin, oxacillin, penicillin V, penicillin salts, penicillin
complexes, pentamidine, piperacillin, piperacillin and tazobactam,
sparfloxacin, sulphacytine, sulphamerazine, sulphamethazine,
sulphamethixole, sulphasalazine, sulphisoxazole, sulphapyrizine,
sulphadiazine, sulphmethoxazole, sulphapyridine, ticarcillin,
ticarcillin and potassium clavulanate, trimethoprime, trimetrexate,
troleanomycin, vancomycin, verapamil and mixtures thereof.
According to a particular but nonlimiting variant of the invention,
the active principle(s) is (are) one of the active principle(s)
with low solubility, for example chosen from the active principles
as mentioned above (taken by themselves or as a mixture with one
another).
The active principles to which the present invention also relates
may also be nutritional and/or dietetic supplements or mixtures
thereof, such as, for example, vitamins, amino acids, antioxidants
or trace elements, or mixtures thereof.
Finally, the invention is also directed towards a method of
therapeutic treatment, characterized in that it consists of oral
administration, according to a given dosage, of the medicinal
product according to the invention as defined above.
The invention will be explained more thoroughly, by the following
examples, given only by way of illustration in order to fully
understand the invention and to reveal its variants of
implementation and/or of use.
EXAMPLES
Description of the Figures
FIG. 1: In vitro release profiles for the microcapsules prepared
according to Comparative Example 1.
FIG. 2: In vitro release profiles for the microcapsules prepared
according to Comparative Example 2.
FIG. 3: In vitro release profiles for the microcapsules prepared
according to Comparative Example 3.
FIG. 4: In vitro release profiles for the microcapsules prepared
according to Comparative Example 4.
FIG. 5: In vitro release profiles for the microcapsules prepared
according to Example 5 and comparison with the release profiles for
the microcapsules prepared according to Comparative 1.
FIG. 6: In vitro release profiles for the microcapsules prepared
according to Example 6 and comparison with the release profiles for
the microcapsules prepared according to Comparative 2.
FIG. 7: In vitro release profiles for the microcapsules prepared
according to Example 7 and comparison with the release profiles for
the microcapsules prepared according to Comparative 3.
FIG. 8: Release profiles for the microcapsules prepared according
to Examples 8, 9 and 10 at pH 1.4.
FIG. 9: Release profiles for the microcapsules prepared according
to Examples 8, 9 and 10, measured for 2 h at pH 1.4 and then at pH
6.8.
FIG. 10: Release profiles for the microcapsules prepared according
to Examples 10, 11, 12 and 13 at pH 1.4.
FIG. 11: Release profiles for the microcapsules prepared according
to Example 14.
FIG. 12: Release profiles for the microcapsules prepared according
to Example 15.
FIG. 13: Release profiles for the microcapsules prepared according
to Example 16.
FIG. 14: Release profiles for the microcapsules prepared according
to Example 17.
The examples below relate to the following active principles:
TABLE-US-00001 Active principle Solubility (g/l) Spironolactone
0.02 Lansoprazole 0.05 Nitrofurantoin 0.3 Amoxicillin trihydrate
3.0 Acyclovir 10.0
Comparative Example 1 (spironolactone), Comparative Example 2
(amoxicillin trihydrate), Comparative Example 3 (nitrofurantoin)
and Comparative Example 4 (carvedilol) illustrate formulations with
delayed and controlled release of the active principle, obtained
according to WO-A-03/03878. However, it would be advantageous to
retain the lag phase while at the same time increasing the rate of
release after the lag phase, in order to optimize the
bioavailability and the efficacy of the active principle. The
microcapsules of Comparative Examples 1 to 4 do not comprise any
swelling agent.
Examples 5 (spironolactone), 6 (amoxicillin trihydrate) and 7
(nitrofurantoin) illustrate formulas according to the
invention.
Examples 8, 9 and 10 (acyclovir) show the influence of the amount
of swelling agent present in the formulas on the release kinetics
at pH 1.4.
Examples 11, 12 and 13 (acyclovir) illustrate a nonexhaustive
selection of swelling agents which may be used in the formulas
according to the invention.
Example 14 (acyclovir) illustrates the preparation of microcapsules
combining a wet granulation step and a coating step in a fluidized
air bed.
Example 15 (acyclovir) illustrates the preparation of microcapsules
combining an extrusion/spheronization step and a coating step in a
fluidized air bed.
Example 16 (acyclovir) illustrates the preparation of microcapsules
combining a compacting step and a coating step in a fluidized air
bed.
Example 17 (acyclovir) illustrates the preparation of a medicinal
product composed of the mixture of various types of microunits.
Comparative Example 1
Preparation of Microcapsules of Spironolactone Containing No
Swelling Agent
Step 1:
432 g of spironolactone and 48 g of low molar mass
hydroxypropylcellulose (Klucel.RTM. EF/Hercules) are dispersed in
1120 g of purified water. The suspension is sprayed onto 720 g of
neutral microspheres (Asahi-Kasei) in a Glatt GPCG1 spray
coater.
Step 2:
43.2 g of hydrogenated cottonseed oil (Penwest) and 64.8 g of
poly(methacrylicacid)(ethyl acrylate) Eudragit.RTM. L100-55 (Rohm)
are dissolved under hot conditions in isopropanol. The solution is
sprayed onto 492 g of microparticles prepared above.
The microcapsules obtained at the end of the second step were
tested in a type II dissolutest in accordance with the European
Pharmacopoeia, 4th edition, at 37.degree. C. and with agitation at
100 rpm, in the following media: HCl at pH 1.4 HCl at pH 1.4 for 2
hours and then KH.sub.2PO.sub.4/NaOH buffer medium at pH 6.8 the
dissolution profiles are given in FIG. 1.
It is noted that: at pH 1.4, the release of the active principle is
slow after the lag period of approximately 2 hours; when the pH
changes from 1.4 to 6.8, the release kinetics accelerate but remain
slow (approximately 8 hours are required in order to release 80% of
the active principle).
The novel compositions according to the invention make it possible
to accelerate the release profiles at pH 1.4 and at pH 6.8, while
at the same time conserving the lag phase at pH 1.4.
Comparative Example 2
Preparation of Microcapsules of Amoxicillin Trihydrate Containing
No Swelling Agent
Step 1:
1620 g of amoxicillin trihydrate and 180 g of low molar mass
hydroxypropylcellulose (Klucel.RTM. EF (Hercules)) are dispersed in
4200 g of purified water. The suspension is sprayed onto 200 g of
neutral microspheres (Asahi-Kasei) in a Glatt GPCG1 spray
coater.
Step 2:
120 g of hydrogenated cottonseed oil (Penwest) and 180 g of
poly(methacrylic acid)(ethyl acrylate) Acrycoat.RTM. L100D (NP
Pharm) are dissolved under hot conditions in isopropanol. The
solution is sprayed onto 700 g of microparticles prepared
above.
The microcapsules obtained at the end of the second step were
tested in a type II dissolutest in accordance with the European
Pharmacopoeia, 4th edition, at 37.degree. C. and with agitation at
100 rpm, in the following media: HCl at pH 1.4 HCl at pH 1.4 for 2
hours and then KH.sub.2PO.sub.4/NaOH buffer medium at pH 6.8 the
dissolution profiles are given in FIG. 2.
It is noted that: at pH 1.4, the release of the active principle is
slow after the lag period of approximately 4 hours; when the pH
changes from 1.4 to 6.8, the release kinetics are rapid as
expected.
The novel compositions according to the invention make it possible
to optimize the release profiles at pH 1.4, while at the same time
maintaining rapid release at pH 6.8 and conserving a lag phase at
pH 1.4.
Comparative Example 3
Preparation of Microcapsules of Nitrofurantoin Containing No
Swelling Agent
Step 1:
640 g of amoxicillin trihydrate and 160 g of low molar mass
hydroxypropylcellulose (Klucel.RTM. EF/Hercules) are dispersed in
2400 g of purified water. The suspension is sprayed onto 200 g of
neutral microspheres (Asahi-Kasei) in a Glatt GPCG1 spray
coater.
Step 2:
40 g of hydrogenated cottonseed oil (Penwest), 5 g of dibutyl
sebacate (Morflex) and 55 g of poly(methacrylic acid) (methyl
methacrylate) Eudragit.RTM. L100 (Rohm) are dissolved under hot
conditions in isopropanol. The solution is sprayed onto 900 g of
microparticles prepared above.
The microcapsules obtained at the end of the second step were
tested in a type II dissolutest in accordance with the European
Pharmacopoeia, 4th edition, at 37.degree. C. and with agitation at
100 rpm, in the following media: HCl at pH 1.4 HCl at pH 1.4 for 2
hours and then KH.sub.2PO.sub.4/NaOH buffer medium at pH 6.8 the
dissolution profiles are given in FIG. 3.
It is noted that: at pH 1.4, the release of the active principle is
slow after the lag period of approximately 2 hours; when the pH
changes from 1.4 to 6.8, the release kinetics are rapid as
expected.
The novel compositions according to the invention make it possible
to optimize the release profiles at pH 1.4, while at the same time
maintaining rapid release at pH 6.8 and conserving a lag phase at
pH 1.4.
Comparative Example 4
Preparation of Microcapsules of Carvedilol Phosphate Containing No
Swelling Agent
1120 g of carvedilol phosphate and 280 g of Plasdone K29/32.RTM.
(ISP) are dispersed in 1120 g of purified water. The suspension is
sprayed onto 600 g of neutral microspheres (Asahi-Kasei) in a Glatt
GPCG1 spray coater.
100 g of hydrogenated cottonseed oil (Penwest) and 150 g of
Eudragit.RTM. L100-55 (Rohm) are dissolved under hot conditions in
isopropanol. The solution is sprayed onto 750 g of microparticles
prepared above.
The microcapsules obtained at the end of the second step were
tested in a type II dissolutest in accordance with the
Pharmacopoeia, at 37.degree. C. and with agitation at 100 rpm, in
the following media: HCl at pH 1.4 HCl at pH 1.4 for 2 hours and
then KH.sub.2PO.sub.4/NaOH buffer medium at pH 6.8
The dissolution profiles are given in FIG. 4 in the appendix.
It is noted that: at pH 1.4, the release of the active principle is
slow after the lag period of approximately 2 hours; when the pH
changes from 1.4 to 6.8, the release kinetics accelerate but remain
slow (at 16 hours, only 40% of the active principle has been
released).
Example 5
Preparation of Microcapsules of Spironolactone According to the
Invention
Step 1:
216 g of spironolactone, 72 g of low molar mass
hydroxypropylcellulose (Klucel.RTM. EF/Hercules), 72 g of PEG-40
hydrogenated castor oil (Cremophor RH 40/BASF) and 360 g of
crospovidone (Kollidon CL/BASF) are dispersed in 1120 g of purified
water. The suspension is sprayed onto 720 g of neutral microspheres
(Asahi-Kasei) in a Glatt GPCG1 spray coater.
Step 2:
43.2 g of hydrogenated cottonseed oil (Penwest) and 64.8 g of
poly(methacrylic acid)(ethyl acrylate) Eudragit.RTM. L100-55 (Rohm)
are dissolved under hot conditions in isopropanol. The solution is
sprayed onto 492 g of microparticles prepared above.
The microcapsules obtained at the end of the second step were
tested in a type II dissolutest in accordance with the European
Pharmacopoeia, 4th edition, at 37.degree. C. and with agitation at
100 rpm, in the following media: HCl at pH 1.4 HCl at pH 1.4 for 2
hours and then KH.sub.2PO.sub.4/NaOH buffer medium at pH 6.8 the
dissolution profiles of Example 5 and of Comparative Example 1 are
given in FIG. 4.
It is noted that: at pH 1.4, approximately 60% of the active
principle is released after a lag period of approximately 1 hour 30
min; when the pH changes from 1.4 to 6.8, the release kinetics are
rapid.
Example 6
Preparation of Microcapsules of Amoxicillin Trihydrate According to
the Invention
Step 1:
630 g of amoxicillin trihydrate, 90 g of povidone (plasdone.RTM.
K29/32 (ISP)) and 180 g of crospovidone (Polyplasdone.RTM./ISP) are
dispersed in 2100 g of isopropanol/water (70/30 m/m) mixture. The
solution is sprayed onto 100 g of neutral microspheres
(Asahi-Kasei) in a Glatt.RTM. GPCG1 spray coater.
Step 2:
120 g of hydrogenated cottonseed oil (Abitec) and 160 g of
poly(methacrylic acid)(ethyl acrylate) Kollicoat.RTM. MAE 100P
(BASF) are dissolved under hot conditions in isopropanol. The
solution is sprayed onto 700 g of microparticles prepared
above.
The microcapsules obtained at the end of the second step were
tested in a type II dissolutest in accordance with the European
Pharmacopoeia, 4th edition, at 37.degree. C. and with agitation at
100 rpm, in the following media: HCl at pH 1.4 HCl at pH 1.4 for 2
hours and then KH.sub.2PO.sub.4/NaOH buffer medium at pH 6.8 the
dissolution profiles of Example 6 and of Comparative Example 2 are
given in FIG. 6.
It is noted that, with the composition according to the invention:
the release of the active principle at pH 1.4 was accelerated
(guaranteeing triggering of the system after a given amount of time
and release of a sufficient amount of active agent, this release
taking place over times compatible with the absorption times for
the active principles in the organism); when the pH changes from
1.4 to 6.8, rapid release kinetics are maintained.
Example 7
Preparation of Microcapsules of Nitrofurantoin According to the
Invention
Step 1:
400 g of nitrofurantoin, 200 g of povidone (plasdone.RTM.
K29/32/ISP), 50 g of PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil (BASF) and 350
g of crospovidone (Polyplasdone.RTM./ISP) are suspended in 2500 g
of purified water. The solution is sprayed onto 1000 g of neutral
microspheres (Asahi-Kasei) in a Glatt.RTM. GPCG1 spray coater.
Step 2:
120 g of hydrogenated cottonseed oil (Abitec) and 160 g of
poly(methacrylic acid)(ethyl acrylate) Acrycoat.RTM. L100D (NP
Pharm) are dissolved under hot conditions in isopropanol. The
solution is sprayed onto 700 g of microparticles prepared
above.
The microcapsules obtained at the end of the second step were
tested in a type II dissolutest in accordance with the European
Pharmacopoeia, 4th edition, at 37.degree. C. and with agitation at
100 rpm, in the following media: HCl at pH 1.4 HCl at pH 1.4 for 2
hours and then KH.sub.2PO.sub.4/NaOH buffer medium at pH 6.8 the
dissolution profiles of Example 7 and of Comparative Example 3 are
given in FIG. 7.
It is noted that, with the composition according to the invention:
the release of the active principle at pH 1.4 was accelerated
(guaranteeing triggering of the system after a given period of time
and release of a sufficient amount of active agent, this release
taking place over times compatible with the absorption times for
the active principles in the organism); when the pH changes from
1.4 to 6.8, rapid release kinetics are maintained.
Comparative Example 8
Preparation of Microcapsules of Acyclovir Containing No Swelling
Agent
Step 1:
75 g of acyclovir and 75 g of povidone (Plasdone.RTM. K29/32/ISP)
are dissolved in 833 g of isopropanol. The solution is sprayed onto
850 g of neutral microspheres (NP Pharm) in a Glatt.RTM. GPCG3
spray coater.
Step 2:
93.3 g of hydrogenated soybean oil (Abitec) and 140 g of
poly(methacrylic acid)(methyl methacrylate) Eudragit.RTM. L100
(Rohm) are dissolved under hot conditions in isopropanol. The
solution is sprayed onto 700 g of microparticles prepared
above.
Example 9
Preparation of Microcapsules of Acyclovir Containing a Small Amount
of Swelling Agent (Crospovidone.RTM.)
Step 1:
375 g of acyclovir, 50 g of low molar mass hydroxypropylcellulose
(Klucel.RTM. EF (Hercules)) and 75 g of crospovidone
(Polyplasdone.RTM./ISP) are suspended in 1200 g of purified water.
The solution is sprayed onto 500 g of neutral microspheres (NP
Pharm) in a Glatt.RTM. GPCG3 spray coater.
Step 2:
100 g of hydrogenated cottonseed oil (Penwest) and 150 g of
poly(methacrylic acid)(ethyl acrylate) Eudragit.RTM. L100-55 (Rohm)
are dissolved under hot conditions in ethanol. The solution is
sprayed onto 750 g of microparticles prepared above.
Example 10
Preparation of Microcapsules of Acyclovir Containing a Larger
Amount of Swelling Agent (Crospovidone.RTM.)
Step 1:
300 g of acyclovir, 50 g of low molar mass hydroxypropylcellulose,
Klucel.RTM. EF (Hercules), and 150 g of crospovidone
(Polyplasdone.RTM./ISP) are suspended in 1200 g of purified water.
The solution is sprayed onto 500 g of neutral microspheres (NP
Pharm) in a Glatt.RTM. GPCG3 spray coater.
Step 2:
100 g of hydrogenated cottonseed oil (Penwest) and 150 g of
poly(methacrylic acid)(ethyl acrylate) Eudragit.RTM. L100-55 (Rohm)
are dissolved under hot conditions in ethanol. The solution is
sprayed onto 750 g of microparticles prepared above.
The microcapsules obtained at the end of the second step in
Comparative Examples 8, 9 and 10 were tested in a type II
dissolutest in accordance with the European Pharmacopoeia, 4th
edition, at 37.degree. C. and with agitation at 100 rpm, in the
following media: HCl at pH 1.4 HCl at pH 1.4 for 2 hours and then
KH.sub.2PO.sub.4/NaOH buffer medium at pH 6.8 the dissolution
profiles of Examples 8, 9 and 10 are given in FIGS. 8 and 9.
It is noted that: a broad range of kinetics can be obtained at pH
1.4 according to the amount of swelling agent incorporated into the
formulation; the release at pH 6.8 remains rapid whatever the
composition under consideration.
Example 11
Preparation of Microcapsules of Acyclovir Containing a Swelling
Agent (Sodium Croscarmellose)
Step 1:
300 g of acyclovir, 50 g of low molar mass hydroxypropylcellulose,
Klucel.RTM. EF (Hercules), and 150 g of sodium croscarmellose
(Ac-Di-Sol.RTM./FMC) are suspended in 1200 g of purified water. The
solution is sprayed onto 500 g of neutral microspheres (NP Pharm)
in a Glatt.RTM. GPCG1 spray coater.
Step 2:
100 g of hydrogenated cottonseed oil (Penwest) and 100 g of
poly(methacrylic acid)(ethyl acrylate) Eudragit.RTM. L100-55 (Rohm)
are dissolved under hot conditions in ethanol. The solution is
sprayed onto 750 g of microparticles prepared above.
Example 12
Preparation of Microcapsules of Acyclovir Containing a Swelling
Agent (Hydroxypropylmethylcellulose)
Step 1:
300 g of acyclovir, 50 g of low molar mass hydroxypropylcellulose,
Klucel.RTM. EF (Hercules), and 150 g of
hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (Pharmacoat 615/Shin-Etsu) are
suspended in 1200 g of purified water. The solution is sprayed onto
500 g of neutral microspheres (NP Pharm) in a Glatt.RTM. GPCG1
spray coater.
100 g of hydrogenated cottonseed oil (Penwest), 100 g of
poly(methacrylic acid)(ethyl acrylate) Eudragit.RTM. L100-55 (Rohm)
and 50 g of poly(methacrylic acid)(methyl methacrylate)
Eudragit.RTM. S100 (Rohm) are dissolved under hot conditions in
ethanol. The solution is sprayed onto 750 g of microparticles
prepared above.
Example 13
Preparation of Microcapsules of Acyclovir Containing a Swelling
Agent (Povidone of Molar Mass Mw=1,000,000 g/mol)
Step 1:
350 g of acyclovir, 50 g of low molar mass hydroxypropylcellulose
(Klucel.RTM. EF (Hercules)) and 100 g of high molar mass povidone
(Kollidon.RTM. 90 (BASF)) are suspended in 1200 g of purified
water. The solution is sprayed onto 500 g of neutral microspheres
(NP Pharm) in a Glatt.RTM. GPCG1 spray coater.
Step 2:
100 g of hydrogenated cottonseed oil (Penwest), 50 g of
poly(methacrylic acid)(ethyl acrylate) Eudragit.RTM. L100-55 (Rohm)
and 100 g of poly(methacrylic acid)(methyl methacrylate)
Eudragit.RTM. S100 (Rohm) are dissolved under hot conditions in
ethanol. The solution is sprayed onto 750 g of microparticles
prepared above.
The microcapsules obtained at the end of the second step of
Examples 10, 11, 12 and 13 were tested in a type II dissolutest in
accordance with the European Pharmacopoeia, 4th edition, at
37.degree. C. and with agitation of 100 rpm at pH 1.4.
The dissolution profiles are given in FIG. 10.
Example 14
Preparation of Microcapsules of Acyclovir Containing a Swelling
Agent (Granulation+Spray-Coating)
Step 1:
700 g of acyclovir, 50 g of povidone (Plasdone.RTM./ISP) and 250 g
of crospovidone (Polyplasdone.RTM./ISP) are dry-mixed beforehand in
a laboratory granulator (Lodige) for 5 minutes. This pulverulent
mixture is then granulated with water (200 g). The granules are
dried at 40.degree. C. in a ventilated oven, and then sized on a
500 .mu.m screen. The 200-500 .mu.m fraction is selected by
sieving.
Step 2:
100 g of hydrogenated palm oil (Huls), 100 g of poly (methacrylic
acid)(ethyl acrylate) Acrycoat.RTM. L100D and 50 g of
poly(methacrylic acid)(methyl methacrylate) Acrycoat.RTM. S100 (NP
Pharm) are dissolved under hot conditions in isopropanol. The
solution is sprayed onto 750 g of microparticles prepared
above.
The microcapsules obtained at the end of the second step of Example
13 were tested in a type II dissolutest in accordance with the
European Pharmacopoeia, 4th edition, at 37.degree. C. and with
agitation at 100 rpm, in the following media:
HCl at pH 1.4 HCl at pH 1.4 for 2 hours and then
KH.sub.2PO.sub.4NaOH buffer medium at pH 6.8
The dissolution profiles are given in FIG. 11.
Example 15
Preparation of Microcapsules of Acyclovir Containing a Swelling
Agent (Extrusion/Spheronization+Spray Coating)
Step 1:
700 g of acyclovir, 50 g of povidone (Plasdone.RTM./ISP) and 250 g
of crospovidone (Kollidon.RTM. CL/BASF) are premixed with 150 g of
water in a laboratory mixer (Kitchen-Aid) for 5 minutes. This pasty
mixture is extruded through a 0.5 mm screen using an Extruder 20
(Caleva). The filaments obtained are then spheronized using a
Spheronizer 250 (Caleva). The particles obtained are dried at
40.degree. C. in a fluidized air bed. The 300-700 .mu.m fraction is
selected by sieving.
Step 2:
100 g of hydrogenated palm oil (Huls), 100 g of poly(methacrylic
acid)(ethyl acrylate) Acrycoat.RTM. L100D and 50 g of
poly(methacrylic acid)(methyl methacrylate) Acrycoat.RTM. S100 (NP
Pharm) are dissolved under hot conditions in isopropanol. The
solution is sprayed onto 750 g of microparticles prepared
above.
The microcapsules obtained at the end of the second step of Example
14 were tested in a type II dissolutest in accordance with the
Pharmacopoeia, 4th edition, at 37.degree. C. and with agitation at
100 rpm, in the following media:
HCl at pH 1.4
HCl at pH 1.4 for 2 hours and then KH.sub.2PO.sub.4/NaOH buffer
medium at pH 6.8
The dissolution profiles are given in FIG. 12.
Example 16
Preparation of Microcapsules of Acyclovir Containing a Swelling
Agent (Compacting+Spray-Coating)
Step 1:
590 g of acyclovir, 10 g of magnesium stearate and 400 g of
crospovidone are mixed using a laboratory mixer (Kitchen-Aid type)
for 5 minutes. This mixture is then compacted using an
Alexenderwerk WP120 laboratory compactor. The product obtained is
then granulated using an Erweka oscillating granulator equipped
with a 500 .mu.m screen. The 100-500 .mu.m fraction of the product
obtained is selected by sieving.
Step 2:
100 g of hydrogenated palm oil (Huls), 100 g of poly(methacrylic
acid)(ethyl acrylate) Acrycoat L100D and 50 g of poly(methacrylic
acid)(methyl methacrylate) Acrycoat.RTM. S100 (NP Pharm) are
dissolved under hot conditions in isopropanol. The solution is
sprayed onto 750 g of microparticles prepared above.
The microcapsules obtained at the end of the second step of Example
14 were tested in a type II dissolutest in accordance with the
Pharmacopoeia, 4th edition, at 37.degree. C. and with agitation at
100 rpm, in the following media:
HCl at pH 1.4
HCl at pH 1.4 for 2 hours and then KH.sub.2PO.sub.4/NaOH buffer
medium at pH 6.8
The dissolution profiles are given in FIG. 13.
Example 17
Mixture of Microunits Having Various Release Profiles
Various microunits of acyclovir are prepared, in which: 25% by
weight of the acyclovir is in the form of immediate-release
microunits as obtained at the end of the first step of Example 12,
25% of the acyclovir is in the form of delayed and
prolonged-release microunits as obtained at the end of the second
step of Example 10, and 50% of the acyclovir is in the form of
delayed and prolonged-release microcapsules as obtained at the end
of the second step of Example 12.
The microcapsules of Example No. 10 begin to rapidly release their
content beyond pH.gtoreq.5.5 (use of Eudragit.RTM. L100-55).
The microcapsules of Example No. 12 begin to rapidly release their
content beyond pH>6.5 (use of 67% Eudragit.RTM. L100-55 and 33%
Eudragit.RTM. S100).
The profiles are given in FIG. 14 and show that various release
phases are obtained, which optimizes the release of an active
principle in front of its window of absorption.
* * * * *