Calcein Release from Polymeric Vesicles in Blood Plasma and PVA Hydrogel

Purpose  The main goal of this study was to show the long-term stability of vesicles from poly(2-methyl oxazoline-block-polydimethylsiloxane-block poly(2-methyl oxazoline) (PMOXA-PDMS-PMOXA) in PBS, blood plasma and the feasibility to use these vesicles for drug release from PVA hydrogels. Methods  The vesicle formation properties and loading efficiency was evaluated using fluorescent dyes. The stability of the vesicles was evaluated in buffer at pH 7 at room temperature and in 50% blood plasma at 37°C. The calcein loaded vesicles were dispersed in a UV crosslinked PVA hydrogel. The stability of the vesicles in the hydrogel was observed over one week, before the vesicles were ruptured with Triton X-100. Results  The vesicles are very stable in buffer, blood plasma, and the PVA hydrogel. In plasma 50% of the calcein is released in 48 h in the presence of sodium azide. The vesicles can be evenly dispersed in PVA and are stable. The release can be triggered and the calcein diffuses afterwards quickly throughout the gel. Conclusion  Polymeric vesicles can be used as diffusion barrier in hydrogels for the controlled release of water soluble drugs. Electronic supplementary material  The online version of this article (doi:) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.     

Controlled Release of Lidocaine from Injectable Gels and Efficacy in Rat Sciatic Nerve Block

Purpose. Methods of delaying the action of local anesthetics are important, since short duration of action limits their use in the treatment of postoperative and chronic pain. The present study evaluated the use of low-viscosity gels in prolonging the release of lidocaine. Methods. Release of lidocaine from 2% lidocaine-HC1 containing methylcellulose (MC), hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC), sodiumcarboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), and poloxamer 407 (PO) gels was studied in phosphate buffer, pH 7.4, at 37°C. Commercial metylcellulose gel (MC_com) served as control. The in vivo efficacy of the respective gel formulations were evaluated in rats. The gel was injected into the vicinity of the sciatic nerve and nociception and motor function were tested. Results. The cumulative amount of lidocaine released during 8 hr was slowest from the PO gel, followed by the CMC, HPMC and MC gels. The antinociceptive effect was not prevented by the motor block and lasted longest with the PO gel. Good linear and rank order correlation was obtained between in vitro and in vivoresults. The microscopic examination of the tissue samples revealed only mild or no irritation of the skeletal muscle tissue by the PO, HPMC, and CMC gels. Conclusions. Based on these results poloxamer gel proved to be the most promising carrier for lidocaine.     

缓控释系统药物释放的数学模型研究进展

目的概括各类骨架型缓控释系统的药物释放数学模型研究进展。方法对整块骨架系统、溶蚀型骨架系统和溶胀型骨架系统的药物释放数学方程进行阐述，同时根据其释药原理的不同进行划分和比较。结果为今后缓控释给药系统的深入研究提供了科学依据。结论目前的数学模型无法完全模拟药物从骨架中释放的实际情况，应建立更切合实际的模型。     

头孢唑酮在Triton X-100体系囊泡中的包封和缓释

目的研究了β-内酰胺类抗生素药物头孢唑酮在表面活性剂囊泡中的包封和释放行为。方法超声Triton X-100体系层状液晶制备了囊泡,用超离心分离法和紫外分光光度法测定头孢唑酮的包封率和释放速率。结果Triton X-100/n-C10H21OH/H2O体系囊泡对头孢唑酮具有较好的包封和缓释作用。结论表面活性剂体系囊泡可作为一种新的药物控制释放系统。     

The Controlled Release of Prednisolone Using Alginate Gel

In a release study of alginate gel beads, swelling and erosion of the beads were observed at pH 6.8, whereas no swelling occurred at pH 1.2. The amount of released prednisolone (PL) was greater at pH 6.8 than at pH 1.2. The lower the ratio of mannuronic acid block to guluronic acid block in alginate, the slower the release of PL. An increase in loaded PL in the beads resulted in a slower release of PL. The decrease in bead size caused a rapid release of PL. The addition of sodium alginate propylene glycol ester elevated the extent of PL release. The plasma profile of PL showed sustained-release behavior after the oral administration of the beads to beagles. Furthermore, the correlation between in vitro release and in vivo absorption of PL for various alginate gel beads was evaluated using deconvolution and convolution methods. The in vivo absorption of PL was correlated with the PL release at pH 1.2, and it differed from that at pH 6.8. The release of PL from alginate gel beads in vivo appeared to occur under conditions that cause little swelling.     

Effect of Destruction Force on Drug Release from Multiple Unit Controlled Release Dosage Forms in Humans

Purpose. This study examined the effects of mechanical destructive forces on drug release from controlled release (CR) multiple unit dosage forms in vitro and in vivo and their colonic release, using two CR granules of acetaminophen, AG and BG, which differed in hardness (AG was hard and BG was soft), but which did not depend on agitation speed or pH for their release. Methods. In vitro release rates were determined using several official methods and the rotating dialysis cell method. Granules were administered to healthy volunteers under fasting and fed conditions. Results. Both granules showed similar release rates under mild destructive conditions in official dissolution tests, but BG showed a faster release rate in the rotating dialysis cell method. In the fasting state, the drug absorption-time profiles of AG and BG were almost equal. In the fed state, the drug release rate of BG increases whereas that of AG is almost equal to the fasted state. The food effect on BG could be caused by an increase in the mechanical stress of the GI tract due to food intake judging from the findings in vitro and in dogs. The colonic release from multiple unit CR products was larger than that from single unit ones. Conclusions. In vivo release of drug from a multiple unit CR product that is structurally weak is affected by mechanical stresses, which differ among human subjects but are increased by food ingestion. Colonic release from multiple unit CR products is larger than that from single unit products.     

In vitro Evaluation of the Effect of Combination of Hydrophilic and Hydrophobic Polymers on Controlled Release Zidovudine Matrix Tablets

The aim of the present study was to prepare and characterize controlled-release matrix tablets of zidovudine using hydrophilic HPMC K4 M or Carbopol 934 alone or in combination with hydrophobic ethyl cellulose. Release kinetics was evaluated by using USP XXIV dissolution apparatus No.2 (paddle) type. Scanning electron microscopy was used to visualize the effect of dissolution medium on matrix tablet surface. The in vitro results of controlled – release zidovudine tablets were compared with conventional marketed tablet Zidovir. The in vitro drug release study revealed that HPMC K4 M or Carbopol 934 preparation was able to sustain the drug release near to 6 hours. Combining HPMC K4 M or Carbopol 934 with ethyl cellulose sustained the drug release for nearly 12 h. The in vitro evaluation showed that the drug release may be by diffusion along with erosion. Results suggest that the developed controlled-release tablets of zidovudine could perform therapeutically better than marketed dosage forms, leading to improve efficacy, controlling the release and better patient compliance.     

Oral Solid Controlled Release Dosage Forms: Role of GI-Mechanical Destructive Forces and Colonic Release in Drug Absorption Under Fasted and Fed Conditions in Humans

Purpose. This study was undertaken to examine the effects of mechanical destructive forces on drug release from controlled release (CR) dosage forms in vitro and in vivo and their colonic release, using two CR tablets of acetaminophen A and B, showing slower and faster erosion rates, respectively. Methods. In vitro release rates were determined by several official methods. Tablets were administered to healthy volunteers under fasting and fed conditions. Results. Both tablets showed similar release rates under mild destructive conditions (e.g., paddle method at 10 rpm) but CR-B showed faster release under highly destructive conditions (e.g., rotating basket method at 150 rpm), where the tablet was eroded. The in vivo release from CR-B was faster than from CR-A, possibly because of enhanced erosion. The variable in vivo release from CR-B indicated large inter-subject differences in destructive GI forces. The fastest in vivo release from CR-B among individuals was approximated by the in vitro dissolution determined by destructive methods such as the rotating basket at 150 rpm. The slowest in vivo release from tablets A and B was lower than the dissolution by the paddle method at 10 rpm. The release from both tablets was markedly reduced at 3–4 hrs after dosing irrespective of feeding conditions which can be attributed to release inhibition in the colon. Conclusions. Effects of GI destructive forces on the tablet erosion and the release inhibition in the colon must be considered in the development of CR dosage forms.     

Controlled Release of Substituted Benzole and Naphthoic Acids Using Carbopol ® Gels: Measurement of Drug Concentration Profiles and Correlation to Release Rate Kinetics

Purpose. The objective of this study is to correlate drug release mechanism with measured drug concentration profiles in gel layers of Carbopol^® matrices containing mesalamine or benzoic acid. Methods. Release rate experiments with Carbopol^® matrices were performed using a rotating disk apparatus. Matrices were frozen and the gel layer in the matrices was sliced using a microtome in a cryostat. Drug concentration profiles were determined by direct measurement of the concentration of the drug in the gel slices. The pH of the slices was measured using microelectrodes, and water content was measured by Karl Fisher titration. Results. The concentration gradient in mesalamine matrices decreased over time and correlated with square root of time release rate kinetics. The concentration profiles of benzoic acid were unchanged over time and correlated with zero order release rate kinetics. Carbopol gel layers were highly hydrated (93–95% water). Gel layers in matrices with mesalamine had a more alkaline microenvironmental pH. This higher pH resulted in increased growth of the thickness of the gel layer and a reduction drug diffusivity in comparison to benzoic acid matrices. Conclusions. The release rate kinetics of mesalamine and benzoic acid correlated to the measured concentration profiles. The shape of the concentration profiles is determined by the rate of growth of the Carbopol^® gel layer and drug diffusivity.     

Evaluation of the Physicochemical Properties and Dissolution Characteristics of Mesalamine: Relevance to Controlled Intestinal Drug Delivery

The physicochemical properties of mesalamine and the effect of pH and buffer concentration on the dissolution rate of pure mesalamine and mesalamine with Carbopol 974P were investigated. The aqueous solubilities at 25 and 37°C were 0.844 and 1.41 mg/mL, respectively. Consistent with the observed pK _a1 (2.30) and pK _a2 (5.69) of mesalamine, the solubility–pH profile is increased at pH <2.0 and pH >5.5 and is minimized from pH 2.0 to pH 5.5. The flux data were consistent with the solubility data from pH 1.0 to pH 5.5. The flux increased and plateaued at pH values 5.5 to 7.0 and was dependent on the bulk buffer concentration. At low bulk buffer concentrations, mesalamine reduces the pH in the diffusion layer, which results in a decrease in flux. The medium with the highest buffer capacity has a greater ability to increase the surface pH and dissolution rate. The addition of Carbopol reduces the flux and the sensitivity of the dissolution rate of mesalamine to increasing bulk buffer concentration. This reduction is postulated to be due to neutralization of the basic dissolution media, gel formation, and possible drug–polymer interactions.     

The Influence of Surfactants and Additives on Drug Release from a Cationic Eudragit Coated Multiparticulate Diltiazem Formulation

A cationic polymethacrylate coated multiparticulate diltiazem formulation exhibited sigmoidal drug release. Lag time prior to drug release was influenced by dissolution media, coat thickness, and by the nature of additives included in the formulation. Incorporation of up to 5% w/w sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) in the coating membrane resulted in substantial increases in lag times in acidic and neutral media. The extent of drug release in acid was 100%, whereas in phosphate buffer, the extent of release was dependent on the level of SLS. Substituting SLS for various compounds was used to assess the functionality of the SLS molecule responsible for these behaviors. The ability to ion-pair with the polymer and the presence of a hydrophobic moiety were both important functionalities.     

Development of Dividable One-Step Dry-Coated Tablets (Dividable-OSDRC) and Their Evaluation as a New Platform for Controlled Drug Release

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to develop novel dividable coated tablets that retain their characteristics even after they are divided. METHODS: We prepared dividable one-step dry-coated tablets (dividable-OSDRC) using our own manufacturing process with double structure punches. The release pattern of the dividable-OSDRC with hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) or methacrylic acid copolymer LD (Eudragit) as an outer layer was investigated before and after the division, and dissolution profiles were statistically compared using difference factor f1 and similarity factor f2. RESULTS: The dividable-OSDRC with HPMC for sustained-release (compression pressure, 150 MPa; crashing strength, 6.1 N; friability, 0.05%; CV of divided tablet weight, 7.8%) showed statistically equivalent release patterns between the one-half and the whole (f1, 13.9; f2, 55.5) and between the one-half and the two-halves (5.5, 72.5). The surface area of the tablets affected the sustained-release profiles. Furthermore, the tablets made with Eudragit LD for timed-release (150 MPa. 12.8 N, 0.18%, 9.6%) also showed approximated release patterns before and after the division. CONCLUSIONS: We proved that dividable-OSDRC maintain their release characteristics after they are divided. We conclude that the dividable-OSDRC could be used as a new platform for the controlled release of drugs.     

In Vitro Controlled Release of Alfuzosin Hydrochloride Using HPMC-Based Matrix Tablets and Its Comparison with Marketed Product

The present study is an attempt to formulate a controlled-release matrix tablet formulation for alfuzosin hydrochloride by using low viscous hydroxy propyl methyl cellulose (HPMC K-100 and HPMC 15cps) and its comparison with marketed product. Different batches of tablets containing 10 mg of alfuzosin were prepared by direct compression technique and evaluated for their physical properties, drug content, and in vitro drug release. All the formulations had a good physical integrity, and the drug content between the batches did not vary by more than 1%. Drug release from the matrix tablets was carried out for 12 hr and showed that the release rate was not highly significant with different ratios of HPMC K-100 and HPMC15cps. Similar dissolution profiles were observed between formulation F3 and the marketed product throughout the study period. The calculated regression coefficients showed a higher r² value with zero-order kinetics and Higuchi model in all the cases. Although both the models could be applicable, zero-order kinetics seems to be better. Hence, it can be concluded that the use of low viscous hydrophilic polymer of different grades (HPMC K-100 and HPMC 15cps) can control the alfuzosin release for a period of 12 hr and was comparable to the marketed product.     

Diffusion in HPMC Gels. II. Prediction of Drug Release Rates from Hydrophilic Matrix Extended-Release Dosage Forms

Purpose. A mathematical model is described for the prediction of the relative change in drug release rate as a function of formulation composition for HPMC-based extended-release (ER) tablets of adinazolam mesylate and alprazolam. Methods. The model is based on the equation derived by Higuchi for the diffusional release of soluble drugs from polymeric matrices and on our recent measurements of the concentration dependency of adinazolam diffusivity in dilute HPMC gels and solutions. The assumptions made in applying the model include (i) that diffusion is the sole mechanism of drug release (i.e. swelling kinetics are ignored), and (ii) that the surface area-to-volume ratio and concentrations of adinazolam, lactose and HPMC in the gel layer are proportional to that of the dry tablet. Results. Reasonable correlations were obtained between the experimental drug release rate ratios and the predicted drug release rate ratios for ER adinazolam mesylate (R² = 0.82) and low-dose (0.5 mg) ER alprazolam tablets (R² = 0.87). The predictive power for a 6-fold higher dose of ER alprazolam tablets was not as good (R² = 0.52). Conclusions. These results are consistent with previous knowledge of the release mechanisms of these formulations. ER adinazolam mesylate and ER alprazolam 0.5 mg exhibit primarily a diffusion controlled release mechanism, while ER alprazolam 3 mg deviates from pure diffusional release. The limitations of the model are discussed and point to the need for continued study of the swelling kinetics of matrix ER systems.     

Controlled Release of a Contraceptive Steroid from Biodegradable and Injectable Gel Formulations: In Vitro Evaluation

Purpose. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of formulation factors including varying wax concentration, drug loading and drug particle size, on drug release characteristics from both pure oil and gel formulations prepared with a combination of derivatized vegetable oil (Labrafil 1944 CS) and glyceryl palmitostearate (Precirol ATO 5), using levonorgestrel as a model drug. Methods. The effects of varying drug loadings, different drug particle sizes, and wax (Precirol) concentrations on in-vitro drug release rates were evaluated, and the mechanisms of drug release from the gels were determined. Results. Zero-order drug release rates from the 10% Precirol gel formulations containing 0.25, 0.50 and 2.00% w/v drug loadings were lower than those observed for oil formulations containing identical drug loadings. Higher zero-order release rates were observed from formulations containing smaller drug particles suspended in both oil and gel formulations. The mechanism of drug release from gels containing less than 0.25% w/w drug was diffusion-controlled. Increasing the wax concentrations in the gels from 5% w/w to 20% w/w significantly decreased the diffusivity of the drug through the gel formulations and markedly increased the force required to inject the gels from two different sizes of needles. Conclusions. This study shows how modification of the physicochemical properties of the gel formulations by changing the drug particle size, wax concentration and drug loading, affects drug release characteristics from the system.     

A New Ternary Polymeric Matrix System for Controlled Drug Delivery of Highly Soluble Drugs: I. Diltiazem Hydrochloride

Purpose. The purpose of this study was to develop a new ternary polymeric matrix system that is easy to manufacture and that delivers a highly soluble drug over long periods of time. Methods. Pectin, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC), and diltiazem HC1 granulated with gelatin at optimized ratios were blended at different loading doses and directly compressed. Swelling behavior, dissolution profiles and the effect of hydrodynamic stress on release kinetics were evaluated. Results. Diltiazem release kinetics from the ternary polymeric system was dependent on the different swelling behavior of the polymers and varied with the drug loading dose and hydrodynamic conditions. Drug release followed either non-Fickian or Case II transport kinetics. The relative influence of diffusion and relaxational/dissolution effects on release profiles for different drug loadings was calculated by a nonlinear regression approach. Photographs taken during swelling show that the anisotropic nature of the gel structure, drug loading dose, swelling capacity of polymers used, and the design of delivery system all play important roles in controlling the drug release and dissolution/ erosion processes. Conclusions. Zero-order delivery of diltiazem HC1 from a simple tablet matrix was achieved. The ternary polymeric system developed in this study is suitable for controlled release of highly soluble drugs. It offers a number of advantages over existing systems, including ease of manufacturing and of release modulation, as well as reproducibility of release profiles under well defined hydrodynamic conditions. Our delivery system has the potential to fully release its drug content in a controlled manner over a long time period and to dissolve completely.     

Controlled Release of Contraceptive Steroids from Biodegradable and Injectable Gel Formulations: In Vivo Evaluation

Purpose. The purpose of this study was to investigate in vivo biocompatibility, biodegradability and biological effects of contraceptive steroids, such as levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol, released from gels prepared with a combination of derivatized vegetable oil (Labrafil 1944 CS) and glyceryl ester of fatty acids (Precirol ATO 5). Methods. Biocompatibility, biodegradability, and in vivo effects of levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol were studied by histologic evaluation of rat tissue, visual estimate of changes in gel size, and assessment of drug effects on reproductive cyclicity of female rats, respectively, following subcutaneous injection of gel formulations. Results. Histological evaluation of the tissue samples following an injection of the gel revealed an inflammatory reaction for about 7 days, after which the tissues did not show any inflammatory response. Complete degradation of the gels containing 10% wax was observed between 5 and 6 weeks. Normal rat estrous cycles were completely blocked by the contraceptive steroids released from the gels. Gel formulations containing 0.25% w/w levonorgestrel were more effective in blocking the estrous cycle of female rats compared to the oil formulations containing an identical drug loading. The duration of the biological effect induced by levonorgestrel appears to be dose-related. The gel formulation containing 2.00% ethinyl estradiol was superior to oil formulation containing an identical drug loading in terms of controlling drug release and toxicity. Conclusions. These observations suggest that Labrafil-Precirol gels are biocompatible and biodegradable. Moreover, controlled release of steroids is possible in vivo for a prolonged period of time.     

Controlled Release of Paracetamol from Amylodextrin Tablets: In Vitro and in Vivo Results

Amylodextrin is a suitable excipient for the design of solid controlled-release systems. The release of paracetamol from tablets containing 30% drug and 70% amylodextrin was studied in vitro and in vivo. In vitro dissolution profiles showed almost-constant drug release rates during 8 hr, when measured in 0.05 M buffer, pH 6.8. Peroral administration of the tablets to man showed almost-constant paracetamol plasma levels up to 14 hr, as compared to fast absorption and fast elimination of a reference paracetamol solution. The plasma profiles of eight volunteers demonstrated a small intersubject variability during the first day after tablet administration. Increasing variability and decreasing plasma levels during the second day were caused by excretion of tablets from the bodies. Cumulative input as a function of time showed near-zero-order drug release during the first day. The in vivo results indicate that amylodextrin tablets are not hydrolyzed by -amylase, present in the gastrointestinal tract.     

Regional Drug Delivery II: Relationship Between Drug Targeting Index and Pharmacokinetic Parameters for Three Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs Using the Rat Air Pouch Model of Inflammation

Purpose. To quantify the advantage gained by direct administration to a target site for two non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) piroxicam and diclofenac in the rat air pouch model of inflammation. To derive a model relating drug targeting index (DTI) to the pharmacokinetic parameters of the target and systemic sites, and to compare predictions with observations. Methods. DTI was calculated based on area under the concentration time curve at target (pouch) and systemic site (venous blood) following administration into and sampling from both sites. A model was derived relating DTI to systemic clearance, target permeability, plasma protein binding and fraction of the targeted dose that is systemically available. Results. Both NSAIDs exhibited linear pharmacokinetics over the dose ranges studies. They differed primarily in total body clearance which was approximately 16 fold greater for diclofenac (213 ml hr^–l per 250 g) than piroxicam (13 ml hr^–l per 250 g). Observed DTIs (11, 114 and 276 for piroxicam, S[ + ]ibuprofen [studied previously] and diclofenac) were ranked in order of total body clearance but were approximately 7.5 fold lower than predicted (101, 700 and 2214 respectively). Conclusions. The discrepancy was explained by the influx of the plasma binding protein, albumin, into the target site due to increased vascular permeability associated with the inflammatory response. The originally derived equation for DTI, which assumed only unbound drug diffuses across the target site, was modified to take into account the simultaneous flux of bound drug.     

Preparation,Characterization, and Pharmaceutical Application of Linear Dextrins. III. Drug Release from Fatty Suppository Bases Containing Amylodextrin

Drug release from fatty suppository bases containing a solid dispersion of diazepam with amylodextrin or a complex of prednisolone with amylodextrin was analyzed in a flow-through model. Being present as a suspension in the fatty base, particles of complex or solid dispersion are transported to the lipid–water interface by sedimentation. After entering the aqueous phase they partially dissolve. The suppositories showed increased drug release compared with the corresponding suppositories containing drug only. Because of the partial solubility of amylodextrin, drug release was lower than the release from drug–cyclodextrin complexes. Use of the soluble fraction of amylodextrin for both the solid dispersion and the complex further enhanced drug release, but it was still below that of drug–cyclodextrin complexes.