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Al-Kabariti AY, Arafat BT, Oriquat GA, Možná P, Jaidy H, Rehmani A, Patel K, Al-Qinna N, Alhnan MA. In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation of Dark Chocolate as Age-appropriate Oral Matrix. Eur J Pharm Sci 2024; 192:106646. [PMID: 37989467 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2023.106646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
Swallowing difficulties encountered by geriatric patients who undergo polypharmacy represent a significant challenge that hampers patient compliance and therapeutic management. As an appealing and sensory-pleasing, chocolate-based formulations have emerged as a potential alternative oral dosage form suitable for both the elderly and paediatric populations. However, the extent to which the incorporation of drugs into a chocolate matrix affects their oral availability remains unclear. Therefore, the objective of this investigation was to explore the in vitro and in vivo performance of an ibuprofen-based chocolate dosage form. A matrix based on dark chocolate and the model drug was prepared at two distinct temperatures: 50 and 80 °C. In vitro release studies revealed that ibuprofen formulated through co-melting at 80 °C exhibited a statistically significant slower drug release (p < 0.05) compared to formulations prepared at 50 °C in both FaSSGF (fasted-state simulated gastric fluid) and lipolysis media. The enzymatic degradation of chocolate in the presence of lipase accelerated in vitro ibuprofen release from chocolate matrices. To delve deeper into the bioavailability of ibuprofen within the chocolate formulations, we conducted an in vivo assessment, comparing the pharmacokinetic profiles of ibuprofen in its conventional suspension form with our chocolate-based dosage forms. A notable drop (p < 0.05) in the maximum serum concentration of ibuprofen when incorporated into co-melted or solid-suspension chocolate matrices. However, no significant differences in plasma exposure were observed between the two formulations. These findings shed a light on the potential of chocolate to extend of ibuprofen when integrated into various chocolate matrices, showcasing the potential held by these innovative formulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aya Y Al-Kabariti
- Department of Biopharmaceutics and Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Ahliyya Amman University, Amman 19328, Jordan; Pharmacological and Diagnostic Research Centre, Al-Ahliyya Amman University, Amman 19328, Jordan
| | - Basel T Arafat
- Faculty of Medical Sciences and Public Health, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, UK
| | - Ghaleb Ali Oriquat
- Pharmacological and Diagnostic Research Centre, Al-Ahliyya Amman University, Amman 19328, Jordan; Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Al-Ahliyya Amman University, Amman 19328, Jordan
| | - Petra Možná
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Hadeal Jaidy
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Asma Rehmani
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Kausar Patel
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Nidal Al-Qinna
- University of Petra Pharmaceutical Center (UPPC), Faculty of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of Petra, Amman, Jordan.
| | - Mohamed A Alhnan
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Medicine Research, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, UK.
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2
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Liu Y, M Leonova A, Royall PG, Abdillah Akbar BVEB, Cao Z, Jones SA, Isreb A, Hawcutt DB, Alhnan MA. Laser-cutting: A novel alternative approach for point-of-care manufacturing of bespoke tablets. Int J Pharm 2023; 647:123518. [PMID: 37852311 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2023.123518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
A novel subtractive manufacturing method to produce bespoke tablets with immediate and extended drug release is presented. This is the first report on applying fusion laser cutting to produce bespoke furosemide solid dosage forms based on pharmaceutical-grade polymeric carriers. Cylindric tablets of different sizes were produced by controlling the two-dimensional design of circles of the corresponding diameter. Immediate and extended drug release patterns were achieved by modifying the composition of the polymeric matrix. Thermal analysis and XRD indicated that furosemide was present in an amorphous form. The laser-cut tablets demonstrated no significant drug degradation (<2%) nor the formation of impurities were identified. Multi-linear regression was used to quantify the influences of laser-cutting process parameters (laser energy levels, scan speeds, and the number of laser applications) on the depth of the laser cut. The utility of this approach was exemplified by manufacturing tablets of accurate doses of furosemide. Unlike additive or formative manufacturing, the reported approach of subtractive manufacturing avoids the modification of the structure, e.g., the physical form of the drug or matrix density of the tablet during the production process. Hence, fusion laser cutting is less likely to modify critical quality attributes such as release patterns or drug contents. In a point-of-care manufacturing scenario, laser cutting offers a significant advantage of simplifying quality control and a real-time release of laser-cut products such as solid dosage forms and implants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujing Liu
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Medicine Research, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Anna M Leonova
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Medicine Research, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Paul G Royall
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Medicine Research, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Bambang V E B Abdillah Akbar
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Medicine Research, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Zhengge Cao
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Medicine Research, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Stuart A Jones
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Medicine Research, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Abdullah Isreb
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Daniel B Hawcutt
- NIHR Alder Hey Clinical Research Facility, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK; Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Mohamed A Alhnan
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Medicine Research, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, UK.
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3
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Kaba K, Purnell B, Liu Y, Royall PG, Alhnan MA. Computer numerical control (CNC) carving as an on-demand point-of-care manufacturing of solid dosage form: A digital alternative method for 3D printing. Int J Pharm 2023; 645:123390. [PMID: 37683980 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2023.123390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
Computer numerical control (CNC) carving is a widely used method of industrial subtractive manufacturing of wood, plastics, and metal products. However, there have been no previous reports of applying this approach to manufacture medicines. In this work, the novel method of tablet production using CNC carving is introduced for the first time. This report provides a proof-of-concept for applying subtractive manufacturing as an alternative to formative (powder compression) and additive (3D printing) manufacturing for the on-demand production of solid dosage forms. This exemplar manufacturing approach was employed to produce patient-specific hydrocortisone (HC) tablets for the treatment of children with congenital adrenal hyperplasia. A specially made drug-polymer cast based on polyethene glycol (PEG 6,000) and hydroxypropyl cellulose was produced using thermal casting. The cast was used as a workpiece and digitally carved using a small-scale 3-dimensional (3D) CNC carving. To establish the ability of this new approach to provide an accurate dose of HC, four different sizes of CNC carved tablet were manufactured to achieve HC doses of 2.5, 5, 7.5 and 10 mg with a relative standard deviation of the tablet weight in the range of 3.69-4.79%. In addition, batches of 2.5 and 5 mg HC tablets met the British Pharmacopeia standards for weight uniformity. Thermal analysis and X-ray powder diffraction indicated that the model drug was in amorphous form. In addition, HPLC analysis indicated a level of purity of 96.5 ± 1.1% of HC. In addition, the process yielded mechanically strong cylindrical tablets with tensile strength ranging from 0.49 to 1.6 MPa and friability values of <1%, whilst maintaining an aesthetic look. In vitro, HC release from the CNC-carved tablets was slower with larger tablet sizes and higher binder contents. This is the first report on applying CNC carving in the pharmaceutical context of producing solid dosage forms. The work showed the potential of this technology as an alternative method for the on-demand manufacturing of patient-specific dosage forms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazim Kaba
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Medicine Research, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London SE1 9NH, United Kingdom
| | - Bryn Purnell
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Medicine Research, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London SE1 9NH, United Kingdom
| | - Yujing Liu
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Medicine Research, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London SE1 9NH, United Kingdom
| | - Paul G Royall
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Medicine Research, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London SE1 9NH, United Kingdom
| | - Mohamed A Alhnan
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Medicine Research, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London SE1 9NH, United Kingdom.
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4
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Yang TL, Stogiannari M, Janeczko S, Khoshan M, Lin Y, Isreb A, Habashy R, Giebułtowic J, Peak M, Alhnan MA. Towards Point-of-Care Manufacturing and Analysis of Immediate-Release 3D Printed Hydrocortisone Tablets for The Treatment of Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia. Int J Pharm 2023:123072. [PMID: 37230368 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2023.123072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Hydrocortisone (HC) is the preferred drug in children with congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to its lower potency as well as fewer reports of side effects. Fused deposition modelling (FDM) 3D printing holds the potential to produce low-cost personalised doses for children at the point of care. However, the compatibility of the thermal process to produce immediate-release bespoke tablets for this thermally labile active is yet to be established. This work aims to develop immediate-release HC tablets using FDM 3D printing and assess drug contents as a critical quality attribute (CQA) using a compact, low-cost near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy as a process analytical technology (PAT). The FDM 3D printing temperature (140 °C) and drug concentration in the filament (10%-15% w/w) were critical parameters to meet the compendial criteria for drug contents and impurities. Using a compact low-cost NIR spectral device over a wavelength of 900-1700 nm, the drug contents of 3D printed tablets were assessed. Partial least squares (PLS) regression was used to develop individual calibration models to detect HC content in 3D printed tablets of lower drug contents, small caplet design, and relatively complex formula. The models demonstrated the ability to predict HC concentrations over a wide concentration range (0-15% w/w), which was confirmed by HPLC as a reference method. Ultimately, the capability of the NIR model had preceding dose verification performance on HC tablets, with linearity (R2 = 0.981) and accuracy (RMSECV = 0.46%). In the future, the integration of 3DP technology with non-destructive PAT techniques will accelerate the adoption of on-demand, individualised dosing in a clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tzuyi L Yang
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Medicine, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Kings College, London, UK
| | - Melpomeni Stogiannari
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Medicine, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Kings College, London, UK
| | - Sylwia Janeczko
- Faculty of Pharmacy with the Laboratory Medicine Division, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marva Khoshan
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Medicine, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Kings College, London, UK
| | - Yueyuan Lin
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Medicine, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Kings College, London, UK
| | - Abdullah Isreb
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Joanna Giebułtowic
- Faculty of Pharmacy with the Laboratory Medicine Division, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Matthew Peak
- Paediatric Medicines Research Unit, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, L12 2AP
| | - Mohamed A Alhnan
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Medicine, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Kings College, London, UK
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5
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Yang TL, Szewc J, Zhong L, Leonova A, Giebułtowicz J, Habashy R, Isreb A, Alhnan MA. The Use of Near-infrared as Process Analytical Technology (PAT) during 3D Printing Tablets at the Point-of-Care. Int J Pharm 2023:123073. [PMID: 37230372 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2023.123073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Fused deposition modelling (FDM) is one of the most researched 3D printing technologies that holds great potential for low-cost manufacturing of personalised medicine. To achieve real-time release, timely quality control is a major challenge for applying 3D printing technologies as a point-of-care (PoC) manufacturing approach. This work proposes the use of a low-cost and compact near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy modality as a process analytical technology (PAT) to monitor a critical quality attribute (drug content) during and after FDM 3D printing process. 3D printed caffeine tablets were used to manifest the feasibility of the NIR model as a quantitative analytical procedure and dose verification method. Caffeine tablets (0-40% w/w) were fabricated using polyvinyl alcohol and FDM 3D printing. The predictive performance of the NIR model was demonstrated in linearity (correlation coefficient, R2) and accuracy (root mean square error of prediction, RMSEP). The actual drug content values were determined using the reference high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method. The model of full-completion caffeine tablets demonstrated linearity (R2 = 0.985) and accuracy (RMSEP =1.4%), indicated to be an alternative dose quantitation method for 3D printed products. The ability of the models to assess caffeine contents during the 3D printing process could not be accurately achieved using the model built with complete tablets. Instead, by building a predictive model for each completion stage of 20%, 40%, 60% and 80%, the model of different completion caffeine tablets displayed linearity (R2 of 0.991, 0.99, 0.987, and 0.983) and accuracy (RMSEP of 2.22%, 1.65%, 1.41%, 0.83%), respectively. Overall, this study demonstrated the feasibility of a low NIR model as a non-destructive, low-cost, compact, and rapid analysis dose verification method enabling the real-time release to facilitate 3D printing medicine production in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tzuyi L Yang
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Medicine, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, SE1 9NH, UK
| | - Jakub Szewc
- Faculty of Pharmacy with the Laboratory Medicine Division, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Lingu Zhong
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Medicine, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, SE1 9NH, UK
| | - Anna Leonova
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Medicine, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, SE1 9NH, UK
| | - Joanna Giebułtowicz
- Faculty of Pharmacy with the Laboratory Medicine Division, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Abdullah Isreb
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool L3 3AF, UK
| | - Mohamed A Alhnan
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Medicine, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, SE1 9NH, UK.
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6
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O'Donovan A, Duncan JC, Li KY, Del-Nevo L, Gill A, Peak M, Alhnan MA. The Use of Special-Order Products in England between 2012-2020: An Insight into The Need for Point-of-Care Manufacturing. Int J Pharm 2023; 637:122801. [PMID: 36878418 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2023.122801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
Point-of-care manufacturing such as 3D printing has recently received significant attention from regulatory bodies and the pharmaceutical industry. However, little information is available on the quantity of the most prescribed patient-specific items, their dosage form, and why they were required to be dispensed. In England, 'Specials' are unlicensed medicines formulated to meet the requirements of a specific prescription, prescribed if no suitable licensed alternative exists. This work aims to quantify and examine trends in the prescribing of 'Specials' in England during 2012-2020, using the NHS Business Services Authority (NHSBSA) database. Quarterly prescription data from NHSBSA for the top 500 'Specials' by quantity from 2012-2020 were compiled yearly. The changes in net ingredient cost, the number of items, British National Formulary (BNF) drug category, dosage form, and a potential reason for requiring a 'Special' were identified. In addition, the cost-per-unit was calculated for each category. The total spending on 'Specials' decreased by 62% from £109.2M in 2012 to £41.4M in 2020, primarily due to a 55.1% reduction in the number of 'Specials' items issued. The most frequently prescribed dosage form type of 'Special' was oral dosage forms (59.6% of all items in 2020) particularly oral liquids. The most common reason for prescribing a 'Special' was an inappropriate dosage form (74% of all 'Specials' in 2020). The total number of items dropped over the 8 years as commonly prescribed 'Specials' such as melatonin and cholecalciferol became licensed. In conclusion, the total spending on 'Specials' dropped from 2012-2020 primarily due to a reduction in the number of 'Specials' items issued and pricing change in the Drug tariff. Based on the current demand for 'special order' products, these findings are instrumental for formulation scientists to identify 'Special' formulations to design the next generation of extemporaneous medicine to be produced at the point of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna O'Donovan
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Medicine Research, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, School of Cancer & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kings College, London, SE1 9NH
| | - Jennifer C Duncan
- Paediatric Medicines Research Unit, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, L12 2AP
| | - Kuan-Yin Li
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Medicine Research, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, School of Cancer & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kings College, London, SE1 9NH
| | - Lucy Del-Nevo
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Medicine Research, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, School of Cancer & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kings College, London, SE1 9NH
| | - Andrea Gill
- Paediatric Medicines Research Unit, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, L12 2AP
| | - Matthew Peak
- Paediatric Medicines Research Unit, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, L12 2AP
| | - Mohamed A Alhnan
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Medicine Research, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, School of Cancer & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kings College, London, SE1 9NH.
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Said-Elbahr R, Nasr M, Alhnan MA, Taha I, Sammour O. Simultaneous pulmonary administration of celecoxib and naringin using a nebulization-friendly nanoemulsion: A device-targeted delivery for treatment of lung cancer. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2022; 19:611-622. [PMID: 35538642 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2022.2076833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lung cancer is a principal cause of death worldwide, and its treatment is very challenging. Nebulization offers a promising means of targeting drugs to their site of action in the lung. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS In the present study, nebulizable oil in water nanoemulsion formulations were co-loaded with naringin/celecoxib, and tested for pulmonary administration by different nebulizer types. RESULTS : The translucent appearance of nanoemulsion formulations was revealed, with particle size (75-106 nm), zeta potential (-3.42 to -4.86 mV), and controlled in-vitro release profiles for both drugs. The nanoemulsions showed favourable stability profiles, and superior cytotoxicity on A549 lung cancer cells. Aerosolization studies on the selected nanoemulsion formulation revealed its high stability during nebulization, with the generation of an aerosol of small volume median diameter, and mass median aerodynamic diameter lower than 5 µm. Moreover, it demonstrated considerable safety and bioaccumulation in lung tissues, in addition to accumulation in the brain, liver and bones which are the main organs to which lung cancer metastasizes. CONCLUSIONS Nanoemulsion proved to be a promising nebulizable system, which paves the way for treatment of pulmonary diseases other than lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramy Said-Elbahr
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt.,School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Maha Nasr
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed A Alhnan
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK.,Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Ismail Taha
- Hot lab. Centre, Atomic Energy Authority, Cairo, Egypt.,Faculty of Pharmacy, AL Bayan University, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Omaima Sammour
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
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Bracken L, Habashy R, McDonough E, Wilson F, Shakeshaft J, Ohia U, Garcia-Sorribes T, Isreb A, Alhnan MA, Peak M. Creating Acceptable Tablets 3D (CAT 3D): A Feasibility Study to Evaluate the Acceptability of 3D Printed Tablets in Children and Young People. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14030516. [PMID: 35335892 PMCID: PMC8954179 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14030516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
3D printing (3DP) has been proposed as a novel approach for personalising dosage forms for children and young people (CYP). Owing to its low cost and the lack of need for finishing steps, fused deposing modelling (FDM) 3DP has been heavily researched in solid dosage forms (SDFs) manufacturing. However, the swallowability and overall acceptability of 3D printed dosage forms are yet to be established. This work is the first to evaluate the acceptability of different sized 3D printed placebo SDFs in CYP (aged 4–12 years). All participants had previously participated in a feasibility study (CAT study) that assessed the swallowability and acceptability of different sized GMP manufactured placebo conventional film-coated tablets, and therefore only attempted to swallow one 3D printed tablet. The participants assessed the swallowability, acceptability, mouthfeel, volume of water consumed, and taste of the sample using a 5-point hedonic facial scale on a participant questionnaire. A total of 30 participants were recruited, 87% of whom successfully swallowed the 3D printed tablet that they attempted to take. Attributes of the 3D printed tablets were scored as acceptable by the following percentage of participants—swallowability (80%), mouthfeel/texture (87%), the volume of water consumed (80%), taste (93%), and overall acceptability (83%). Overall, 77% of children reported they would be happy to take the tablet every day if it was a medicine. Participants were also asked which tablets felt better in the mouth—the film-coated tablets or the 3D printed tablets, and the most popular response (43%) was that both were acceptable. This study shows that FDM-based 3D printed SDFs may be a suitable dosage form for children aged 4–12 years. The results from this feasibility study will be used to inform a larger, definitive study looking at the acceptability of 3D printed tablets in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise Bracken
- Paediatric Medicines Research Unit, Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool L12 2AP, UK; (L.B.); (E.M.); (J.S.)
| | - Rober Habashy
- School of Medicine and Biomedical Science, University of Central Lancashire, Preston PR1 2HE, UK; (R.H.); (T.G.-S.); (A.I.)
| | - Emma McDonough
- Paediatric Medicines Research Unit, Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool L12 2AP, UK; (L.B.); (E.M.); (J.S.)
| | - Fiona Wilson
- NIHR Alder Hey Clinical Research Facility, Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool L12 2AP, UK; (F.W.); (U.O.)
| | - Joanne Shakeshaft
- Paediatric Medicines Research Unit, Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool L12 2AP, UK; (L.B.); (E.M.); (J.S.)
| | - Udeme Ohia
- NIHR Alder Hey Clinical Research Facility, Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool L12 2AP, UK; (F.W.); (U.O.)
| | - Tamar Garcia-Sorribes
- School of Medicine and Biomedical Science, University of Central Lancashire, Preston PR1 2HE, UK; (R.H.); (T.G.-S.); (A.I.)
| | - Abdullah Isreb
- School of Medicine and Biomedical Science, University of Central Lancashire, Preston PR1 2HE, UK; (R.H.); (T.G.-S.); (A.I.)
| | - Mohamed A. Alhnan
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Medicine Research, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King’s College, London SE1 9NH, UK
- Correspondence: (M.A.A.); (M.P.); Tel.: +44-(0)20-7848-7265 (M.A.A.)
| | - Matthew Peak
- Paediatric Medicines Research Unit, Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool L12 2AP, UK; (L.B.); (E.M.); (J.S.)
- NIHR Alder Hey Clinical Research Facility, Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool L12 2AP, UK; (F.W.); (U.O.)
- Correspondence: (M.A.A.); (M.P.); Tel.: +44-(0)20-7848-7265 (M.A.A.)
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9
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Habashy R, Khoder M, Isreb A, Alhnan MA. A Novel Multilayer Natural Coating for Fed-State Gastric Protection. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14020283. [PMID: 35214016 PMCID: PMC8879697 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14020283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Several nutraceutical products require gastric protection against the hostile environment in the stomach. Currently marketed synthetic and semi-synthetic coatings suffer from major shortcomings such as poor gastric protection, slow-release response to pH change, and the use of artificial ingredients. The challenge of coating natural products is further exacerbated by the relatively high gastric pH in the fed state. In this work, a novel natural enteric coating is presented as a breakthrough alternative to current solutions. Two coating systems were devised: (i) a triple-layer coating that comprises a wax layer embedded between two alginate-based coatings, and (ii) a double-layer coating, where an overcoat of organic acids (fumaric or citric acid) is applied to an alginate-based coating. The multi-layer architecture did not impact the pH-responsive nature of the coating even when more biologically relevant Krebs bicarbonate buffer of lower buffer capacity was used. Interestingly, the gastric protection barrier of organic acid-based coating remained resistant at elevated gastric pH 2, 3, or 4 for 2 h. This is the first report of using an alginate-based coating to provide gastric protection against fed-state stomach conditions (pH 2–4). Being biodegradable, naturally occurring, and with no limit on daily intake, the reported novel coating provides a superior platform to current coating solutions for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rober Habashy
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston PR1 2HE, UK; (R.H.); (A.I.)
| | - Mouhamad Khoder
- Drug Discovery, Delivery and Patient Care (DDDPC) Theme, School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University London, Kingston Upon Thames, London KT1 2EE, UK
- Correspondence: (M.K.); (M.A.A.); Tel.: +44-(0)-20-8417-4487 (M.K.); +44-(0)-20-7848-7265 (M.A.A.)
| | - Abdullah Isreb
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston PR1 2HE, UK; (R.H.); (A.I.)
| | - Mohamed A. Alhnan
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Medicine Research, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King’s College London, London SE1 9NH, UK
- Correspondence: (M.K.); (M.A.A.); Tel.: +44-(0)-20-8417-4487 (M.K.); +44-(0)-20-7848-7265 (M.A.A.)
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Garanti T, Alhnan MA, Wan KW. The potential of nanotherapeutics to target brain tumors: current challenges and future opportunities. Nanomedicine (Lond) 2021; 16:1833-1837. [PMID: 34251278 DOI: 10.2217/nnm-2021-0134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Tanem Garanti
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Cyprus International University, Haspolat, Nicosia, 99258, Cyprus via Mersin 10, Turkey
| | - Mohamed A Alhnan
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, SE1 9NH, UK
| | - Ka-Wai Wan
- School of Pharmacy & Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, PR1 2HE, UK
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11
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Patel SK, Khoder M, Peak M, Alhnan MA. Controlling drug release with additive manufacturing-based solutions. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 174:369-386. [PMID: 33895213 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.04.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
3D printing is an innovative manufacturing technology with great potential to revolutionise solid dosage forms. Novel features of 3D printing technology confer advantage over conventional solid dosage form manufacturing technologies, including rapid prototyping and an unparalleled capability to fabricate complex geometries with spatially separated conformations. Such a novel technology could transform the pharmaceutical industry, enabling the production of highly personalised dosage forms with well-defined release profiles. In this work, we review the current state of the art of using additive manufacturing for predicting and understanding drug release from 3D printed novel structures. Furthermore, we describe a wide spectrum of 3D printing technologies, materials, procedure, and processing parameters used to fabricate fundamentally different matrices with different drug releases. The different methods to manipulate drug release patterns including the surface area-to-mass ratio, infill pattern, geometry, and composition, are critically evaluated. Moreover, the drug release mechanisms and models that could aid exploiting the release profile are also covered. Finally, this review also covers the design opportunities alongside the technical and regulatory challenges that these rapidly evolving technologies present.
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12
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Yousaf SS, Isreb A, Khan I, Mewsiga E, Elhissi A, Ahmed W, Alhnan MA. Impact of nanosizing on the formation and characteristics of polymethacrylate films: micro- versus nano-suspensions. Pharm Dev Technol 2021; 26:729-739. [PMID: 34034606 DOI: 10.1080/10837450.2021.1931886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Aqueous-based film coating suspensions are associated with reliance on alkalinising reagents and poor film formation. The impact of particle size in this process and resultant film properties remains unclear. This study offers the first direct comparison of film formation properties between aqueous micro- and nano-suspensions of the enteric polymer Eudragit S100. High-pressure homogenisation was employed to produce nano-suspensions of the enteric polymer. Formed enteric suspensions (micro- and nano-) were evaluated in terms of size, morphology, and ability to form film; with resultant films analysed in terms of; film thickness, mechanical and thermoplastic properties, water uptake, weight loss, and drug permeability in acidic medium. High-pressure homogenisation yielded particles within a submicron range (150-200 nm). Produced nano-suspensions formed significantly thinner films (p < 0.01), at lower plasticiser concentrations, than films cast from micro-suspensions (differences in thickness up to 100 µm); however, exhibited comparative gastro-resistant properties (p > 0.05) in terms of water uptake (∼25% w/w), weight loss (<16% w/w) and drug permeability (<0.1%). Interestingly, nano-suspension-based films exhibited lower glass transition temperatures (Tg) (p < 0.01), when compared to films cast from micro-suspensions (∼7-20 °C difference), indicating enhanced plasticisation. This was reflected in film mechanical properties; where nano-suspension-based films demonstrated significantly lower tensile strength (p < 0.01) and higher percentage elongation (p < 0.05), suggesting high elasticity. Thinner, highly elastic films were formed from nano-suspensions, compared to films cast from micro-suspensions, exhibiting comparative properties; obviating the need for alkalinising agents and high concentrations of plasticiser.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sakib Saleem Yousaf
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Abdullah Isreb
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Iftikhar Khan
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Abdelbary Elhissi
- College of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences Section, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Waqar Ahmed
- College of Science/School of Mathematics and Physics, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, UK
| | - Mohamed A Alhnan
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK.,Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, School of Cancer & Pharmaceutical Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
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13
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Pereira BC, Isreb A, Isreb M, Forbes RT, Oga EF, Alhnan MA. Computer‐aided Drug Design: Additive Manufacturing of a Point‐of‐Care “Polypill:” Fabrication of Concept Capsules of Complex Geometry with Bespoke Release against Cardiovascular Disease (Adv. Healthcare Mater. 13/2020). Adv Healthc Mater 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202070042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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14
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Garanti T, Alhnan MA, Wan KW. RGD-decorated solid lipid nanoparticles enhance tumor targeting, penetration and anticancer effect of asiatic acid. Nanomedicine (Lond) 2020; 15:1567-1583. [DOI: 10.2217/nnm-2020-0035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: Asiatic acid (AA) is a promising anticancer agent, however, its delivery to glioblastoma is a major challenge. This work investigates the beneficial therapeutic efficacy of RGD-conjugated solid lipid nanoparticles (RGD-SLNs) for the selective targeting of AA to gliblastoma. Materials & methods: AA-containing RGD-SLNs were prepared using two different PEG-linker size. Targetability and efficacy were tested using monolayer cells and spheroid tumor models. Results: RGD-SLNs significantly improved cytotoxicity of AA against U87-MG monolayer cells and enhanced cellular uptake compared with non-RGD-containing SLNs. In spheroid models, AA-containing RGD-SLNs showed superior control in tumor growth, improved cytotoxicity and enhanced spheroid penetration when compared with AA alone or non-RGD-containing SLNs. Conclusion: This study illustrates the potential of AA-loaded RGD-SLNs as efficacious target-specific treatment for glioblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanem Garanti
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Cyprus International University, Haspolat, Nicosia, 99258, Cyprus via Mersin 10, Turkey
| | - Mohamed A Alhnan
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Ka-Wai Wan
- School of Pharmacy & Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, PR1 2HE, UK
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15
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Pereira BC, Isreb A, Isreb M, Forbes RT, Oga EF, Alhnan MA. Additive Manufacturing of a Point-of-Care "Polypill:" Fabrication of Concept Capsules of Complex Geometry with Bespoke Release against Cardiovascular Disease. Adv Healthc Mater 2020; 9:e2000236. [PMID: 32510859 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202000236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 05/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Polypharmacy is often needed for the management of cardiovascular diseases and is associated with poor adherence to treatment. Hence, highly flexible and adaptable systems are in high demand to accommodate complex therapeutic regimens. A novel design approach is employed to fabricate highly modular 3D printed "polypill" capsules with bespoke release patterns for multiple drugs. Complex structures are devised using combined fused deposition modeling 3D printing aligned with hot-filling syringes. Two unibody highly modular capsule skeletons with four separate compartments are devised: i) concentric format: two external compartments for early release while two inner compartments for delayed release, or ii) parallel format: where nondissolving capsule shells with free-pass corridors and dissolution rate-limiting pores are used to achieve immediate and extended drug releases, respectively. Controlling drug release is achieved through digital manipulation of shell thickness in the concentric format or the size of the rate limiting pores in the parallel format. Target drug release profiles are achieved with variable orders and configurations, hence confirming the modular nature with capacity to accommodate therapeutics of different properties. Projection of the pharmacokinetic profile of this digital system capsules reveal how the developed approach can be applied in dose individualization and achieving multiple desired pharmacokinetic profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz C. Pereira
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical SciencesUniversity of Central Lancashire Fylde road Preston PR1 2HE UK
| | - Abdullah Isreb
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical SciencesUniversity of Central Lancashire Fylde road Preston PR1 2HE UK
| | - Mohammad Isreb
- School of PharmacyUniversity of Bradford Richmond Road Brardford BD7 1DP UK
| | - Robert T. Forbes
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical SciencesUniversity of Central Lancashire Fylde road Preston PR1 2HE UK
| | - Enoche F. Oga
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical SciencesUniversity of Central Lancashire Fylde road Preston PR1 2HE UK
| | - Mohamed A. Alhnan
- Institute of Pharmaceutical ScienceKing's College London 5.77 Franklin Wilkins Building, 150 Stamford Street London SE1 9NH UK
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16
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Khoder M, Schropp V, Zeitler S, Pereira B, Habashy R, Royall PG, Wang JTW, Alhnan MA. A novel natural GRAS-grade enteric coating for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical products. Int J Pharm 2020; 584:119392. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2020.119392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2019] [Revised: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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17
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Rycerz K, Stepien KA, Czapiewska M, Arafat BT, Habashy R, Isreb A, Peak M, Alhnan MA. Embedded 3D Printing of Novel Bespoke Soft Dosage Form Concept for Pediatrics. Pharmaceutics 2019; 11:pharmaceutics11120630. [PMID: 31779123 PMCID: PMC6956071 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics11120630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2019] [Revised: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Embedded three-dimensional printing (e-3DP) is an emerging method for additive manufacturing where semi-solid materials are extruded within a solidifying liquid matrix. Here, we present the first example of employing e-3DP in the pharmaceutical field and demonstrate the fabrication of bespoke chewable dosage forms with dual drug loading for potential use in pediatrics. LegoTM-like chewable bricks made of edible soft material (gelatin-based matrix) were produced by directly extruding novel printing patterns of model drug ink (embedded phase) into a liquid gelatin-based matrix (embedding phase) at an elevated temperature (70 °C) to then solidify at room temperature. Dose titration of the two model drugs (paracetamol and ibuprofen) was possible by using specially designed printing patterns of the embedded phase to produce varying doses. A linearity [R2 = 0.9804 (paracetamol) and 0.9976 (ibuprofen)] was achieved between percentage of completion of printing patterns and achieved doses using a multi-step method. The impact of embedded phase rheological behavior, the printing speed and the needle size of the embedded phase were examined. Owning to their appearance, modular nature, ease of personalizing dose and geometry, and tailoring and potential inclusion of various materials, this new dosage form concept holds a substantial promise for novel dosage forms in pediatrics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Rycerz
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire PR1 2HE, UK; (K.R.); (K.A.S.); (M.C.); (R.H.); (A.I.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy with the Laboratory Medicine Division, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Adam Stepien
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire PR1 2HE, UK; (K.R.); (K.A.S.); (M.C.); (R.H.); (A.I.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy with the Laboratory Medicine Division, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marta Czapiewska
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire PR1 2HE, UK; (K.R.); (K.A.S.); (M.C.); (R.H.); (A.I.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Toruń, Jurasza 2 St., 85-089 Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Basel T. Arafat
- Faculty of Medical Sciences and Public Health, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford CM1 1SQ, UK;
| | - Rober Habashy
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire PR1 2HE, UK; (K.R.); (K.A.S.); (M.C.); (R.H.); (A.I.)
| | - Abdullah Isreb
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire PR1 2HE, UK; (K.R.); (K.A.S.); (M.C.); (R.H.); (A.I.)
| | - Matthew Peak
- Paediatric Medicines Research Unit, Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool L12 2AP, UK;
| | - Mohamed A. Alhnan
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, King’s College London, London SE1 9NH, UK
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +44-(0)20-7848-7265
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18
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Pereira BC, Isreb A, Forbes RT, Dores F, Habashy R, Petit JB, Alhnan MA, Oga EF. 'Temporary Plasticiser': A novel solution to fabricate 3D printed patient-centred cardiovascular 'Polypill' architectures. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2018; 135:94-103. [PMID: 30579852 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2018.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2018] [Revised: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Hypertension and dyslipidaemia are modifiable risk factors associated with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and often require a complex therapeutic regimen. The administration of several medicines is commonly associated with poor levels of adherence among patients, to which World Health Organisation (WHO) proposed a fixed-dose combination unit (polypill) as a strategy to improve adherence. In this work, we demonstrate the fabrication of patient-specific polypills for the treatment of CVDs by fused deposition modelling (FDM) 3D printing and introduce a novel solution to meet critical quality attributes. The construction of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)-based polypills containing four model drugs (lisinopril dihydrate, indapamide, rosuvastatin calcium and amlodipine besylate) was revealed for the first time. The impact of tablet architecture was explored using multi-layered and unimatrix structures. The novel approach of using distilled water as a 'temporary co-plasticiser' is reported and was found to significantly lower the extruding (90 °C) and 3D printing (150 °C) temperatures from 170 °C and 210 °C respectively, with consequent reduction in thermal stress to the chemicals. XRD indicated that lisinopril dihydrate and amlodipine besylate maintained their crystalline form while indapamide and rosuvastatin calcium were essentially in amorphous form in the PVA tablets. From the multilayer polypills, the release profile of each drug was dependent on its position in the multilayer. In addition to the multilayer architecture offering a higher flexibility in dose titration and a more adaptive solution to meet the expectations of patient-centred therapy, we identify that it also allows orchestrating the release of drugs of different physicochemical characteristics. Adopting such an approach opens up a pathway towards low-cost multidrug delivery systems such as tablets, stents or implants for wider range of globally approved actives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz C Pereira
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK
| | - Abdullah Isreb
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK
| | - Robert T Forbes
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK
| | - Filipa Dores
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK
| | - Rober Habashy
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK
| | - Jean-Baptiste Petit
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK
| | - Mohamed A Alhnan
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, King's College London, London, UK.
| | - Enoche F Oga
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK.
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19
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Sadia M, Isreb A, Abbadi I, Isreb M, Aziz D, Selo A, Timmins P, Alhnan MA. From 'fixed dose combinations' to 'a dynamic dose combiner': 3D printed bi-layer antihypertensive tablets. Eur J Pharm Sci 2018; 123:484-494. [PMID: 30041029 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2018.07.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2017] [Revised: 07/14/2018] [Accepted: 07/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
There is an increased evidence for treating hypertension by a combination of two or more drugs. Increasing the number of daily intake of tablets has been reported to negatively affect the compliance of patients. Therefore, numerous fixed dose combinations (FDCs) have been introduced to the market. However, the inherent rigid nature of FDCs does not allow the titration of the dose of each single component for an individual patient's needs. In this work, flexible dose combinations of two anti-hypertensive drugs in a single bilayer tablet with a range of doses were fabricated using dual fused deposition modelling (FDM) 3D printer. Enalapril maleate (EM) and hydrochlorothiazide (HCT) loaded filaments were produced via hot-melt extrusion (HME). Computer software was utilised to design sets of oval bi-layer tablets of individualised doses. Thermal analysis and x-ray diffractometer (XRD) indicated that HCT remained crystalline in the polymeric matrix whilst EM appeared to be in an amorphous form. The interaction between anionic EM and cationic methacrylate polymer may have contributed to a drop in the glass transition temperature (Tg) of the filament and obviated the need for a plasticiser. Across all tablet sets, the methacrylate polymeric matrix provided immediate drug release profiles. This dynamic dosing system maintained the advantages of FDCs while providing a superior flexibility of dosing range, hence offering an optimal clinical solution to hypertension therapy in a patient-centric healthcare service.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muzna Sadia
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK
| | - Abdullah Isreb
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK
| | - Ibrahim Abbadi
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK
| | - Mohammad Isreb
- School of Pharmacy, University of Bradford, Richmond Road, Bradford, UK
| | - David Aziz
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK
| | - Amjad Selo
- School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Peter Timmins
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, UK
| | - Mohamed A Alhnan
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK.
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20
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Arafat B, Qinna N, Cieszynska M, Forbes RT, Alhnan MA. Tailored on demand anti-coagulant dosing: An in vitro and in vivo evaluation of 3D printed purpose-designed oral dosage forms. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2018; 128:282-289. [PMID: 29673871 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2018.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2017] [Revised: 03/08/2018] [Accepted: 04/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Coumarin therapy has been associated with high levels of inter- and intra-individual variation in the required dose to reach a therapeutic anticoagulation outcome. Therefore, a dynamic system that is able to achieve accurate delivery of a warfarin dose is of significant importance. Here we assess the ability of 3D printing to fabricate and deliver tailored individualised precision dosing using in-vitro and in-vivo models. Sodium warfarin loaded filaments were compounded using hot melt extrusion (HME) and further fabricated via fused deposition modelling (FDM) 3D printing to produce capsular-ovoid-shaped dosage forms loaded at 200 or 400 µg dose. The solid dosage forms and comparator warfarin aqueous solutions were administered by oral gavage to Sprague-Dawley rats. A novel UV imaging approach indicated that the erosion of the methacrylate matrix was at a rate of 16.4 and 15.2 µm/min for horizontal and vertical planes respectively. In vivo, 3D printed forms were as proportionately effective as their comparative solution form in doubling plasma exposure following a doubling of warfarin dose (184% versus 192% respectively). The 3D printed ovoids showed a lower Cmax of warfarin (1.51 and 3.33 mg/mL versus 2.5 and 6.44 mg/mL) and a longer Tmax (6 and 3.7 versus 4 and 1.5 h) in comparison to liquid formulation. This work demonstrates for the first time in vivo, the potential of FDM 3D printing to produce a tailored specific dosage form and to accurately titrate coumarin dose response to an individual patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basel Arafat
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK; Faculty of Medical Sciences and Public Health, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, UK
| | - Nidal Qinna
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of Petra, Amman, Jordan
| | - Milena Cieszynska
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK
| | - Robert T Forbes
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK
| | - Mohamed A Alhnan
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK.
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21
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Arafat B, Wojsz M, Isreb A, Forbes RT, Isreb M, Ahmed W, Arafat T, Alhnan MA. Tablet fragmentation without a disintegrant: A novel design approach for accelerating disintegration and drug release from 3D printed cellulosic tablets. Eur J Pharm Sci 2018; 118:191-199. [PMID: 29559404 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2018.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2017] [Revised: 03/08/2018] [Accepted: 03/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Fused deposition modelling (FDM) 3D printing has shown the most immediate potential for on-demand dose personalisation to suit particular patient's needs. However, FDM 3D printing often involves employing a relatively large molecular weight thermoplastic polymer and results in extended release pattern. It is therefore essential to fast-track drug release from the 3D printed objects. This work employed an innovative design approach of tablets with unique built-in gaps (Gaplets) with the aim of accelerating drug release. The novel tablet design is composed of 9 repeating units (blocks) connected with 3 bridges to allow the generation of 8 gaps. The impact of size of the block, the number of bridges and the spacing between different blocks was investigated. Increasing the inter-block space reduced mechanical resistance of the unit, however, tablets continued to meet pharmacopeial standards for friability. Upon introduction into gastric medium, the 1 mm spaces gaplet broke into mini-structures within 4 min and met the USP criteria of immediate release products (86.7% drug release at 30 min). Real-time ultraviolet (UV) imaging indicated that the cellulosic matrix expanded due to swelling of hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC) upon introduction to the dissolution medium. This was followed by a steady erosion of the polymeric matrix at a rate of 8 μm/min. The design approach was more efficient than a comparison conventional formulation approach of adding disintegrants to accelerate tablet disintegration and drug release. This work provides a novel example where computer-aided design was instrumental at modifying the performance of solid dosage forms. Such an example may serve as the foundation for a new generation of dosage forms with complicated geometric structures to achieve functionality that is usually achieved by a sophisticated formulation approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basel Arafat
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK; Faculty of Medical Sciences and Public Health, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, UK
| | - Magdalena Wojsz
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK; Faculty of Pharmacy with the Laboratory Medicine Division, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Abdullah Isreb
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK
| | - Robert T Forbes
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK
| | - Mohammad Isreb
- School of Pharmacy, University of Bradford, Richmond Road, Bradford, UK
| | - Waqar Ahmed
- College of Science/School of Mathematics and Physics, University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool, Lincoln, Lincolnshire, UK
| | - Tawfiq Arafat
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, Petra University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Mohamed A Alhnan
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK.
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22
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Sadia M, Arafat B, Ahmed W, Forbes RT, Alhnan MA. Channelled tablets: An innovative approach to accelerating drug release from 3D printed tablets. J Control Release 2018; 269:355-363. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2017.11.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 218] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2017] [Revised: 11/10/2017] [Accepted: 11/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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23
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El Nemr S, Al-Najjar BY, Omer HK, Elhissi AMA, Alhnan MA. Studies of the precipitation pattern of paclitaxel in intravenous infusions and rat plasma using laser nephelometry. Pharm Dev Technol 2017; 23:67-75. [PMID: 28696155 DOI: 10.1080/10837450.2017.1345940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Cremophor EL (CrEL) is commonly used to solubilize paclitaxel (Ptx); a widely established anticancer agent used against many types of cancer. Using laser-based microplate nephelometry, in this work we assessed the precipitation kinetics of Ptx in CrEL-containing formulations upon dilutions with different infusion media or upon introduction into rat plasma. The precipitation profile of Ptx was assessed for a Taxol-like formulation and compared with a preparation with reduced CrEL content. These two formulations were diluted at various ratios in compatible infusion media and with or without rat plasma. The percentages of Ptx precipitated in dilution media and protein-binding in plasma were quantified using HPLC. The findings of turbidity measurements were in good agreement with HPLC. Despite the presence of albumin, it was possible to assess turbidity within infusion solutions and predict Ptx precipitation. Upon addition to plasma, no precipitation in Taxol-like formulation occurred after 2 h. In contrast, precipitation occurred immediately in CrEL-reduced formulation. It is possible that the high percentage of protein-bound Ptx in plasma (98.5-99.2%) has inhibited drug precipitation. Turbidity measurements using laser nephelometry can provide a rapid screening tool when developing intravenous formulations for poorly soluble drugs, such as Ptx and assess its stability upon dilution in animal plasma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaza El Nemr
- a School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences , University of Central Lancashire , Preston , UK
| | - Basma Yahya Al-Najjar
- a School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences , University of Central Lancashire , Preston , UK
| | - Huner K Omer
- a School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences , University of Central Lancashire , Preston , UK
| | - Abdelbary M A Elhissi
- b Pharmaceutical Sciences Section, College of Pharmacy , Qatar University , Doha , Qatar
| | - Mohamed A Alhnan
- a School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences , University of Central Lancashire , Preston , UK
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Okwuosa TC, Pereira BC, Arafat B, Cieszynska M, Isreb A, Alhnan MA. Fabricating a Shell-Core Delayed Release Tablet Using Dual FDM 3D Printing for Patient-Centred Therapy. Pharm Res 2016; 34:427-437. [PMID: 27943014 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-016-2073-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 166] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2016] [Accepted: 11/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Individualizing gastric-resistant tablets is associated with major challenges for clinical staff in hospitals and healthcare centres. This work aims to fabricate gastric-resistant 3D printed tablets using dual FDM 3D printing. METHODS The gastric-resistant tablets were engineered by employing a range of shell-core designs using polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and methacrylic acid co-polymer for core and shell structures respectively. Filaments for both core and shell were compounded using a twin-screw hot-melt extruder (HME). CAD software was utilized to design a capsule-shaped core with a complementary shell of increasing thicknesses (0.17, 0.35, 0.52, 0.70 or 0.87 mm). The physical form of the drug and its integrity following an FDM 3D printing were assessed using x-ray powder diffractometry (XRPD), thermal analysis and HPLC. RESULTS A shell thickness ≥0.52 mm was deemed necessary in order to achieve sufficient core protection in the acid medium. The technology proved viable for incorporating different drug candidates; theophylline, budesonide and diclofenac sodium. XRPD indicated the presence of theophylline crystals whilst budesonide and diclofenac sodium remained amorphous in the PVP matrix of the filaments and 3D printed tablets. Fabricated tablets demonstrated gastric resistant properties and a pH responsive drug release pattern in both phosphate and bicarbonate buffers. CONCLUSIONS Despite its relatively limited resolution, FDM 3D printing proved to be a suitable platform for a single-process fabrication of delayed release tablets. This work reveals the potential of dual FDM 3D printing as a unique platform for personalising delayed release tablets to suit an individual patient's needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tochukwu C Okwuosa
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK
| | - Beatriz C Pereira
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK
| | - Basel Arafat
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK
| | - Milena Cieszynska
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK
| | - Abdullah Isreb
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK
| | - Mohamed A Alhnan
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK.
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Sadia M, Sośnicka A, Arafat B, Isreb A, Ahmed W, Kelarakis A, Alhnan MA. Adaptation of pharmaceutical excipients to FDM 3D printing for the fabrication of patient-tailored immediate release tablets. Int J Pharm 2016; 513:659-668. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2016.09.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 198] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2016] [Revised: 09/13/2016] [Accepted: 09/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Paprskářová A, Možná P, Oga EF, Elhissi A, Alhnan MA. Instrumentation of Flow-Through USP IV Dissolution Apparatus to Assess Poorly Soluble Basic Drug Products: a Technical Note. AAPS PharmSciTech 2016; 17:1261-6. [PMID: 26573157 DOI: 10.1208/s12249-015-0444-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2015] [Accepted: 10/19/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Supersaturation and precipitation are common limitations encountered especially with poorly soluble basic drugs. The aims of this work were to explore the pattern of dissolution and precipitation of poorly soluble basic drugs using a United States Pharmacopoeia (USP) IV dissolution apparatus and to compare it to the widely used USP II dissolution apparatus. In order to investigate the influence of gastric emptying time on bioavailability, tables of two model drugs (dipyridamole 100 mg and cinnarizine 15 mg) were investigated and pH change from 1.2 to 6.8 were achieved after 10, 20 or 30 min using USP II or USP IV dissolution apparatuses. Using USP II, dipyridamole and cinnarizine concentrations dropped instantly as a result of drug precipitation with drug crystals evident in the dissolution vessel. At pH change times of 10, 20 and 30 min, the total amount of dissolved drug was dependent on pH change time. Using USP IV, at a flow rate of 8 ml/min, it was possible to have comparable release to agitation at 50 rpm using USP II suggesting that comparable hydrodynamic forces are possible. No drop in drug percentage occurs as the dissolved fraction was readily emptied from the flow cell, preventing drug accumulation in the dissolution medium. However, a negligible percentage of drug release took place following pH change. In conclusion, the use of the flow-through cell dissolution provided laminar flow, use of realistic fluid volumes and avoided precipitation of dissolved drug fraction in the gastric phase as it is discharged before pH change.
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Okwuosa TC, Stefaniak D, Arafat B, Isreb A, Wan KW, Alhnan MA. A Lower Temperature FDM 3D Printing for the Manufacture of Patient-Specific Immediate Release Tablets. Pharm Res 2016; 33:2704-12. [PMID: 27506424 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-016-1995-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 178] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2016] [Accepted: 07/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The fabrication of ready-to-use immediate release tablets via 3D printing provides a powerful tool to on-demand individualization of dosage form. This work aims to adapt a widely used pharmaceutical grade polymer, polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), for instant on-demand production of immediate release tablets via FDM 3D printing. METHODS Dipyridamole or theophylline loaded filaments were produced via processing a physical mixture of API (10%) and PVP in the presence of plasticizer through hot-melt extrusion (HME). Computer software was utilized to design a caplet-shaped tablet. The surface morphology of the printed tablet was assessed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The physical form of the drugs and its integrity following an FDM 3D printing were assessed using x-ray powder diffractometry (XRPD), thermal analysis and HPLC. In vitro drug release studies for all 3D printed tablets were conducted in a USP II dissolution apparatus. RESULTS Bridging 3D printing process with HME in the presence of a thermostable filler, talc, enabled the fabrication of immediate release tablets at temperatures as low as 110°C. The integrity of two model drugs was maintained following HME and FDM 3D printing. XRPD indicated that a portion of the loaded theophylline remained crystalline in the tablet. The fabricated tablets demonstrated excellent mechanical properties, acceptable in-batch variability and an immediate in vitro release pattern. CONCLUSIONS Combining the advantages of PVP as an impeding polymer with FDM 3D printing at low temperatures, this approach holds a potential in expanding the spectrum of drugs that could be used in FDM 3D printing for on demand manufacturing of individualised dosage forms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tochukwu C Okwuosa
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK
| | - Dominika Stefaniak
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK
| | - Basel Arafat
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK
| | - Abdullah Isreb
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK
| | - Ka-Wai Wan
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK
| | - Mohamed A Alhnan
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK.
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Garanti T, Stasik A, Burrow AJ, Alhnan MA, Wan KW. Anti-glioma activity and the mechanism of cellular uptake of asiatic acid-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles. Int J Pharm 2016; 500:305-15. [PMID: 26775062 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2016.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2015] [Revised: 01/08/2016] [Accepted: 01/09/2016] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Asiatic acid (AA), a pentacyclic triterpene found in Centella Asiatica, has shown neuroprotective and anti-cancer activity against glioma. However, owing to its poor aqueous solubility, effective delivery and absorption across biological barriers, in particular the blood brain barrier (BBB), are challenging. Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) have shown a promising potential as a drug delivery system to carry lipophilic drugs across the BBB, a major obstacle in brain cancer therapy. Nevertheless, limited information is available about the cytotoxic mechanisms of nano-lipidic carriers with AA on normal and glioma cells. This study assessed the anti-cancer efficacy of AA-loaded SLNs against glioblastoma and their cellular uptake mechanism in comparison with SVG P12 (human foetal glial) cells. SLNs were systematically investigated for three different solid lipids; glyceryl monostearate (MS), glyceryl distearate (DS) and glyceryl tristearate (TS). The non-drug containing MS-SLNs (E-MS-SLNs) did not show any apparent toxicity towards normal SVG P12 cells, whilst the AA-loaded MS-SLNs (AA-MS-SLNs) displayed a more favourable drug release profile and higher cytotoxicity towards U87 MG cells. Therefore, MS-SLNs were chosen for further in vitro studies. Cytotoxicity studies of SLNs (± AA) were performed using MTT assay where AA-SLNs showed significantly higher cytotoxicity towards U87 MG cells than SVG P12 normal cells, as confirmed by flow cell cytometry. Cellular uptake of SLNs also appeared to be preferentially facilitated by energy-dependent endocytosis as evidenced by fluorescence imaging and flow cell cytometry. Using the Annexin V-PI double staining technique, it was found that these AA-MS-SLNs displayed concentration-dependent apoptotic activity on glioma cells, which further confirms the potential of exploiting these AA-loaded MS-SLNs for brain cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanem Garanti
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, PR1 2HE Lancashire, United Kingdom
| | - Aneta Stasik
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, PR1 2HE Lancashire, United Kingdom
| | - Andrea Julie Burrow
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, PR1 2HE Lancashire, United Kingdom
| | - Mohamed A Alhnan
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, PR1 2HE Lancashire, United Kingdom
| | - Ka-Wai Wan
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, PR1 2HE Lancashire, United Kingdom.
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Pietrzak K, Isreb A, Alhnan MA. A flexible-dose dispenser for immediate and extended release 3D printed tablets. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2015; 96:380-7. [PMID: 26277660 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2015.07.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 251] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2015] [Revised: 07/14/2015] [Accepted: 07/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The advances in personalised medicine increased the demand for a fast, accurate and reliable production method of tablets that can be digitally controlled by healthcare staff. A flexible dose tablet system is presented in this study that proved to be suitable for immediate and extended release tablets with a realistic drug loading and an easy-to-swallow tablet design. The method bridges the affordable and digitally controlled Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) 3D printing with a standard pharmaceutical manufacturing process, Hot Melt Extrusion (HME). The reported method was compatible with three methacrylic polymers (Eudragit RL, RS and E) as well as a cellulose-based one (hydroxypropyl cellulose, HPC SSL). The use of a HME based pharmaceutical filament preserved the linear relationship between the mass and printed volume and was utilized to digitally control the dose via an input from computer software with dose accuracy in the range of 91-95%. Higher resolution printing quality doubled the printing time, but showed a little effect on in vitro release pattern of theophylline and weight accuracy. Physical characterization studies indicated that the majority of the model drug (theophylline) in the 3D printed tablet exists in a crystal form. Owing to the small size, ease of use and the highly adjustable nature of FDM 3D printers, the method holds promise for future individualised treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Pietrzak
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK; Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Abdullah Isreb
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK
| | - Mohamed A Alhnan
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK.
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Gala RP, Khan I, Elhissi AMA, Alhnan MA. A comprehensive production method of self-cryoprotected nano-liposome powders. Int J Pharm 2015; 486:153-8. [PMID: 25796123 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2015.03.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2014] [Revised: 03/16/2015] [Accepted: 03/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This study provided a convenient approach for large scale production of hydrogenated soya phosphatidylcholine nano-liposome powders using beclometasone dipropionate as a model drug and sucrose as proliposome carrier. Fluid-bed coating was employed to manufacture proliposomes by coating sucrose with the phospholipid (5%, 10%, 15% and 20% weight gains), followed by hydration, size reduction using high pressure homogenization, and freeze-drying to yield stable nano-vesicles. High pressure homogenization was compared with probe-sonication in terms of liposome size, zeta potential and drug entrapment. Furthermore, the effect of freeze-drying on vesicle properties generated using both size reduction methods was evaluated. Results have shown that high-pressure homogenization followed by freeze-drying and rehydration tended to yield liposomes smaller than the corresponding vesicles downsized via probe-sonication, and all size measurements were in the range of 72.64-152.50 nm, indicating that freeze-drying was appropriate, regardless of the size reduction technique. The liposomes, regardless of size reduction technique and freeze drying had slightly negative zeta potential values or were almost neutral in surface charge. The entrapment efficiency of BDP in homogenized liposomes was found to increase following freeze-drying, hence the drug entrapment efficiency values in rehydrated liposomes were 64.9%, 57%, 69.5% and 64.5% for 5%, 10%, 15% and 20% weight gains respectively. In this study, we have reported a reliable production method of nano-liposomes based on widely applicable industrial technologies such as fluid-bed coating, high pressure homogenization and freeze-drying. Moreover, sucrose played a dual role as a carrier in the proliposome formulations and as a cryoprotectant during freeze-drying.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rikhav P Gala
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston PR1 2HE, United Kingdom; Vaccine Nanotechnology Lab Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Mercer University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Iftikhar Khan
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston PR1 2HE, United Kingdom
| | - Abdelbary M A Elhissi
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Section, College of Pharmacy, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Mohamed A Alhnan
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston PR1 2HE, United Kingdom.
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Skowyra J, Pietrzak K, Alhnan MA. Fabrication of extended-release patient-tailored prednisolone tablets via fused deposition modelling (FDM) 3D printing. Eur J Pharm Sci 2014; 68:11-7. [PMID: 25460545 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2014.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 308] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2014] [Revised: 11/17/2014] [Accepted: 11/18/2014] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Rapid and reliable tailoring of the dose of controlled release tablets to suit an individual patient is a major challenge for personalized medicine. The aim of this work was to investigate the feasibility of using a fused deposition modelling (FDM) based 3D printer to fabricate extended release tablet using prednisolone loaded poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) filaments and to control its dose. Prednisolone was loaded into a PVA-based (1.75 mm) filament at approximately 1.9% w/w via incubation in a saturated methanolic solution of prednisolone. The physical form of the drug was assessed using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD). Dose accuracy and in vitro drug release patterns were assessed using HPLC and pH change flow-through dissolution test. Prednisolone loaded PVA filament demonstrated an ability to be fabricated into regular ellipse-shaped solid tablets using the FDM-based 3D printer. It was possible to control the mass of printed tablet through manipulating the volume of the design (R(2) = 0.9983). On printing tablets with target drug contents of 2, 3, 4, 5, 7.5 and 10mg, a good correlation between target and achieved dose was obtained (R(2) = 0.9904) with a dose accuracy range of 88.7-107%. Thermal analysis and XRPD indicated that the majority of prednisolone existed in amorphous form within the tablets. In vitro drug release from 3D printed tablets was extended up to 24h. FDM based 3D printing is a promising method to produce and control the dose of extended release tablets, providing a highly adjustable, affordable, minimally sized, digitally controlled platform for producing patient-tailored medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justyna Skowyra
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK; Faculty of Pharmacy with the Laboratory Medicine Division, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Pietrzak
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK; Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Mohamed A Alhnan
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK.
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Alhnan MA, Kidia E, Basit AW. Spray-drying enteric polymers from aqueous solutions: A novel, economic, and environmentally friendly approach to produce pH-responsive microparticles. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2011; 79:432-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2011.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2011] [Revised: 03/12/2011] [Accepted: 03/16/2011] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Alhnan MA, Murdan S, Basit AW. Encapsulation of poorly soluble basic drugs into enteric microparticles: A novel approach to enhance their oral bioavailability. Int J Pharm 2011; 416:55-60. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2011.05.079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2011] [Revised: 05/26/2011] [Accepted: 05/28/2011] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Alhnan MA, Basit AW. In-process crystallization of acidic drugs in acrylic microparticle systems: influence of physical factors and drug-polymer interactions. J Pharm Sci 2011; 100:3284-3293. [PMID: 21500197 DOI: 10.1002/jps.22572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2010] [Revised: 03/13/2011] [Accepted: 03/22/2011] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Emulsion-solvent evaporation is an established method to fabricate amorphous drug-loaded microparticles. In some cases, however, the encapsulated drug is present in its crystalline form, which can affect drug release and negatively impact on other characteristics of the final product. This work aimed to investigate the factors that are responsible for the formation (and inhibition) of drug crystals in modified-release microparticles. Five acidic drugs were encapsulated into Eudragit S or Eudragit L microparticles. Drug crystallinity was observed when indometacin and naproxen were encapsulated, while crystallization was not observed in the case of ketoprofen, salicylic acid, or paracetamol (acetaminophen). All drug-loaded microparticles had single glass transition temperature (T(g) ) intermediate between the T(g) of the drug and that of the polymer. The drop in T(g) in the case of the paracetamol-loaded particles was higher than predicted from the Gordon-Taylor equation, indicating that paracetamol was acting as a plasticizer in this system. After melt quenching in the presence of the Eudragit polymers, the crystallization of paracetamol was inhibited. The ratio of drug to polymer in the microparticles was the major determinant of drug crystallization, as was the solubility of the drug in the processing solvent. This work confirms that drug crystallization is a complex phenomenon, and that drug-polymer molecular interactions play a role in the inhibition of drug crystallization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed A Alhnan
- Department of Pharmaceutics, The School of Pharmacy, University of London, London WC1N 1AX, UK
| | - Abdul W Basit
- Department of Pharmaceutics, The School of Pharmacy, University of London, London WC1N 1AX, UK.
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Alhnan MA, Basit AW. Engineering polymer blend microparticles: An investigation into the influence of polymer blend distribution and interaction. Eur J Pharm Sci 2011; 42:30-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2010.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2010] [Revised: 09/11/2010] [Accepted: 10/06/2010] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Alhnan MA, Cosi D, Murdan S, Basit AW. Inhibiting the Gastric Burst Release of Drugs from Enteric Microparticles: The Influence of Drug Molecular Mass and Solubility. J Pharm Sci 2010; 99:4576-83. [DOI: 10.1002/jps.22174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Nilkumhang S, Alhnan MA, McConnell EL, Basit AW. Drug distribution in enteric microparticles. Int J Pharm 2009; 379:1-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2009.05.066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2009] [Revised: 05/28/2009] [Accepted: 05/28/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Kendall RA, Alhnan MA, Nilkumhang S, Murdan S, Basit AW. Fabrication and in vivo evaluation of highly pH-responsive acrylic microparticles for targeted gastrointestinal delivery. Eur J Pharm Sci 2009; 37:284-90. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2009.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2008] [Revised: 01/26/2009] [Accepted: 02/22/2009] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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