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Jeong MY, Ho MJ, Park JS, Jeong H, Kim JH, Jang YJ, Shin DM, Yang IG, Kim HR, Song WH, Lee S, Song SH, Choi YS, Han YT, Kang MJ. Tricaprylin-based drug crystalline suspension for intramuscular long-acting delivery of entecavir with alleviated local inflammation. Bioeng Transl Med 2024; 9:e10649. [PMID: 39036080 PMCID: PMC11256175 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024] Open
Abstract
In order to ensure prolonged pharmacokinetic profile along with local tolerability at the injection site, tricaprylin-based drug crystalline suspension (TS) was designed and its local distribution, pharmacokinetics, and inflammatory response, were evaluated with conventional aqueous suspension (AS). As model drug particles, entecavir 3-palmitate (EV-P), an ester lipidic prodrug for entecavir (EV), was employed. The EV-P-loaded TS was prepared by ultra-sonication method. Prepared TS and conventional AS exhibited comparable morphology (rod or rectangular), median diameter (2.7 and 2.6 μm), crystallinity (melting point of 160-165°C), and in vitro dissolution profile. However, in vivo performances of drug microparticles were markedly different, depending on delivery vehicle. At AS-injected site, drug aggregates of up to 500 μm were formed upon intramuscular injection, and were surrounded with inflammatory cells and fibroblastic bands. In contrast, no distinct particle aggregation and adjacent granulation was observed at TS-injected site, with >4 weeks remaining of the oily vehicle in micro-computed tomographic observation. Surprisingly, TS exhibited markedly alleviated local inflammation compared to AS, endowing markedly lessened necrosis, fibrosis thickness, inflammatory area, and macrophage infiltration. The higher initial systemic exposure was observed with TS compared to AS, but TS provided prolonged delivery of EV for 3 weeks. Therefore, we suggest that the novel TS system can be a promising tool in designing parenteral long-acting delivery, with improved local tolerability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Young Jeong
- College of Pharmacy, Dankook UniversityCheonanChungnamRepublic of Korea
| | - Myoung Jin Ho
- College of Pharmacy, Dankook UniversityCheonanChungnamRepublic of Korea
| | - Joon Soo Park
- College of Pharmacy, Dankook UniversityCheonanChungnamRepublic of Korea
| | - Hoetaek Jeong
- College of Pharmacy, Dankook UniversityCheonanChungnamRepublic of Korea
| | - Jin Hee Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Dankook UniversityCheonanChungnamRepublic of Korea
| | - Yong Jin Jang
- College of Pharmacy, Dankook UniversityCheonanChungnamRepublic of Korea
| | - Doe Myung Shin
- College of Pharmacy, Dankook UniversityCheonanChungnamRepublic of Korea
| | - In Gyu Yang
- College of Pharmacy, Dankook UniversityCheonanChungnamRepublic of Korea
| | - Hye Rim Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Dankook UniversityCheonanChungnamRepublic of Korea
| | - Woo Heon Song
- College of Pharmacy, Dankook UniversityCheonanChungnamRepublic of Korea
| | - Sangkil Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Chung‐Ang UniversitySeoulRepublic of Korea
| | - Seh Hyon Song
- College of Pharmacy, Kyungsung UniversityBusanRepublic of Korea
| | - Yong Seok Choi
- College of Pharmacy, Dankook UniversityCheonanChungnamRepublic of Korea
| | - Young Taek Han
- College of Pharmacy, Dankook UniversityCheonanChungnamRepublic of Korea
| | - Myung Joo Kang
- College of Pharmacy, Dankook UniversityCheonanChungnamRepublic of Korea
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2
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Zhao X, Boyd P, Bashi YD, Murphy DJ, McCoy CF, Coulter S, Laverty G, Malcolm RK. Two into one does go: Formulation development of a multipurpose combination vaginal ring releasing dapivirine and metronidazole for prevention of HIV infection and treatment of bacterial vaginosis. Int J Pharm 2023; 648:123572. [PMID: 37926178 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2023.123572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common but often asymptomatic dysbiosis of the human vagina characterized by an imbalance in the normal vaginal microbiota due to loss of lactobacilli and an overgrowth of certain anaerobic bacteria. While BV itself is not a sexually transmitted infection, it is associated with an increased risk in women of various sexually acquired infections, including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. There is, therefore, a strong rationale for pursuing new multipurpose products that seek to treat or prevent BV alongside preventing HIV infection. With the dapivirine-releasing vaginal ring for HIV prevention now approved in several African countries, here we report formulation development of a next-generation ring product that releases both dapivirine (DPV) and the antibiotic drug metronidazole (MET). Following thermal analysis studies to characterize the phase behaviour of DPV-MET mixtures and rheological analysis to assess the cure characteristics of the active silicone elastomer mixes, matrix-type rings were manufactured containing 25 or 200 mg DPV in combination with 100, 250, 500, 1000 or 2000 mg MET. The results for drug content, in vitro release, mechanical testing, and Gardnerella vaginalis time-kill experiments demonstrate the feasibility of incorporating both DPV and MET in a matrix-type ring formulation and indicate that clinically effective release rates may be possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Medical Biology Centre, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Peter Boyd
- School of Pharmacy, Medical Biology Centre, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Yahya Dallal Bashi
- School of Pharmacy, Medical Biology Centre, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Diarmaid J Murphy
- School of Pharmacy, Medical Biology Centre, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Clare F McCoy
- School of Pharmacy, Medical Biology Centre, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Sophie Coulter
- School of Pharmacy, Medical Biology Centre, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Garry Laverty
- School of Pharmacy, Medical Biology Centre, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - R Karl Malcolm
- School of Pharmacy, Medical Biology Centre, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK.
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3
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Zhao X, Boyd P, Dallal Bashi YH, McCoy CF, Karl Malcolm R. Physicochemical considerations in the formulation development of silicone elastomer vaginal rings releasing 5-nitroimidazole drugs for the treatment of bacterial vaginosis. Int J Pharm 2023; 644:123296. [PMID: 37553058 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2023.123296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common dysbiosis of the human vaginal microbiota characterized by depletion of hydrogen peroxide and lactic acid-producing Lactobacillus bacteria and an overgrowth of certain facultative anaerobic bacteria. Although short-term cure rates following treatment with frontline antibiotics (most notably oral metronidazole (MNZ), clindamycin vaginal cream, and MNZ vaginal gel) are generally high, longer-term recurrence rates are an issue. The development of vaginal formulations offering continuous/sustained administration of antibiotic drugs over one or more weeks might prove useful in reducing recurrence. Here, we report the manufacture and preclinical testing of matrix-type vaginal rings offering sustained release of four 5-nitroimidazole antimicrobial drugs either being used clinically or having potential in treatment of BV - MNZ, tinidazole (TNZ), secnidazole (SNZ) and ornidazole (ONZ). All four drugs showed good compatibility with a medical-grade addition-cure silicone elastomer based upon thermal analysis experiments, and matrix-type rings containing 250 mg (3.125 %w/w) of each drug were successfully manufactured by reaction injection molding. 28-day in vitro drug release studies demonstrated root-time kinetics, with daily release rates of 25, 22, 9 and 6 mg/day½ for SNZ, ONZ, MNZ and TNZ, respectively. The rank order of drug release from rings correlated with the simple molecular permeability parameter S/V, where S is the measured drug solubility in silicone fluid and V is the drug molecular volume. The relative merits of SNZ and ONZ over MNZ (the current reference treatment) are discussed. The data support development of vaginal rings for sustained release of 5-nitroimidazole compounds for treatment of BV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Peter Boyd
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | | | - Clare F McCoy
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - R Karl Malcolm
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK.
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4
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Cohen J, Shull D, Reed S. Co-delivery of an HIV prophylactic and contraceptive using PGSU as a long-acting multipurpose prevention technology. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2023; 20:285-299. [PMID: 36654482 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2023.2168642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Poly(glycerol sebacate) urethane (PGSU) elastomers formulated with 4'-ethynyl-2-fluoro-2'-deoxyadenosine (EFdA), levonorgestrel (LNG), or a combination thereof can function as multipurpose prevention technology implants for prophylaxis against HIV and unintended pregnancies. For these public health challenges, long-acting drug delivery technologies may improve patient experience and adherence. Traditional polymers encounter challenges delivering multiple drugs with dissimilar physiochemical properties. PGSU offers an alternative option that successfully delivers hydrophilic EFdA alongside hydrophobic LNG. METHODS This article presents the formulation, design, and characterization of PGSU implants, highlighting the impact of API loading, dimensions, and individual- versus combination-loading on release rates. RESULTS Co-delivery of hydrophilic EFdA alongside hydrophobic LNG acted as a porogen to accelerate LNG release. Increasing the surface area of LNG-only implants increased LNG release. All EFdA-LNG, EFdA-only, and LNG-only formulated implants demonstrated low burst release and linear release kinetics over 245 or 122 days studied to date. CONCLUSION PGSU co-delivers two APIs for HIV prevention and contraception at therapeutically relevant concentrations in vitro from a single bioresorbable, elastomeric implant. A new long-acting polymer technology, PGSU demonstrates linear-release kinetics, dual delivery of APIs with disparate physiochemical properties, and biocompatibility through long-term subcutaneous implantation. PGSU can potentially meet the demands of complex MPT or fixed-dose combination products, where better solutions can serve and empower patients.
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5
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Murphy DJ, Dallal Bashi YH, McCoy CF, Boyd P, Brown L, Martin F, McMullen N, Kleinbeck K, Dangi B, Spence P, Hansraj B, Devlin B, Malcolm RK. In vitro drug release, mechanical performance and stability testing of a custom silicone elastomer vaginal ring releasing dapivirine and levonorgestrel. Int J Pharm X 2022; 4:100112. [PMID: 35128382 PMCID: PMC8804184 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpx.2022.100112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
We have previously reported a multipurpose silicone elastomer vaginal ring providing sustained release of dapivirine (an antiretroviral) and levonorgestrel (a progestin) for HIV prevention and hormonal contraception. During initial development, issues arose due to reaction between the ethynyl group in the levonorgestrel molecule and the hydride-functionalised polydimethylsiloxane components in the silicone elastomer formulation. This unwanted reaction occurred both during and to a lesser extent after ring manufacture, impacting the curing process, the mechanical properties of the ring, and the in vitro release of levonorgestrel. Recently, we reported custom silicone elastomer grades that minimise this reaction. In this follow-on study, we describe the manufacture, in vitro drug release, mechanical, and pharmaceutical stability testing of ring formulations prepared from a custom silicone elastomer and containing 200 mg dapivirine and 80, 160, 240 or 320 mg levonorgestrel. The rings showed mechanical properties similar to marketed ring products, sustained in vitro release of both drugs over 30 days in quantities deemed clinically relevant, offered acceptable assay values, and provided good product stability over 15 weeks at 40 °C and 75% relative humidity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Clare F. McCoy
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Peter Boyd
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Leeanne Brown
- Elkem Silicones, Two Tower Centre Boulevard, Suite 1802, East Brunswick, NJ 08816, USA
| | - François Martin
- Elkem Silicones, Two Tower Centre Boulevard, Suite 1802, East Brunswick, NJ 08816, USA
| | - Nicole McMullen
- Elkem Silicones, Two Tower Centre Boulevard, Suite 1802, East Brunswick, NJ 08816, USA
| | - Kyle Kleinbeck
- International Partnership for Microbicides, Silver Spring, MD 2910, USA
| | - Bindi Dangi
- International Partnership for Microbicides, Silver Spring, MD 2910, USA
| | - Patrick Spence
- International Partnership for Microbicides, Silver Spring, MD 2910, USA
| | - Bashir Hansraj
- International Partnership for Microbicides, Silver Spring, MD 2910, USA
| | - Bríd Devlin
- International Partnership for Microbicides, Silver Spring, MD 2910, USA
| | - R. Karl Malcolm
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
- Corresponding author at: School of Pharmacy, Medical Biology Centre, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK.
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6
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Guimier E, Carson L, David B, Lambert JM, Heery E, Malcolm RK. Pharmacological Approaches for the Prevention of Breast Implant Capsular Contracture. J Surg Res 2022; 280:129-150. [PMID: 35969932 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2022.06.073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Capsular contracture is a common complication associated with breast implants following reconstructive or aesthetic surgery in which a tight or constricting scar tissue capsule forms around the implant, often distorting the breast shape and resulting in chronic pain. Capsulectomy (involving full removal of the capsule surrounding the implant) and capsulotomy (where the capsule is released and/or partly removed to create more space for the implant) are the most common surgical procedures used to treat capsular contracture. Various structural modifications of the implant device (including use of textured implants, submuscular placement of the implant, and the use of polyurethane-coated implants) and surgical strategies (including pre-operative skin washing and irrigation of the implant pocket with antibiotics) have been and/or are currently used to help reduce the incidence of capsular contracture. In this article, we review the pharmacological approaches-both commonly practiced in the clinic and experimental-reported in the scientific and clinical literature aimed at either preventing or treating capsular contracture, including (i) pre- and post-operative intravenous administration of drug substances, (ii) systemic (usually oral) administration of drugs before and after surgery, (iii) modification of the implant surface with grafted drug substances, (iv) irrigation of the implant or peri-implant tissue with drugs prior to implantation, and (v) incorporation of drugs into the implant shell or filler prior to surgery followed by drug release in situ after implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Louise Carson
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Benny David
- NuSil Technology LLC, Carpinteria, California
| | | | | | - R Karl Malcolm
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK.
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7
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Palanee-Phillips T, Baum MM, Moss JA, Clark MR, Nuttall J, Romano JW. Drug-releasing vaginal rings for HIV/STI and pregnancy prevention: A review of recent advances and clinical applications. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2021; 19:47-58. [PMID: 34958283 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2022.2020242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Adolescent girls and young women (AGYW), as well as pre- and post-menopausal women globally would benefit from expanded choice to address their sexual and reproductive health (SRH) needs related to Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and pregnancy prevention. Lack of adequate preventative vaccines for HIV/STIs reinforces public health prioritization for options women may use independently to mitigate risk for infectious disease and unplanned pregnancy. Drug releasing intravaginal rings (IVR) represent one such technology that has garnered attention based on the modality's success recently as a pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) delivery option and its impact on reduction in HIV risk. AREAS COVERED : This article provides a synopsis of three IVR technologies in active clinical development for prevention of HIV, STI, and unintended pregnancy demonstrating advancements in terms of compatibility with a wide range of drug types with a focus on dapivirine-based silicone rings (International Partnership for Microbicides (IPM), tenofovir-based polyurethane rings (CONRAD), and pod-based rings (Oak Crest Institute of Science). EXPERT OPINION The goals of IVR research are to reduce burdens of HIV/STIs and unplanned pregnancies. Through the evolution of IVR technologies, the potential exists to trigger integration of healthcare services through formulation of products with multiple indications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thesla Palanee-Phillips
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Marc M Baum
- Oak Crest Institute of Science, Monrovia, CA, USA
| | - John A Moss
- Oak Crest Institute of Science, Monrovia, CA, USA
| | | | - Jeremy Nuttall
- International Partnership for Microbicides, Silver Spring, MD, USA
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8
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Sitruk-Ware R. [New frontiers in contraception research]. Med Sci (Paris) 2021; 37:1014-1020. [PMID: 34851278 DOI: 10.1051/medsci/2021163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Improving current contraceptives and discover novel methods easy to use with added health benefits would meet the needs of couples who seek alternatives to current methods. New delivery systems target user-controlled, longer-acting options to provide choice, user's autonomy and improve compliance. Self-injections, microarray patches, pod rings able to deliver several molecules aim to prevent both pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections. Improved intrauterine systems and non-surgical permanent methods are also on the research agenda. The search for novel methods must continue, to curb maternal mortality led by multiple pregnancies and unsafe abortion, still a burden in many countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Régine Sitruk-Ware
- The Population Council, Center for Biomedical Research, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, États-Unis
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9
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Dallal Bashi YH, Murphy DJ, McCoy CF, Boyd P, Brown L, Kihara M, Martin F, McMullen N, Kleinbeck K, Dangi B, Spence P, Hansraj B, Devlin B, Malcolm RK. Silicone elastomer formulations for improved performance of a multipurpose vaginal ring releasing dapivirine and levonorgestrel. Int J Pharm X 2021; 3:100091. [PMID: 34977558 PMCID: PMC8683669 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpx.2021.100091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
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10
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Fanse S, Bao Q, Zou Y, Wang Y, Burgess DJ. Effect of crosslinking on the physicochemical properties of polydimethylsiloxane-based levonorgestrel intrauterine systems. Int J Pharm 2021; 609:121192. [PMID: 34666142 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2021.121192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 10/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-based levonorgestrel intrauterine systems (LNG-IUSs) such as Mirena® are long-acting drug-device combination products designed to release LNG for contraceptive purposes up to 6 years. LNG-IUSs consist of a hollow cylindrical drug-PDMS reservoir mounted with a polyethylene frame and covered by an outer PDMS membrane. PDMS is the release-controlling excipient present in both the matrix and the outer membrane. The degree of PDMS crosslinking is a key parameter in LNG-IUS manufacturing, dictating the elasticity and mechanical strength (which are critical parameters in molding and demolding of the cylindrical reservoirs). In addition, elasticity and mechanical strength are also important to prevent deformation during insertion into the uterine cavity. The objectives of this study were to investigate the impact of PDMS crosslinking on the physicochemical properties of LNG-IUSs and to develop appropriate testing methods for characterization of their mechanical strength. Formulations with different degrees of crosslinking were prepared by varying the ratio of the PDMS elastomer base and the crosslinking agent. A novel solvent swelling and extraction method was developed to determine the degree of PDMS crosslinking. The extent of crosslinking was also characterized via FTIR, Raman, 1H NMR, DSC, TGA and dynamic mechanical analysis. As expected, formulations with higher degrees of crosslinking showed lower crystallinity. Interestingly, the less crystalline formulations showed higher Tg values and storage moduli compared to the high crystalline formulations, implying that crosslinking is the predominant parameter governing the physicochemical and mechanical properties in LNG-IUSs. Correlations were established between PDMS crosslinking and the physicochemical properties of LNG-IUSs which will be useful for quality control purposes during formulation screening and development. A better understanding of the physicochemical characteristics of these complex products will facilitate drug product development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suraj Fanse
- University of Connecticut, School of Pharmacy, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - Quanying Bao
- University of Connecticut, School of Pharmacy, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - Yuan Zou
- Office of Research and Standards, Office of Generic Drugs, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, FDA, Silver Spring, MD 20993, USA
| | - Yan Wang
- Office of Research and Standards, Office of Generic Drugs, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, FDA, Silver Spring, MD 20993, USA
| | - Diane J Burgess
- University of Connecticut, School of Pharmacy, Storrs, CT 06269, USA.
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11
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Cazorla-Luna R, Ruiz-Caro R, Veiga MD, Malcolm RK, Lamprou DA. Recent advances in electrospun nanofiber vaginal formulations for women's sexual and reproductive health. Int J Pharm 2021; 607:121040. [PMID: 34450222 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2021.121040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Electrospinning is an innovative technique that allows production of nanofibers and microfibers by applying a high voltage to polymer solutions of melts. The properties of these fibers - which include high surface area, high drug loading capacity, and ability to be manufactured from mucoadhesive polymers - may be particularly useful in a myriad of drug delivery and tissue engineering applications. The last decade has witnessed a surge of interest in the application of electrospinning technology for the fabrication of vaginal drug delivery systems for the treatment and prevention of diseases associated with women's sexual and reproductive health, including sexually transmitted infections (e.g. infection with human immunodeficiency virus and herpes simplex virus) vaginitis, preterm birth, contraception, multipurpose prevention technology strategies, cervicovaginal cancer, and general maintenance of vaginal health. Due to their excellent mechanical properties, electrospun scaffolds are also being investigated as next-generation materials in the surgical treatment of pelvic organ prolapse. In this article, we review the latest advances in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raúl Cazorla-Luna
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK; Departamento de Farmacia Galénica y Tecnología Alimentaria, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Roberto Ruiz-Caro
- Departamento de Farmacia Galénica y Tecnología Alimentaria, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - María-Dolores Veiga
- Departamento de Farmacia Galénica y Tecnología Alimentaria, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - R Karl Malcolm
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK.
| | - Dimitrios A Lamprou
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK.
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12
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Haddad LB, Townsend JW, Sitruk-Ware R. Contraceptive Technologies: Looking Ahead to New Approaches to Increase Options for Family Planning. Clin Obstet Gynecol 2021; 64:435-448. [PMID: 34323226 PMCID: PMC8328155 DOI: 10.1097/grf.0000000000000628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
With persistently high global rates of unintended pregnancy and contraceptive nonuse, nonadherence and discontinuation, new contraceptive methods must address the needs of women and men who seek alternatives to their current options. Methods under development aim to reduce potential side effects, improve access and ease of use, ensure safety, increase secondary benefits associated with method use and expand options for both women and men. Developmental approaches employed to enhance current methods utilize new delivery systems and novel active pharmaceutical ingredients. This will improve overall user satisfaction with the methods used while expanding the number of options available to provide choice and value user autonomy in the highly diverse contraceptive markets around the world.
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13
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Krovi SA, Johnson LM, Luecke E, Achilles SL, van der Straten A. Advances in long-acting injectables, implants, and vaginal rings for contraception and HIV prevention. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 176:113849. [PMID: 34186143 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.113849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Worldwide, women face compounding reproductive health risks, including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), sexually-transmitted infections (STIs), and unintended pregnancy. Multipurpose prevention technologies (MPTs) offer combined protection against these overlapping risks in singular prevention products that offer potential for simplified use, lower burden, higher acceptability, and increased public health benefits. Over the past decade, substantial progress has been made in development of extended-release MPTs, which have further potential to grant sexual and reproductive health autonomy to women globally and to offer choice for women to accommodate varying needs during their reproductive lives. Here, we highlight the advances made in injectable, implant, and ring delivery forms, and the importance of incorporating end-user preferences early in the research and development of these products.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ellen Luecke
- Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI International, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Sharon L Achilles
- University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Ariane van der Straten
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, Dept of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; ASTRA Consulting, Kensington, CA, USA
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14
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Rafiei F, Tabesh H, Farzad S, Farzaneh F, Rezaei M, Hosseinzade F, Mottaghy K. Development of Hormonal Intravaginal Rings: Technology and Challenges. Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd 2021; 81:789-806. [PMID: 34276064 PMCID: PMC8277443 DOI: 10.1055/a-1369-9395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Intravaginal rings (IVRs) are minimally invasive polymeric devices specifically designed to be used for the sustained and prolonged release of various type of drugs such as hormones. One of the benefits of using topical drug delivery systems (e.g., IVRs) is the fact that systemic drug delivery may cause drug resistance due to elevated drug levels. Topical drug delivery also provides higher concentrations of the drug to the target site and has fewer side effects. In addition, when a drug is administered vaginally, the hepatic first-pass effect is avoided, resulting in higher absorption. Contraception and treatments for specific diseases such as endometriosis and hormone deficiencies can be improved by the administration of hormones via an IVR. This article aims to classify and compare various designs of commercially available and non-commercial hormonal IVRs and to analyze their performance. Current challenges affecting the development of IVRs are investigated, and
proposed solutions are discussed. A comprehensive search of publications in MEDLINE/PubMed and of commercial product data of IVRs was performed, and the materials, designs, performance, and applications (e.g., contraception, endometriosis, estrogen deficiency and urogenital atrophy) of hormonal IVRs were thoroughly evaluated. Most hormonal IVRs administer female sex hormones, i.e., estrogen and progestogens. In terms of material, IVRs are divided into 3 main groups: silicone, polyurethane, and polyethylene-co-vinyl acetate IVRs. As regards their design, there are 4 major designs for IVRs which strongly affect their performance and the timing and rate of hormone release. Important challenges include reducing the burst release and maintaining the bioavailability of hormones at their site of action over a prolonged period of administration as well as lowering production costs. Hormonal IVRs are a promising method which could be used to facilitate combination therapies by
administering multiple drugs in a single IVR while eliminating the side effects of conventional drug administration methods. IVRs could considerably improve womenʼs quality of life all over the world within a short period of time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fojan Rafiei
- Department of Life Science Engineering, Faculty of New Sciences and Technologies, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hadi Tabesh
- Department of Life Science Engineering, Faculty of New Sciences and Technologies, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shayan Farzad
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, United States
| | - Farah Farzaneh
- Preventative Gynecology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Rezaei
- Department of Life Science Engineering, Faculty of New Sciences and Technologies, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fateme Hosseinzade
- Department of Life Science Engineering, Faculty of New Sciences and Technologies, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Khosrow Mottaghy
- Institute of Physiology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
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15
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Use of simulated vaginal and menstrual fluids to model in vivo discolouration of silicone elastomer vaginal rings. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICS-X 2021; 3:100081. [PMID: 34027386 PMCID: PMC8120934 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpx.2021.100081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Vaginal rings releasing antiretrovirals – either alone or in combination with contraceptive progestins – are being developed for prevention of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) transmission via vaginal sex. Following Phase I trials, significant discolouration was observed on the surface of investigational silicone elastomer antiretroviral-contraceptive matrix-type vaginal rings containing either 25 mg dapivirine or 200 mg dapivirine plus levonorgestrel. In this study, potential causes of the discolouration have been assessed in vitro using simulated vaginal and menstrual fluids (SVF and SMF, respectively) to model in vivo exposure. The fluid compositions also included hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), hydrogen peroxide plus a copper intrauterine device (IUD), or synthetic dyes (representing personal care and household cleaning products). No discolouration was observed for rings exposed to SVF + hydrogen peroxide (with or without an IUD). However, the SVF + dye compositions showed significant ring discolouration, with staining patterns similar to those observed with rings that had been exposed to highly-coloured personal care and household cleaning products during clinical trial use. Exposure of rings to SMF compositions invariably caused yellow surface discolouration, dark spotting and markings, similar to the staining patterns observed following clinical use. The darker marks on the ring surface were identified as blood debris derived from the SMF. The study indicates that surface discolouration of rings in vivo can be attributed to exposure to menstrual fluid or highly coloured personal care or household cleaning products. Discolouration of the rings was not associated with any specific safety risks for the user, though severe discolouration could potentially impact acceptability and adherence.
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16
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Advances in controlled release hormonal technologies for contraception: A review of existing devices, underlying mechanisms, and future directions. J Control Release 2021; 330:797-811. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2020.12.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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17
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Johnson AR, Forster SP, White D, Terife G, Lowinger M, Teller RS, Barrett SE. Drug eluting implants in pharmaceutical development and clinical practice. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2021; 18:577-593. [PMID: 33275066 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2021.1856072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Drug eluting implants offer patient convenience and improved compliance through less frequent dosing, eliminating repeated, painful injections and providing localized, site specific delivery with applications in contraception, ophthalmology, and oncology.Areas covered: This review provides an overview of available implant products, design approaches, biodegradable and non-biodegradable polymeric materials, and fabrication techniques with a focus on commercial applications and industrial drug product development. Developing trends in the field, including expanded availability of suitable excipients, development of novel materials, scaled down manufacturing process, and a wider understanding of the implant development process are discussed and point to opportunities for differentiated drug eluting implant products.Expert opinion: In the future, long-acting implants will be important clinical tools for prophylaxis and treatment of global health challenges, especially for infectious diseases, to reduce the cost and difficulty of treating chronic indications, and to prolong local delivery in difficult to administer parts of the body. These products will help improve patient safety, adherence, and comfort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley R Johnson
- Pharmaceutical Sciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA
| | - Seth P Forster
- Pharmaceutical Sciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA
| | | | - Graciela Terife
- Pharmaceutical Sciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA
| | - Michael Lowinger
- Pharmaceutical Sciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA
| | | | - Stephanie E Barrett
- Pharmaceutical Sciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA
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18
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Fernandes T, Baxi K, Sawarkar S, Sarmento B, das Neves J. Vaginal multipurpose prevention technologies: promising approaches for enhancing women's sexual and reproductive health. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2020; 17:379-393. [PMID: 32036727 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2020.1728251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Multipurpose prevention technologies (MPTs) have the potential to avert multiple concomitant sexual and reproductive health issues in women such as sexually transmitted infections and unintended pregnancy. MPTs incorporate one or more active pharmaceutical ingredients in a single product, which adds more convenience for users and may promote increased adherence. Various vaginal dosage forms/delivery systems have been studied for designing MPTs. However, several challenges remain that are mainly related to requirements of individual drugs or intended multiple applications.Areas covered: This review focuses on the emerging need and development of vaginal MPTs. It illustrates numerous examples that are currently in the preclinical and clinical development pipeline, highlighting the concept behind vaginal MPTs. The article also highlights the challenges associated with formulation design and development, including regulatory issues that need to be addressed.Expert opinion: Vaginal MPTs present great potential to empower women with novel, efficient, and safe products for protection against sexually transmitted infections and unintended pregnancy. However, several technological issues and regulatory gaps still need to be addressed in order to meet real-world needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trinette Fernandes
- Department of Pharmaceutics, SVKM's Dr. Bhanuben Nanavati College of Pharmacy, University of Mumbai,India
| | - Krishna Baxi
- Department of Pharmaceutics, SVKM's Dr. Bhanuben Nanavati College of Pharmacy, University of Mumbai,India
| | - Sujata Sawarkar
- Department of Pharmaceutics, SVKM's Dr. Bhanuben Nanavati College of Pharmacy, University of Mumbai,India
| | - Bruno Sarmento
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.,INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.,CESPU, Instituto de Investigação e Formação Avançada em Ciências e Tecnologias da Saúde, Gandra, Portugal
| | - José das Neves
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.,INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.,CESPU, Instituto de Investigação e Formação Avançada em Ciências e Tecnologias da Saúde, Gandra, Portugal
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Sharifzadeh G, Hezaveh H, Muhamad II, Hashim S, Khairuddin N. Montmorillonite-based polyacrylamide hydrogel rings for controlled vaginal drug delivery. MATERIALS SCIENCE & ENGINEERING. C, MATERIALS FOR BIOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS 2019; 110:110609. [PMID: 32204060 DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2019.110609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2019] [Revised: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 12/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Vaginal drug delivery is regarded as a promising route against women-related health issues such as unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections. However, only a very few studies have been reported on the use of hydrogel rings with low cytotoxicity for vaginal drug delivery applications. Moreover, the effect of nanoparticles on hydrogel vaginal rings has not been clearly evaluated. To overcome these challenges, we hereby developed nanocomposite hydrogel rings based on polyacrylamide-sodium carboxymethyl cellulose-montmorillonite nanoparticles in the ring-shaped aluminum mold for controlled drug delivery. The hydrogel rings were synthesized by using N,N'-methylene bisacrylamide, N,N,N',N'-tetramethyl ethylene diamine, and ammonium persulfate, as a crosslinker, accelerator, and initiator, respectively. The obtained rings were 5.5 cm in diameters and 0.5 cm in rims. Chemical structures of the nanocomposite rings were confirmed by Fourier transform infrared, and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectroscopies. Additionally, the swelling ratio of hydrogels was appeared to be adjusted by the introduction of nanoparticles. In vitro release experiment of methylene blue, as a hydrophilic model drug, revealed that the nanocomposite rings could not only reduce burst effect (almost more than twice), but also achieve prolonged release for 15 days in the vaginal fluid simulant which mimic the vaginal conditions at pH of almost 4.2, and a temperature of 37 °C. Importantly, the resultant hydrogel rings with or without various concentrations of montmorillonite showed low cytotoxicity toward human skin fibroblasts. Furthermore, different antibacterial activities against Escherichia coli were observed for various concentrations of montmorillonite in hydrogels. These results suggest the great potential of montmorillonite-based hydrogel rings for vaginal drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghorbanali Sharifzadeh
- Department of Polymer Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering, 81310, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Hadi Hezaveh
- Manufacturing Flagship, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO), Clayton, Victoria 3169, Australia
| | - Ida Idayu Muhamad
- Food and Biomaterial Engineering Research Group (FoBERG), Bioprocess and Polymer Engineering Department, School of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Johor Bahru, Malaysia; Biomaterials Cluster, IJN-UTM Cardiovascular Engineering Centre, Block B, V01, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Johor Bahru, Malaysia.
| | - Shahrir Hashim
- Department of Bioprocess and Polymer Engineering, School of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 UTM Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia.
| | - Nozieana Khairuddin
- Department of Basic Science and Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture and Food Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Bintulu Sarawak Campus, P.O. Box 396, Nyabau Road, 97008 Bintulu, Sarawak, Malaysia
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20
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Dapivirine-releasing vaginal rings produced by plastic freeforming additive manufacturing. Int J Pharm 2019; 572:118725. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2019.118725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Revised: 09/02/2019] [Accepted: 09/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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21
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Tietz K, Klein S. In Vitro Methods for Evaluating Drug Release of Vaginal Ring Formulations-A Critical Review. Pharmaceutics 2019; 11:pharmaceutics11100538. [PMID: 31623277 PMCID: PMC6836189 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics11100538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Revised: 10/09/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The vagina is a promising site for both local and systemic drug delivery and represents an interesting administration route for compounds with poor oral bioavailability. Whereas most of the currently marketed dosage forms were designed as immediate release formulations, intravaginal rings (IVRs) offer the possibility of a controlled vaginal drug delivery over several weeks or months. For a long time, the development of IVRs was limited to steroid-releasing formulations. Recently, IVRs have witnessed a surge of new interest as promising delivery systems for microbicides. Therefore, various novel IVR designs have been introduced. To ensure that only safe and effective IVRs will be administered to patients, it is important to properly distinguish between IVRs with desired and undesired release performance. In vitro methods for evaluating drug release of IVRs that present with sufficient predictive capacity for in vivo drug release, and discriminatory power with regard to IVRs quality, are an essential tool for this purpose. The objective of the present review article is to present the current status of in vitro drug release testing of IVRs and to critically discuss current compendial and non-official in vitro drug release methods with regard to their discriminatory power and in vivo predictivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Tietz
- Center of Drug Absorption and Transport, Institute of Biopharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmacy, Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 3, University of Greifswald, Greifswald 17489, Germany
| | - Sandra Klein
- Center of Drug Absorption and Transport, Institute of Biopharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmacy, Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 3, University of Greifswald, Greifswald 17489, Germany.
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22
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In vitro release testing methods for drug-releasing vaginal rings. J Control Release 2019; 313:54-69. [PMID: 31626862 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2019.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Revised: 10/05/2019] [Accepted: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Drug-releasing vaginal rings are torus-shaped devices, generally fabricated from thermoplastic polymers or silicone elastomers, used to administer pharmaceutical drugs to the human vagina for periods typically ranging from three weeks to twelve months. One of the most important product performance tests for vaginal rings is the in vitro release test. Although it has been fifty years since a vaginal ring device was first described in the scientific literature, and despite seven drug-releasing vaginal rings having been approved for market, there is no universally accepted method for testing in vitro drug release, and only one non-compendial shaking incubator method (for the estradiol-releasing ring Estring®) is described in the US Food and Drug Administration's Dissolution Methods Database. Here, for the first time, we critically review the diverse range of test methods that have been described in the scientific literature for testing in vitro release of drug-releasing vaginal rings. Issues around in vitro-in vivo correlation and modelling of in vitro release data are also discussed.
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23
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Dallal Bashi YH, McCoy CF, Murphy DJ, Boyd P, Spence P, Kleinbeck K, Devlin B, Malcolm RK. Towards a dapivirine and levonorgestrel multipurpose vaginal ring: Investigations into the reaction between levonorgestrel and addition-cure silicone elastomers. Int J Pharm 2019; 569:118574. [PMID: 31352053 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2019.118574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Revised: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
With a dapivirine-releasing vaginal ring having successfully completed late-stage clinical testing for HIV prevention and currently undergoing regulatory review, there is now growing interest in next-generation multipurpose prevention technologies that seek to combine antiretroviral and contraceptive drugs within a single product. Here, we focus on ongoing efforts to develop a silicone elastomer vaginal ring releasing both dapivirine and levonorgestrel. Specifically, we evaluate various strategies aimed at both better understanding and reducing the tendency of levonorgestrel to bind with the elastomer, including: (i) formulation and post-manufacturing strategies aimed at reducing the extent of levonorgestrel reaction with addition-cure silicone elastomers; (ii) evaluation of a simple silicone system to model the complex elastomer; (iii) use of model compounds representing the enone and ethinyl moieties of levonorgestrel to probe the mode of addition of levonorgestrel to addition-cure silicone elastomers; and (iv) solution and solid-state 13C NMR analysis to probe the structural features of the levonorgestrel-silicone system. The results demonstrate that both the enone and ethinyl groups within levonorgestrel undergo hydrosilylation reactions with the hydrosiloxane groups in the silicone elastomer leading to covalent binding. The results also highlight potential strategies for further optimising the dapivirine + levonorgestrel silicone vaginal ring formulation to ensure that the levonorgestrel is available for release.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Clare F McCoy
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | | | - Peter Boyd
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Patrick Spence
- International Partnership for Microbicides, Silver Spring, MD 20910, USA
| | - Kyle Kleinbeck
- International Partnership for Microbicides, Silver Spring, MD 20910, USA
| | - Bríd Devlin
- International Partnership for Microbicides, Silver Spring, MD 20910, USA
| | - R Karl Malcolm
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK.
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Murphy DJ, McCoy CF, Boyd P, Derrick T, Spence P, Devlin B, Malcolm RK. Drug stability and product performance characteristics of a dapivirine-releasing vaginal ring under simulated real-world conditions. Int J Pharm 2019; 565:351-357. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2019.05.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2019] [Revised: 05/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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McBride JW, Boyd P, Dias N, Cameron D, Offord RE, Hartley O, Kett VL, Malcolm RK. Vaginal rings with exposed cores for sustained delivery of the HIV CCR5 inhibitor 5P12-RANTES. J Control Release 2019; 298:1-11. [PMID: 30731150 PMCID: PMC6414755 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2019.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Revised: 01/28/2019] [Accepted: 02/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Antiretroviral-releasing vaginal rings are at the forefront of ongoing efforts to develop microbicide-based strategies for prevention of heterosexual transmission of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). However, traditional ring designs are generally only useful for vaginal administration of relatively potent, lipophilic, and small molecular weight drug molecules that have sufficient permeability in the non-biodegradable silicone elastomer or thermoplastic polymers. Here, we report a novel, easy-to-manufacture 'exposed-core' vaginal ring that provides sustained release of the protein microbicide candidate 5P12-RANTES, an experimental chemokine analogue that potently blocks the HIV CCR5 coreceptor. In vitro release, mechanical, and stability testing demonstrated the utility and practicality of this novel ring design. In a sheep pharmacokinetic model, a ring containing two ¼-length excipient-modified silicone elastomer cores - each containing lyophilised 5P12-RANTES and exposed to the external environment by two large windows - provided sustained concentrations of 5P12-RANTES in vaginal fluid and vaginal tissue between 10 and 10,000 ng/g over 28days, at least 50 and up to 50,000 times the reported in vitro IC50 value.
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Affiliation(s)
- John W McBride
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Peter Boyd
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | | | | | - Robin E Offord
- Mintaka Foundation for Medical Research, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Oliver Hartley
- Mintaka Foundation for Medical Research, Geneva, Switzerland; Department of Pathology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Vicky L Kett
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - R Karl Malcolm
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK.
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Cazorla-Luna R, Martín-Illana A, Notario-Pérez F, Bedoya LM, Bermejo P, Ruiz-Caro R, Veiga MD. Dapivirine Bioadhesive Vaginal Tablets Based on Natural Polymers for the Prevention of Sexual Transmission of HIV. Polymers (Basel) 2019; 11:polym11030483. [PMID: 30960467 PMCID: PMC6473508 DOI: 10.3390/polym11030483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2019] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Young sub-Saharan women are a group that is vulnerable to the sexual transmission of HIV. Pre-exposure prophylaxis through vaginal microbicides could provide them an option for self-protection. Dapivirine has been demonstrated to have topical inhibitory effects in HIV, and to provide protection against the sexual transmission of this virus. This paper reports on the studies into swelling behaviour, bioadhesion and release carried out on dapivirine tablets based on chitosan, locust bean gum and pectin, to select the most suitable formulation. The modified simulated vaginal fluid led to a high solubility of dapivirine and allowed the dapivirine release profiles to be characterized in sink conditions; this aqueous medium is an alternative to organic solvents, which are not a realistic option when evaluating systems whose behaviour varies in aqueous and organic media. Of the formulations evaluated, dapivirine/pectin tablets containing 290 mg of polymer and 30 mg of dapivirine present the most moderate swelling, making them the most comfortable dosage forms. Their high bioadhesive capacity would also allow the formulation to remain in the action zone and release the drug in a sustained manner, pointing to this formulation as the most promising candidate for future evaluations of vaginal microbicides for the prevention of HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raúl Cazorla-Luna
- Departamento de Farmacia Galénica y Tecnología Alimentaria, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Araceli Martín-Illana
- Departamento de Farmacia Galénica y Tecnología Alimentaria, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Fernando Notario-Pérez
- Departamento de Farmacia Galénica y Tecnología Alimentaria, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Luis-Miguel Bedoya
- Departamento Farmacología, Farmacognosia y Botánica, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Paulina Bermejo
- Departamento Farmacología, Farmacognosia y Botánica, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Roberto Ruiz-Caro
- Departamento de Farmacia Galénica y Tecnología Alimentaria, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
| | - María-Dolores Veiga
- Departamento de Farmacia Galénica y Tecnología Alimentaria, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
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McCoy CF, Millar BG, Murphy DJ, Blanda W, Hansraj B, Devlin B, Malcolm RK, Boyd P. Mechanical testing methods for drug-releasing vaginal rings. Int J Pharm 2019; 559:182-191. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2019.01.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2018] [Revised: 12/23/2018] [Accepted: 01/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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28
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Wang Y, Boyd P, Hunter A, Malcolm RK. Intravaginal rings for continuous low-dose administration of cervical ripening agents. Int J Pharm 2018; 549:124-132. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2018.07.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2018] [Revised: 06/28/2018] [Accepted: 07/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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29
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Yavuz B, Morgan JL, Showalter L, Horng KR, Dandekar S, Herrera C, LiWang P, Kaplan DL. Pharmaceutical Approaches to HIV Treatment and Prevention. ADVANCED THERAPEUTICS 2018; 1:1800054. [PMID: 32775613 PMCID: PMC7413291 DOI: 10.1002/adtp.201800054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection continues to pose a major infectious disease threat worldwide. It is characterized by the depletion of CD4+ T cells, persistent immune activation, and increased susceptibility to secondary infections. Advances in the development of antiretroviral drugs and combination antiretroviral therapy have resulted in a remarkable reduction in HIV-associated morbidity and mortality. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) leads to effective suppression of HIV replication with partial recovery of host immune system and has successfully transformed HIV infection from a fatal disease to a chronic condition. Additionally, antiretroviral drugs have shown promise for prevention in HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis and treatment as prevention. However, ART is unable to cure HIV. Other limitations include drug-drug interactions, drug resistance, cytotoxic side effects, cost, and adherence. Alternative treatment options are being investigated to overcome these challenges including discovery of new molecules with increased anti-viral activity and development of easily administrable drug formulations. In light of the difficulties associated with current HIV treatment measures, and in the continuing absence of a cure, the prevention of new infections has also arisen as a prominent goal among efforts to curtail the worldwide HIV pandemic. In this review, the authors summarize currently available anti-HIV drugs and their combinations for treatment, new molecules under clinical development and prevention methods, and discuss drug delivery formats as well as associated challenges and alternative approaches for the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Burcin Yavuz
- Department of Biomedical Engineering Tufts University 4 Colby Street, Medford, MA 02155, USA
| | - Jessica L Morgan
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology University of California-Merced5200 North Lake Road, Merced, CA 95343, USA
| | - Laura Showalter
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology University of California-Merced5200 North Lake Road, Merced, CA 95343, USA
| | - Katti R Horng
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology University of California-Davis 5605 GBSF, 1 Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Satya Dandekar
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology University of California-Davis 5605 GBSF, 1 Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Carolina Herrera
- Department of Medicine St. Mary's Campus Imperial College Room 460 Norfolk Place, London W2 1PG, UK
| | - Patricia LiWang
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology University of California-Merced5200 North Lake Road, Merced, CA 95343, USA
| | - David L Kaplan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering Tufts University 4 Colby Street, Medford, MA 02155, USA
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Murphy DJ, Desjardins D, Boyd P, Dereuddre-Bosquet N, Stimmer L, Caldwell A, Le Grand R, Kelly C, van Roey J, Malcolm RK. Impact of ring size and drug loading on the pharmacokinetics of a combination dapivirine-darunavir vaginal ring in cynomolgus macaques. Int J Pharm 2018; 550:300-308. [PMID: 30153490 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2018.08.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2018] [Revised: 08/22/2018] [Accepted: 08/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
This work investigates the impact of vaginal ring size and drug loading on the in vitro release, safety, ease of fit, and pharmacokinetics in cynomolgus macaques of matrix-type silicone elastomer vaginal rings containing a combination of the non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor dapivirine and the protease inhibitor darunavir. Drug-free and drug-loaded vaginal rings having three different geometries were manufactured by reaction injection molding. In vitro drug release was assessed using both a solvent/water mixture and a vaginal fluid simulant. Macaques fitted with drug-free vaginal rings for 28 days were assessed by colposcopy, cytological evaluation of cervico-vaginal lavage and histological evaluation of tissue after ring removal. The 20 × 4.5 mm combination ring, deemed most appropriate for vaginal fit and comfort in the macaques, was evaluated for pharmacokinetics over 28 days. Substantial differences were observed in the in vitro release profiles between the three ring sizes. However, these differences were not manifest in vivo, where measured drug concentrations after 20 × 4.5 mm ring use were not significantly different from those reported previously with a 25 × 6 mm ring. These results suggest that ring placement and fit is an important species-specific study parameter that should be optimised prior to pharmacokinetic testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diarmaid J Murphy
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK.
| | - Delphine Desjardins
- Université Paris Sud, INSERM, CEA, DRF-Immunology of Viral Infections and Autoimmune Diseases Department (IMVA), U1184, IDMIT Infrastructure, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France.
| | - Peter Boyd
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK.
| | - Nathalie Dereuddre-Bosquet
- Université Paris Sud, INSERM, CEA, DRF-Immunology of Viral Infections and Autoimmune Diseases Department (IMVA), U1184, IDMIT Infrastructure, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France.
| | - Lev Stimmer
- Molecular Imaging Research Center, CEA-INSERM US27/U1169, 18 route du Panorama, 92265 Fontenay-aux-Roses, France.
| | - Anna Caldwell
- Mass Spectrometry Facility, King's College London, London SE1 9NH, UK.
| | - Roger Le Grand
- Université Paris Sud, INSERM, CEA, DRF-Immunology of Viral Infections and Autoimmune Diseases Department (IMVA), U1184, IDMIT Infrastructure, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France.
| | - Charles Kelly
- Dental Institute, Guy's Hospital, King's College London, London SE1 9RT, UK.
| | - Jens van Roey
- Janssen GPH, Turnhoutseweg 30, 2340 Beerse, Belgium.
| | - R Karl Malcolm
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK.
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McCoy CF, Apperley DC, Variano B, Sussman H, Loeven D, Boyd P, Malcolm RK. Solid state 13C NMR spectroscopy provides direct evidence for reaction between ethinyl estradiol and a silicone elastomer vaginal ring drug delivery system. Int J Pharm 2018; 548:689-697. [PMID: 30016672 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2018.07.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2018] [Revised: 06/25/2018] [Accepted: 07/14/2018] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Steroid molecules have a long history of incorporation into silicone elastomer materials for controlled release drug delivery applications. Previously, based on in vitro release testing and drug content analysis, we demonstrated indirectly that the contraceptive progestin levonorgestrel (LNG) chemically and irreversibly binds to addition cure silicone elastomers, presumably via a hydrosilylation reaction between the levonorgestrel ethynyl group and the hydrosilane groups in the poly(dimethylsiloxane-co-methylhydrosiloxane) crosslinker of the silicone elastomer. Here, for the first time, we report that solid state 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy provides direct evidence for the irreversible binding of ethinyl estradiol (EE) - an estrogenic steroid molecule also containing an ethynyl functional group - to an addition cure silicone elastomer. By preparing silicone elastomer samples containing 13C-labelled EE, signals in the NMR spectra could readily be assigned to both the free and bound EE. Additional depolymerisation studies, performed on an addition cure silicone elastomer system from which the unbound EE fraction was completely extracted, further confirmed the presence of bound EE through the formation of coloured reaction mixtures resulting from the reaction of bound EE and trifluoroacetic acid (TFA). These methods will be particularly useful in the ongoing development of new steroid-releasing silicone drug delivery devices, including various vaginal ring devices for contraception, HIV prevention and multipurpose prevention technology applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare F McCoy
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - David C Apperley
- EPSRC National Solid-State NMR Service, Durham University, Durham DH1 3LE, UK
| | - Bruce Variano
- Population Council, One Dag Hammarskjold Plaza, New York, NY 10017, USA
| | - Heather Sussman
- Population Council, One Dag Hammarskjold Plaza, New York, NY 10017, USA
| | - Daniel Loeven
- Population Council, One Dag Hammarskjold Plaza, New York, NY 10017, USA
| | - Peter Boyd
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - R Karl Malcolm
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Contraception is a vital component of medical care for women with HIV or at high risk of acquiring HIV. Over the last several years, there has been emerging evidence regarding the safety and effectiveness of various contraceptive methods, ultimately leading to a revision in the WHO Medical Eligibility Criteria for contraceptive use. RECENT FINDINGS Progestogen-only injectables may be associated with an increased risk of HIV acquisition and its use has been revised to category 2 from category 1. Etonogestrel and levonorgestrel levels are lower in women who concurrently use contraceptive implant and efavirenz-based antiretroviral therapy. Multipurpose technology, aimed at providing antiretroviral medication and contraception, is an area of ongoing research but is not yet clinically available. SUMMARY It is important for providers who care for women with HIV or at high risk of HIV to inquire about pregnancy intentions. If contraception is desired, these women should be offered all available methods, with counseling regarding possible risks of contraceptive failure or HIV acquisition.
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Smith JM, Moss JA, Srinivasan P, Butkyavichene I, Gunawardana M, Fanter R, Miller CS, Sanchez D, Yang F, Ellis S, Zhang J, Marzinke MA, Hendrix CW, Kapoor A, Baum MM. Novel multipurpose pod-intravaginal ring for the prevention of HIV, HSV, and unintended pregnancy: Pharmacokinetic evaluation in a macaque model. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0185946. [PMID: 28982161 PMCID: PMC5628903 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0185946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2017] [Accepted: 09/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Globally, women bear an uneven burden for sexual HIV acquisition. Results from two clinical trials evaluating intravaginal rings (IVRs) delivering the antiretroviral agent dapivirine have shown that protection from HIV infection can be achieved with this modality, but high adherence is essential. Multipurpose prevention technologies (MPTs) can potentially increase product adherence by offering protection against multiple vaginally transmitted infections and unintended pregnancy. Here we describe a coitally independent, long-acting pod-IVR MPT that could potentially prevent HIV and HSV infection as well as unintended pregnancy. The pharmacokinetics of MPT pod-IVRs delivering tenofovir alafenamide hemifumarate (TAF2) to prevent HIV, acyclovir (ACV) to prevent HSV, and etonogestrel (ENG) in combination with ethinyl estradiol (EE), FDA-approved hormonal contraceptives, were evaluated in pigtailed macaques (N = 6) over 35 days. Pod IVRs were exchanged at 14 days with the only modification being lower ENG release rates in the second IVR. Plasma progesterone was monitored weekly to determine the effect of ENG/EE on menstrual cycle. The mean in vivo release rates (mg d-1) for the two formulations over 30 days ranged as follows: TAF2 0.35-0.40; ACV 0.56-0.70; EE 0.03-0.08; ENG (high releasing) 0.63; and ENG (low releasing) 0.05. Mean peak progesterone levels were 4.4 ± 1.8 ng mL-1 prior to IVR insertion and 0.075 ± 0.064 ng mL-1 for 5 weeks after insertion, suggesting that systemic EE/ENG levels were sufficient to suppress menstruation. The TAF2 and ACV release rates and resulting vaginal tissue drug concentrations (medians: TFV, 2.4 ng mg-1; ACV, 0.2 ng mg-1) may be sufficient to protect against HIV and HSV infection, respectively. This proof of principle study demonstrates that MPT-pod IVRs could serve as a potent biomedical prevention tool to protect women's sexual and reproductive health and may increase adherence to HIV PrEP even among younger high-risk populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- James M. Smith
- Laboratory Branch, Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - John A. Moss
- Department of Chemistry, Oak Crest Institute of Science, Monrovia, California, United States of America
| | - Priya Srinivasan
- Laboratory Branch, Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Irina Butkyavichene
- Department of Chemistry, Oak Crest Institute of Science, Monrovia, California, United States of America
| | - Manjula Gunawardana
- Department of Chemistry, Oak Crest Institute of Science, Monrovia, California, United States of America
| | - Rob Fanter
- Department of Chemistry, Oak Crest Institute of Science, Monrovia, California, United States of America
| | - Christine S. Miller
- Department of Chemistry, Oak Crest Institute of Science, Monrovia, California, United States of America
| | - Debbie Sanchez
- Department of Chemistry, Oak Crest Institute of Science, Monrovia, California, United States of America
| | - Flora Yang
- Department of Chemistry, Oak Crest Institute of Science, Monrovia, California, United States of America
| | - Shanon Ellis
- Libra Management Group, Decatur, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Jining Zhang
- Libra Management Group, Decatur, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Mark A. Marzinke
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Osler, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University, Sheikh Zayed Tower, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Craig W. Hendrix
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Osler, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Amita Kapoor
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Capitol Court, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Marc M. Baum
- Department of Chemistry, Oak Crest Institute of Science, Monrovia, California, United States of America
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Pharmacokinetics of the Protein Microbicide 5P12-RANTES in Sheep following Single-Dose Vaginal Gel Administration. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2017; 61:AAC.00965-17. [PMID: 28784672 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00965-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2017] [Accepted: 07/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
5P12-RANTES, a chemokine analogue that potently blocks the HIV CCR5 coreceptor, is being developed as both a vaginal and rectal microbicide for prevention of sexual transmission of HIV. Here, we report the first pharmacokinetic data for 5P12-RANTES following single-dose vaginal gel administration in sheep. Aqueous gel formulations containing low (1.24-mg/ml), intermediate (6.18-mg/ml), and high (32.0-mg/ml; suspension-type gel) concentrations of 5P12-RANTES were assessed via rheology, syringeability, and in vitro release testing. Following vaginal gel administration to sheep, 5P12-RANTES concentrations were measured in vaginal fluid, vaginal tissue, and serum over a 96-h period. All gels showed non-Newtonian pseudoplastic behavior, with the high-concentration gels exhibiting a greater viscosity and cohesive structure than the intermediate- and low-concentration gels. In in vitro release testing, >90% 5P12-RANTES was released from the low- and intermediate-concentration gels after 72 h. For the high-concentration gel, ∼50% 5P12-RANTES was detected, attributed to protein denaturation during lyophilization and/or subsequent solvation of the protein within the gel matrix. In sheep, 5P12-RANTES concentrations in vaginal fluid, vaginal tissue, and serum increased in a dose-dependent manner. The highest concentrations were measured in vaginal fluid (105 to 107 ng/ml), followed by vaginal tissue (104 to 106 ng/ml). Both of these concentration ranges are several orders of magnitude above the reported half-maximal inhibitory concentrations. The lowest concentration was measured in serum (<102 ng/ml). The 5P12-RANTES pharmacokinetic data are similar to those reported previously for other candidate microbicides. These data, coupled with 5P12-RANTES's potency at picomolar concentrations, its strong barrier to resistance, and the full protection that it was observed to provide in a rhesus macaque vaginal challenge model, support the continued development of 5P12-RANTES as a microbicide.
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Verstraete G, Vandenbussche L, Kasmi S, Nuhn L, Brouckaert D, Van Renterghem J, Grymonpré W, Vanhoorne V, Coenye T, De Geest BG, De Beer T, Remon JP, Vervaet C. Thermoplastic polyurethane-based intravaginal rings for prophylaxis and treatment of (recurrent) bacterial vaginosis. Int J Pharm 2017; 529:218-226. [PMID: 28663088 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2017.06.076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2017] [Revised: 06/21/2017] [Accepted: 06/22/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to develop thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)-based intravaginal rings (IVRs) for prophylaxis and treatment of bacterial vaginosis via hot melt extrusion/injection molding. Therefore, different TPU grades were processed in combination with lactic acid or metronidazole, targeting a sustained lactic acid release over a 28day-period and sustained metronidazole release over 4-7days. Hot melt extrusion of lactic acid/TPU combinations required a lower extrusion temperature due to the plasticizing properties of lactic acid, evidenced by the lower glass transition temperature (Tg) and cross-over point (Ttanδ=1) values. NIR-chemical imaging data showed a homogenous distribution of lactic acid in TPU matrices at drug loads up to 30% (w/w). The addition of metronidazole did not lower processing temperatures, as the active pharmaceutical ingredient remained crystalline in the TPU matrix. Hydrophobic TPUs with a low ratio between the soft and hard segments (SS/HS ratio) in the polymer structure were suitable carriers for the lactic acid-eluting device over a 28-day period, while hydrophilic TPUs were needed to achieve the required release rate of metronidazole-eluting IVRs. IVRs manufactured with a TPU grade having a higher SS/HS ratio and lactic acid/TPU ratio exhibited a more elastic behavior. The addition of 25% (w/w) metronidazole did not affect the mechanical properties of the IVRs. Hydrophilic TPUs were most prone to biofilm formation by Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus, but the incorporation of metronidazole in the device prevented biofilm formation. Based on the drug eluting performance and mechanical tests, a mixture of lactic acid and Tecoflex™ EG-93A (20/80, w/w) and a combination of metronidazole and Tecophilic™ SP-93A-100 (25/75, w/w) were selected to design IVRs for the prophylaxis and treatment of bacterial vaginosis, respectively. Slug mucosal irritation tests predicted low irritation potency for both devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Verstraete
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - L Vandenbussche
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - S Kasmi
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - L Nuhn
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - D Brouckaert
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Process Analytical Technology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - J Van Renterghem
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Process Analytical Technology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - W Grymonpré
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - V Vanhoorne
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - T Coenye
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - B G De Geest
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - T De Beer
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Process Analytical Technology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - J P Remon
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - C Vervaet
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
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McCoy CF, Murphy DJ, Boyd P, Derrick T, Spence P, Devlin B, Malcolm RK. Packing Polymorphism of Dapivirine and Its Impact on the Performance of a Dapivirine-Releasing Silicone Elastomer Vaginal Ring. J Pharm Sci 2017; 106:2015-2025. [PMID: 28456732 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2017.04.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2017] [Revised: 03/20/2017] [Accepted: 04/17/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
A silicone elastomer vaginal ring providing sustained release over 28 days of the anti-retroviral microbicide dapivirine has recently completed phase III clinical testing and showed moderate protection against HIV acquisition. In support of the product licensure program, we report the impact of dapivirine packing polymorphism on the thermal and solubility characteristics of dapivirine and on the in vitro performance of the 25 mg dapivirine ring product. This is the first time that polymorphism has been reported for a drug-releasing vaginal ring product. Thermal, particle size, powder X-ray diffraction, and thermodynamic solubility analyses of dapivirine polymorphic forms I and IV, both of which are persistent at room temperature and with form I being the thermodynamically stable form, were conducted for both micronized and non-micronized materials. No significant differences in solubility between DPV forms I and IV were observed in media commonly used for in vitro release testing. Matrix-type silicone elastomer vaginal rings were manufactured and the impact of dapivirine polymorphism on key in vitro parameters (compression and tensile behavior; content assay; in vitro release; residual content assay) was investigated. The data demonstrate that dapivirine packing polymorphism has no significant impact on in vitro performance of the 25 mg dapivirine vaginal ring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare F McCoy
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | | | - Peter Boyd
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Tiffany Derrick
- International Partnership for Microbicides, Silver Spring, Maryland 20910
| | - Patrick Spence
- International Partnership for Microbicides, Silver Spring, Maryland 20910
| | - Brid Devlin
- International Partnership for Microbicides, Silver Spring, Maryland 20910
| | - R Karl Malcolm
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK.
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Özdener AE, Park TE, Kalabalik J, Gupta R. The future of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2017; 15:467-481. [PMID: 28322067 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2017.1309292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION People at high risk for HIV acquisition should be offered pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF)/emtricitabine (FTC) is currently the only medication recommended for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in people at high risk for HIV acquisition. This article will review medications currently under investigation and the future landscape of PrEP therapy. Areas covered: This article will review clinical trials that have investigated nontraditional regimens of TDF/FTC, antiretroviral agents from different drug classes such as integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTI), nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTI), and non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTI) as potential PrEP therapies. Expert commentary: Currently, there are several investigational drugs in the pipeline for PrEP against HIV infection. Increased utilization of PrEP therapy depends on provider identification of people at high risk for HIV transmission. Advances in PrEP development will expand options and access for people and reduce the risk of HIV acquisition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayşe Elif Özdener
- a School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences , Fairleigh Dickinson University , Florham Park , USA
| | - Tae Eun Park
- b Touro College of Pharmacy , New York , NY , USA.,c Department of Pharmacy , State University of New York (SUNY) Downstate Medical Center , Brooklyn , NY , USA
| | - Julie Kalabalik
- a School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences , Fairleigh Dickinson University , Florham Park , USA
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38
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Filipović M, Đekić L. Characteristics of vaginal delivery systems. ARHIV ZA FARMACIJU 2017. [DOI: 10.5937/arhfarm1706360f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
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