US20040087656A1 - Nanoparticulate fibrate formulations - Google Patents

Nanoparticulate fibrate formulations Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US20040087656A1
US20040087656A1 US10/693,496 US69349603A US2004087656A1 US 20040087656 A1 US20040087656 A1 US 20040087656A1 US 69349603 A US69349603 A US 69349603A US 2004087656 A1 US2004087656 A1 US 2004087656A1
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
less
composition
fibrate
fenofibrate
salt
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Abandoned
Application number
US10/693,496
Inventor
Tuula Ryde
Evan Gustow
Stephen Ruddy
Rajeev Jain
Rakesh Patel
Michael Wilkins
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Elan Pharma International Ltd
Original Assignee
Elan Pharma International Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Family has litigation
First worldwide family litigation filed litigation Critical https://patents.darts-ip.com/?family=31999117&utm_source=google_patent&utm_medium=platform_link&utm_campaign=public_patent_search&patent=US20040087656(A1) "Global patent litigation dataset” by Darts-ip is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Priority claimed from US10/370,277 external-priority patent/US20030224058A1/en
Application filed by Elan Pharma International Ltd filed Critical Elan Pharma International Ltd
Priority to US10/693,496 priority Critical patent/US20040087656A1/en
Publication of US20040087656A1 publication Critical patent/US20040087656A1/en
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61KPREPARATIONS FOR MEDICAL, DENTAL OR TOILETRY PURPOSES
    • A61K31/00Medicinal preparations containing organic active ingredients
    • A61K31/185Acids; Anhydrides, halides or salts thereof, e.g. sulfur acids, imidic, hydrazonic or hydroximic acids
    • A61K31/19Carboxylic acids, e.g. valproic acid
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61KPREPARATIONS FOR MEDICAL, DENTAL OR TOILETRY PURPOSES
    • A61K31/00Medicinal preparations containing organic active ingredients
    • A61K31/13Amines
    • A61K31/14Quaternary ammonium compounds, e.g. edrophonium, choline
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61KPREPARATIONS FOR MEDICAL, DENTAL OR TOILETRY PURPOSES
    • A61K31/00Medicinal preparations containing organic active ingredients
    • A61K31/21Esters, e.g. nitroglycerine, selenocyanates
    • A61K31/215Esters, e.g. nitroglycerine, selenocyanates of carboxylic acids
    • A61K31/216Esters, e.g. nitroglycerine, selenocyanates of carboxylic acids of acids having aromatic rings, e.g. benactizyne, clofibrate
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61KPREPARATIONS FOR MEDICAL, DENTAL OR TOILETRY PURPOSES
    • A61K45/00Medicinal preparations containing active ingredients not provided for in groups A61K31/00 - A61K41/00
    • A61K45/06Mixtures of active ingredients without chemical characterisation, e.g. antiphlogistics and cardiaca
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61KPREPARATIONS FOR MEDICAL, DENTAL OR TOILETRY PURPOSES
    • A61K9/00Medicinal preparations characterised by special physical form
    • A61K9/14Particulate form, e.g. powders, Processes for size reducing of pure drugs or the resulting products, Pure drug nanoparticles
    • A61K9/141Intimate drug-carrier mixtures characterised by the carrier, e.g. ordered mixtures, adsorbates, solid solutions, eutectica, co-dried, co-solubilised, co-kneaded, co-milled, co-ground products, co-precipitates, co-evaporates, co-extrudates, co-melts; Drug nanoparticles with adsorbed surface modifiers
    • A61K9/145Intimate drug-carrier mixtures characterised by the carrier, e.g. ordered mixtures, adsorbates, solid solutions, eutectica, co-dried, co-solubilised, co-kneaded, co-milled, co-ground products, co-precipitates, co-evaporates, co-extrudates, co-melts; Drug nanoparticles with adsorbed surface modifiers with organic compounds
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61KPREPARATIONS FOR MEDICAL, DENTAL OR TOILETRY PURPOSES
    • A61K9/00Medicinal preparations characterised by special physical form
    • A61K9/14Particulate form, e.g. powders, Processes for size reducing of pure drugs or the resulting products, Pure drug nanoparticles
    • A61K9/141Intimate drug-carrier mixtures characterised by the carrier, e.g. ordered mixtures, adsorbates, solid solutions, eutectica, co-dried, co-solubilised, co-kneaded, co-milled, co-ground products, co-precipitates, co-evaporates, co-extrudates, co-melts; Drug nanoparticles with adsorbed surface modifiers
    • A61K9/146Intimate drug-carrier mixtures characterised by the carrier, e.g. ordered mixtures, adsorbates, solid solutions, eutectica, co-dried, co-solubilised, co-kneaded, co-milled, co-ground products, co-precipitates, co-evaporates, co-extrudates, co-melts; Drug nanoparticles with adsorbed surface modifiers with organic macromolecular compounds
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61KPREPARATIONS FOR MEDICAL, DENTAL OR TOILETRY PURPOSES
    • A61K9/00Medicinal preparations characterised by special physical form
    • A61K9/20Pills, tablets, discs, rods
    • A61K9/2072Pills, tablets, discs, rods characterised by shape, structure or size; Tablets with holes, special break lines or identification marks; Partially coated tablets; Disintegrating flat shaped forms
    • A61K9/2077Tablets comprising drug-containing microparticles in a substantial amount of supporting matrix; Multiparticulate tablets
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61PSPECIFIC THERAPEUTIC ACTIVITY OF CHEMICAL COMPOUNDS OR MEDICINAL PREPARATIONS
    • A61P3/00Drugs for disorders of the metabolism
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61PSPECIFIC THERAPEUTIC ACTIVITY OF CHEMICAL COMPOUNDS OR MEDICINAL PREPARATIONS
    • A61P3/00Drugs for disorders of the metabolism
    • A61P3/04Anorexiants; Antiobesity agents
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61PSPECIFIC THERAPEUTIC ACTIVITY OF CHEMICAL COMPOUNDS OR MEDICINAL PREPARATIONS
    • A61P43/00Drugs for specific purposes, not provided for in groups A61P1/00-A61P41/00
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61PSPECIFIC THERAPEUTIC ACTIVITY OF CHEMICAL COMPOUNDS OR MEDICINAL PREPARATIONS
    • A61P9/00Drugs for disorders of the cardiovascular system
    • YGENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10TTECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T428/00Stock material or miscellaneous articles
    • Y10T428/29Coated or structually defined flake, particle, cell, strand, strand portion, rod, filament, macroscopic fiber or mass thereof

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a nanoparticulate composition
  • a nanoparticulate composition comprising a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate or a salt thereof.
  • the nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, particles have an effective average particle size of less than about 2000 nm.
  • Nanoparticulate compositions are particles consisting of a poorly soluble therapeutic or diagnostic agent having adsorbed onto the surface thereof a non-crosslinked surface stabilizer.
  • the '684 patent does not describe nanoparticulate compositions of a fibrate.
  • Nanoparticulate compositions are also described, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,298,262 for “Use of Ionic Cloud Point Modifiers to Prevent Particle Aggregation During Sterilization;” 5,302,401 for “Method to Reduce Particle Size Growth During Lyophilization;” 5,318,767 for “X-Ray Contrast Compositions Useful in Medical Imaging;” 5,326,552 for “Novel Formulation For Nanoparticulate X-Ray Blood Pool Contrast Agents Using High Molecular Weight Non-ionic Surfactants;” 5,328,404 for “Method of X-Ray Imaging Using Iodinated Aromatic Propanedioates;” 5,336,507 for “Use of Charged Phospholipids to Reduce Nanoparticle Aggregation;” 5,340,564 for “Formulations Comprising Olin 10-G to Prevent Particle Aggregation and Increase Stability;” 5,346,702 for “Use of Non-I
  • Amorphous small particle compositions are described, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,783,484 for “Particulate Composition and Use Thereof as Antimicrobial Agent;” 4,826,689 for “Method for Making Uniformly Sized Particles from Water-Insoluble Organic Compounds;” 4,997,454 for “Method for Making Uniformly-Sized Particles From Insoluble Compounds;” 5,741,522 for “Ultrasmall, Non-aggregated Porous Particles of Uniform Size for Entrapping Gas Bubbles Within and Methods;” and 5,776,496, for “Ultrasmall Porous Particles for Enhancing Ultrasound Back Scatter.”
  • compositions of the invention comprise a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate.
  • Fenofibrate also known as 2-[4-(4-chlorobenzoyl) phenoxy]-2-methyl-propanoic acid, 1-methylethyl ester, is a lipid regulating agent.
  • the compound is insoluble in water. See The Physicians' Desk Reference, 56 th Ed., pp. 513-516 (2002).
  • Fenofibrate is described in, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,907,792 for “Phenoxy-Alkyl-Carboxylic Acid Derivatives and the Preparation Thereof;” 4,895,726 for “Novel Dosage Form of Fenofibrate;” 6,074,670 and 6,277,405, both for “Fenofibrate Pharmaceutical Composition Having High Bioavailability and Method for Preparing It.”
  • U.S. Pat. No. 3,907,792 describes a class of phenoxy-alkyl carboxylic compounds which encompasses fenofibrate.
  • U.S. Pat. No.6,074,670 refers to immediate-release fenofibrate compositions comprising micronized fenofibrate and at least one inert hydrosoluble carrier.
  • U.S. Pat. No. 4,739,101 describes a process for making fenofibrate.
  • U.S. Pat. No. 6,277,405 is directed to micronized fenofibrate compositions having a specified dissolution profile.
  • microparticulate fenofibrate composition comprising a phospholipid.
  • International Publication No. WO 02/067901 for “Fibrate-Statin Combinations with Reduced Fed-Fasted Effects,” published on Sep. 6, 2002 describes a microparticulate fenofibrate composition comprising a phospholipid and a hydroxymethylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitor or statin.
  • HMG-CoA hydroxymethylglutaryl coenzyme A
  • WO 01/80828 for “Improved Water-Insoluble Drug Particle Process,” and International Publication No. WO 02/24193 for “Stabilised Fibrate Microparticles,” describe a process for making small particle compositions of poorly water soluble drugs. The process requires preparing an admixture of a drug and one or more surface active agents, followed by heating the drug admixture to at or above the melting point of the poorly water soluble drug. The heated suspension is then homogenized. The use of such a heating process is undesirable, as heating a drug to its melting point destroys the crystalline structure of the drug.
  • a drug may be amorphous or recrystallize in a different isoform, thereby producing a composition which is physically and structurally different from that desired.
  • Such a “different” composition may have different pharmacological properties. This is significant as U.S. Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) approval of a drug substance requires that the drug substance be stable and produced in a repeatable process.
  • USFDA U.S. Food and Drug Administration
  • WO 03/013474 for “Nanoparticulate Formulations of Fenofibrate,” published on Feb. 20, 2003, describes fibrate compositions comprising vitamin E TGPS (polyethylene glycol (PEG) derivatized vitamin E).
  • TGPS polyethylene glycol (PEG) derivatized vitamin E
  • the fibrate compositions of this reference comprise particles of fibrate and vitamin E TPGS having a mean diameter from about 100 nm to about 900 nm (page 8, lines 12-15, of WO 03/013474), a D 50 of 350 -750 nm, and a D 99 of 500 to 900 nm (page 9, lines 11-13, of WO 03/013474) (50% of the particles of a composition fall below a “D 50 ”, and 99% of the particles of a composition fall below a D 99 ).
  • the reference does not teach that the described compositions show minimal or no variability when administered in fed as compared to fasted conditions.
  • total-C total cholesterol
  • LDL-C low density lipoprotein cholesterol
  • apo B apolipoprotein B
  • HDL-C high density lipoprotein cholesterol
  • apo A2 and apo AII apolipoprotein A
  • Fenofibric acid the active metabolite of fenofibrate, produces reductions in total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, apo-lipoprotein B, total triglycerides, and triglyceride rich lipoprotein (VLDL) in treated patients.
  • VLDL triglyceride rich lipoprotein
  • HDL high density lipoprotein
  • apoAI apolipoprotein apoAI and apoAII
  • fibrates including fenofibrate
  • fibrates including fenofibrate
  • conventional fibrate, including fenofibrate, formulations exhibit dramatically different effects depending upon the fed or fasted state of the patient.
  • conventional fibrate, including fenofibrate, formulations require relatively large doses to achieve the desired therapeutic effects.
  • the present invention relates to nanoparticulate compositions comprising a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate.
  • the compositions comprise a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, and at least one surface stabilizer adsorbed on the surface of the fibrate particles.
  • the nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, particles have an effective average particle size of less than about 2000 nm.
  • a preferred dosage form of the invention is a solid dosage form, although any pharmaceutically acceptable dosage form can be utilized.
  • compositions comprising a nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, composition of the invention.
  • the pharmaceutical compositions comprise a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, at least one surface stabilizer, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, as well as any desired excipients.
  • One embodiment of the invention encompasses a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, composition, wherein the pharmacokinetic profile of the fibrate is not affected by the fed or fasted state of a subject ingesting the composition, in particular as defined by C max and AUC guidelines given by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the corresponding European regulatory agency (EMEA).
  • EMEA European regulatory agency
  • Another aspect of the invention is directed to a nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, composition having improved pharmacokinetic profiles as compared to conventional microcrystalline fibrate formulations, such as T max , C max , and AUC.
  • the invention encompasses a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, composition, wherein administration of the composition to a subject in a fasted state is bioequivalent to administration of the composition to a subject in a fed state, in particular as defined by C max and AUC guidelines given by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the corresponding European regulatory agency (EMEA).
  • a fibrate preferably fenofibrate
  • Another embodiment of the invention is directed to nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions additionally comprising one or more compounds useful in treating dyslipidemia, hyperlipidemia, hypercholesterolemia, cardiovascular disorders, or related conditions.
  • nanoparticulate fibrate preferably fenofibrate
  • formulations which, as compared to conventional non-nanoparticulate formulations of a fibrate, particularly a fenofibrate such as TRICOR® (160 mg tablet or 200 mg capsule microcrystalline fenofibrate formulations), have one or more of the following properties: (1) smaller tablet or other solid dosage form size; (2) smaller doses of drug required to obtain the same pharmacological effect; (3) increased bioavailability; (4) substantially similar pharmacokinetic profiles of the nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions when administered in the fed versus the fasted state; (5) an increased rate of dissolution for the nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions; and (6) bioadhesive fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions.
  • This invention further discloses a method of making a nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, composition according to the invention.
  • Such a method comprises contacting a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, and at least one surface stabilizer for a time and under conditions sufficient to provide a nanoparticulate fibrate composition, and preferably a fenofibrate composition.
  • the one or more surface stabilizers can be contacted with a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, either before, during, or after size reduction of the fibrate.
  • the present invention is also directed to methods of treatment using the nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions of the invention for conditions such as hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, coronary heart disease, and peripheral vascular disease (including symptomatic carotid artery disease).
  • the compositions of the invention can be used as adjunctive therapy to diet for the reduction of LDL-C, total-C, triglycerides, and Apo B in adult patients with primary hypercholesterolemia or mixed dyslipidemia (Fredrickson Types IIa and IIb).
  • the compositions can also be used as adjunctive therapy to diet for treatment of adult patients with hypertriglyceridemia (Fredrickson Types IV and V hyperlipidemia).
  • Markedly elevated levels of serum tryglycerides may increase the risk of developing pancreatitis.
  • Such methods comprise administering to a subject a therapeutically effective amount of a nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, composition according to the invention.
  • Other methods of treatment using the nanoparticulate compositions of the invention are know to those of skill in the art.
  • FIG. 1 Shows the fenofibric acid concentration ( ⁇ g/ml) over a period of 120 minutes for a single dose of: (a) a 160 mg nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet administered to a fasting subject; (b) a 160 mg nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet administered to a high fat fed subject; and (c) a 200 mg microcrystalline (TRICOR®; Abbott Laboratories, Abbott Park, Ill.) capsule administered to a low fat fed subject; and
  • FIG. 2 Shows the fenofibric acid concentration ( ⁇ g/ml) over a period of 24 hours for a single dose of: (a) a 160 mg nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet administered to a fasting subject; (b) a 160 mg nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet administered to a high fat fed subject; and (c) a 200 mg microcrystalline (TRICOR®) capsule administered to a low fat fed subject.
  • the present invention is directed to nanoparticulate compositions comprising a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate.
  • the compositions comprise a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, and preferably at least one surface stabilizer adsorbed on the surface of the drug.
  • the nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, particles have an effective average particle size of less than about 2000 nm.
  • nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, formulations of the invention as compared to conventional non-nanoparticulate formulations of a fibrate, particularly a fenofibrate such as TRICOR® (tablet or capsule microcrystalline fenofibrate formulations), include, but are not limited to: (1) smaller tablet or other solid dosage form size; (2) smaller doses of drug required to obtain the same pharmacological effect; (3) increased bioavailability; (4) substantially similar pharmacokinetic profiles of the nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions when administered in the fed versus the fasted state; (5) improved pharmacokinetic profiles; (6) bioequivalency of the nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions when administered in the fed versus the fasted state; (7) an increased rate of dissolution for the nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions; (8) bioadhe
  • the present invention also includes nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions together with one or more non-toxic physiologically acceptable carriers, adjuvants, or vehicles, collectively referred to as carriers.
  • the compositions can be formulated for parenteral injection (e.g., intravenous, intramuscular, or subcutaneous), oral administration in solid, liquid, or aerosol form, vaginal, nasal, rectal, ocular, local (powders, ointments or drops), buccal, intracistemal, intraperitoneal, or topical administration, and the like.
  • a preferred dosage form of the invention is a solid dosage form, although any pharmaceutically acceptable dosage form can be utilized.
  • Exemplary solid dosage forms include, but are not limited to, tablets, capsules, sachets, lozenges, powders, pills, or granules, and the solid dosage form can be, for example, a fast melt dosage form, controlled release dosage form, lyophilized dosage form, delayed release dosage form, extended release dosage form, pulsatile release dosage form, mixed immediate release and controlled release dosage form, or a combination thereof.
  • a solid dose tablet formulation is preferred.
  • stable fibrate preferably fenofibrate, particles
  • stable includes, but is not limited to, one or more of the following parameters: (1) that the fibrate particles do not appreciably flocculate or agglomerate due to interparticle attractive forces, or otherwise significantly increase in particle size over time; (2) that the physical structure of the fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, particles is not altered over time, such as by conversion from an amorphous phase to crystalline phase; (3) that the fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, particles are chemically stable; and/or (4) where the fibrate has not been subject to a heating step at or above the melting point of the fibrate in the preparation of the nanoparticles of the invention.
  • the fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, formulations of the invention exhibit increased bioavailability, at the same dose of the same fibrate, and require smaller doses as compared to prior conventional fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, formulations.
  • Example 6 administration of a 160 mg nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet in a fasted state is not bioequivalent to administration of a 200 mg conventional microcrystalline fenofibrate capsule (TRICOR®) in a fed state, pursuant to regulatory guidelines.
  • T max measurements are not relevant to bioequivalence for regulatory purposes.
  • the 90% CI for AUC must be between 0.80 to 1.25 and the 90% CI for C max must between 0.70 to 1.43.
  • the non-bioequivalence is significant because it means that the nanoparticulate fenofibrate dosage form exhibits significantly greater drug absorption.
  • the nanoparticulate fenofibrate dosage form would have to contain significantly less drug.
  • the nanoparticulate fenofibrate dosage form significantly increases the bioavailability of the drug.
  • nanoparticulate fenofibrate dosage form requires less drug to obtain the same pharmacological effect observed with the conventional microcrystalline fenofibrate dosage form (e.g., TRICOR®). Therefore, the nanoparticulate fenofibrate dosage form has an increased bioavailability as compared to the conventional microcrystalline fenofibrate dosage form (e.g., TRICOR®).
  • a stable solid dose fenofibrate composition comprising: (a) a therapeutically effective dosage of 145 mg of particles of fenofibrate or a salt thereof; and (b) associated with the surface thereof at least one surface stabilizer.
  • Characteristics of the composition include: (i) the fenofibrate particles have an effective average particle size of less than about 2000 nm; (ii) the solid dose is bioequivalent to the TRICOR® 160 mg tablet, wherein bioequivalency is established by a 90% Confidence Interval of between 0.80 and 1.25 for both C max and AUC or a 90% Confidence Interval of between 0.80 and 1.25 for AUC and a 90% Confidence Interval of between 0.70 to 1.43 for C max ; and (iii) the solid dose is about 10% smaller than the TRICOR® tablet.
  • a stable solid dose fenofibrate composition comprising: (a) a therapeutically effective dosage of 48 mg of particles of fenofibrate or a salt thereof, and (b) associated with the surface thereof at least one surface stabilizer.
  • Characteristics of the composition include: (i) the fenofibrate particles have an effective average particle size of less than about 2000 nm; (ii) the solid dose is bioequivalent to the TRICOR® 54 mg tablet, wherein bioequivalency is established by a 90% Confidence Interval of between 0.80 and 1.25 for both C max and AUC or a 90% Confidence Interval of between 0.80 and 1.25 for AUC and a 90% Confidence Interval of between 0.70 to 1.43 for C max ; and (iii) the solid dose is about 10% smaller than the TRICOR® tablet.
  • the invention also provides fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions having a desirable pharmacokinetic profile when administered to mammalian subjects.
  • the desirable pharmacokinetic profile of the fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions comprise the parameters: (1) that the T max of a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, when assayed in the plasma of the mammalian subject, is less than about 6 to about 8 hours.
  • the T max parameter of the pharmacokinetic profile is less than about 6 hours, less than about 5 hours, less than about 4 hours, less than about 3 hours, less than about 2 hours, less than about 1 hour, or less than about 30 minutes after administration.
  • the desirable pharmacokinetic profile is the pharmacokinetic profile measured after the initial dose of a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate.
  • the compositions can be formulated in any way as described below and as known to those of skill in the art.
  • compositions of the invention improve upon at least the T max parameter of the pharmacokinetic profile of a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate.
  • a preferred fibrate formulation, preferably a fenofibrate formulation, of the invention exhibits in comparative pharmacokinetic testing with a standard commercial formulation of the same fibrate, e.g., TRICOR® tablets from Abbott Laboratories for fenofibrate, a T max not greater than about 90%, not greater than about 80%, not greater than about 70%, not greater than about 60%, not greater than about 50%, not greater than about 30%, or not greater than about 25% of the T max exhibited by a standard commercial fibrate formulation, e.g., TRICOR® tablets for fenofibrate.
  • Any formulation giving the desired pharmacokinetic profile is suitable for administration according to the present methods.
  • Exemplary types of formulations giving such profiles are liquid dispersions, gels, aerosols, ointments, creams, solid dose forms, etc. of a nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably nanoparticulate fenofibrate.
  • a fenofibrate composition of the invention comprises fenofibrate or a salt thereof, which when administered to a human as a dose of about 160 mg presents an AUC of about 139 ⁇ g/mL.h.
  • a fenofibrate composition of the invention comprises fenofibrate and has a C max under fasted conditions which is greater than the C max under high fat fed (HFF) conditions, when administered to a human.
  • HFF high fat fed
  • the invention encompasses a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, composition wherein the pharmacokinetic profile of the fibrate is not substantially affected by the fed or fasted state of a subject ingesting the composition, when administered to a human. This means that there is no substantial difference in the quantity of drug absorbed or the rate of drug absorption when the nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions are administered in the fed versus the fasted state.
  • the absorption of fenofibrate is increased by approximately 35% when administered with food. This significant difference in absorption observed with conventional fenofibrate formulations is undesirable.
  • the fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, formulations of the invention overcome this problem, as the fibrate formulations reduce or preferably substantially eliminate significantly different absorption levels when administered under fed as compared to fasting conditions when administered to a human.
  • a fenofibrate composition of the invention comprises about 145 mg of fenofibrate and exhibits minimal or no food effect when administered to a human. In another preferred embodiment of the invention, a fenofibrate composition of the invention comprises about 48 mg of fenofibrate and exhibits minimal or no food effect when administered to a human.
  • the pharmacokinetic parameters of the fenofibrate compositions of the invention are the same when the composition is administered in the fed and fasted states when administered to a human. Specifically, there was no substantial difference in the rate or quantity of drug absorption when the fenofibrate composition was administered in the fed versus the fasted state.
  • the fibrate compositions, and preferably fenofibrate compositions, of the invention substantially eliminate the effect of food on the pharmacokinetics of the fibrate when administered to a human.
  • Benefits of a dosage form which substantially eliminates the effect of food include an increase in subject convenience, thereby increasing subject compliance, as the subject does not need to ensure that they are taking a dose either with or without food. This is significant, as with poor subject compliance an increase in the medical condition for which the drug is being prescribed may be observed, i.e., cardiovascular problems for poor subject compliance with a fibrate such as fenofibrate.
  • the invention also encompasses a fibrate, preferably a fenofibrate, composition in which administration of the composition to a subject in a fasted state is bioequivalent to administration of the composition to a subject in a fed state.
  • a fibrate preferably a fenofibrate
  • “Bioequivalency” is established by a 90% Confidence Interval (CI) of between 0.80 and 1.25 for both C max and AUC under USFDA regulatory guidelines, or a 90% CI for AUC of between 0.80 to 1.25 and a 90% CI for C max of between 0.70 to 1.43 under the European EMEA regulatory guidelines.
  • the difference in absorption of the fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions of the invention, when administered in the fed versus the fasted state preferably is less than about 35%, less than about 30%, less than about 25%, less than about 20%, less than about 15%, less than about 10%, less than about 5%, or less than about 3%.
  • Example 6 administration of a fenofibrate composition according to the invention in a fasted state was bioequivalent to administration of a fenofibrate composition according to the invention in a fed state, pursuant to regulatory guidelines.
  • two products or methods are bioequivalent if the 90% Confidence Intervals (CI) for C max (peak concentration) and the AUC (area under the concentration/time curve) are between 0.80 to 1.25.
  • the test for bioequivalency is if two products or methods have a 90% CI for AUC of between 0.80 to 1.25 and a 90% CI for C max of between 0.70 to 1.43.
  • the fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions of the invention meet both the U.S. and European guidelines for bioequivalency for administration in the fed versus the fasted state.
  • the fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions of the invention have unexpectedly dramatic dissolution profiles. Rapid dissolution of an administered active agent is preferable, as faster dissolution generally leads to faster onset of action and greater bioavailability. To improve the dissolution profile and bioavailability of fibrates, and in particulate fenofibrate, it would be useful to increase the drug's dissolution so that it could attain a level close to 100%.
  • the fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions of the invention preferably have a dissolution profile in which within about 5 minutes at least about 20% of the composition is dissolved. In other embodiments of the invention, at least about 30% or about 40% of the fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, composition is dissolved within about 5 minutes. In yet other embodiments of the invention, preferably at least about 40%, about 50%, about 60%, about 70%, or about 80% of the fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, composition is dissolved within about 10 minutes. Finally, in another embodiment of the invention, preferably at least about 70%, about 80%, about 90%, or about 100% of the fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, composition is dissolved within about 20 minutes.
  • Dissolution is preferably measured in a medium which is discriminating. Such a dissolution medium will produce two very different dissolution curves for two products having very different dissolution profiles in gastric juices; i.e., the dissolution medium is predictive of in vivo dissolution of a composition.
  • An exemplary dissolution medium is an aqueous medium containing the surfactant sodium lauryl sulfate at 0.025 M. Determination of the amount dissolved can be carried out by spectrophotometry. The rotating blade method (European Pharmacopoeia) can be used to measure dissolution.
  • compositions of the invention redisperse such that the effective average particle size of the redispersed fibrate particles is less than about 2 microns. This is significant, as if upon administration the nanoparticulate fibrate compositions of the invention did not redisperse to a substantially nanoparticulate particle size, then the dosage form may lose the benefits afforded by formulating the fibrate into a nanoparticulate particle size.
  • nanoparticulate active agent compositions benefit from the small particle size of the active agent; if the active agent does not redisperse into the small particle sizes upon administration, then “clumps” or agglomerated active agent particles are formed, owing to the extremely high surface free energy of the nanoparticulate system and the thermodynamic driving force to achieve an overall reduction in free energy. With the formation of such agglomerated particles, the bioavailability of the dosage form may fall well below that observed with the liquid dispersion form of the nanoparticulate active agent.
  • the nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions of the invention exhibit dramatic redispersion of the nanoparticulate fibrate particles upon administration to a mammal, such as a human or animal, as demonstrated by reconstitution/redispersion in a biorelevant aqueous media such that the effective average particle size of the redispersed fibrate particles is less than about 2 microns.
  • a biorelevant aqueous media can be any aqueous media that exhibit the desired ionic strength and pH, which form the basis for the biorelevance of the media.
  • the desired pH and ionic strength are those that are representative of physiological conditions found in the human body.
  • Such biorelevant aqueous media can be, for example, aqueous electrolyte solutions or aqueous solutions of any salt, acid, or base, or a combination thereof, which exhibit the desired pH and ionic strength.
  • Biorelevant pH is well known in the art.
  • the pH ranges from slightly less than 2 (but typically greater than 1) up to 4 or 5.
  • the pH can range from 4 to 6, and in the colon it can range from 6 to 8.
  • Biorelevant ionic strength is also well known in the art. Fasted state gastric fluid has an ionic strength of about 0.1M while fasted state intestinal fluid has an ionic strength of about 0.14. See e.g., Lindahl et al., “Characterization of Fluids from the Stomach and Proximal Jejunum in Men and Women,” Pharm. Res., 14 (4): 497-502 (1997).
  • pH and ionic strength of the test solution is more critical than the specific chemical content. Accordingly, appropriate pH and ionic strength values can be obtained through numerous combinations of strong acids, strong bases, salts, single or multiple conjugate acid-base pairs (i.e., weak acids and corresponding salts of that acid), monoprotic and polyprotic electrolytes, etc.
  • Representative electrolyte solutions can be, but are not limited to, HCl solutions, ranging in concentration from about 0.001 to about 0.1 M, and NaCl solutions, ranging in concentration from about 0.001 to about 0.1 M, and mixtures thereof.
  • electrolyte solutions can be, but are not limited to, about 0.1 M HCl or less, about 0.01 M HCl or less, about 0.001 M HCl or less, about 0.1 M NaCl or less, about 0.01 M NaCl or less, about 0.001 M NaCl or less, and mixtures thereof.
  • 0.01 M HCl and/or 0.1 M NaCl are most representative of fasted human physiological conditions, owing to the pH and ionic strength conditions of the proximal gastrointestinal tract.
  • Electrolyte concentrations of 0.001 M HCl, 0.01 M HCl, and 0.1 M HCl correspond to pH 3, pH 2, and pH 1, respectively.
  • a 0.01 M HCl solution simulates typical acidic conditions found in the stomach.
  • a solution of 0.1 M NaCl provides a reasonable approximation of the ionic strength conditions found throughout the body, including the gastrointestinal fluids, although concentrations higher than 0.1 M may be employed to simulate fed conditions within the human GI tract.
  • Exemplary solutions of salts, acids, bases or combinations thereof, which exhibit the desired pH and ionic strength include but are not limited to phosphoric acid/phosphate salts+sodium, potassium and calcium salts of chloride, acetic acid/acetate salts+sodium, potassium and calcium salts of chloride, carbonic acid/bicarbonate salts+sodium, potassium and calcium salts of chloride, and citric acid/citrate salts+sodium, potassium and calcium salts of chloride.
  • the redispersed fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, particles of the invention have an effective average particle size of less than about 1900 nm, less than about 1800 nm, less than about 1700 nm, less than about 1600 nm, less than about 1500 nm, less than about 1400 nm, less than about 1300 nm, less than about 1200 nm, less than about 1100 nm, less than about 1000 nm, less than about 900 nm, less than about 800 nm, less than about 700 nm, less than about 600 nm, less than about 500 nm, less than about 400 nm, less than about 300 nm, less than about 250 nm, less than about 200 nm, less than about 150 nm, less than about 100 nm, less than about 75 nm, or less than about 50 nm, as measured
  • Redispersibility can be tested using any suitable means known in the art. See e.g., the example sections of U.S. Pat. No. 6,375,986 for “Solid Dose Nanoparticulate Compositions Comprising a Synergistic Combination of a Polymeric Surface Stabilizer and Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate.”
  • Bioadhesive fibrate, particularly fenofibrate, compositions of the invention comprise at least one cationic surface stabilizer, which are described in more detail below.
  • Bioadhesive formulations of fibrate, particularly fenofibrate exhibit exceptional bioadhesion to biological surfaces, such as mucous.
  • the term bioadhesion refers to any attractive interaction between two biological surfaces or between a biological and a synthetic surface.
  • the term bioadhesion is used to describe the adhesion between the nanoparticulate fibrate, particularly fenofibrate, compositions and a biological substrate (i.e. gastrointestinal mucin, lung tissue, nasal mucosa, etc.). See e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 6,428,814 for “Bioadhesive Nanoparticulate Compositions Having Cationic Surface Stabilizers,” which is specifically incorporated by reference.
  • bioadhesion phenomena There are basically two mechanisms which may be responsible for this bioadhesion phenomena: mechanical or physical interactions and chemical interactions.
  • the first of these, mechanical or physical mechanisms involves the physical interlocking or interpenetration between a bioadhesive entity and the receptor tissue, resulting from a good wetting of the bioadhesive surface, swelling of the bioadhesive polymer, penetration of the bioadhesive entity into a crevice of the tissue surface, or interpenetration of bioadhesive composition chains with those of the mucous or other such related tissues.
  • the second possible mechanism of bioadhesion incorporates forces such as ionic attraction, dipolar forces, van der Waals interactions, and hydrogen bonds.
  • bioadhesion which is primarily responsible for the bioadhesive properties of the nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions of the invention.
  • physical and mechanical interactions may also play a secondary role in the bioadhesion of such nanoparticulate compositions.
  • the bioadhesive fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions of the invention are useful in any situation in which it is desirable to apply the compositions to a biological surface.
  • the bioadhesive fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions coat the targeted surface in a continuous and uniform film which is invisible to the naked human eye.
  • a bioadhesive fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, composition slows the transit of the composition, and some fibrate particles would also most likely adhere to tissue other than the mucous cells and therefore give a prolonged exposure to the fibrate, thereby increasing absorption and the bioavailability of the administered dosage.
  • the fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions of the invention can additionally comprise one or more compounds useful in treating dyslipidemia, hyperlipidemia, hypercholesterolemia, cardiovascular disorders, or related conditions, or the fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions can be administered in conjunction with such a compound.
  • examples of such compounds include, but are not limited to, statins or HMG CoA reductase inhibitors and antihypertensives.
  • antihypertensives include, but are not limited to diuretics (“water pills”), beta blockers, alpha blockers, alpha-beta blockers, sympathetic nerve inhibitors, angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, angiotensin receptor blockers (formal medical name angiotensin-2-receptor antagonists, known as “sartans” for short).
  • ACE angiotensin converting enzyme
  • statins or HMG CoA reductase inhibitors include, but are not limited to, lovastatin; pravastatin; simavastatin; velostatin; atorvastatin (Lipitor®) and other 6-[2-(substituted-pyrrol-1-yl)alkyl]pyran-2-ones and derivatives, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.
  • the invention provides compositions comprising fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, particles and at least one surface stabilizer.
  • the surface stabilizers preferably are adsorbed on, or associated with, the surface of the fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, particles.
  • Surface stabilizers especially useful herein preferably physically adhere on, or associate with, the surface of the nanoparticulate fibrate particles but do not chemically react with the fibrate particles or itself. Individually adsorbed molecules of the surface stabilizer are essentially free of intermolecular cross-linkages.
  • the present invention also includes fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions together with one or more non-toxic physiologically acceptable carriers, adjuvants, or vehicles, collectively referred to as carriers.
  • the compositions can be formulated for parenteral injection (e.g., intravenous, intramuscular, or subcutaneous), oral administration in solid, liquid, or aerosol form, vaginal, nasal, rectal, ocular, local (powders, ointments or drops), buccal, intracisternal, intraperitoneal, or topical administration, and the like.
  • Fenofibrate means any of the fibric acid derivatives useful in the methods described herein, e.g., fenofibrate.
  • Fenofibrate is a fibrate compound, other examples of which are bezafibrate, beclobrate, binifibrate, ciplofibrate, clinofibrate, clofibrate, clofibric acid, etofibrate, gemfibrozil, nicofibrate, pirifibrate, ronifibrate, simfibrate, theofibrate, etc. See U.S. Pat. No. 6,384,062.
  • fibrates are used for conditions such as hypercholesterolemia, mixed lipidemia, hypertriglyceridemia, coronary heart disease, and peripheral vascular disease (including symptomatic carotid artery disease), and prevention of pancreatitis. Fenofibrate may also help prevent the development of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) caused by high levels of triglycerides in the blood. Fibrates are known to be useful in treating renal failure (U.S. Pat. No. 4,250,191). Fibrates may also be used for other indications where lipid regulating agents are typically used.
  • fenofibrate is used to mean fenofibrate (2-[4-(4-chlorobenzoyl) phenoxy]-2-methyl-propanoic acid, 1-methylethyl ester) or a salt thereof.
  • Fenofibrate is well known in the art and is readily recognized by one of ordinary skill. It is used to lower triglyceride (fat-like substances) levels in the blood. Specifically, fenofibrate reduces elevated LDL-C, Total-C, triglycerides, and Apo-B and increases HDL-C. The drug has also been approved as adjunctive therapy for the treatment of hypertriglyceridemia, a disorder characterized by elevated levels of very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) in the plasma.
  • VLDL very low density lipoprotein
  • Fenofibric acid the active metabolite of fenofibrate
  • lowers plasma triglycerides apparently by inhibiting triglyceride synthesis, resulting in a reduction of VLDL released into the circulation, and also by stimulating the catabolism of triglyceride-rich lipoprotein (i.e., VLDL).
  • Fenofibrate also reduces serum uric acid levels in hyperuricemic and normal individuals by increasing the urinary excretion of uric acid.
  • fenofibrate is rapidly hydrolyzed by esterases to the active metabolite, fenofibric acid; no unchanged fenofibrate is detected in plasma.
  • Fenofibric acid is primarily conjugated with glucuronic acid and then excreted in urine.
  • a small amount of fenofibric acid is reduced at the carbonyl moiety to a benzhydrol metabolite which is, in turn, conjugated with glucuronic acid and excreted in urine. Id.
  • the choice of a surface stabilizer for a fibrate is non-trivial and required extensive experimentation to realize a desirable formulation. Accordingly, the present invention is directed to the surprising discovery that nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions can be made.
  • Combinations of more than one surface stabilizer can be used in the invention.
  • Useful surface stabilizers which can be employed in the invention include, but are not limited to, known organic and inorganic pharmaceutical excipients. Such excipients include various polymers, low molecular weight oligomers, natural products, and surfactants. Surface stabilizers include nonionic, anionic, cationic, ionic, and zwitterionic surfactants.
  • surface stabilizers useful in the invention include, but are not limited to, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (now known as hypromellose), hydroxypropylcellulose, polyvinylpyrrolidone, sodium lauryl sulfate, dioctylsulfosuccinate, gelatin, casein, lecithin (phosphatides), dextran, gum acacia, cholesterol, tragacanth, stearic acid, benzalkonium chloride, calcium stearate, glycerol monostearate, cetostearyl alcohol, cetomacrogol emulsifying wax, sorbitan esters, polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers (e.g., macrogol ethers such as cetomacrogol 1000), polyoxyethylene castor oil derivatives, polyoxyethylene sorbitan fatty acid esters (e.g., the commercially available Tweens® such as e.g., Tween 20® and Tween 80
  • the nanoparticulate fibrate, preferable fenofibrate, compositions of the invention can be formulated to be phospholipid-free.
  • Examples of useful cationic surface stabilizers include, but are not limited to, polymers, biopolymers, polysaccharides, cellulosics, alginates, phospholipids, and nonpolymeric compounds, such as zwitterionic stabilizers, poly-n-methylpyridinium, anthryul pyridinium chloride, cationic phospholipids, chitosan, polylysine, polyvinylimidazole, polybrene, polymethylmethacrylate trimethylammoniumbromide bromide (PMMTMABr), hexyldesyltrimethylammonium bromide (HDMAB), and polyvinylpyrrolidone-2-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate dimethyl sulfate.
  • cationic stabilizers include, but are not limited to, cationic lipids, sulfonium, phosphonium, and quaternary ammonium compounds, such as stearyltrimethylammonium chloride, benzyl-di(2-chloroethyl)ethylammonium bromide, coconut trimethyl ammonium chloride or bromide, coconut methyl dihydroxyethyl ammonium chloride or bromide, decyl triethyl ammonium chloride, decyl dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium chloride or bromide, C 12-15 dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium chloride or bromide, coconut dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium chloride or bromide, myristyl trimethyl ammonium methyl sulphate, lauryl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride or bromide, lauryl dimethyl (ethenoxy) 4 ammonium chloride or bro
  • Such exemplary cationic surface stabilizers and other useful cationic surface stabilizers are described in J. Cross and E. Singer, Cationic Surfactants: Analytical and Biological Evaluation (Marcel Dekker, 1994); P. and D. Rubingh (Editor), Cationic Surfactants: Physical Chemistry (Marcel Dekker, 1991); and J. Richmond, Cationic Surfactants: Organic Chemistry, (Marcel Dekker, 1990).
  • Nonpolymeric surface stabilizers are any nonpolymeric compound, such benzalkonium chloride, a carbonium compound, a phosphonium compound, an oxonium compound, a halonium compound, a cationic organometallic compound, a quarternary phosphorous compound, a pyridinium compound, an anilinium compound, an ammonium compound, a hydroxylammonium compound, a primary ammonium compound, a secondary ammonium compound, a tertiary ammonium compound, and quarternary ammonium compounds of the formula NR 1 R 2 R 3 R 4 (+).
  • benzalkonium chloride a carbonium compound, a phosphonium compound, an oxonium compound, a halonium compound, a cationic organometallic compound, a quarternary phosphorous compound, a pyridinium compound, an anilinium compound, an ammonium compound, a hydroxylammonium compound, a primary ammonium
  • one of R 1 -R 4 is CH 3 ;
  • R 1 -R 4 are CH 3 , one of R 1 -R 4 is C 6 H 5 CH 2 , and one of R 1 -R 4 is an alkyl chain of seven carbon atoms or less;
  • R 1 -R 4 are CH 3 , one of R 1 -R 4 is C 6 H 5 CH 2 , and one of R 1 -R 4 is an alkyl chain of nineteen carbon atoms or more;
  • two of R 1 -R 4 are CH 3 , one of R 1 -R 4 is C 6 H 5 CH 2 , and one of R 1 -R 4 comprises at least one heteroatom;
  • R 1 -R 4 two of R 1 -R 4 are CH 3 , one of R 1 -R 4 is C 6 H 5 CH 2 , and one of R 1 -R 4 comprises at least one halogen;
  • Such compounds include, but are not limited to, behenalkonium chloride, benzethonium chloride, cetylpyridinium chloride, behentrimonium chloride, lauralkonium chloride, cetalkonium chloride, cetrimonium bromide, cetrimonium chloride, cethylamine hydrofluoride, chlorallylmethenamine chloride (Quaternium-15), distearyldimonium chloride (Quaternium-5), dodecyl dimethyl ethylbenzyl ammonium chloride(Quaternium-14), Quaternium-22, Quaternium-26, Quaternium-18 hectorite, dimethylaminoethylchloride hydrochloride, cysteine hydrochloride, diethanolammonium POE (10) oletyl ether phosphate, diethanolammonium POE (3)oleyl ether phosphate, tallow alkonium chloride, dimethyl dioctadecylammoni
  • the preferred one or more surface stabilizers of the invention is any suitable surface stabilizer as described below, with the exclusion of PEG-derivatized vitamin E, which is a non-ionic compound.
  • the preferred one or more surface stabilizers of the invention is any suitable surface stabilizer as described below, with the exclusion of phospholipids.
  • the preferred one or more surface stabilizers of the invention is any substance which is categorized by the USFDA as GRAS (“Generally Recognized As Safe”).
  • Preferred surface stabilizers of the invention include, but are not limited to, hypromellose, docusate sodium (DOSS), Plasdone® S630 (random copolymer of vinyl pyrrolidone and vinyl acetate in a 60:40 ratio), hydroxypropyl cellulose SL (HPC-SL), sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), and combinations thereof.
  • Particularly preferred combinations of surface stabilizers include, but are not limited to, hypromellose and DOSS; Plasdone® S630 and DOSS; HPC-SL and DOSS; and hypromellose, DOSS, and SLS.
  • the surface stabilizers are commercially available and/or can be prepared by techniques known in the art. Most of these surface stabilizers are known pharmaceutical excipients and are described in detail in the Handbook of Pharmaceutical Excipients, published jointly by the American Pharmaceutical Association and The Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain (The Pharmaceutical Press, 2000), specifically incorporated by reference.
  • compositions according to the invention may also comprise one or more binding agents, filling agents, lubricating agents, suspending agents, sweeteners, flavoring agents, preservatives, buffers, wetting agents, disintegrants, effervescent agents, and other excipients. Such excipients are known in the art.
  • filling agents are lactose monohydrate, lactose anhydrous, and various starches
  • binding agents are various celluloses and cross-linked polyvinylpyrrolidone, microcrystalline cellulose, such as Avicel® PH101 and Avicel® PH102, microcrystalline cellulose, and silicified microcrystalline cellulose (ProSolv SMCCTM).
  • Suitable lubricants including agents that act on the flowability of the powder to be compressed, are colloidal silicon dioxide, such as Aerosil® 200, talc, stearic acid, magnesium stearate, calcium stearate, and silica gel.
  • sweeteners are any natural or artificial sweetener, such as sucrose, xylitol, sodium saccharin, cyclamate, aspartame, and acsulfame.
  • sweeteners are any natural or artificial sweetener, such as sucrose, xylitol, sodium saccharin, cyclamate, aspartame, and acsulfame.
  • flavoring agents are Magnasweet® (trademark of MAFCO), bubble gum flavor, and fruit flavors, and the like.
  • preservatives examples include potassium sorbate, methylparaben, propylparaben, benzoic acid and its salts, other esters of parahydroxybenzoic acid such as butylparaben, alcohols such as ethyl or benzyl alcohol, phenolic compounds such as phenol, or quaternary compounds such as benzalkonium chloride.
  • Suitable diluents include pharmaceutically acceptable inert fillers, such as microcrystalline cellulose, lactose, dibasic calcium phosphate, saccharides, and/or mixtures of any of the foregoing.
  • examples of diluents include microcrystalline cellulose, such as Avicel® PH101 and Avicel® PH102; lactose such as lactose monohydrate, lactose anhydrous, and Pharmatosee DCL21; dibasic calcium phosphate such as Emcompress®; mannitol; starch; sorbitol; sucrose; and glucose.
  • Suitable disintegrants include lightly crosslinked polyvinyl pyrrolidone, corn starch, potato starch, maize starch, and modified starches, croscarmellose sodium, cross-povidone, sodium starch glycolate, and mixtures thereof.
  • effervescent agents are effervescent couples such as an organic acid and a carbonate or bicarbonate.
  • Suitable organic acids include, for example, citric, tartaric, malic, fumaric, adipic, succinic, and alginic acids and anhydrides and acid salts.
  • Suitable carbonates and bicarbonates include, for example, sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, potassium carbonate, potassium bicarbonate, magnesium carbonate, sodium glycine carbonate, L-lysine carbonate, and arginine carbonate.
  • sodium bicarbonate component of the effervescent couple may be present.
  • compositions of the invention contain nanoparticulate fibrate particles, preferably nanoparticulate fenofibrate particles, which have an effective average particle size of less than about 2000 nm (i.e., 2 microns), less than about 1900 nm, less than about 1800 nm, less than about 1700 nm, less than about 1600 nm, less than about 1500 nm, less than about 1400 nm, less than about 1300 nm, less than about 1200 nm, less than about 1100 nm, less than about 1000 nm, less than about 900 nm, less than about 800 nm, less than about 700 nm, less than about 600 nm, less than about 500 nm, less than about 400 nm, less than about 300 nm, less than about 250 nm, less than about 200 nm, less than about 150 nm, less than about 100 nm, less than about 75 nm, or less than about 50 nm, as measured by light
  • an effective average particle size of less than about 2000 nm it is meant that at least 50% of the fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, particles have a particle size of less than the effective average, by weight, i.e., less than about 2000 nm, 1900 nm, 1800 nm, etc., when measured by the above-noted techniques.
  • at least about 70%, about 90%, or about 95% of the fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, particles have a particle size of less than the effective average, i.e., less than about 2000 nm, 1900 nm, 1800 nm, 1700 nm, etc.
  • At least 99% of the fibrate particles (“D 99 ”) have a particle size less than about 500 nm, less than about 450 nm, less than about 400 nm, less than about 350 nm, less than about 300 nm, less than about 250 nm, less than about 200 nm, less than about 150 nm, or less than about 100 nm.
  • at least 50% of the fibrate particles (“D 50 ”) have a particle size less than about 350 nm, less than about 300 nm, less than about 250 nm, less than about 200 nm, less than about 150 nm, less than about 100 nm, or less than about 75 nm.
  • the mean particle size of the fibrate composition is less than about 100 nm, less than about 75 nm, or less than about 50 nm.
  • the value for D50 of a nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, composition is the particle size below which 50% of the fibrate particles fall, by weight.
  • D90 is the particle size below which 90% of the fibrate particles fall, by weight.
  • a fibrate preferably fenofibrate
  • one or more surface stabilizers can vary widely.
  • the optimal amount of the individual components can depend, for example, upon the particular fibrate selected, the hydrophilic lipophilic balance (HLB), melting point, and the surface tension of water solutions of the stabilizer, etc.
  • the concentration of the fibrate can vary from about 99.5% to about 0.001%, from about 95% to about 0.1%, or from about 90% to about 0.5%, by weight, based on the total combined weight of the fibrate and at least one surface stabilizer, not including other excipients.
  • the concentration of the at least one surface stabilizer can vary from about 0.5% to about 99.999%, from about 5.0% to about 99.9%, or from about 10% to about 99.5%, by weight, based on the total combined dry weight of the fibrate and at least one surface stabilizer, not including other excipients.
  • exemplary fenofibrate tablet formulations of the invention are given below. These examples are not intended to limit the claims in any respect, but rather provide exemplary tablet formulations of fenofibrate of the invention which can be utilized in the methods of the invention. Such exemplary tablets can also comprise a coating agent.
  • Exemplary Nanoparticulate Fenofibrate Tablet Formulation #1 Fenofibrate about 50 to about 500 Hypromellose, USP about 10 to about 70 Docusate Sodium, USP about 1 to about 10 Sucrose, NF about 100 to about 500 Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, NF about 1 to about 40 Lactose Monohydrate, NF about 50 to about 400 Silicified Microcrystalline Cellulose about 50 to about 300 Crospovidone, NF about 20 to about 300 Magnesium Stearate, NF about 0.5 to about 5 Exemplary Nanoparticulate Fenofibrate Tablet Formulation #2 Fenofibrate about 100 to about 300 Hypromellose, USP about 30 to about 50 Docusate Sodium, USP about 0.5 to about 10 Sucrose, NF about 100 to about 300 Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, NF about 1 to about 30 Lactose Monohydrate, NF about 100 to about 300 Silicified Microcrystalline Cellulose about 50 to about 200 Crospovidone, NF
  • the nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions can be made using, for example, milling, homogenization, or precipitation techniques. Exemplary methods of making nanoparticulate compositions are described in the '684 patent. Methods of making nanoparticulate compositions are also described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,518,187 for “Method of Grinding Pharmaceutical Substances;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,718,388 for “Continuous Method of Grinding Pharmaceutical Substances;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,862,999 for “Method of Grinding Pharmaceutical Substances;” U.S. Pat. No.
  • the resultant nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions or dispersions can be utilized in solid or liquid dosage formulations, such as liquid dispersions, gels, aerosols, ointments, creams, controlled release formulations, fast melt formulations, lyophilized formulations, tablets, capsules, delayed release formulations, extended release formulations, pulsatile release formulations, mixed immediate release and controlled release formulations, etc.
  • the temperature is kept below the melting point of the fibrate, preferably fenofibrate.
  • Milling a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, to obtain a nanoparticulate dispersion comprises dispersing the fibrate particles in a liquid dispersion medium in which the fibrate is poorly soluble, followed by applying mechanical means in the presence of grinding media to reduce the particle size of the fibrate to the desired effective average particle size.
  • the dispersion medium can be, for example, water, safflower oil, ethanol, t-butanol, glycerin, polyethylene glycol (PEG), hexane, or glycol.
  • a preferred dispersion medium is water.
  • the fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, particles can be reduced in size in the presence of at least one surface stabilizer.
  • the fibrate particles can be contacted with one or more surface stabilizers after attrition.
  • Other compounds, such as a diluent, can be added to the fibrate/surface stabilizer composition during the size reduction process.
  • Dispersions can be manufactured continuously or in a batch mode.
  • a mixture of a fibrate and one or more surface stabilizers is heated during the milling process. If a polymeric surface stabilizer is utilized, the temperature is raised to above the cloud point of the polymeric surface stabilizer but below the actual or depressed melting point of the fibrate. The utilization of heat may be important for scale up of the milling process, as it can aid in the solubilization of the one or more active agents.
  • Another method of forming the desired nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, composition is by microprecipitation.
  • This is a method of preparing stable dispersions of poorly soluble active agents in the presence of one or more surface stabilizers and one or more colloid stability enhancing surface active agents free of any trace toxic solvents or solubilized heavy metal impurities.
  • Such a method comprises, for example: (1) dissolving a fibrate in a suitable solvent; (2) adding the formulation from step (1) to a solution comprising at least one surface stabilizer; and (3) precipitating the formulation from step (2) using an appropriate non-solvent.
  • the method can be followed by removal of any formed salt, if present, by dialysis or diafiltration and concentration of the dispersion by conventional means.
  • Such a method comprises dispersing particles of a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, in a liquid dispersion medium, followed by subjecting the dispersion to homogenization to reduce the particle size of the fibrate to the desired effective average particle size.
  • the fibrate particles can be reduced in size in the presence of at least one surface stabilizer.
  • the fibrate particles can be contacted with one or more surface stabilizers either before or after attrition.
  • Other compounds, such as a diluent can be added to the fenofibrate/surface stabilizer composition either before, during, or after the size reduction process.
  • Dispersions can be manufactured continuously or in a batch mode.
  • the invention provides a method of rapidly increasing the plasma levels of a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, in a subject.
  • a method comprises orally administering to a subject an effective amount of a composition comprising a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate.
  • the fibrate composition when tested in fasting subjects in accordance with standard pharmacokinetic practice, produces a maximum blood plasma concentration profile in less than about 6 hours, less than about 5 hours, less than about 4 hours, less than about 3 hours, less than about 2 hours, less than about 1 hour, or less than about 30 minutes after the initial dose of the composition.
  • compositions of the invention are useful in treating conditions such as hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, cardiovascular disorders, coronary heart disease, and peripheral vascular disease (including symptomatic carotid artery disease).
  • the compositions of the invention can be used as adjunctive therapy to diet for the reduction of LDL-C, total-C, triglycerides, and Apo B in adult patients with primary hypercholesterolemia or mixed dyslipidemia (Fredrickson Types IIa and IIb).
  • the compositions can also be used as adjunctive therapy to diet for treatment of adult patients with hypertriglyceridemia (Fredrickson Types IV and V hyperlipidemia). Markedly elevated levels of serum tryglycerides (e.g., >2000 mg/dL) may increase the risk of developing pancreatitis.
  • the compositions of the invention can also be used for other indications where lipid regulating agents are typically used.
  • compositions of the invention can be administered to a subject via any conventional means including, but not limited to, orally, rectally, ocularly, parenterally (e.g., intravenous, intramuscular, or subcutaneous), intracisternally, pulmonary, intravaginally, intraperitoneally, locally (e.g., powders, ointments or drops), or as a buccal or nasal spray.
  • parenterally e.g., intravenous, intramuscular, or subcutaneous
  • intracisternally e.g., intravenous, intramuscular, or subcutaneous
  • pulmonary e.g., intravaginally
  • intraperitoneally e.g., powders, ointments or drops
  • buccal or nasal spray e.g., a buccal or nasal spray.
  • subject is used to mean an animal, preferably a mammal, including a human or non-human. The terms patient and subject may be used interchangeably.
  • compositions suitable for parenteral injection may comprise physiologically acceptable sterile aqueous or nonaqueous solutions, dispersions, suspensions or emulsions, and sterile powders for reconstitution into sterile injectable solutions or dispersions.
  • suitable aqueous and nonaqueous carriers, diluents, solvents, or vehicles including water, ethanol, polyols (propyleneglycol, polyethylene-glycol, glycerol, and the like), suitable mixtures thereof, vegetable oils (such as olive oil) and injectable organic esters such as ethyl oleate.
  • Proper fluidity can be maintained, for example, by the use of a coating such as lecithin, by the maintenance of the required particle size in the case of dispersions, and by the use of surfactants.
  • the nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions may also contain adjuvants such as preserving, wetting, emulsifying, and dispensing agents. Prevention of the growth of microorganisms can be ensured by various antibacterial and antifungal agents, such as parabens, chlorobutanol, phenol, sorbic acid, and the like. It may also be desirable to include isotonic agents, such as sugars, sodium chloride, and the like. Prolonged absorption of the injectable pharmaceutical form can be brought about by the use of agents delaying absorption, such as aluminum monostearate and gelatin.
  • Solid dosage forms for oral administration include, but are not limited to, capsules, tablets, pills, powders, and granules.
  • the active agent is admixed with at least one of the following: (a) one or more inert excipients (or carriers), such as sodium citrate or dicalcium phosphate; (b) fillers or extenders, such as starches, lactose, sucrose, glucose, mannitol, and silicic acid; (c) binders, such as carboxymethylcellulose, alignates, gelatin, polyvinylpyrrolidone, sucrose, and acacia; (d) humectants, such as glycerol; (e) disintegrating agents, such as agar-agar, calcium carbonate, potato or tapioca starch, alginic acid, certain complex silicates, and sodium carbonate; (f) solution retarders, such as paraffin; (g) absorption accelerators, such as quaternary ammoni
  • Liquid dosage forms for oral administration include pharmaceutically acceptable emulsions, solutions, suspensions, syrups, and elixirs.
  • the liquid dosage forms may comprise inert diluents commonly used in the art, such as water or other solvents, solubilizing agents, and emulsifiers.
  • Exemplary emulsifiers are ethyl alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, ethyl carbonate, ethyl acetate, benzyl alcohol, benzyl benzoate, propyleneglycol, 1,3-butyleneglycol, dimethylformamide, oils, such as cottonseed oil, groundnut oil, corn germ oil, olive oil, castor oil, and sesame oil, glycerol, tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol, polyethyleneglycols, fatty acid esters of sorbitan, or mixtures of these substances, and the like.
  • oils such as cottonseed oil, groundnut oil, corn germ oil, olive oil, castor oil, and sesame oil
  • glycerol tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol
  • polyethyleneglycols fatty acid esters of sorbitan, or mixtures of these substances, and the like.
  • the composition can also include adjuvants, such as wetting agents, emulsifying and suspending agents, sweetening, flavoring, and perfuming agents.
  • adjuvants such as wetting agents, emulsifying and suspending agents, sweetening, flavoring, and perfuming agents.
  • “Therapeutically effective amount” as used herein with respect to a fibrate, preferably a fenofibrate, dosage shall mean that dosage that provides the specific pharmacological response for which the fibrate is administered in a significant number of subjects in need of such treatment. It is emphasized that “therapeutically effective amount,” administered to a particular subject in a particular instance may not be effective for 100% of patients treated for a specific disease, and will not always be effective in treating the diseases described herein, even though such dosage is deemed a “therapeutically effective amount” by those skilled in the art. It is to be further understood that fibrate dosages are, in particular instances, measured as oral dosages, or with reference to drug levels as measured in blood.
  • a fibrate such as fenofibrate
  • effective amounts of a fibrate can be determined empirically and can be employed in pure form or, where such forms exist, in pharmaceutically acceptable salt, ester, or prodrug form.
  • Actual dosage levels of a fibrate, such as fenofibrate, in the nanoparticulate compositions of the invention may be varied to obtain an amount of the fibrate that is effective to obtain a desired therapeutic response for a particular composition and method of administration. The selected dosage level therefore depends upon the desired therapeutic effect, the route of administration, the potency of the administered fibrate, the desired duration of treatment, and other factors.
  • Dosage unit compositions may contain such amounts of such submultiples thereof as may be used to make up the daily dose. It will be understood, however, that the specific dose level for any particular patient will depend upon a variety of factors: the type and degree of the cellular or physiological response to be achieved; activity of the specific agent or composition employed; the specific agents or composition employed; the age, body weight, general health, sex, and diet of the patient; the time of administration, route of administration, and rate of excretion of the agent; the duration of the treatment; drugs used in combination or coincidental with the specific agent; and like factors well known in the medical arts.
  • the purpose of this example was to prepare nanoparticulate dispersions of fenofibrate, and to test the prepared compositions for stability in water and in various simulated biological fluids.
  • Formulation 1 comprised 5% (w/w) fenofibrate, 1% (w/w) hypromellose, and 0.05% (w/w) dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate (DOSS)
  • Formulation 2 comprised 5% (w/w) fenofibrate, 1% (w/w) Pluronic® S-630 (a random copolymer of vinyl acetate and vinyl pyrrolidone), and 0.05% (w/w) DOSS.
  • the particle size of the resultant compositions was measured using a Horiba LA-910 Laser Scattering Particle Size Distribution Analyzer ((Horiba Instruments, Irvine, Calif.).
  • the purpose of this example was to prepare nanoparticulate dispersions of fenofibrate, followed by testing the stability of the compositions in various simulated biological fluids.
  • Formulation 3 comprised 5% (w/w) fenofibrate, 1% (w/w) hydroxypropylcellulose SL (HPC-SL), and 0.01% (w/w) DOSS
  • Formulation 4 comprised 5% (w/w) fenofibrate, 1% (w/w) hypromellose, and 0.01% (w/w) DOSS
  • Formulation 5 comprised 5% (w/w) fenofibrate, 1% (w/w) polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP K29/32), and 0.01% (w/w) DOSS
  • Formulation 6 comprised 5% (w/w) fenofibrate, 1% (w/w) Pluronic® S-630, and 0.01% (w/w) DOSS.
  • PVP is not a satisfactory surface stabilizer for fenofibrate, at the particular concentrations of fenofibrate and PVP disclosed, in combination with DOSS, as the mean particle size of Formulation 5 was over two microns.
  • PVP may be useful as a surface stabilizer for fenofibrate when it is used alone, in combination with another surface stabilizer, or when different concentrations of PVP and/or fenofibrate are utilized.
  • Formulation 4 comprising hypromellose and DOSS as surface stabilizers, is preferred as the initial particle size is within the useable range (i.e., 90% ⁇ 512 nm) and the composition shows no aggregation in various simulated biological fluids.
  • the next set of examples relate to the redispersibility of the spray granulated powders of the nanoparticulate fenofibrate compositions.
  • the purpose for establishing redispersibility of the spray granulated powder is to determine whether the solid nanoparticulate fenofibrate composition of the invention will redisperse when introduced into in vitro or in vivo biologically relevant media.
  • the purpose of this example was to evaluate the redispersibility of spray granulated powders of preferred nanoparticulate fenofibrate compositions comprising hypromellose and DOSS with or without SLS, a preferred small anionic surfactant.
  • the purpose of this example was to prepare a nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet formulation.
  • a fenofibrate nanoparticulate dispersion was prepared by combining the materials listed in Table 8, followed by milling the mixture in a Netzsch LMZ2 Media Mill with Grinding Chamber with a flow rate of 1.0 ⁇ 0.2 LPM and an agitator speed of 3000 ⁇ 100 RPM, utilizing Dow PolyMillTM 500 micron milling media.
  • a granulated feed dispersion was prepared by combining the nanoparticulate fenofibrate dispersion with the additional components specified in Table 9.
  • GFD granulated feed dispersion
  • Nanoparticulate fenofibrate SGI was then tableted using a Kilian tablet press with a 0.700 ⁇ 0.300′′ plain upper and lower caplet shape punches. Each tablet has 160 mg of fenofibrate.
  • the resulting tablet formulation is shown below in Table 12. TABLE 12 Nanoparticulate Fenofibrate Tablet Formulation Nanoparticulate Fenofibrate Spray 511.0 mg Granulated Intermediate Silicified Microcrystalline Cellulose 95.0 mg Crospovidone, NF 83.0 mg Magnesium Stearate, NF 1.0 mg
  • Treatment A 160 mg nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet administered under fasted conditions
  • Treatment B 160 mg nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet administered under high fat fed conditions.
  • Treatment C 200 mg micronized fenofibrate capsule (TRICOR®) administered under low fat fed conditions.
  • Low fat fed conditions are defined as 30% fat—400 Kcal, and “high fat fed” conditions are defined as 50% fat—1000 Kcal. The length of time between doses in the study was 10 days.
  • FIG. 1 shows the plasma fenofibric acid profiles (i.e., the fenofibric acid concentration ( ⁇ g/ml)) over a period of 120 hours for Treatment A, Treatment B, and Treatment C.
  • FIG. 2 shows the same fenofibric acid profiles, but over a 24 hour period rather than a 120 hour period.
  • the nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet is effective at a lower dosage than that of the conventional microcrystalline fenofibrate capsule: 160 mg vs. 200 mg. A lower dosage is always seen as beneficial for the patient, as less active agent is administered to the patient.
  • the results show that the nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet formulation does not exhibit significant differences in absorption when administered in the fed versus the fasted state. This is significant as it eliminates the need for a patient to ensure that they are taking a dose with or without food. Therefore, the nanoparticulate fenofibrate dosage form will result in increased patient compliance. With poor patient compliance an increase in cardiovascular problems or other conditions for which the fenofibrate is being prescribed can result.
  • the pharmacokinetic parameters first demonstrate that there is no difference in the amount of drug absorbed when the nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet is administered in the fed versus the fasted condition (see the AUC results; 139.41 ⁇ g/mL.h for the dosage form administered under fasted conditions and 138.55 ⁇ g/mL.h for the dosage form administered under fed conditions).
  • the data show that there was no difference in the rate of drug absorption when the nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet is administered in the fed versus the fasted condition (see the C max results; 8.30 ⁇ g/mL for the dosage form administered under fasted conditions and 7.88 ⁇ g/mL for the dosage form administered under fed conditions).
  • the nanoparticulate fenofibrate dosage form eliminates the effect of food on the pharmacokinetics of fenofibrate. Accordingly, the invention encompasses a fibrate composition wherein the pharmacokinetic profile of the fibrate is not affected by the fed or fasted state of a subject ingesting the composition.
  • Nanoparticulate Fenofibrate Tablet HFF vs. Nanoparticulate Fenofibrate Tablet Fasted CI 90% on log- transformed data
  • AUC ⁇ g/mL.h
  • Nanoparticulate Fenofibrate 139 0.952:1.043 Tablet 160 mg HFF Nanoparticulate Fenofibrate 139 Tablet 160 mg Fasted Cmax ( ⁇ g/mL)
  • the invention encompasses a fibrate composition wherein administration of the composition to a subject in a fasted state is bioequivalent to administration of the composition to a subject in a fed state.
  • the non-bioequivalence is significant, because it means that the nanoparticulate fenofibrate dosage form exhibits significantly greater drug absorption.
  • the dosage form would have to contain significantly less drug.
  • the nanoparticulate fenofibrate dosage form significantly increases the bioavailability of the drug.
  • Nanoparticulate Fenofibrate Dispersion Fenofibrate 194.0 g/Kg Hypromellose, USP (Pharmacoat ® 603) 38.81 g/Kg Docusate Sodium, USP 0.485 g/Kg Water for injection, USP, EP 572.7 g/Kg Sucrose, NF 194.0 g/Kg Actual Total 1000.0
  • a granulated feed dispersion was prepared by combining the nanoparticulate fenofibrate dispersion with sucrose, docusate sodium, and sodium lauryl sulfate.
  • the fenofibrate GFD was processed and dried in a fluid-bed column (Vector Multi-1 Fluid Bed System), along with lactose monohydrate.
  • the resultant spray granulated intermediate (SGI) was processed through a cone mill, followed by (1) processing in a bin blender with silicified microcrystalline cellulose and crospovidone, and (2) processing in a bin blender with magnesium stearate.
  • the resultant powder was tableted in a rotary tablet press, followed by coating with Opadry® AMB using a pan coater.
  • Table 18 provides the composition of the 145 mg fenofibrate tablet
  • Table 19 provides the composition of the 48 mg fenofibrate tablet.
  • TABLE 18 145 mg Nanoparticulate Fenofibrate Tablet Formulation Component g/Kg Fenofibrate 222.54 Hypromellose, USP 44.506 Docusate Sodium, USP 4.4378 Sucrose, NF 222.54 Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, NF 15.585 Lactose Monohydrate, NF 202.62 Silicified Microcrystalline Cellulose 132.03 Crospovidone, NF 115.89 Magnesium Stearate, NF 1.3936 Opadry OY-28920 38.462 Actual Total 1000.0
  • the dissolution medium employed was an aqueous medium containing the surfactant sodium lauryl sulfate at 0.025 M. Determination of the amount dissolved was carried out by spectrophotometry, and the tests were repeated 12 times.
  • the rotating blade method European Pharmacopoeia was used under the following conditions:
  • volume media 1000 ml
  • media temperature 37° C.
  • blade rotation speed 75 RPM
  • the nanoparticulate fenofibrate dosage form had dramatically more rapid dissolution as compared to the conventional microcrystalline form of fenofibrate. For example, while within 5 minutes approximately 41.7% of the nanoparticulate fenofibrate dosage form had dissolved, only 10% of the TRICOR® dosage form had dissolved. Similarly, while at 10 min. about 82.6% of the nanoparticulate fenofibrate dosage form was dissolved, only about 20% of the TRICOR® dosage form had dissolved during the same time period. Finally, while at 30 min. basically 100% of the nanoparticulate dosage form had dissolved, only about 75% of the conventional fenofibrate dosage form had dissolved during the same time period.
  • nanoparticulate fenofibrate dosage forms of the invention exhibit dramatically improved rates of dissolution.

Abstract

The present invention is directed to fibrate compositions having improved pharmacokinetic profiles and reduced fed/fasted variability. The fibrate particles of the composition have an effective average particle size of less than about 2000 nm.

Description

    FIELD OF THE INVENTION
  • The present invention relates to a nanoparticulate composition comprising a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate or a salt thereof. The nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, particles have an effective average particle size of less than about 2000 nm. [0001]
  • BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION A. Background Regarding Nanoparticulate Compositions
  • Nanoparticulate compositions, first described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,145,684 (“the '684 patent”), are particles consisting of a poorly soluble therapeutic or diagnostic agent having adsorbed onto the surface thereof a non-crosslinked surface stabilizer. The '684 patent does not describe nanoparticulate compositions of a fibrate. [0002]
  • Methods of making nanoparticulate compositions are described in, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,518,187 and 5,862,999, both for “Method of Grinding Pharmaceutical Substances;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,718,388, for “Continuous Method of Grinding Pharmaceutical Substances;” and U.S. Pat. No. 5,510,118 for “Process of Preparing Therapeutic Compositions Containing Nanoparticles.”[0003]
  • Nanoparticulate compositions are also described, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,298,262 for “Use of Ionic Cloud Point Modifiers to Prevent Particle Aggregation During Sterilization;” 5,302,401 for “Method to Reduce Particle Size Growth During Lyophilization;” 5,318,767 for “X-Ray Contrast Compositions Useful in Medical Imaging;” 5,326,552 for “Novel Formulation For Nanoparticulate X-Ray Blood Pool Contrast Agents Using High Molecular Weight Non-ionic Surfactants;” 5,328,404 for “Method of X-Ray Imaging Using Iodinated Aromatic Propanedioates;” 5,336,507 for “Use of Charged Phospholipids to Reduce Nanoparticle Aggregation;” 5,340,564 for “Formulations Comprising Olin 10-G to Prevent Particle Aggregation and Increase Stability;” 5,346,702 for “Use of Non-Ionic Cloud Point Modifiers to Minimize Nanoparticulate Aggregation During Sterilization;” 5,349,957 for “Preparation and Magnetic Properties of Very Small Magnetic-Dextran Particles;” 5,352,459 for “Use of Purified Surface Modifiers to Prevent Particle Aggregation During Sterilization;” 5,399,363 and 5,494,683, both for “Surface Modified Anticancer Nanoparticles;” 5,401,492 for “Water Insoluble Non-Magnetic Manganese Particles as Magnetic Resonance Enhancement Agents;” 5,429,824 for “Use of Tyloxapol as a Nanoparticulate Stabilizer;” 5,447,710 for “Method for Making Nanoparticulate X-Ray Blood Pool Contrast Agents Using High Molecular Weight Non-ionic Surfactants;” 5,451,393 for “X-Ray Contrast Compositions Useful in Medical Imaging;” 5,466,440 for “Formulations of Oral Gastrointestinal Diagnostic X-Ray Contrast Agents in Combination with Pharmaceutically Acceptable Clays;” 5,470,583 for “Method of Preparing Nanoparticle Compositions Containing Charged Phospholipids to Reduce Aggregation;” 5,472,683 for “Nanoparticulate Diagnostic Mixed Carbamic Anhydrides as X-Ray Contrast Agents for Blood Pool and Lymphatic System Imaging;” 5,500,204 for “Nanoparticulate Diagnostic Dimers as X-Ray Contrast Agents for Blood Pool and Lymphatic System Imaging;” 5,518,738 for “Nanoparticulate NSAID Formulations;” 5,521,218 for “Nanoparticulate lododipamide Derivatives for Use as X-Ray Contrast Agents;” 5,525,328 for “Nanoparticulate Diagnostic Diatrizoxy Ester X-Ray Contrast Agents for Blood Pool and Lymphatic System Imaging;” 5,543,133 for “Process of Preparing X-Ray Contrast Compositions Containing Nanoparticles;” 5,552,160 for “Surface Modified NSAID Nanoparticles;” 5,560,931 for “Formulations of Compounds as Nanoparticulate Dispersions in Digestible Oils or Fatty Acids;” 5,565,188 for “Polyalkylene Block Copolymers as Surface Modifiers for Nanoparticles;” 5,569,448 for “Sulfated Non-ionic Block Copolymer Surfactant as Stabilizer Coatings for Nanoparticle Compositions;” 5,571,536 for “Formulations of Compounds as Nanoparticulate Dispersions in Digestible Oils or Fatty Acids;” 5,573,749 for “Nanoparticulate Diagnostic Mixed Carboxylic Anydrides as X-Ray Contrast Agents for Blood Pool and Lymphatic System Imaging;” 5,573,750 for “Diagnostic Imaging X-Ray Contrast Agents;” 5,573,783 for “Redispersible Nanoparticulate Film Matrices With Protective Overcoats;” 5,580,579 for “Site-specific Adhesion Within the GI Tract Using Nanoparticles Stabilized by High Molecular Weight, Linear Poly(ethylene Oxide) Polymers;” 5,585,108 for “Formulations of Oral Gastrointestinal Therapeutic Agents in Combination with Pharmaceutically Acceptable Clays;” 5,587,143 for “Butylene Oxide-Ethylene Oxide Block Copolymers Surfactants as Stabilizer Coatings for Nanoparticulate Compositions;” 5,591,456 for “Milled Naproxen with Hydroxypropyl Cellulose as Dispersion Stabilizer;” 5,593,657 for “Novel Barium Salt Formulations Stabilized by Non-ionic and Anionic Stabilizers;” 5,622,938 for “Sugar Based Surfactant for Nanocrystals;” 5,628,981 for “Improved Formulations of Oral Gastrointestinal Diagnostic X-Ray Contrast Agents and Oral Gastrointestinal Therapeutic Agents;” 5,643,552 for “Nanoparticulate Diagnostic Mixed Carbonic Anhydrides as X-Ray Contrast Agents for Blood Pool and Lymphatic System Imaging;” 5,718,388 for “Continuous Method of Grinding Pharmaceutical Substances;” 5,718,919 for “Nanoparticles Containing the R(−)Enantiomer of Ibuprofen;” 5,747,001 for “Aerosols Containing Beclomethasone Nanoparticle Dispersions;” 5,834,025 for “Reduction of Intravenously Administered Nanoparticulate Formulation Induced Adverse Physiological Reactions;” 6,045,829 “Nanocrystalline Formulations of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Protease Inhibitors Using Cellulosic Surface Stabilizers;” 6,068,858 for “Methods of Making Nanocrystalline Formulations of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Protease Inhibitors Using Cellulosic Surface Stabilizers;” 6,153,225 for “Injectable Formulations of Nanoparticulate Naproxen;” 6,165,506 for “New Solid Dose Form of Nanoparticulate Naproxen;” 6,221,400 for “Methods of Treating Mammals Using Nanocrystalline Formulations of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Protease Inhibitors;” 6,264,922 for “Nebulized Aerosols Containing Nanoparticle Dispersions;” 6,267,989 for “Methods for Preventing Crystal Growth and Particle Aggregation in Nanoparticle Compositions;” 6,270,806 for “Use of PEG-Derivatized Lipids as Surface Stabilizers for Nanoparticulate Compositions;” 6,316,029 for “Rapidly Disintegrating Solid Oral Dosage Form,” 6,375,986 for “Solid Dose Nanoparticulate Compositions Comprising a Synergistic Combination of a Polymeric Surface Stabilizer and Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate;” 6,428,814 for “Bioadhesive Nanoparticulate Compositions Having Cationic Surface Stabilizers;” 6,431,478 for “Small Scale Mill;” and 6,432,381 for “Methods for Targeting Drug Delivery to the Upper and/or Lower Gastrointestinal Tract,” all of which are specifically incorporated by reference. In addition, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 2002/0,012,675 A1, published on Jan. 31, 2002, for “Controlled Release Nanoparticulate Compositions,” describes nanoparticulate compositions, and is specifically incorporated by reference. [0004]
  • Amorphous small particle compositions are described, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,783,484 for “Particulate Composition and Use Thereof as Antimicrobial Agent;” 4,826,689 for “Method for Making Uniformly Sized Particles from Water-Insoluble Organic Compounds;” 4,997,454 for “Method for Making Uniformly-Sized Particles From Insoluble Compounds;” 5,741,522 for “Ultrasmall, Non-aggregated Porous Particles of Uniform Size for Entrapping Gas Bubbles Within and Methods;” and 5,776,496, for “Ultrasmall Porous Particles for Enhancing Ultrasound Back Scatter.”[0005]
  • B. Background Regarding Fenofibrate
  • The compositions of the invention comprise a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate. Fenofibrate, also known as 2-[4-(4-chlorobenzoyl) phenoxy]-2-methyl-propanoic acid, 1-methylethyl ester, is a lipid regulating agent. The compound is insoluble in water. See [0006] The Physicians' Desk Reference, 56th Ed., pp. 513-516 (2002).
  • Fenofibrate is described in, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,907,792 for “Phenoxy-Alkyl-Carboxylic Acid Derivatives and the Preparation Thereof;” 4,895,726 for “Novel Dosage Form of Fenofibrate;” 6,074,670 and 6,277,405, both for “Fenofibrate Pharmaceutical Composition Having High Bioavailability and Method for Preparing It.” U.S. Pat. No. 3,907,792 describes a class of phenoxy-alkyl carboxylic compounds which encompasses fenofibrate. U.S. Pat. No. 4,895,726 describes a gelatin capsule therapeutic composition, useful in the oral treatment of hyerlipidemia and hypercholesterolemia, containing micronized fenofibrate. U.S. Pat. No.6,074,670 refers to immediate-release fenofibrate compositions comprising micronized fenofibrate and at least one inert hydrosoluble carrier. U.S. Pat. No. 4,739,101 describes a process for making fenofibrate. U.S. Pat. No. 6,277,405 is directed to micronized fenofibrate compositions having a specified dissolution profile. In addition, International Publication No. WO 02/24193 for “Stabilised Fibrate Microparticles,” published on Mar. 28, 2002, describes a microparticulate fenofibrate composition comprising a phospholipid. Finally, International Publication No. WO 02/067901 for “Fibrate-Statin Combinations with Reduced Fed-Fasted Effects,” published on Sep. 6, 2002, describes a microparticulate fenofibrate composition comprising a phospholipid and a hydroxymethylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitor or statin. [0007]
  • WO 01/80828 for “Improved Water-Insoluble Drug Particle Process,” and International Publication No. WO 02/24193 for “Stabilised Fibrate Microparticles,” describe a process for making small particle compositions of poorly water soluble drugs. The process requires preparing an admixture of a drug and one or more surface active agents, followed by heating the drug admixture to at or above the melting point of the poorly water soluble drug. The heated suspension is then homogenized. The use of such a heating process is undesirable, as heating a drug to its melting point destroys the crystalline structure of the drug. Upon cooling, a drug may be amorphous or recrystallize in a different isoform, thereby producing a composition which is physically and structurally different from that desired. Such a “different” composition may have different pharmacological properties. This is significant as U.S. Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) approval of a drug substance requires that the drug substance be stable and produced in a repeatable process. [0008]
  • WO 03/013474 for “Nanoparticulate Formulations of Fenofibrate,” published on Feb. 20, 2003, describes fibrate compositions comprising vitamin E TGPS (polyethylene glycol (PEG) derivatized vitamin E). The fibrate compositions of this reference comprise particles of fibrate and vitamin E TPGS having a mean diameter from about 100 nm to about 900 nm ([0009] page 8, lines 12-15, of WO 03/013474), a D50 of 350 -750 nm, and a D99 of 500 to 900 nm (page 9, lines 11-13, of WO 03/013474) (50% of the particles of a composition fall below a “D50”, and 99% of the particles of a composition fall below a D99). The reference does not teach that the described compositions show minimal or no variability when administered in fed as compared to fasted conditions.
  • A variety of clinical studies have demonstrated that elevated levels of total cholesterol (total-C), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and apolipoprotein B (apo B), an LDL membrane complex, are associated with human atherosclerosis. Similarly, decreased levels of high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and its transport complex, apolipoprotein A (apo A2 and apo AII), are associated with the development of atherosclerosis. Epidemiologic investigations have established that cardiovascular morbidity and mortality vary directly with the level of total-C, LDL-C, and triglycerides, and inversely with the level of HDL-C. [0010]
  • Fenofibric acid, the active metabolite of fenofibrate, produces reductions in total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, apo-lipoprotein B, total triglycerides, and triglyceride rich lipoprotein (VLDL) in treated patients. In addition, treatment with fenofibrate results in increases in high density lipoprotein (HDL) and apolipoprotein apoAI and apoAII. See [0011] The Physicians' Desk Reference, 56th Ed., pp. 513-516 (2002).
  • Because fibrates, including fenofibrate, are so insoluble in water, significant bioavailability can be problematic. In addition, conventional fibrate, including fenofibrate, formulations exhibit dramatically different effects depending upon the fed or fasted state of the patient. Finally, conventional fibrate, including fenofibrate, formulations require relatively large doses to achieve the desired therapeutic effects. There is a need in the art for nanoparticulate fibrate formulations which overcome these and other problems associated with prior conventional microcrystalline fibrate formulations. The present invention satisfies these needs. [0012]
  • SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
  • The present invention relates to nanoparticulate compositions comprising a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate. The compositions comprise a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, and at least one surface stabilizer adsorbed on the surface of the fibrate particles. The nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, particles have an effective average particle size of less than about 2000 nm. [0013]
  • A preferred dosage form of the invention is a solid dosage form, although any pharmaceutically acceptable dosage form can be utilized. [0014]
  • Another aspect of the invention is directed to pharmaceutical compositions comprising a nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, composition of the invention. The pharmaceutical compositions comprise a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, at least one surface stabilizer, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, as well as any desired excipients. [0015]
  • One embodiment of the invention encompasses a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, composition, wherein the pharmacokinetic profile of the fibrate is not affected by the fed or fasted state of a subject ingesting the composition, in particular as defined by C[0016] max and AUC guidelines given by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the corresponding European regulatory agency (EMEA).
  • Another aspect of the invention is directed to a nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, composition having improved pharmacokinetic profiles as compared to conventional microcrystalline fibrate formulations, such as T[0017] max, Cmax, and AUC.
  • In yet another embodiment, the invention encompasses a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, composition, wherein administration of the composition to a subject in a fasted state is bioequivalent to administration of the composition to a subject in a fed state, in particular as defined by C[0018] max and AUC guidelines given by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the corresponding European regulatory agency (EMEA).
  • Another embodiment of the invention is directed to nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions additionally comprising one or more compounds useful in treating dyslipidemia, hyperlipidemia, hypercholesterolemia, cardiovascular disorders, or related conditions. [0019]
  • Other embodiments of the invention include, but are not limited to, nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, formulations which, as compared to conventional non-nanoparticulate formulations of a fibrate, particularly a fenofibrate such as TRICOR® (160 mg tablet or 200 mg capsule microcrystalline fenofibrate formulations), have one or more of the following properties: (1) smaller tablet or other solid dosage form size; (2) smaller doses of drug required to obtain the same pharmacological effect; (3) increased bioavailability; (4) substantially similar pharmacokinetic profiles of the nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions when administered in the fed versus the fasted state; (5) an increased rate of dissolution for the nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions; and (6) bioadhesive fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions. [0020]
  • This invention further discloses a method of making a nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, composition according to the invention. Such a method comprises contacting a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, and at least one surface stabilizer for a time and under conditions sufficient to provide a nanoparticulate fibrate composition, and preferably a fenofibrate composition. The one or more surface stabilizers can be contacted with a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, either before, during, or after size reduction of the fibrate. [0021]
  • The present invention is also directed to methods of treatment using the nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions of the invention for conditions such as hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, coronary heart disease, and peripheral vascular disease (including symptomatic carotid artery disease). The compositions of the invention can be used as adjunctive therapy to diet for the reduction of LDL-C, total-C, triglycerides, and Apo B in adult patients with primary hypercholesterolemia or mixed dyslipidemia (Fredrickson Types IIa and IIb). The compositions can also be used as adjunctive therapy to diet for treatment of adult patients with hypertriglyceridemia (Fredrickson Types IV and V hyperlipidemia). Markedly elevated levels of serum tryglycerides (e.g., >2000 mg/dL) may increase the risk of developing pancreatitis. Such methods comprise administering to a subject a therapeutically effective amount of a nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, composition according to the invention. Other methods of treatment using the nanoparticulate compositions of the invention are know to those of skill in the art. [0022]
  • Both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the invention as claimed. Other objects, advantages, and novel features will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of the invention. [0023]
  • BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
  • FIG. 1: Shows the fenofibric acid concentration (μg/ml) over a period of 120 minutes for a single dose of: (a) a 160 mg nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet administered to a fasting subject; (b) a 160 mg nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet administered to a high fat fed subject; and (c) a 200 mg microcrystalline (TRICOR®; Abbott Laboratories, Abbott Park, Ill.) capsule administered to a low fat fed subject; and [0024]
  • FIG. 2: Shows the fenofibric acid concentration (μg/ml) over a period of 24 hours for a single dose of: (a) a 160 mg nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet administered to a fasting subject; (b) a 160 mg nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet administered to a high fat fed subject; and (c) a 200 mg microcrystalline (TRICOR®) capsule administered to a low fat fed subject.[0025]
  • DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
  • The present invention is directed to nanoparticulate compositions comprising a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate. The compositions comprise a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, and preferably at least one surface stabilizer adsorbed on the surface of the drug. The nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, particles have an effective average particle size of less than about 2000 nm. [0026]
  • As taught in the '684 patent, and as exemplified in the examples below, not every combination of surface stabilizer and active agent will result in a stable nanoparticulate composition. It was surprisingly discovered that stable, nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, formulations can be made. [0027]
  • Advantages of the nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, formulations of the invention as compared to conventional non-nanoparticulate formulations of a fibrate, particularly a fenofibrate such as TRICOR® (tablet or capsule microcrystalline fenofibrate formulations), include, but are not limited to: (1) smaller tablet or other solid dosage form size; (2) smaller doses of drug required to obtain the same pharmacological effect; (3) increased bioavailability; (4) substantially similar pharmacokinetic profiles of the nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions when administered in the fed versus the fasted state; (5) improved pharmacokinetic profiles; (6) bioequivalency of the nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions when administered in the fed versus the fasted state; (7) an increased rate of dissolution for the nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions; (8) bioadhesive fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions; and (9) the nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions can be used in conjunction with other active agents useful in treating dyslipidemia, hyperlipidemia, hypercholesterolemia, cardiovascular disorders, or related conditions. [0028]
  • The present invention also includes nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions together with one or more non-toxic physiologically acceptable carriers, adjuvants, or vehicles, collectively referred to as carriers. The compositions can be formulated for parenteral injection (e.g., intravenous, intramuscular, or subcutaneous), oral administration in solid, liquid, or aerosol form, vaginal, nasal, rectal, ocular, local (powders, ointments or drops), buccal, intracistemal, intraperitoneal, or topical administration, and the like. [0029]
  • A preferred dosage form of the invention is a solid dosage form, although any pharmaceutically acceptable dosage form can be utilized. Exemplary solid dosage forms include, but are not limited to, tablets, capsules, sachets, lozenges, powders, pills, or granules, and the solid dosage form can be, for example, a fast melt dosage form, controlled release dosage form, lyophilized dosage form, delayed release dosage form, extended release dosage form, pulsatile release dosage form, mixed immediate release and controlled release dosage form, or a combination thereof. A solid dose tablet formulation is preferred. [0030]
  • The present invention is described herein using several definitions, as set forth below and throughout the application. [0031]
  • As used herein, “about” will be understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art and will vary to some extent on the context in which it is used. If there are uses of the term which are not clear to persons of ordinary skill in the art given the context in which it is used, “about” will mean up to plus or minus 10% of the particular term. [0032]
  • As used herein with reference to stable fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, particles, “stable” includes, but is not limited to, one or more of the following parameters: (1) that the fibrate particles do not appreciably flocculate or agglomerate due to interparticle attractive forces, or otherwise significantly increase in particle size over time; (2) that the physical structure of the fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, particles is not altered over time, such as by conversion from an amorphous phase to crystalline phase; (3) that the fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, particles are chemically stable; and/or (4) where the fibrate has not been subject to a heating step at or above the melting point of the fibrate in the preparation of the nanoparticles of the invention. [0033]
  • A. Preferred Characteristics of the Fibrate Compositions of the Invention 1. Increased Bioavailability
  • The fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, formulations of the invention exhibit increased bioavailability, at the same dose of the same fibrate, and require smaller doses as compared to prior conventional fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, formulations. [0034]
  • For example, as shown below in Example 6, administration of a 160 mg nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet in a fasted state is not bioequivalent to administration of a 200 mg conventional microcrystalline fenofibrate capsule (TRICOR®) in a fed state, pursuant to regulatory guidelines. Under U.S. FDA guidelines, two products or methods are bioequivalent if the 90% Confidence Intervals (CI) for AUC and C[0035] max are between 0.80 to 1.25 (Tmax measurements are not relevant to bioequivalence for regulatory purposes). To show bioequivalency between two compounds or administration conditions pursuant to Europe's EMEA guidelines, the 90% CI for AUC must be between 0.80 to 1.25 and the 90% CI for Cmax must between 0.70 to 1.43.
  • The non-bioequivalence is significant because it means that the nanoparticulate fenofibrate dosage form exhibits significantly greater drug absorption. For the nanoparticulate fenofibrate dosage form to be bioequivalent to the conventional microcrystalline fenofibrate dosage form (e.g., TRICOR®), the nanoparticulate fenofibrate dosage form would have to contain significantly less drug. Thus, the nanoparticulate fenofibrate dosage form significantly increases the bioavailability of the drug. [0036]
  • Moreover, as shown below in Example 6, administration of a 160 mg nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet in a fed state is bioequivalent to administration of a 200 mg conventional microcrystalline fenofibrate capsule (TRICOR®) in a fed state. Thus, the nanoparticulate fenofibrate dosage form requires less drug to obtain the same pharmacological effect observed with the conventional microcrystalline fenofibrate dosage form (e.g., TRICOR®). Therefore, the nanoparticulate fenofibrate dosage form has an increased bioavailability as compared to the conventional microcrystalline fenofibrate dosage form (e.g., TRICOR®). [0037]
  • Greater bioavailability of the fibrate compositions of the invention can enable a smaller solid dosage size. This is particularly significant for patient populations such as the elderly, juvenile, and infant. In one embodiment of the invention, disclosed is a stable solid dose fenofibrate composition comprising: (a) a therapeutically effective dosage of 145 mg of particles of fenofibrate or a salt thereof; and (b) associated with the surface thereof at least one surface stabilizer. Characteristics of the composition include: (i) the fenofibrate particles have an effective average particle size of less than about 2000 nm; (ii) the solid dose is bioequivalent to the [0038] TRICOR® 160 mg tablet, wherein bioequivalency is established by a 90% Confidence Interval of between 0.80 and 1.25 for both Cmax and AUC or a 90% Confidence Interval of between 0.80 and 1.25 for AUC and a 90% Confidence Interval of between 0.70 to 1.43 for Cmax; and (iii) the solid dose is about 10% smaller than the TRICOR® tablet. In another embodiment of the invention, disclosed is a stable solid dose fenofibrate composition comprising: (a) a therapeutically effective dosage of 48 mg of particles of fenofibrate or a salt thereof, and (b) associated with the surface thereof at least one surface stabilizer. Characteristics of the composition include: (i) the fenofibrate particles have an effective average particle size of less than about 2000 nm; (ii) the solid dose is bioequivalent to the TRICOR® 54 mg tablet, wherein bioequivalency is established by a 90% Confidence Interval of between 0.80 and 1.25 for both Cmax and AUC or a 90% Confidence Interval of between 0.80 and 1.25 for AUC and a 90% Confidence Interval of between 0.70 to 1.43 for Cmax; and (iii) the solid dose is about 10% smaller than the TRICOR® tablet.
  • 2. Improved Pharmacokinetic Profiles
  • The invention also provides fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions having a desirable pharmacokinetic profile when administered to mammalian subjects. The desirable pharmacokinetic profile of the fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions comprise the parameters: (1) that the T[0039] max of a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, when assayed in the plasma of the mammalian subject, is less than about 6 to about 8 hours. Preferably, the Tmax parameter of the pharmacokinetic profile is less than about 6 hours, less than about 5 hours, less than about 4 hours, less than about 3 hours, less than about 2 hours, less than about 1 hour, or less than about 30 minutes after administration. The desirable pharmacokinetic profile, as used herein, is the pharmacokinetic profile measured after the initial dose of a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate. The compositions can be formulated in any way as described below and as known to those of skill in the art.
  • Current marketed formulations of fenofibrate include tablets, i.e., TRICOR® tablets marketed by Abbott Laboratories. According to the description of TRICOR®, the pharmacokinetic profile of the tablets contain parameters such that the median T[0040] max is 6-8 hours (Physicians Desk Reference, 56th Ed., 2002). Because the compound is virtually insoluble in water, the absolute bioavailability of TRICOR® cannot be determined (Physicians Desk Reference, 56th Ed., 2002). The compositions of the invention improve upon at least the Tmax parameter of the pharmacokinetic profile of a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate.
  • A preferred fibrate formulation, preferably a fenofibrate formulation, of the invention exhibits in comparative pharmacokinetic testing with a standard commercial formulation of the same fibrate, e.g., TRICOR® tablets from Abbott Laboratories for fenofibrate, a T[0041] max not greater than about 90%, not greater than about 80%, not greater than about 70%, not greater than about 60%, not greater than about 50%, not greater than about 30%, or not greater than about 25% of the Tmax exhibited by a standard commercial fibrate formulation, e.g., TRICOR® tablets for fenofibrate.
  • Any formulation giving the desired pharmacokinetic profile is suitable for administration according to the present methods. Exemplary types of formulations giving such profiles are liquid dispersions, gels, aerosols, ointments, creams, solid dose forms, etc. of a nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably nanoparticulate fenofibrate. [0042]
  • In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a fenofibrate composition of the invention comprises fenofibrate or a salt thereof, which when administered to a human as a dose of about 160 mg presents an AUC of about 139 μg/mL.h. [0043]
  • In yet another preferred embodiment of the invention, a fenofibrate composition of the invention comprises fenofibrate and has a C[0044] max under fasted conditions which is greater than the Cmax under high fat fed (HFF) conditions, when administered to a human.
  • 3. The Pharmacokinetic Profiles of the Fibrate Compositions of the Invention are Not Affected by the Fed or Fasted State of the Subject Ingesting the Compositions
  • The invention encompasses a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, composition wherein the pharmacokinetic profile of the fibrate is not substantially affected by the fed or fasted state of a subject ingesting the composition, when administered to a human. This means that there is no substantial difference in the quantity of drug absorbed or the rate of drug absorption when the nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions are administered in the fed versus the fasted state. [0045]
  • For conventional fenofibrate formulations, i.e., TRICOR®, the absorption of fenofibrate is increased by approximately 35% when administered with food. This significant difference in absorption observed with conventional fenofibrate formulations is undesirable. The fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, formulations of the invention overcome this problem, as the fibrate formulations reduce or preferably substantially eliminate significantly different absorption levels when administered under fed as compared to fasting conditions when administered to a human. [0046]
  • In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a fenofibrate composition of the invention comprises about 145 mg of fenofibrate and exhibits minimal or no food effect when administered to a human. In another preferred embodiment of the invention, a fenofibrate composition of the invention comprises about 48 mg of fenofibrate and exhibits minimal or no food effect when administered to a human. [0047]
  • As shown in Example 6, the pharmacokinetic parameters of the fenofibrate compositions of the invention are the same when the composition is administered in the fed and fasted states when administered to a human. Specifically, there was no substantial difference in the rate or quantity of drug absorption when the fenofibrate composition was administered in the fed versus the fasted state. Thus, the fibrate compositions, and preferably fenofibrate compositions, of the invention substantially eliminate the effect of food on the pharmacokinetics of the fibrate when administered to a human. [0048]
  • Benefits of a dosage form which substantially eliminates the effect of food include an increase in subject convenience, thereby increasing subject compliance, as the subject does not need to ensure that they are taking a dose either with or without food. This is significant, as with poor subject compliance an increase in the medical condition for which the drug is being prescribed may be observed, i.e., cardiovascular problems for poor subject compliance with a fibrate such as fenofibrate. [0049]
  • 4. Bioequivalency of the Fibrate Compositions of the Invention when Administered in the Fed Versus the Fasted State
  • The invention also encompasses a fibrate, preferably a fenofibrate, composition in which administration of the composition to a subject in a fasted state is bioequivalent to administration of the composition to a subject in a fed state. “Bioequivalency” is established by a 90% Confidence Interval (CI) of between 0.80 and 1.25 for both C[0050] max and AUC under USFDA regulatory guidelines, or a 90% CI for AUC of between 0.80 to 1.25 and a 90% CI for Cmax of between 0.70 to 1.43 under the European EMEA regulatory guidelines.
  • The difference in absorption of the fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions of the invention, when administered in the fed versus the fasted state, preferably is less than about 35%, less than about 30%, less than about 25%, less than about 20%, less than about 15%, less than about 10%, less than about 5%, or less than about 3%. [0051]
  • As shown in Example 6, administration of a fenofibrate composition according to the invention in a fasted state was bioequivalent to administration of a fenofibrate composition according to the invention in a fed state, pursuant to regulatory guidelines. Under USFDA guidelines, two products or methods are bioequivalent if the 90% Confidence Intervals (CI) for C[0052] max (peak concentration) and the AUC (area under the concentration/time curve) are between 0.80 to 1.25. For Europe, the test for bioequivalency is if two products or methods have a 90% CI for AUC of between 0.80 to 1.25 and a 90% CI for Cmax of between 0.70 to 1.43. The fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions of the invention meet both the U.S. and European guidelines for bioequivalency for administration in the fed versus the fasted state.
  • 5. Dissolution Profiles of the Fibrate Compositions of the Invention
  • The fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions of the invention have unexpectedly dramatic dissolution profiles. Rapid dissolution of an administered active agent is preferable, as faster dissolution generally leads to faster onset of action and greater bioavailability. To improve the dissolution profile and bioavailability of fibrates, and in particulate fenofibrate, it would be useful to increase the drug's dissolution so that it could attain a level close to 100%. [0053]
  • The fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions of the invention preferably have a dissolution profile in which within about 5 minutes at least about 20% of the composition is dissolved. In other embodiments of the invention, at least about 30% or about 40% of the fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, composition is dissolved within about 5 minutes. In yet other embodiments of the invention, preferably at least about 40%, about 50%, about 60%, about 70%, or about 80% of the fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, composition is dissolved within about 10 minutes. Finally, in another embodiment of the invention, preferably at least about 70%, about 80%, about 90%, or about 100% of the fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, composition is dissolved within about 20 minutes. [0054]
  • Dissolution is preferably measured in a medium which is discriminating. Such a dissolution medium will produce two very different dissolution curves for two products having very different dissolution profiles in gastric juices; i.e., the dissolution medium is predictive of in vivo dissolution of a composition. An exemplary dissolution medium is an aqueous medium containing the surfactant sodium lauryl sulfate at 0.025 M. Determination of the amount dissolved can be carried out by spectrophotometry. The rotating blade method (European Pharmacopoeia) can be used to measure dissolution. [0055]
  • 6. Redispersibility Profiles of the Fibrate Compositions of the Invention
  • An additional feature of the fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions of the invention is that the compositions redisperse such that the effective average particle size of the redispersed fibrate particles is less than about 2 microns. This is significant, as if upon administration the nanoparticulate fibrate compositions of the invention did not redisperse to a substantially nanoparticulate particle size, then the dosage form may lose the benefits afforded by formulating the fibrate into a nanoparticulate particle size. [0056]
  • This is because nanoparticulate active agent compositions benefit from the small particle size of the active agent; if the active agent does not redisperse into the small particle sizes upon administration, then “clumps” or agglomerated active agent particles are formed, owing to the extremely high surface free energy of the nanoparticulate system and the thermodynamic driving force to achieve an overall reduction in free energy. With the formation of such agglomerated particles, the bioavailability of the dosage form may fall well below that observed with the liquid dispersion form of the nanoparticulate active agent. [0057]
  • Moreover, the nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions of the invention exhibit dramatic redispersion of the nanoparticulate fibrate particles upon administration to a mammal, such as a human or animal, as demonstrated by reconstitution/redispersion in a biorelevant aqueous media such that the effective average particle size of the redispersed fibrate particles is less than about 2 microns. Such biorelevant aqueous media can be any aqueous media that exhibit the desired ionic strength and pH, which form the basis for the biorelevance of the media. The desired pH and ionic strength are those that are representative of physiological conditions found in the human body. Such biorelevant aqueous media can be, for example, aqueous electrolyte solutions or aqueous solutions of any salt, acid, or base, or a combination thereof, which exhibit the desired pH and ionic strength. [0058]
  • Biorelevant pH is well known in the art. For example, in the stomach, the pH ranges from slightly less than 2 (but typically greater than 1) up to 4 or 5. In the small intestine the pH can range from 4 to 6, and in the colon it can range from 6 to 8. Biorelevant ionic strength is also well known in the art. Fasted state gastric fluid has an ionic strength of about 0.1M while fasted state intestinal fluid has an ionic strength of about 0.14. See e.g., Lindahl et al., “Characterization of Fluids from the Stomach and Proximal Jejunum in Men and Women,” [0059] Pharm. Res., 14 (4): 497-502 (1997).
  • It is believed that the pH and ionic strength of the test solution is more critical than the specific chemical content. Accordingly, appropriate pH and ionic strength values can be obtained through numerous combinations of strong acids, strong bases, salts, single or multiple conjugate acid-base pairs (i.e., weak acids and corresponding salts of that acid), monoprotic and polyprotic electrolytes, etc. [0060]
  • Representative electrolyte solutions can be, but are not limited to, HCl solutions, ranging in concentration from about 0.001 to about 0.1 M, and NaCl solutions, ranging in concentration from about 0.001 to about 0.1 M, and mixtures thereof. For example, electrolyte solutions can be, but are not limited to, about 0.1 M HCl or less, about 0.01 M HCl or less, about 0.001 M HCl or less, about 0.1 M NaCl or less, about 0.01 M NaCl or less, about 0.001 M NaCl or less, and mixtures thereof. Of these electrolyte solutions, 0.01 M HCl and/or 0.1 M NaCl, are most representative of fasted human physiological conditions, owing to the pH and ionic strength conditions of the proximal gastrointestinal tract. [0061]
  • Electrolyte concentrations of 0.001 M HCl, 0.01 M HCl, and 0.1 M HCl correspond to [0062] pH 3, pH 2, and pH 1, respectively. Thus, a 0.01 M HCl solution simulates typical acidic conditions found in the stomach. A solution of 0.1 M NaCl provides a reasonable approximation of the ionic strength conditions found throughout the body, including the gastrointestinal fluids, although concentrations higher than 0.1 M may be employed to simulate fed conditions within the human GI tract.
  • Exemplary solutions of salts, acids, bases or combinations thereof, which exhibit the desired pH and ionic strength, include but are not limited to phosphoric acid/phosphate salts+sodium, potassium and calcium salts of chloride, acetic acid/acetate salts+sodium, potassium and calcium salts of chloride, carbonic acid/bicarbonate salts+sodium, potassium and calcium salts of chloride, and citric acid/citrate salts+sodium, potassium and calcium salts of chloride. [0063]
  • In other embodiments of the invention, the redispersed fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, particles of the invention (redispersed in an aqueous, biorelevant, or any other suitable media) have an effective average particle size of less than about 1900 nm, less than about 1800 nm, less than about 1700 nm, less than about 1600 nm, less than about 1500 nm, less than about 1400 nm, less than about 1300 nm, less than about 1200 nm, less than about 1100 nm, less than about 1000 nm, less than about 900 nm, less than about 800 nm, less than about 700 nm, less than about 600 nm, less than about 500 nm, less than about 400 nm, less than about 300 nm, less than about 250 nm, less than about 200 nm, less than about 150 nm, less than about 100 nm, less than about 75 nm, or less than about 50 nm, as measured by light-scattering methods, microscopy, or other appropriate methods. [0064]
  • Redispersibility can be tested using any suitable means known in the art. See e.g., the example sections of U.S. Pat. No. 6,375,986 for “Solid Dose Nanoparticulate Compositions Comprising a Synergistic Combination of a Polymeric Surface Stabilizer and Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate.”[0065]
  • 7. Bioadhesive Fibrate Compositions
  • Bioadhesive fibrate, particularly fenofibrate, compositions of the invention comprise at least one cationic surface stabilizer, which are described in more detail below. Bioadhesive formulations of fibrate, particularly fenofibrate, exhibit exceptional bioadhesion to biological surfaces, such as mucous. The term bioadhesion refers to any attractive interaction between two biological surfaces or between a biological and a synthetic surface. In the case of bioadhesive nanoparticulate compositions, the term bioadhesion is used to describe the adhesion between the nanoparticulate fibrate, particularly fenofibrate, compositions and a biological substrate (i.e. gastrointestinal mucin, lung tissue, nasal mucosa, etc.). See e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 6,428,814 for “Bioadhesive Nanoparticulate Compositions Having Cationic Surface Stabilizers,” which is specifically incorporated by reference. [0066]
  • There are basically two mechanisms which may be responsible for this bioadhesion phenomena: mechanical or physical interactions and chemical interactions. The first of these, mechanical or physical mechanisms, involves the physical interlocking or interpenetration between a bioadhesive entity and the receptor tissue, resulting from a good wetting of the bioadhesive surface, swelling of the bioadhesive polymer, penetration of the bioadhesive entity into a crevice of the tissue surface, or interpenetration of bioadhesive composition chains with those of the mucous or other such related tissues. The second possible mechanism of bioadhesion incorporates forces such as ionic attraction, dipolar forces, van der Waals interactions, and hydrogen bonds. It is this form of bioadhesion which is primarily responsible for the bioadhesive properties of the nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions of the invention. However, physical and mechanical interactions may also play a secondary role in the bioadhesion of such nanoparticulate compositions. [0067]
  • The bioadhesive fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions of the invention are useful in any situation in which it is desirable to apply the compositions to a biological surface. The bioadhesive fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions coat the targeted surface in a continuous and uniform film which is invisible to the naked human eye. [0068]
  • A bioadhesive fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, composition slows the transit of the composition, and some fibrate particles would also most likely adhere to tissue other than the mucous cells and therefore give a prolonged exposure to the fibrate, thereby increasing absorption and the bioavailability of the administered dosage. [0069]
  • 8. Fibrate Compositions Used in Conjunction with Other Active Agents
  • The fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions of the invention can additionally comprise one or more compounds useful in treating dyslipidemia, hyperlipidemia, hypercholesterolemia, cardiovascular disorders, or related conditions, or the fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions can be administered in conjunction with such a compound. Examples of such compounds include, but are not limited to, statins or HMG CoA reductase inhibitors and antihypertensives. Examples of antihypertensives include, but are not limited to diuretics (“water pills”), beta blockers, alpha blockers, alpha-beta blockers, sympathetic nerve inhibitors, angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, angiotensin receptor blockers (formal medical name angiotensin-2-receptor antagonists, known as “sartans” for short). [0070]
  • Examples of statins or HMG CoA reductase inhibitors include, but are not limited to, lovastatin; pravastatin; simavastatin; velostatin; atorvastatin (Lipitor®) and other 6-[2-(substituted-pyrrol-1-yl)alkyl]pyran-2-ones and derivatives, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,647,576); fluvastatin (Lescol®); fluindostatin (Sandoz XU-62-320); pyrazole analogs of mevalonolactone derivatives, as disclosed in PCT application WO 86/03488; rivastatin and other pyridyldihydroxyheptenoic acids, as disclosed in European Patent 491226A; Searle=s SC-45355 (a 3-substituted pentanedioic acid derivative); dichloroacetate; imidazole analogs of mevalonolactone, as disclosed in PCT application WO 86/07054; 3-carboxy-2-hydroxy-propane-phosphonic acid derivatives, as disclosed in French Patent No. 2,596,393; 2,3-di-substituted pyrrole, furan, and thiophene derivatives, as disclosed in European Patent Application No. 0221025; naphthyl analogs of mevalonolactone, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,686,237; octahydronaphthalenes, such as those disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,499,289; keto analogs of mevinolin (lovastatin), as disclosed in European Patent Application No. 0,142,146 A2; phosphinic acid compounds; as well as other HMG CoA reductase inhibitors. [0071]
  • B. Compositions
  • The invention provides compositions comprising fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, particles and at least one surface stabilizer. The surface stabilizers preferably are adsorbed on, or associated with, the surface of the fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, particles. Surface stabilizers especially useful herein preferably physically adhere on, or associate with, the surface of the nanoparticulate fibrate particles but do not chemically react with the fibrate particles or itself. Individually adsorbed molecules of the surface stabilizer are essentially free of intermolecular cross-linkages. [0072]
  • The present invention also includes fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions together with one or more non-toxic physiologically acceptable carriers, adjuvants, or vehicles, collectively referred to as carriers. The compositions can be formulated for parenteral injection (e.g., intravenous, intramuscular, or subcutaneous), oral administration in solid, liquid, or aerosol form, vaginal, nasal, rectal, ocular, local (powders, ointments or drops), buccal, intracisternal, intraperitoneal, or topical administration, and the like. [0073]
  • 1. Fibrate Particles
  • As used herein the term “fibrate” means any of the fibric acid derivatives useful in the methods described herein, e.g., fenofibrate. Fenofibrate is a fibrate compound, other examples of which are bezafibrate, beclobrate, binifibrate, ciplofibrate, clinofibrate, clofibrate, clofibric acid, etofibrate, gemfibrozil, nicofibrate, pirifibrate, ronifibrate, simfibrate, theofibrate, etc. See U.S. Pat. No. 6,384,062. [0074]
  • Generally, fibrates are used for conditions such as hypercholesterolemia, mixed lipidemia, hypertriglyceridemia, coronary heart disease, and peripheral vascular disease (including symptomatic carotid artery disease), and prevention of pancreatitis. Fenofibrate may also help prevent the development of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) caused by high levels of triglycerides in the blood. Fibrates are known to be useful in treating renal failure (U.S. Pat. No. 4,250,191). Fibrates may also be used for other indications where lipid regulating agents are typically used. [0075]
  • As used herein the term “fenofibrate” is used to mean fenofibrate (2-[4-(4-chlorobenzoyl) phenoxy]-2-methyl-propanoic acid, 1-methylethyl ester) or a salt thereof. [0076]
  • Fenofibrate is well known in the art and is readily recognized by one of ordinary skill. It is used to lower triglyceride (fat-like substances) levels in the blood. Specifically, fenofibrate reduces elevated LDL-C, Total-C, triglycerides, and Apo-B and increases HDL-C. The drug has also been approved as adjunctive therapy for the treatment of hypertriglyceridemia, a disorder characterized by elevated levels of very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) in the plasma. [0077]
  • The mechanism of action of fenofibrate has not been clearly established in man. Fenofibric acid, the active metabolite of fenofibrate, lowers plasma triglycerides apparently by inhibiting triglyceride synthesis, resulting in a reduction of VLDL released into the circulation, and also by stimulating the catabolism of triglyceride-rich lipoprotein (i.e., VLDL). Fenofibrate also reduces serum uric acid levels in hyperuricemic and normal individuals by increasing the urinary excretion of uric acid. [0078]
  • The absolute bioavailability of conventional microcrystalline fenofibrate cannot be determined as the compound is virtually insoluble in aqueous media suitable for injection. However, fenofibrate is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Following oral administration in healthy volunteers, approximately 60% of a single dose of conventional radiolabelled fenofibrate (i.e., TRICOR®) appeared in urine, primarily as fenofibric acid and its glucuronate conjugate, and 25% was excreted in the feces. See http://www.rxlist.com/cgi/generic3/fenofibrate_cp.htm [0079]
  • Following oral administration, fenofibrate is rapidly hydrolyzed by esterases to the active metabolite, fenofibric acid; no unchanged fenofibrate is detected in plasma. Fenofibric acid is primarily conjugated with glucuronic acid and then excreted in urine. A small amount of fenofibric acid is reduced at the carbonyl moiety to a benzhydrol metabolite which is, in turn, conjugated with glucuronic acid and excreted in urine. Id. [0080]
  • 2. Surface Stabilizers
  • The choice of a surface stabilizer for a fibrate is non-trivial and required extensive experimentation to realize a desirable formulation. Accordingly, the present invention is directed to the surprising discovery that nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions can be made. [0081]
  • Combinations of more than one surface stabilizer can be used in the invention. Useful surface stabilizers which can be employed in the invention include, but are not limited to, known organic and inorganic pharmaceutical excipients. Such excipients include various polymers, low molecular weight oligomers, natural products, and surfactants. Surface stabilizers include nonionic, anionic, cationic, ionic, and zwitterionic surfactants. [0082]
  • Representative examples of surface stabilizers useful in the invention include, but are not limited to, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (now known as hypromellose), hydroxypropylcellulose, polyvinylpyrrolidone, sodium lauryl sulfate, dioctylsulfosuccinate, gelatin, casein, lecithin (phosphatides), dextran, gum acacia, cholesterol, tragacanth, stearic acid, benzalkonium chloride, calcium stearate, glycerol monostearate, cetostearyl alcohol, cetomacrogol emulsifying wax, sorbitan esters, polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers (e.g., macrogol ethers such as cetomacrogol 1000), polyoxyethylene castor oil derivatives, polyoxyethylene sorbitan fatty acid esters (e.g., the commercially available Tweens® such as e.g., Tween 20® and Tween 80® (ICI Speciality Chemicals)); polyethylene glycols (e.g., Carbowaxs 3550® and 934® (Union Carbide)), polyoxyethylene stearates, colloidal silicon dioxide, phosphates, carboxymethylcellulose calcium, carboxymethylcellulose sodium, methylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, hypromellose phthalate, noncrystalline cellulose, magnesium aluminium silicate, triethanolamine, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), 4-(1,1,3,3-tetramethylbutyl)-phenol polymer with ethylene oxide and formaldehyde (also known as tyloxapol, superione, and triton), poloxamers (e.g., Pluronics F68® and F108®, which are block copolymers of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide); poloxamines (e.g., Tetronic 908®, also known as Poloxamine 908®, which is a tetrafunctional block copolymer derived from sequential addition of propylene oxide and ethylene oxide to ethylenediamine (BASF Wyandotte Corporation, Parsippany, N.J.)); Tetronic 1508® (T-1508) (BASF Wyandotte Corporation), Tritons X-200®, which is an alkyl aryl polyether sulfonate (Rohm and Haas); Crodestas F-110®, which is a mixture of sucrose stearate and sucrose distearate (Croda Inc.); p-isononylphenoxypoly-(glycidol), also known as Olin-1OG® or Surfactant 10-G® (Olin Chemicals, Stamford, Conn.); Crodestas SL-40® (Croda, Inc.); and SA9OHCO, which is C[0083] 18H37CH2(CON(CH3)—CH2(CHOH)4(CH20H)2 (Eastman Kodak Co.); decanoyl-N-methylglucamide; n-decyl β-D-glucopyranoside; n-decyl β-D-maltopyranoside; n-dodecyl β-D-glucopyranoside; n-dodecyl β-D-maltoside; heptanoyl-N-methylglucamide; n-heptyl-β-D-glucopyranoside; n-heptyl β-D-thioglucoside; n-hexyl β-D-glucopyranoside; nonanoyl-N-methylglucamide; n-noyl β-D-glucopyranoside; octanoyl-N-methylglucamide; n-octyl-β-D-glucopyranoside; octyl β-D-thioglucopyranoside; PEG-phospholipid, PEG-cholesterol, PEG-cholesterol derivative, PEG-vitamin A, PEG-vitamin E, lysozyme, random copolymers of vinyl pyrrolidone and vinyl acetate, and the like.
  • If desirable, the nanoparticulate fibrate, preferable fenofibrate, compositions of the invention can be formulated to be phospholipid-free. [0084]
  • Examples of useful cationic surface stabilizers include, but are not limited to, polymers, biopolymers, polysaccharides, cellulosics, alginates, phospholipids, and nonpolymeric compounds, such as zwitterionic stabilizers, poly-n-methylpyridinium, anthryul pyridinium chloride, cationic phospholipids, chitosan, polylysine, polyvinylimidazole, polybrene, polymethylmethacrylate trimethylammoniumbromide bromide (PMMTMABr), hexyldesyltrimethylammonium bromide (HDMAB), and polyvinylpyrrolidone-2-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate dimethyl sulfate. [0085]
  • Other useful cationic stabilizers include, but are not limited to, cationic lipids, sulfonium, phosphonium, and quaternary ammonium compounds, such as stearyltrimethylammonium chloride, benzyl-di(2-chloroethyl)ethylammonium bromide, coconut trimethyl ammonium chloride or bromide, coconut methyl dihydroxyethyl ammonium chloride or bromide, decyl triethyl ammonium chloride, decyl dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium chloride or bromide, C[0086] 12-15dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium chloride or bromide, coconut dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium chloride or bromide, myristyl trimethyl ammonium methyl sulphate, lauryl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride or bromide, lauryl dimethyl (ethenoxy)4 ammonium chloride or bromide, N-alkyl (C12-18)dimethylbenzyl ammonium chloride, N-alkyl (C14-18)dimethyl-benzyl ammonium chloride, N-tetradecylidmethylbenzyl ammonium chloride monohydrate, dimethyl didecyl ammonium chloride, N-alkyl and (C12-14) dimethyl 1-napthylmethyl ammonium chloride, trimethylammonium halide, alkyl-trimethylammonium salts and dialkyl-dimethylammonium salts, lauryl trimethyl ammonium chloride, ethoxylated alkyamidoalkyldialkylammonium salt and/or an ethoxylated trialkyl ammonium salt, dialkylbenzene dialkylammonium chloride, N-didecyldimethyl ammonium chloride, N-tetradecyldimethylbenzyl ammonium, chloride monohydrate, N-alkyl(C12-14) dimethyl 1-naphthylmethyl ammonium chloride and dodecyldimethylbenzyl ammonium chloride, dialkyl benzenealkyl ammonium chloride, lauryl trimethyl ammonium chloride, alkylbenzyl methyl ammonium chloride, alkyl benzyl dimethyl ammonium bromide, C12, C15, C17 trimethyl ammonium bromides, dodecylbenzyl triethyl ammonium chloride, poly-diallyldimethylammonium chloride (DADMAC), dimethyl ammonium chlorides, alkyldimethylammonium halogenides, tricetyl methyl ammonium chloride, decyltrimethylammonium bromide, dodecyltriethylammonium bromide, tetradecyltrimethylammonium bromide, methyl trioctylammonium chloride (ALIQUAT 336™), POLYQUAT 10™, tetrabutylammonium bromide, benzyl trimethylammonium bromide, choline esters (such as choline esters of fatty acids), benzalkonium chloride, stearalkonium chloride compounds (such as stearyltrimonium chloride and Di-stearyldimonium chloride), cetyl pyridinium bromide or chloride, halide salts of quaternized polyoxyethylalkylamines, MIRAPOL™ and ALKAQUAT™ (Alkaril Chemical Company), alkyl pyridinium salts; amines, such as alkylamines, dialkylamines, alkanolamines, polyethylenepolyamines, N,N-dialkylaminoalkyl acrylates, and vinyl pyridine, amine salts, such as lauryl amine acetate, stearyl amine acetate, alkylpyridinium salt, and alkylimidazolium salt, and amine oxides; imide azolinium salts; protonated quaternary acrylamides; methylated quaternary polymers, such as poly[diallyl dimethylammonium chloride] and poly-[N-methyl vinyl pyridinium chloride]; and cationic guar.
  • Such exemplary cationic surface stabilizers and other useful cationic surface stabilizers are described in J. Cross and E. Singer, [0087] Cationic Surfactants: Analytical and Biological Evaluation (Marcel Dekker, 1994); P. and D. Rubingh (Editor), Cationic Surfactants: Physical Chemistry (Marcel Dekker, 1991); and J. Richmond, Cationic Surfactants: Organic Chemistry, (Marcel Dekker, 1990).
  • Nonpolymeric surface stabilizers are any nonpolymeric compound, such benzalkonium chloride, a carbonium compound, a phosphonium compound, an oxonium compound, a halonium compound, a cationic organometallic compound, a quarternary phosphorous compound, a pyridinium compound, an anilinium compound, an ammonium compound, a hydroxylammonium compound, a primary ammonium compound, a secondary ammonium compound, a tertiary ammonium compound, and quarternary ammonium compounds of the formula NR[0088] 1R2R3R4(+). For compounds of the formula NR1R2R3R4 (+):
  • (i) none of R[0089] 1-R4 are CH3;
  • (ii) one of R[0090] 1-R4 is CH3;
  • (iii) three of R[0091] 1-R4 are CH3;
  • (iv) all of R[0092] 1-R4 are CH3;
  • (v) two of R[0093] 1-R4 are CH3, one of R1-R4 is C6H5CH2, and one of R1-R4 is an alkyl chain of seven carbon atoms or less;
  • (vi) two of R[0094] 1-R4 are CH3, one of R1-R4 is C6H5CH2, and one of R1-R4 is an alkyl chain of nineteen carbon atoms or more;
  • (vii) two of R[0095] 1-R4 are CH3 and one of R1-R4 is the group C6H5(CH2)n, where n>1;
  • (viii) two of R[0096] 1-R4 are CH3, one of R1-R4 is C6H5CH2, and one of R1-R4 comprises at least one heteroatom;
  • (ix) two of R[0097] 1-R4 are CH3, one of R1-R4 is C6H5CH2, and one of R1-R4 comprises at least one halogen;
  • (x) two of R[0098] 1-R4 are CH3, one of R1-R4 is C6H5CH2, and one of R1-R4 comprises at least one cyclic fragment;
  • (xi) two of R[0099] 1-R4 are CH3 and one of R1-R4 is a phenyl ring; or
  • (xii) two of R[0100] 1-R4 are CH3 and two of R1-R4 are purely aliphatic fragments.
  • Such compounds include, but are not limited to, behenalkonium chloride, benzethonium chloride, cetylpyridinium chloride, behentrimonium chloride, lauralkonium chloride, cetalkonium chloride, cetrimonium bromide, cetrimonium chloride, cethylamine hydrofluoride, chlorallylmethenamine chloride (Quaternium-15), distearyldimonium chloride (Quaternium-5), dodecyl dimethyl ethylbenzyl ammonium chloride(Quaternium-14), Quaternium-22, Quaternium-26, Quaternium-18 hectorite, dimethylaminoethylchloride hydrochloride, cysteine hydrochloride, diethanolammonium POE (10) oletyl ether phosphate, diethanolammonium POE (3)oleyl ether phosphate, tallow alkonium chloride, dimethyl dioctadecylammoniumbentonite, stearalkonium chloride, domiphen bromide, denatonium benzoate, myristalkonium chloride, laurtrimonium chloride, ethylenediamine dihydrochloride, guanidine hydrochloride, pyridoxine HCl, iofetamine hydrochloride, meglumine hydrochloride, methylbenzethonium chloride, myrtrimonium bromide, oleyltrimonium chloride, polyquaternium-1, procainehydrochloride, cocobetaine, stearalkonium bentonite, stearalkoniumhectonite, stearyl trihydroxyethyl propylenediamine dihydrofluoride, tallowtrimonium chloride, and hexadecyltrimethyl ammonium bromide. [0101]
  • In one embodiment of the invention, the preferred one or more surface stabilizers of the invention is any suitable surface stabilizer as described below, with the exclusion of PEG-derivatized vitamin E, which is a non-ionic compound. In another embodiment of the invention, the preferred one or more surface stabilizers of the invention is any suitable surface stabilizer as described below, with the exclusion of phospholipids. Finally, in another embodiment of the invention, the preferred one or more surface stabilizers of the invention is any substance which is categorized by the USFDA as GRAS (“Generally Recognized As Safe”). [0102]
  • Preferred surface stabilizers of the invention include, but are not limited to, hypromellose, docusate sodium (DOSS), Plasdone® S630 (random copolymer of vinyl pyrrolidone and vinyl acetate in a 60:40 ratio), hydroxypropyl cellulose SL (HPC-SL), sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), and combinations thereof. Particularly preferred combinations of surface stabilizers include, but are not limited to, hypromellose and DOSS; Plasdone® S630 and DOSS; HPC-SL and DOSS; and hypromellose, DOSS, and SLS. [0103]
  • The surface stabilizers are commercially available and/or can be prepared by techniques known in the art. Most of these surface stabilizers are known pharmaceutical excipients and are described in detail in the [0104] Handbook of Pharmaceutical Excipients, published jointly by the American Pharmaceutical Association and The Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain (The Pharmaceutical Press, 2000), specifically incorporated by reference.
  • 3. Other Pharmaceutical Excipients
  • Pharmaceutical compositions according to the invention may also comprise one or more binding agents, filling agents, lubricating agents, suspending agents, sweeteners, flavoring agents, preservatives, buffers, wetting agents, disintegrants, effervescent agents, and other excipients. Such excipients are known in the art. [0105]
  • Examples of filling agents are lactose monohydrate, lactose anhydrous, and various starches; examples of binding agents are various celluloses and cross-linked polyvinylpyrrolidone, microcrystalline cellulose, such as Avicel® PH101 and Avicel® PH102, microcrystalline cellulose, and silicified microcrystalline cellulose (ProSolv SMCC™). [0106]
  • Suitable lubricants, including agents that act on the flowability of the powder to be compressed, are colloidal silicon dioxide, such as [0107] Aerosil® 200, talc, stearic acid, magnesium stearate, calcium stearate, and silica gel.
  • Examples of sweeteners are any natural or artificial sweetener, such as sucrose, xylitol, sodium saccharin, cyclamate, aspartame, and acsulfame. Examples of flavoring agents are Magnasweet® (trademark of MAFCO), bubble gum flavor, and fruit flavors, and the like. [0108]
  • Examples of preservatives are potassium sorbate, methylparaben, propylparaben, benzoic acid and its salts, other esters of parahydroxybenzoic acid such as butylparaben, alcohols such as ethyl or benzyl alcohol, phenolic compounds such as phenol, or quaternary compounds such as benzalkonium chloride. [0109]
  • Suitable diluents include pharmaceutically acceptable inert fillers, such as microcrystalline cellulose, lactose, dibasic calcium phosphate, saccharides, and/or mixtures of any of the foregoing. Examples of diluents include microcrystalline cellulose, such as Avicel® PH101 and Avicel® PH102; lactose such as lactose monohydrate, lactose anhydrous, and Pharmatosee DCL21; dibasic calcium phosphate such as Emcompress®; mannitol; starch; sorbitol; sucrose; and glucose. [0110]
  • Suitable disintegrants include lightly crosslinked polyvinyl pyrrolidone, corn starch, potato starch, maize starch, and modified starches, croscarmellose sodium, cross-povidone, sodium starch glycolate, and mixtures thereof. [0111]
  • Examples of effervescent agents are effervescent couples such as an organic acid and a carbonate or bicarbonate. Suitable organic acids include, for example, citric, tartaric, malic, fumaric, adipic, succinic, and alginic acids and anhydrides and acid salts. Suitable carbonates and bicarbonates include, for example, sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, potassium carbonate, potassium bicarbonate, magnesium carbonate, sodium glycine carbonate, L-lysine carbonate, and arginine carbonate. Alternatively, only the sodium bicarbonate component of the effervescent couple may be present. [0112]
  • 4. Nanoparticulate Fibrate Particle Size
  • The compositions of the invention contain nanoparticulate fibrate particles, preferably nanoparticulate fenofibrate particles, which have an effective average particle size of less than about 2000 nm (i.e., 2 microns), less than about 1900 nm, less than about 1800 nm, less than about 1700 nm, less than about 1600 nm, less than about 1500 nm, less than about 1400 nm, less than about 1300 nm, less than about 1200 nm, less than about 1100 nm, less than about 1000 nm, less than about 900 nm, less than about 800 nm, less than about 700 nm, less than about 600 nm, less than about 500 nm, less than about 400 nm, less than about 300 nm, less than about 250 nm, less than about 200 nm, less than about 150 nm, less than about 100 nm, less than about 75 nm, or less than about 50 nm, as measured by light-scattering methods, microscopy, or other appropriate methods. [0113]
  • By “an effective average particle size of less than about 2000 nm” it is meant that at least 50% of the fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, particles have a particle size of less than the effective average, by weight, i.e., less than about 2000 nm, 1900 nm, 1800 nm, etc., when measured by the above-noted techniques. Preferably, at least about 70%, about 90%, or about 95% of the fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, particles have a particle size of less than the effective average, i.e., less than about 2000 nm, 1900 nm, 1800 nm, 1700 nm, etc. [0114]
  • In one embodiment of the invention, at least 99% of the fibrate particles (“D[0115] 99”) have a particle size less than about 500 nm, less than about 450 nm, less than about 400 nm, less than about 350 nm, less than about 300 nm, less than about 250 nm, less than about 200 nm, less than about 150 nm, or less than about 100 nm. In another embodiment of the invention, at least 50% of the fibrate particles (“D50”) have a particle size less than about 350 nm, less than about 300 nm, less than about 250 nm, less than about 200 nm, less than about 150 nm, less than about 100 nm, or less than about 75 nm. In yet another embodiment of the invention, the mean particle size of the fibrate composition is less than about 100 nm, less than about 75 nm, or less than about 50 nm.
  • In the present invention, the value for D50 of a nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, composition is the particle size below which 50% of the fibrate particles fall, by weight. Similarly, D90 is the particle size below which 90% of the fibrate particles fall, by weight. [0116]
  • 5. Concentration of the Fibrate and Surface Stabilizers
  • The relative amounts of a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, and one or more surface stabilizers can vary widely. The optimal amount of the individual components can depend, for example, upon the particular fibrate selected, the hydrophilic lipophilic balance (HLB), melting point, and the surface tension of water solutions of the stabilizer, etc. [0117]
  • The concentration of the fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, can vary from about 99.5% to about 0.001%, from about 95% to about 0.1%, or from about 90% to about 0.5%, by weight, based on the total combined weight of the fibrate and at least one surface stabilizer, not including other excipients. [0118]
  • The concentration of the at least one surface stabilizer can vary from about 0.5% to about 99.999%, from about 5.0% to about 99.9%, or from about 10% to about 99.5%, by weight, based on the total combined dry weight of the fibrate and at least one surface stabilizer, not including other excipients. [0119]
  • 6. Exemplary Nanoparticulate Fenofibrate Tablet Formulations
  • Several exemplary fenofibrate tablet formulations of the invention are given below. These examples are not intended to limit the claims in any respect, but rather provide exemplary tablet formulations of fenofibrate of the invention which can be utilized in the methods of the invention. Such exemplary tablets can also comprise a coating agent. [0120]
    Component g/Kg
    Exemplary Nanoparticulate
    Fenofibrate Tablet Formulation #1
    Fenofibrate about 50 to about 500
    Hypromellose, USP about 10 to about 70
    Docusate Sodium, USP about 1 to about 10
    Sucrose, NF about 100 to about 500
    Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, NF about 1 to about 40
    Lactose Monohydrate, NF about 50 to about 400
    Silicified Microcrystalline Cellulose about 50 to about 300
    Crospovidone, NF about 20 to about 300
    Magnesium Stearate, NF about 0.5 to about 5
    Exemplary Nanoparticulate
    Fenofibrate Tablet Formulation #2
    Fenofibrate about 100 to about 300
    Hypromellose, USP about 30 to about 50
    Docusate Sodium, USP about 0.5 to about 10
    Sucrose, NF about 100 to about 300
    Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, NF about 1 to about 30
    Lactose Monohydrate, NF about 100 to about 300
    Silicified Microcrystalline Cellulose about 50 to about 200
    Crospovidone, NF about 50 to about 200
    Magnesium Stearate, NF about 0.5 to about 5
    Exemplary Nanoparticulate
    Fenofibrate Tablet Formulation #3
    Fenofibrate about 200 to about 225
    Hypromellose, USP about 42 to about 46
    Docusate Sodium, USP about 2 to about 6
    Sucrose, NF about 200 to about 225
    Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, NF about 12 to about 18
    Lactose Monohydrate, NF about 200 to about 205
    Silicified Microcrystalline Cellulose about 130 to about 135
    Crospovidone, NF about 112 to about 118
    Magnesium Stearate, NF about 0.5 to about 3
    Exemplary Nanoparticulate
    Fenofibrate Tablet Formulation #4
    Fenofibrate about 119 to about 224
    Hypromellose, USP about 42 to about 46
    Docusate Sodium, USP about 2 to about 6
    Sucrose, NF about 119 to about 224
    Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, NF about 12 to about 18
    Lactose Monohydrate, NF about 119 to about 224
    Silicified Microcrystalline Cellulose about 129 to about 134
    Crospovidone, NF about 112 to about 118
    Magnesium Stearate, NF about 0.5 to about 3
  • D. Methods of Making Nanoparticulate Fibrate Compositions
  • The nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions can be made using, for example, milling, homogenization, or precipitation techniques. Exemplary methods of making nanoparticulate compositions are described in the '684 patent. Methods of making nanoparticulate compositions are also described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,518,187 for “Method of Grinding Pharmaceutical Substances;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,718,388 for “Continuous Method of Grinding Pharmaceutical Substances;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,862,999 for “Method of Grinding Pharmaceutical Substances;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,665,331 for “Co-Microprecipitation of Nanoparticulate Pharmaceutical Agents with Crystal Growth Modifiers;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,662,883 for “Co-Microprecipitation of Nanoparticulate Pharmaceutical Agents with Crystal Growth Modifiers;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,560,932 for “Microprecipitation of Nanoparticulate Pharmaceutical Agents;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,543,133 for “Process of Preparing X-Ray Contrast Compositions Containing Nanoparticles;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,534,270 for “Method of Preparing Stable Drug Nanoparticles;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,510,118 for “Process of Preparing Therapeutic Compositions Containing Nanoparticles;” and U.S. Pat. No. 5,470,583 for “Method of Preparing Nanoparticle Compositions Containing Charged Phospholipids to Reduce Aggregation,” all of which are specifically incorporated by reference. [0121]
  • The resultant nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions or dispersions can be utilized in solid or liquid dosage formulations, such as liquid dispersions, gels, aerosols, ointments, creams, controlled release formulations, fast melt formulations, lyophilized formulations, tablets, capsules, delayed release formulations, extended release formulations, pulsatile release formulations, mixed immediate release and controlled release formulations, etc. [0122]
  • In one embodiment of the invention, if heat is utilized during the process of making the nanoparticulate composition, the temperature is kept below the melting point of the fibrate, preferably fenofibrate. [0123]
  • 1. Milling to Obtain Nanoparticulate Fibrate Dispersions
  • Milling a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, to obtain a nanoparticulate dispersion comprises dispersing the fibrate particles in a liquid dispersion medium in which the fibrate is poorly soluble, followed by applying mechanical means in the presence of grinding media to reduce the particle size of the fibrate to the desired effective average particle size. The dispersion medium can be, for example, water, safflower oil, ethanol, t-butanol, glycerin, polyethylene glycol (PEG), hexane, or glycol. A preferred dispersion medium is water. [0124]
  • The fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, particles can be reduced in size in the presence of at least one surface stabilizer. Alternatively, the fibrate particles can be contacted with one or more surface stabilizers after attrition. Other compounds, such as a diluent, can be added to the fibrate/surface stabilizer composition during the size reduction process. Dispersions can be manufactured continuously or in a batch mode. [0125]
  • In one embodiment of the invention, a mixture of a fibrate and one or more surface stabilizers is heated during the milling process. If a polymeric surface stabilizer is utilized, the temperature is raised to above the cloud point of the polymeric surface stabilizer but below the actual or depressed melting point of the fibrate. The utilization of heat may be important for scale up of the milling process, as it can aid in the solubilization of the one or more active agents. [0126]
  • 2. Precipitation to Obtain Nanoparticulate Fibrate Compositions
  • Another method of forming the desired nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, composition is by microprecipitation. This is a method of preparing stable dispersions of poorly soluble active agents in the presence of one or more surface stabilizers and one or more colloid stability enhancing surface active agents free of any trace toxic solvents or solubilized heavy metal impurities. Such a method comprises, for example: (1) dissolving a fibrate in a suitable solvent; (2) adding the formulation from step (1) to a solution comprising at least one surface stabilizer; and (3) precipitating the formulation from step (2) using an appropriate non-solvent. The method can be followed by removal of any formed salt, if present, by dialysis or diafiltration and concentration of the dispersion by conventional means. [0127]
  • 3. Homogenization to Obtain Nanoparticulate Fibrate Compositions
  • Exemplary homogenization methods of preparing active agent nanoparticulate compositions are described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,510,118, for “Process of Preparing Therapeutic Compositions Containing Nanoparticles.” Such a method comprises dispersing particles of a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, in a liquid dispersion medium, followed by subjecting the dispersion to homogenization to reduce the particle size of the fibrate to the desired effective average particle size. The fibrate particles can be reduced in size in the presence of at least one surface stabilizer. Alternatively, the fibrate particles can be contacted with one or more surface stabilizers either before or after attrition. Other compounds, such as a diluent, can be added to the fenofibrate/surface stabilizer composition either before, during, or after the size reduction process. Dispersions can be manufactured continuously or in a batch mode. [0128]
  • D. Methods of Using the Fibrate Compositions of the Invention
  • The invention provides a method of rapidly increasing the plasma levels of a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, in a subject. Such a method comprises orally administering to a subject an effective amount of a composition comprising a fibrate, preferably fenofibrate. The fibrate composition, when tested in fasting subjects in accordance with standard pharmacokinetic practice, produces a maximum blood plasma concentration profile in less than about 6 hours, less than about 5 hours, less than about 4 hours, less than about 3 hours, less than about 2 hours, less than about 1 hour, or less than about 30 minutes after the initial dose of the composition. [0129]
  • The compositions of the invention are useful in treating conditions such as hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, cardiovascular disorders, coronary heart disease, and peripheral vascular disease (including symptomatic carotid artery disease). The compositions of the invention can be used as adjunctive therapy to diet for the reduction of LDL-C, total-C, triglycerides, and Apo B in adult patients with primary hypercholesterolemia or mixed dyslipidemia (Fredrickson Types IIa and IIb). The compositions can also be used as adjunctive therapy to diet for treatment of adult patients with hypertriglyceridemia (Fredrickson Types IV and V hyperlipidemia). Markedly elevated levels of serum tryglycerides (e.g., >2000 mg/dL) may increase the risk of developing pancreatitis. The compositions of the invention can also be used for other indications where lipid regulating agents are typically used. [0130]
  • The fenofibrate compositions of the invention can be administered to a subject via any conventional means including, but not limited to, orally, rectally, ocularly, parenterally (e.g., intravenous, intramuscular, or subcutaneous), intracisternally, pulmonary, intravaginally, intraperitoneally, locally (e.g., powders, ointments or drops), or as a buccal or nasal spray. As used herein, the term “subject” is used to mean an animal, preferably a mammal, including a human or non-human. The terms patient and subject may be used interchangeably. [0131]
  • Compositions suitable for parenteral injection may comprise physiologically acceptable sterile aqueous or nonaqueous solutions, dispersions, suspensions or emulsions, and sterile powders for reconstitution into sterile injectable solutions or dispersions. Examples of suitable aqueous and nonaqueous carriers, diluents, solvents, or vehicles including water, ethanol, polyols (propyleneglycol, polyethylene-glycol, glycerol, and the like), suitable mixtures thereof, vegetable oils (such as olive oil) and injectable organic esters such as ethyl oleate. Proper fluidity can be maintained, for example, by the use of a coating such as lecithin, by the maintenance of the required particle size in the case of dispersions, and by the use of surfactants. [0132]
  • The nanoparticulate fibrate, preferably fenofibrate, compositions may also contain adjuvants such as preserving, wetting, emulsifying, and dispensing agents. Prevention of the growth of microorganisms can be ensured by various antibacterial and antifungal agents, such as parabens, chlorobutanol, phenol, sorbic acid, and the like. It may also be desirable to include isotonic agents, such as sugars, sodium chloride, and the like. Prolonged absorption of the injectable pharmaceutical form can be brought about by the use of agents delaying absorption, such as aluminum monostearate and gelatin. [0133]
  • Solid dosage forms for oral administration include, but are not limited to, capsules, tablets, pills, powders, and granules. In such solid dosage forms, the active agent is admixed with at least one of the following: (a) one or more inert excipients (or carriers), such as sodium citrate or dicalcium phosphate; (b) fillers or extenders, such as starches, lactose, sucrose, glucose, mannitol, and silicic acid; (c) binders, such as carboxymethylcellulose, alignates, gelatin, polyvinylpyrrolidone, sucrose, and acacia; (d) humectants, such as glycerol; (e) disintegrating agents, such as agar-agar, calcium carbonate, potato or tapioca starch, alginic acid, certain complex silicates, and sodium carbonate; (f) solution retarders, such as paraffin; (g) absorption accelerators, such as quaternary ammonium compounds; (h) wetting agents, such as cetyl alcohol and glycerol monostearate; (i) adsorbents, such as kaolin and bentonite; and (j) lubricants, such as talc, calcium stearate, magnesium stearate, solid polyethylene glycols, sodium lauryl sulfate, or mixtures thereof. For capsules, tablets, and pills, the dosage forms may also comprise buffering agents. [0134]
  • Liquid dosage forms for oral administration include pharmaceutically acceptable emulsions, solutions, suspensions, syrups, and elixirs. In addition to the fibrate, the liquid dosage forms may comprise inert diluents commonly used in the art, such as water or other solvents, solubilizing agents, and emulsifiers. Exemplary emulsifiers are ethyl alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, ethyl carbonate, ethyl acetate, benzyl alcohol, benzyl benzoate, propyleneglycol, 1,3-butyleneglycol, dimethylformamide, oils, such as cottonseed oil, groundnut oil, corn germ oil, olive oil, castor oil, and sesame oil, glycerol, tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol, polyethyleneglycols, fatty acid esters of sorbitan, or mixtures of these substances, and the like. [0135]
  • Besides such inert diluents, the composition can also include adjuvants, such as wetting agents, emulsifying and suspending agents, sweetening, flavoring, and perfuming agents. [0136]
  • “Therapeutically effective amount” as used herein with respect to a fibrate, preferably a fenofibrate, dosage shall mean that dosage that provides the specific pharmacological response for which the fibrate is administered in a significant number of subjects in need of such treatment. It is emphasized that “therapeutically effective amount,” administered to a particular subject in a particular instance may not be effective for 100% of patients treated for a specific disease, and will not always be effective in treating the diseases described herein, even though such dosage is deemed a “therapeutically effective amount” by those skilled in the art. It is to be further understood that fibrate dosages are, in particular instances, measured as oral dosages, or with reference to drug levels as measured in blood. [0137]
  • One of ordinary skill will appreciate that effective amounts of a fibrate, such as fenofibrate, can be determined empirically and can be employed in pure form or, where such forms exist, in pharmaceutically acceptable salt, ester, or prodrug form. Actual dosage levels of a fibrate, such as fenofibrate, in the nanoparticulate compositions of the invention may be varied to obtain an amount of the fibrate that is effective to obtain a desired therapeutic response for a particular composition and method of administration. The selected dosage level therefore depends upon the desired therapeutic effect, the route of administration, the potency of the administered fibrate, the desired duration of treatment, and other factors. [0138]
  • Dosage unit compositions may contain such amounts of such submultiples thereof as may be used to make up the daily dose. It will be understood, however, that the specific dose level for any particular patient will depend upon a variety of factors: the type and degree of the cellular or physiological response to be achieved; activity of the specific agent or composition employed; the specific agents or composition employed; the age, body weight, general health, sex, and diet of the patient; the time of administration, route of administration, and rate of excretion of the agent; the duration of the treatment; drugs used in combination or coincidental with the specific agent; and like factors well known in the medical arts. [0139]
  • The following examples are given to illustrate the present invention. It should be understood, however, that the invention is not to be limited to the specific conditions or details described in these examples. Throughout the specification, any and all references to a publicly available document, including a U.S. patent, are specifically incorporated by reference. [0140]
  • Several of the formulations in the examples that follow were investigated using a light microscope. Here, “stable” nanoparticulate dispersions (uniform Brownian motion) were readily distinguishable from “aggregated” dispersions (relatively large, nonuniform particles without motion). [0141]
  • EXAMPLE 1
  • The purpose of this example was to prepare nanoparticulate dispersions of fenofibrate, and to test the prepared compositions for stability in water and in various simulated biological fluids. [0142]
  • Two formulations of fenofibrate were milled, as described in Table 1, by milling the components of the compositions under high energy milling conditions in a DYNO®-Mill KDL (Willy A. Bachofen AG, Maschinenfabrik, Basle, Switzerland) for ninety minutes. [0143]
  • [0144] Formulation 1 comprised 5% (w/w) fenofibrate, 1% (w/w) hypromellose, and 0.05% (w/w) dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate (DOSS), and Formulation 2 comprised 5% (w/w) fenofibrate, 1% (w/w) Pluronic® S-630 (a random copolymer of vinyl acetate and vinyl pyrrolidone), and 0.05% (w/w) DOSS. The particle size of the resultant compositions was measured using a Horiba LA-910 Laser Scattering Particle Size Distribution Analyzer ((Horiba Instruments, Irvine, Calif.).
    TABLE 1
    Nanoparticulate Fenofibrate Formulations Milled Under
    High Energy Conditions
    Formulation Drug Surface Stabilizer Particle Size
    1 5% (w/w) 1% hypromellose Mean: 139 nm
    and 0.05% DOSS 90% <266 nm
    2 5% (w/w) 1% S630 and Mean: 233 nm
    0.05% DOSS 90% <355 nm
  • Next, the stability of the two formulations was tested in various simulated biological fluids (Table 2) and in water (Table 3) over an extended period of time. For tests in various simulated biological fluids, the composition was deemed stable if the particles remained in a dispersion format with no visible size increase or agglomeration after 30 min. incubation at 40° C. Testing in fluids representing electrolyte fluids is useful as such fluids are representative of physiological conditions found in the human body. [0145]
    TABLE 2
    Stability Testing of Nanoparticulate Fenofibrate
    Formulations
    1 and 2 in Simulated Biological Fluids
    Electrolyte
    Formula- Electrolyte Test Test Electrolyte Test
    ation Media # 1 Media #2 Media #3
    1 Slight Agglomeration Acceptable Acceptable
    2 Heavy Agglomeration Acceptable Slight Agglomeration
  • [0146]
    TABLE 3
    Stability Testing of Nanoparticulate Fenofibrate
    Formulations
    1 and 2 in Water at 2-8° C.
    Formulation
    3 Days 1 Week 2 Weeks 7 Months
    1 Mean: 149 nm Mean: 146 nm Mean: 295 nm Mean: 1179 nm
    90% <289 nm 90% <280 nm 90% <386 nm 90% <2744 nm
    2 Mean: 824 nm Mean: 927 nm Mean: 973 nm Mean: 1099 nm
    90% <1357 nm 90% <1476 nm 90% <1526 nm 90% <1681 nm
  • Stability results indicate that [0147] Formulation 1 is preferred over Formulation 2, as Formulation 2 exhibited slight agglomeration in simulated intestinal fluid and unacceptable particle size growth over time.
  • EXAMPLE 2
  • The purpose of this example was to prepare nanoparticulate dispersions of fenofibrate, followed by testing the stability of the compositions in various simulated biological fluids. [0148]
  • Four formulations of fenofibrate were prepared, as described in Table 4, by milling the components of the compositions in a DYNO®-Mill KDL (Willy A. Bachofen AG, Maschinenfabrik, Basle, Switzerland) for ninety minutes. [0149]
  • [0150] Formulation 3 comprised 5% (w/w) fenofibrate, 1% (w/w) hydroxypropylcellulose SL (HPC-SL), and 0.01% (w/w) DOSS; Formulation 4 comprised 5% (w/w) fenofibrate, 1% (w/w) hypromellose, and 0.01% (w/w) DOSS; Formulation 5 comprised 5% (w/w) fenofibrate, 1% (w/w) polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP K29/32), and 0.01% (w/w) DOSS; and Formulation 6 comprised 5% (w/w) fenofibrate, 1% (w/w) Pluronic® S-630, and 0.01% (w/w) DOSS.
  • The particle size of the resultant compositions was measured using a Horiba LA-910 Laser Scattering Particle Size Distribution Analyzer ((Horiba Instruments, Irvine, Calif.). [0151]
    TABLE 4
    Particle Size of Nanoparticulate
    Fenofibrate Formulations
    Formulation Drug Surface Stabilizer Particle Size
    3 5% (w/w) 1% HPC-SL and Mean: 696 nm
    0.01% DOSS 90% <2086 nm
    4 5% (w/w) 1% hypromellose Mean: 412 nm
    and 0.01% DOSS 90% <502 nm
    5 5% (w/w) 1% PVP and Mean: 4120 nm
    0.01% DOSS 90% <9162 nm
    6 5% (w/w) 1% S630 and Mean: 750 nm
    0.01% DOSS 90% <2184 nm
  • The results indicate that PVP is not a satisfactory surface stabilizer for fenofibrate, at the particular concentrations of fenofibrate and PVP disclosed, in combination with DOSS, as the mean particle size of [0152] Formulation 5 was over two microns. However, PVP may be useful as a surface stabilizer for fenofibrate when it is used alone, in combination with another surface stabilizer, or when different concentrations of PVP and/or fenofibrate are utilized.
  • Next, the stability of [0153] Formulations 4 and 6 was tested in various simulated biological fluids (Table 5).
    TABLE 5
    Stability Testing of Nanoparticulate Fenofibrate
    Formulations 3-6 in Simulated Biological Fluids
    Electrolyte Test Electrolyte Test Electrolyte Test
    Formulation Media # 1 Media #2 Media #3
    3 N/A N/A N/A
    4 Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable
    5 N/A N/A N/A
    6 Agglomeration Very slight Slight agglomeration
    agglomeration
  • The results indicate that [0154] Formulation 4, comprising hypromellose and DOSS as surface stabilizers, is preferred as the initial particle size is within the useable range (i.e., 90% <512 nm) and the composition shows no aggregation in various simulated biological fluids.
  • The next set of examples relate to the redispersibility of the spray granulated powders of the nanoparticulate fenofibrate compositions. The purpose for establishing redispersibility of the spray granulated powder is to determine whether the solid nanoparticulate fenofibrate composition of the invention will redisperse when introduced into in vitro or in vivo biologically relevant media. [0155]
  • EXAMPLE 3
  • The purpose of this example was to evaluate the redispersibility of spray granulated powders of preferred nanoparticulate fenofibrate compositions comprising hypromellose and DOSS with or without SLS, a preferred small anionic surfactant. [0156]
  • The redispersibility of two powder forms of a spray granulated powder of nanoparticulate fenofibrate was determined, the results of which are shown in Table 6. [0157]
    TABLE 6
    Physical form Powder Powder
    Drug:Sucrose 1:0.6 1:1
    Hypromellose:DOSS 1:0.2
    Hypromellose:DOSS + SLS 1:0.3
    Redispersibility
    DI water
    Mean (nm) 390 182
    D90 (nm) 418 260
    % <1000 nm 95.9 100.0
    Electrolyte Test Media #2
    Mean (nm) 258 193
    D90 (nm) 374 276
    % <1000 nm 99.7 100.0
    Electrolyte Test Media #3
    Mean (nm) 287 225
    D90 (nm) 430 315
    % <1000 nm 99.6 100.0
  • The results show that powders prepared from a granulation feed dispersion having hypromellose, DOSS and SLS exhibit excellent redispersiblity. [0158]
  • EXAMPLE 4
  • The purpose of this example was to test the redispersibility of a spray granulated powder of nanoparticulate fenofibrate comprising higher levels of DOSS and SLS, as compared to Example 3. The results are shown in Table 7. [0159]
    TABLE 7
    Physical form Powder
    Drug:Sucrose 1:1
    Hypromellose:SLS + DOSS 1:0.45
    Redispersibility
    DI water
    Mean (nm) 196
    D90 (nm) 280
    % <1000 nm 100
    Electrolyte Test Media #2
    Mean (nm) 222
    D90 (nm) 306
    % <1000 nm 100
    Electrolyte Test Media #3
    Mean (nm) 258
    D90 (nm) 362
    % <1000 nm 100
  • Excellent redispersibility was observed for all of the tested compositions in simulated biological fluids. [0160]
  • EXAMPLE 5
  • The purpose of this example was to prepare a nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet formulation. [0161]
  • A fenofibrate nanoparticulate dispersion was prepared by combining the materials listed in Table 8, followed by milling the mixture in a Netzsch LMZ2 Media Mill with Grinding Chamber with a flow rate of 1.0±0.2 LPM and an agitator speed of 3000±100 RPM, utilizing Dow PolyMill™ 500 micron milling media. The resultant mean particle size of the nanoparticulate fenofibrate dispersion (NCD), as measured by a Horiba LA-910 Laser Scattering Particle Size Distribution Analyzer ((Horiba Instruments, Irvine, Calif.) was 169 nm. [0162]
    TABLE 8
    Nanoparticulate Fenofibrate Dispersion
    Fenofibrate 300 g/Kg
    Hypromellose, USP (Pharmacoat ® 603) 60 g/Kg
    Docusate Sodium, USP 0.75 g/Kg
    Purified Water 639.25 g/Kg
  • Next, a granulated feed dispersion (GFD) was prepared by combining the nanoparticulate fenofibrate dispersion with the additional components specified in Table 9. [0163]
    TABLE 9
    Nanoparticulate Fenofibrate Granular Feed Dispersion
    Nanoparticulate Fenofibrate Dispersion 1833.2 g
    Sucrose, NF 550.0 g
    Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, NF 38.5 g
    Docusate Sodium, USP/EP 9.6 g
    Purified Water 723.2 g
  • The fenofibrate GFD was sprayed onto lactose monohydrate (500 g) to form a spray granulated intermediate (SGI) using a Vector Multi-1 Fluid Bed System set to run at the parameters specified in Table 10, below. [0164]
    TABLE 10
    Fluid Bed System Parameters
    Inlet Air Temperature 70 ± 10° C.
    Exhaust/Product Air Temperature 37 ± 5° C.
    Air Volume 30 ± 20 CFM
    Spray Rate
    15 ± 10 g/min
  • The resultant spray granulated intermediate (SGI) of the nanoparticulate fenofibrate is detailed in Table 11, below. [0165]
    TABLE 11
    Spray Granulated Intermediate of the Nanoparticulate Fenofibrate
    Fenofibrate NCD 1833.2 g
    Sucrose, NF 550.0 g
    Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, NF 38.5 g
    Docusate Sodium, USP/EP 9.6 g
    Lactose Monohydrate, NF 500 g
  • The nanoparticulate fenofibrate SGI was then tableted using a Kilian tablet press with a 0.700×0.300″ plain upper and lower caplet shape punches. Each tablet has 160 mg of fenofibrate. The resulting tablet formulation is shown below in Table 12. [0166]
    TABLE 12
    Nanoparticulate Fenofibrate Tablet Formulation
    Nanoparticulate Fenofibrate Spray 511.0 mg
    Granulated Intermediate
    Silicified Microcrystalline Cellulose  95.0 mg
    Crospovidone, NF  83.0 mg
    Magnesium Stearate, NF  1.0 mg
  • EXAMPLE 6
  • The purpose of this example was to assess the effect of food on the bioavailability of a nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet formulation, as prepared in Example 5. [0167]
  • Study Design
  • A single dose, three way cross-over design study, with eighteen subjects, was conducted. The three treatments consisted of: [0168]
  • Treatment A: 160 mg nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet administered under fasted conditions; [0169]
  • Treatment B: 160 mg nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet administered under high fat fed conditions; and [0170]
  • Treatment C: 200 mg micronized fenofibrate capsule (TRICOR®) administered under low fat fed conditions. [0171]
  • “Low fat fed” conditions are defined as 30% fat—400 Kcal, and “high fat fed” conditions are defined as 50% fat—1000 Kcal. The length of time between doses in the study was 10 days. [0172]
  • Results
  • FIG. 1 shows the plasma fenofibric acid profiles (i.e., the fenofibric acid concentration (μg/ml)) over a period of 120 hours for Treatment A, Treatment B, and Treatment C. FIG. 2 shows the same fenofibric acid profiles, but over a 24 hour period rather than a 120 hour period. [0173]
  • Surprisingly, all three Treatments produce approximately the same profile, although the nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet administered under fasting conditions exhibited a marginally higher maximum fenofibrate concentration. These results are significant for several reasons. First, the nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet is effective at a lower dosage than that of the conventional microcrystalline fenofibrate capsule: 160 mg vs. 200 mg. A lower dosage is always seen as beneficial for the patient, as less active agent is administered to the patient. [0174]
  • Second, the results show that the nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet formulation does not exhibit significant differences in absorption when administered in the fed versus the fasted state. This is significant as it eliminates the need for a patient to ensure that they are taking a dose with or without food. Therefore, the nanoparticulate fenofibrate dosage form will result in increased patient compliance. With poor patient compliance an increase in cardiovascular problems or other conditions for which the fenofibrate is being prescribed can result. [0175]
  • The pharmacokinetic parameters of the three tests are shown below in Table 13. [0176]
    TABLE 13
    Pharmacokinetic Parameters
    (Mean, Standard Deviation, CV %)
    Treatment A Treatment B Treatment C
    AUC (μg/mL.h) mean = 139.41 mean = 138.55 mean = 142.96
    SD = 45.04 SD = 41.53 SD = 51.28
    CV % = 32% CV % = 30% CV % = 36%
    Cmax (μg/mL) mean = 8.30 mean = 7.88 mean = 7.08
    SD = 1.37 SD = 1.74 SD = 1.72
    CV % = 17% CV % = 22% CV % = 24%
  • The pharmacokinetic parameters first demonstrate that there is no difference in the amount of drug absorbed when the nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet is administered in the fed versus the fasted condition (see the AUC results; 139.41 μg/mL.h for the dosage form administered under fasted conditions and 138.55 μg/mL.h for the dosage form administered under fed conditions). Second, the data show that there was no difference in the rate of drug absorption when the nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet is administered in the fed versus the fasted condition (see the C[0177] max results; 8.30 μg/mL for the dosage form administered under fasted conditions and 7.88 μg/mL for the dosage form administered under fed conditions). Thus, the nanoparticulate fenofibrate dosage form eliminates the effect of food on the pharmacokinetics of fenofibrate. Accordingly, the invention encompasses a fibrate composition wherein the pharmacokinetic profile of the fibrate is not affected by the fed or fasted state of a subject ingesting the composition.
  • Bioequivalence of the Nanoparticulate Fenofibrate Dosage Form When Administered in the Fed vs Fasted State
  • Using the data from Table 13, it was determined whether administration of a nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet in a fasted state was bioequivalent to administration of a nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet in a fed state, pursuant to regulatory guidelines. The relevant date from Table 13 is shown below in Table 14, along with the 90% Confidence Intervals (CI). Under U.S. FDA guidelines, two products or methods are bioequivalent if the 90% CI for AUC and C[0178] max are between 0.80 to 1.25. As shown below in Table 14, the 90% CI ratio for the nanoparticulate fenofibrate fed/fasted methods is 0.952: 1.043 for AUC and 0.858:1.031 for Cmax.
    TABLE 14
    Bioequivalence of Nanoparticulate Fenofibrate Tablet HFF
    vs. Nanoparticulate Fenofibrate Tablet Fasted
    CI 90% on
    log-
    transformed
    data
    AUC (μg/mL.h) Nanoparticulate Fenofibrate 139 0.952:1.043
    Tablet 160 mg HFF
    Nanoparticulate Fenofibrate 139
    Tablet 160 mg Fasted
    Cmax (μg/mL) Nanoparticulate Fenofibrate 7.88 0.858:1.031
    Tablet 160 mg HFF
    Nanoparticulate Fenofibrate 8.30
    Tablet 160 mg Fasted
  • Accordingly, pursuant to regulatory guidelines, administration of a nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet in a fasted state is bioequivalent to administration of a nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet in a fed state. Thus, the invention encompasses a fibrate composition wherein administration of the composition to a subject in a fasted state is bioequivalent to administration of the composition to a subject in a fed state. [0179]
  • Moreover, as shown by the data in Table 15 below, administration of a 160 mg nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet in a fed state is bioequivalent to administration of a 200 mg conventional microcrystalline fenofibrate capsule (TRICOR®) in a fed state. This is because CI 90% for the two treatments is within 0.80 to 1.25 for AUC and C[0180] max.
    TABLE 15
    Bioequivalence of Nanoparticulate 160 mg Fenofibrate Tablet HFF
    vs. a Microcrystalline 200 mg Fenofibrate Capsule (TRICOR ®) HFF
    CI 90% on
    log-
    transformed
    data
    AUC (μg/mL.h) Nanoparticulate 160 mg 139 0.936:1.026
    Fenofibrate Tablet HFF
    Microcrystalline
    200 mg 143
    Fenofibrate Capsule
    (TRICOR ®) HFF
    Cmax (μg/mL) Nanoparticulate 160 mg 7.88 1.020:1.226
    Fenofibrate Tablet HFF
    Microcrystalline
    200 mg 7.08
    Fenofibrate Capsule
    (TRICOR ®) HFF
  • Finally, as shown by the data in Table 16, below, administration of a 160 mg nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet in a fasted state is not bioequivalent to administration of a 200 mg conventional microcrystalline fenofibrate capsule (TRICOR®) in a fed state. This is because CI 90% for the two treatments is outside 0.80 to 1.25 for AUC and C[0181] max.
    TABLE 16
    Non-Bioequivalence of Nanoparticulate 160 mg Fenofibrate Tablet Fasted
    vs. a Microcrystalline 200 mg Fenofibrate Capsule (TRICOR ®) HFF
    CI 90% on
    log-
    transformed
    data
    AUC (μg/mL.h) Nanoparticulate 160 mg 139 0.939:1.030
    Fenofibrate Tablet Fasted
    Microcrystalline
    200 mg 143
    Fenofibrate Capsule
    (TRICOR ®) HFF
    Cmax (μg/mL) Nanoparticulate 160 mg 8.30 1.084:1.304
    Fenofibrate Tablet Fasted
    Microcrystalline
    200 mg 7.08
    Fenofibrate Capsule
    (TRICOR ®) HFF
  • The non-bioequivalence is significant, because it means that the nanoparticulate fenofibrate dosage form exhibits significantly greater drug absorption. For the nanoparticulate fenofibrate dosage form to be bioequivalent to the conventional microcrystalline fenofibrate dosage form (e.g., TRICOR®), the dosage form would have to contain significantly less drug. Thus, the nanoparticulate fenofibrate dosage form significantly increases the bioavailability of the drug. [0182]
  • EXAMPLE 7
  • The purpose of this example was to provide nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet formulations prepared as described in Example 5, above. [0183]
  • Shown below in Table 17 is the nanoparticulate fenofibrate dispersion used for making the nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet formulations. [0184]
    TABLE 17
    Nanoparticulate Fenofibrate Dispersion
    Fenofibrate 194.0 g/Kg
    Hypromellose, USP (Pharmacoat ® 603) 38.81 g/Kg
    Docusate Sodium, USP 0.485 g/Kg
    Water for injection, USP, EP 572.7 g/Kg
    Sucrose, NF 194.0 g/Kg
    Actual Total 1000.0
  • Two different tablets were made using the dispersion: a 145 mg nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet and a 48 mg nanoparticulate fenofibrate table. [0185]
  • A granulated feed dispersion (GFD) was prepared by combining the nanoparticulate fenofibrate dispersion with sucrose, docusate sodium, and sodium lauryl sulfate. [0186]
  • The fenofibrate GFD was processed and dried in a fluid-bed column (Vector Multi-1 Fluid Bed System), along with lactose monohydrate. The resultant spray granulated intermediate (SGI) was processed through a cone mill, followed by (1) processing in a bin blender with silicified microcrystalline cellulose and crospovidone, and (2) processing in a bin blender with magnesium stearate. The resultant powder was tableted in a rotary tablet press, followed by coating with Opadry® AMB using a pan coater. [0187]
  • Table 18 provides the composition of the 145 mg fenofibrate tablet, and Table 19 provides the composition of the 48 mg fenofibrate tablet. [0188]
    TABLE 18
    145 mg Nanoparticulate
    Fenofibrate Tablet Formulation
    Component g/Kg
    Fenofibrate 222.54
    Hypromellose, USP 44.506
    Docusate Sodium, USP 4.4378
    Sucrose, NF 222.54
    Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, NF 15.585
    Lactose Monohydrate, NF 202.62
    Silicified Microcrystalline Cellulose 132.03
    Crospovidone, NF 115.89
    Magnesium Stearate, NF 1.3936
    Opadry OY-28920 38.462
    Actual Total 1000.0
  • [0189]
    TABLE 19
    48 mg Nanoparticulate
    Fenofibrate Tablet Formulation
    Component g/Kg
    Fenofibrate 221.05
    Hypromellose, USP 44.209
    Docusate Sodium, USP 4.4082
    Sucrose, NF 221.05
    Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, NF 15.481
    Lactose Monohydrate, NF 201.27
    Silicified Microcrystalline Cellulose 131.14
    Crospovidone, NF 115.12
    Magnesium Stearate, NF 1.3843
    Opadry OY-28920 44.890
    Actual Total 1000.0
  • EXAMPLE 8
  • The of this example was to compare the dissolution of a nanoparticulate 145 mg fenofibrate dosage form according to the invention with a conventional microcrystalline form of fenofibrate (TRICOR®) in a dissolution medium which is representative of in vivo conditions. [0190]
  • The dissolution of the 145 mg nanoparticulate fenofibrate tablet, prepared in Example 7, was tested in a dissolution medium which is discriminating. Such a dissolution medium will produce two very different dissolution curves for two products having very different dissolution profiles in gastric juices; i.e., the dissolution medium is predictive of in vivo dissolution of a composition. [0191]
  • The dissolution medium employed was an aqueous medium containing the surfactant sodium lauryl sulfate at 0.025 M. Determination of the amount dissolved was carried out by spectrophotometry, and the tests were repeated 12 times. The rotating blade method (European Pharmacopoeia) was used under the following conditions: [0192]
  • volume media: 1000 ml; [0193]
  • media temperature: 37° C.; [0194]
  • blade rotation speed: 75 RPM; [0195]
  • samples taken: every 2.5 minutes; [0196]
  • The results are shown below in Table 20. The table shows the amount (%) of the solid dosage form ressolved at 5, 10, 20, and 30 minutes for twelve different samples, as well as the mean (%) and standard deviation (%) results. [0197]
    TABLE 20
    Dissolution Profile of the
    Nanoparticulate Fenofibrate 145 mg Table
    Test Sample
    5 min. 10 min. 20 min. 30 min.
    1 36.1 80.9 101.7 103.6
    2 73.4 100.5 100.1 101.8
    3 44.0 85.6 100.0 101.4
    4 41.0 96.1 102.3 102.5
    5 58.7 92.9 103.4 103.5
    6 51.9 97.8 102.6 103.4
    7 28.6 66.9 99.3 100.4
    8 44.7 97.4 98.8 99.3
  • [0198]
    TABLE 20
    Dissolution Profile of the Nanoparticulate
    Fenofibrate 145 mg Table
    Test Sample
    5 min. 10 min. 20 min. 30 min.
     9 30.1 76.9 97.0 98.0
    10 33.6 76.8 101.8 103.5
    11 23.5 52.6 95.8 104.0
    12 34.6 66.9 102.8 102.2
    Mean (%) 41.7 82.6 100.5 102.0
    Standard Deviation (%) 14.1 15.2 2.4 1.9
  • U.S. Pat. No. 6,277,405, for “Fenofibrate Pharmaceutical Composition Having High Bioavailability and Method for Preparing It,” describes dissolution of a conventional microcrystalline 160 mg fenofibrate dosage form, e.g., TRICOR®, using the same method described above for the nanoparticulate fenofibrate dosage form (Example 2, cols. 8-9). The results show that the conventional fenofibrate dosage form has a dissolution profile of 10% in 5 min., 20% in 10 min., 50% in 20 min., and 75% in 30 min. [0199]
  • The results show that the nanoparticulate fenofibrate dosage form had dramatically more rapid dissolution as compared to the conventional microcrystalline form of fenofibrate. For example, while within 5 minutes approximately 41.7% of the nanoparticulate fenofibrate dosage form had dissolved, only 10% of the TRICOR® dosage form had dissolved. Similarly, while at 10 min. about 82.6% of the nanoparticulate fenofibrate dosage form was dissolved, only about 20% of the TRICOR® dosage form had dissolved during the same time period. Finally, while at 30 min. basically 100% of the nanoparticulate dosage form had dissolved, only about 75% of the conventional fenofibrate dosage form had dissolved during the same time period. [0200]
  • Thus, the nanoparticulate fenofibrate dosage forms of the invention exhibit dramatically improved rates of dissolution. [0201]
  • It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the methods and compositions of the present invention without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Thus, it is intended that the present invention cover the modifications and variations of this invention provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. [0202]

Claims (135)

We claim:
1. A stable fibrate composition comprising:
(a) particles of a fibrate or a salt thereof, wherein the fibrate particles have an effective average particle size of less than about 2000 nm; and
(b) associated with the surface thereof at least one surface stabilizer, wherein the surface stabilizer is not PEG-derivatized vitamin E.
2. The composition of claim 1, wherein the fibrate is fenofibrate or a salt thereof.
3. The composition of claim 1, wherein the fibrate is selected from the group consisting of a crystalline phase, an amorphous phase, a semi-crystalline phase, a semi-amorphous phase, and mixtures thereof.
4. The composition of claim 1, wherein the effective average particle size of the fibrate particles is selected from the group consisting of less than about 1900 nm, less than about 1800 nm, less than about 1700 nm, less than about 1600 nm, less than about 1500 nm, less than about 1400 nm, less than about 1300 nm, less than about 1200 nm, less than about 1100 nm, less than about 1000 nm, less than about 900 nm, less than about 800 nm, less than about 700 nm, less than about 600 nm, less than about 500 nm, less than about 400 nm, less than about 300 nm, less than about 250 nm, less than about 200 nm, less than about 100 nm, less than about 75 nm, and less than about 50 nm.
5. The composition of claim 4, wherein the fibrate is fenofibrate or a salt thereof.
6. The composition of claim 1, wherein the composition is formulated for administration selected from the group consisting of oral, pulmonary, rectal, opthalmic, colonic, parenteral, intracisternal, intravaginal, intraperitoneal, local, buccal, nasal, and topical administration.
7. The composition of claim 1 formulated into a dosage form selected from the group consisting of liquid dispersions, oral suspensions, gels, aerosols, ointments, creams, controlled release formulations, fast melt formulations, lyophilized formulations, tablets, capsules, delayed release formulations, extended release formulations, pulsatile release formulations, and mixed immediate release and controlled release formulations.
8. The composition of claim 1, wherein the composition further comprises one or more pharmaceutically acceptable excipients, carriers, or a combination thereof.
9. The composition of claim 1, wherein the fibrate or a salt thereof is present in an amount selected from the group consisting of from about 99.5% to about 0.001%, from about 95% to about 0.1%, and from about 90% to about 0.5%, by weight, based on the total combined weight of the fibrate or a salt thereof and at least one surface stabilizer, not including other excipients.
10. The composition of claim 1, wherein the at least one surface stabilizer is present in an amount selected from the group consisting of from about 0.5% to about 99.999% by weight, from about 5.0% to about 99.9% by weight, and from about 10% to about 99.5% by weight, based on the total combined dry weight of the fibrate or a salt thereof and at least one surface stabilizer, not including other excipients.
11. The composition of claim 1, comprising at least one primary surface stabilizer and at least one secondary surface stabilizer.
12. The composition of claim 1, wherein the surface stabilizer is selected from the group consisting of an anionic surface stabilizer, a cationic surface stabilizer, a zwitterionic surface stabilizer, and an ionic surface stabilizer.
13. The composition of claim 12, wherein the fibrate is fenofibrate or a salt thereof.
14. The composition of claim 12, wherein the at least one surface stabilizer is selected from the group consisting of cetyl pyridinium chloride, gelatin, casein, phosphatides, dextran, glycerol, gum acacia, cholesterol, tragacanth, stearic acid, benzalkonium chloride, calcium stearate, glycerol monostearate, cetostearyl alcohol, cetomacrogol emulsifying wax, sorbitan esters, polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers, polyoxyethylene castor oil derivatives, polyoxyethylene sorbitan fatty acid esters, polyethylene glycols, dodecyl trimethyl ammonium bromide, polyoxyethylene stearates, colloidal silicon dioxide, phosphates, sodium dodecylsulfate, carboxymethylcellulose calcium, hydroxypropyl celluloses, hypromellose, carboxymethylcellulose sodium, methylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, hypromellose phthalate, noncrystalline cellulose, magnesium aluminum silicate, triethanolamine, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinylpyrrolidone, 4-(1,1,3,3-tetramethylbutyl)-phenol polymer with ethylene oxide and formaldehyde, poloxamers; poloxamines, a charged phospholipid, dioctylsulfosuccinate, dialkylesters of sodium sulfosuccinic acid, sodium lauryl sulfate, alkyl aryl polyether sulfonates, mixtures of sucrose stearate and sucrose distearate, p-isononylphenoxypoly-(glycidol), decanoyl-N-methylglucamide; n-decyl β-D-glucopyranoside; n-decyl β-D-maltopyranoside; n-dodecyl β-D-glucopyranoside; n-dodecyl β-D-maltoside; heptanoyl-N-methylglucamide; n-heptyl-β-D-glucopyranoside; n-heptyl β-D-thioglucoside; n-hexyl β-D-glucopyranoside; nonanoyl-N-methylglucamide; n-noyl β-D-glucopyranoside; octanoyl-N-methylglucamide; n-octyl-β-D-glucopyranoside; octyl β-D-thioglucopyranoside; lysozyme, PEG-phospholipid, PEG-cholesterol, PEG-cholesterol derivative, PEG-vitamin A, and random copolymers of vinyl acetate and vinyl pyrrolidone.
15. The composition of claim 12, wherein the at least one cationic surface stabilizer is selected from the group consisting of a polymer, a biopolymer, a polysaccharide, a cellulo sic, an alginate, a nonpolymeric compound, and a phospholipid.
16. The composition of claim 12, wherein the surface stabilizer is selected from the group consisting of cationic lipids, polymethylmethacrylate trimethylammonium bromide, sulfonium compounds, polyvinylpyrrolidone-2-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate dimethyl sulfate, hexadecyltrimethyl ammonium bromide, phosphonium compounds, quaternary ammonium compounds, benzyl-di(2-chloroethyl)ethylammonium bromide, coconut trimethyl ammonium chloride, coconut trimethyl ammonium bromide, coconut methyl dihydroxyethyl ammonium chloride, coconut methyl dihydroxyethyl ammonium bromide, decyl triethyl ammonium chloride, decyl dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium chloride, decyl dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium chloride bromide, C12-15dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium chloride, C12-15dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium chloride bromide, coconut dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium chloride, coconut dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium bromide, myristyl trimethyl ammonium methyl sulphate, lauryl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride, lauryl dimethyl benzyl ammonium bromide, lauryl dimethyl (ethenoxy)4 ammonium chloride, lauryl dimethyl (ethenoxy)4 ammonium bromide, N-alkyl (C12-18)dimethylbenzyl ammonium chloride, N-alkyl (C14-18)dimethyl-benzyl ammonium chloride, N-tetradecylidmethylbenzyl ammonium chloride monohydrate, dimethyl didecyl ammonium chloride, N-alkyl and (C12-14) dimethyl 1-napthylmethyl ammonium chloride, trimethylammonium halide, alkyl-trimethylammonium salts, dialkyl-dimethylammonium salts, lauryl trimethyl ammonium chloride, ethoxylated alkyamidoalkyldialkylammonium salt, an ethoxylated trialkyl ammonium salt, dialkylbenzene dialkylammonium chloride, N-didecyldimethyl ammonium chloride, N-tetradecyldimethylbenzyl ammonium, chloride monohydrate, N-alkyl(C12-14) dimethyl 1-naphthylmethyl ammonium chloride, dodecyldimethylbenzyl ammonium chloride, dialkyl benzenealkyl ammonium chloride, lauryl trimethyl ammonium chloride, alkylbenzyl methyl ammonium chloride, alkyl benzyl dimethyl ammonium bromide, C12 trimethyl ammonium bromides, C15 trimethyl ammonium bromides, C17 trimethyl ammonium bromides, dodecylbenzyl triethyl ammonium chloride, poly-diallyldimethylammonium chloride (DADMAC), dimethyl ammonium chlorides, alkyldimethylammonium halogenides, tricetyl methyl ammonium chloride, decyltrimethylammonium bromide, dodecyltriethylammonium bromide, tetradecyltrimethylammonium bromide, methyl trioctylammonium chloride, POLYQUAT 10™, tetrabutylammonium bromide, benzyl trimethylammonium bromide, choline esters, benzalkonium chloride, stearalkonium chloride compounds, cetyl pyridinium bromide, cetyl pyridinium chloride, halide salts of quaternized polyoxyethylalkylamines, MIRAPOL™, ALKAQUAT™, alkyl pyridinium salts; amines, amine salts, amine oxides, imide azolinium salts, protonated quaternary acrylamides, methylated quaternary polymers, and cationic guar.
17. The composition of any of claims 12, 15, or 16, wherein the composition is bioadhesive.
18. The composition of claim 17, wherein the fibrate is fenofibrate or a salt thereof.
19. The composition of claim 1, comprising hypromellose, dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate, and sodium lauryl sulfate as surface stabilizers.
20. The composition of claim 19, wherein the fibrate is fenofibrate or a salt thereof.
21. The composition of claim 1, wherein the composition exhibits a Tmax selected from the group consisting of less than about 6 hours, less than about 5 hours, less than about 4 hours, less than about 3 hours, less than about 2 hours, less than about 1 hour, and less than about 30 minutes after administration to fasting subjects.
22. The composition of claim 1, wherein in comparative pharmacokinetic testing with a TRICOR® 160 mg tablet or 200 mg capsule, which are standard commercial formulations of microcrystalline fenofibrate, the composition of claim 1 exhibits a Tmax selected from the group consisting of less than about 90%, less than about 80%, less than about 70%, less than about 50%, less than about 30%, and less than about 25% of the Tmax exhibited by the TRICOR® tablet or capsule.
23. The composition of claim 1 which does not produce significantly different absorption levels when administered under fed as compared to fasting conditions.
24. The composition of claim 23, wherein the difference in absorption of the fibrate composition of the invention, when administered in the fed versus the fasted state, is selected from the group consisting of less than about 35%, less than about 30%, less than about 25%, less than about 20%, less than about 15%, less than about 10%, less than about 5%, and less than about 3%.
25. The composition of claim 23 or 24, wherein the fibrate is fenofibrate or a salt thereof.
26. The fibrate composition of claim 1, additionally comprising one or more active agents selected from the group consisting of HMG CoA reductase inhibitors and antihypertensives.
27. A composition comprising a fibrate or a salt thereof, wherein the pharmacokinetic profile of the fibrate or a salt thereof is not significantly affected by the fed or fasted state of a subject ingesting the composition, when administered to a human.
28. The composition of claim 27, wherein the fibrate is fenofibrate or a salt thereof.
29. A composition comprising a fibrate or a salt thereof, wherein administration of the composition to a subject in a fasted state is bioequivalent to administration of the composition to a subject in a fed state, when administered to a human.
30. The composition of claim 29, wherein the fibrate is fenofibrate or a salt thereof.
31. A composition comprising about 145 mg of fenofibrate or a salt thereof and exhibiting minimal or no food effect when administered to a human.
32. A composition comprising about 48 mg of fenofibrate or a salt thereof and exhibiting minimal or no food effect when administered to a human.
33. A composition comprising fenofibrate or a salt thereof and having a Cmax under fasted conditions which is greater than the Cmax under high fat fed conditions when administered to a human.
34. A composition comprising a fibrate or a salt thereof, wherein administration of the composition to a subject in a fasted state is bioequivalent to administration of the composition to a subject in a fed state, wherein “bioequivalency” is established by a 90% Confidence Interval of between 0.80 and 1.25 for both Cmax and AUC, when administered to a human.
35. A composition comprising a fibrate or a salt thereof, wherein administration of the composition to a subject in a fasted state is bioequivalent to administration of the composition to a subject in a fed state, wherein “bioequivalency” is established by a 90% Confidence Interval of between 0.80 and 1.25 for AUC and a 90% Confidence Interval of between 0.70 to 1.43 for Cmax, when administered to a human.
36. A composition comprising a fibrate or a salt thereof, wherein the composition has a Tmax selected from the group consisting of less than about 6 hours, less than about 5 hours, less than about 4 hours, less than about 3 hours, less than about 2 hours, less than about 1 hour, and less than about 30 minutes after administration to fasting subjects.
37. The composition of claim 36, wherein the fibrate is fenofibrate or a salt thereof.
38. A composition comprising fenofibrate or a salt thereof, wherein in comparative pharmacokinetic testing with a TRICOR® 160 mg tablet or 200 mg capsule, which are standard commercial formulations of microcrystalline fenofibrate, the fenofibrate composition exhibits a Tmax selected from the group consisting of less than about 90%, less than about 80%, less than about 70%, less than about 50%, less than about 30%, and less than about 25% of the Tmax exhibited by the standard commercial microcrystalline fenofibrate formulations.
39. A fenofibrate composition comprising fenofibrate or a salt thereof, which when administered to a human as a dose of about 160 mg presents an AUC of about 139 pg/mL.h.
40. A stable fibrate composition comprising:
(a) particles of a fibrate or a salt thereof, wherein the fibrate particles have a particle size in which the D99 is less than about 500 nm; and
(b) associated with the surface thereof at least one surface stabilizer.
41. A stable fibrate composition comprising:
(a) particles of a fibrate or a salt thereof, wherein the fibrate particles have a particle size in which the D50 is less than about 350 nm; and
(b) associated with the surface thereof at least one surface stabilizer.
42. A stable fibrate composition comprising:
(a) particles of a fibrate or a salt thereof, wherein the fibrate particles have a mean particle size of less than about 100 nm; and
(b) associated with the surface thereof at least one surface stabilizer.
43. A fibrate composition comprising:
(a) particles of a fibrate or a salt thereof, wherein the fibrate particles have an effective average particle size of less than about 2000 nm; and
(b) associated with the surface thereof at least one surface stabilizer, wherein said surface stabilizer is not a phospholipid.
44. A stable fibrate composition comprising:
(a) particles of a fibrate or a salt thereof, wherein the fibrate particles have an effective average particle size of less than about 2000 nm; and
(b) associated with the surface thereof at least one surface stabilizer, wherein said surface stabilizer is categorized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as GRAS.
45. A fibrate composition comprising:
(a) particles of a fibrate or a salt thereof, wherein the fibrate particles have an effective average particle size of less than about 2000 nm; and
(b) associated with the surface thereof at least one surface stabilizer selected from the group consisting of hypromellose, docusate sodium, Plasdone® S630, HPC-SL, sodium lauryl sulfate, and combinations thereof,
wherein the composition does not comprise PEG-derivatized vitamin E.
46. A fibrate composition comprising:
(a) particles of a fibrate or a salt thereof, wherein the fibrate particles have an effective average particle size of less than about 2000 nm; and
(b) associated with the surface thereof dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate and hypromellose;
wherein the composition does not comprise PEG-derivatized vitamin E.
47. The composition of claim 46, wherein the fibrate is fenofibrate or a salt thereof.
48. The composition of claim 46, further comprising sodium lauryl sulfate.
49. The composition of claim 46, wherein the pharmacokinetic profile of the fibrate or a salt thereof is not affected by the fed or fasted state of a subject ingesting the composition.
50. The composition of claim 46, wherein administration of the composition to a subject in a fasted state is bioequivalent to administration of the composition to a subject in a fed state.
51. A fibrate composition comprising:
(a) particles of a fibrate or a salt thereof, wherein the fibrate particles have an effective average particle size of less than about 2000 nm; and
(b) associated with the surface thereof at least one surface stabilizer;
wherein the composition is bioadhesive.
52. A stable fibrate composition comprising a fibrate or a salt thereof, wherein within about 5 minutes at least about 20% of the composition is dissolved, wherein dissolution is measured in a media which is discriminating and wherein the rotating blade method (European Pharmacopoeia) is used to measure dissolution.
53. The composition of claim 52, in which at least about 30% of the composition is dissolved within about 5 minutes.
54. The composition of claim 53, in which at least about 40% of the composition is dissolved within about 5 minutes.
55. The composition of claim 52, wherein the fibrate is fenofibrate or a salt thereof.
56. The composition of claim 52, wherein upon redispersion the fibrate particles have an effective average particle size of less than about 2 microns.
57. A stable fibrate composition comprising a fibrate or a salt thereof, wherein within about 10 minutes at least about 40% of the composition is dissolved, wherein dissolution is measured in a media which is discriminating and wherein the rotating blade method (European Pharmacopoeia) is used to measure dissolution.
58. The composition of claim 57, wherein at least about 50%, about 60%, about 70%, or about 80% of the composition is dissolved within about 10 minutes.
59. The composition of claim 57, wherein the fibrate is fenofibrate or a salt thereof.
60. The composition of claim 57, wherein upon redispersion the fibrate particles have an effective average particle size of less than about 2 microns.
61. A stable fibrate composition comprising a fibrate or a salt thereof, wherein within about 20 minutes at least about 70% of the composition is dissolved, wherein dissolution is measured in a media which is discriminating and wherein the rotating blade method (European Pharmacopoeia) is used to measure dissolution.
62. The composition of claim 61, wherein at least about 80%, about 90%, or about 100% of the composition is dissolved within about 20 minutes.
63. The composition of claim 61, wherein the fibrate is fenofibrate or a salt thereof.
64. The composition of claim 61, wherein upon redispersion the fibrate particles have an effective average particle size of less than about 2 microns.
65. A fibrate composition comprising:
(a) particles of a fibrate or a salt thereof, wherein the fibrate particles have an effective average particle size of less than about 2000 nm; and
(b) associated with the surface thereof at least one surface stabilizer,
wherein upon administration the composition redisperses such that the fibrate particles have an effective average particle size selected from the group consisting of less than about 2000 nm, less than about 1900 nm, less than about 1800 nm, less than about 1700 nm, less than about 1600 nm, less than about 1500 nm, less than about 1400 nm, less than about 1300 nm, less than about 1200 nm, less than about 1100 nm, less than about 1000 nm, less than about 900 nm, less than about 800 nm, less than about 700 nm, less than about 600 nm, less than about 500 nm, less than about 400 nm, less than about 300 nm, less than about 250 nm, less than about 200 nm, less than about 150 nm, less than about 100 nm, less than about 75 nm, and less than about 50 nm.
66. A fibrate composition comprising
(a) particles of a fibrate or a salt thereof, wherein the fibrate particles have an effective average particle size of less than about 2000 nm; and
(b) associated with the surface thereof at least one surface stabilizer,
wherein the composition redisperses in a biorelevant media such that the fibrate particles have an effective average particle size selected from the group consisting of less than about 2 microns, less than about 1900 nm, less than about 1800 nm, less than about 1700 nm, less than about 1600 nm, less than about 1500 nm, less than about 1400 nm, less than about 1300 nm, less than about 1200 nm, less than about 1100 nm, less than about 1000 nm, less than about 900 nm, less than about 800 nm, less than about 700 nm, less than about 600 nm, less than about 500 nm, less than about 400 nm, less than about 300 nm, less than about 250 nm, less than about 200 nm, less than about 150 nm, less than about 100 nm, less than about 75 nm, and less than about 50 nm.
67. A fenofibrate composition comprising a dosage of about 145 mg of particles of fenofibrate or a salt thereof, wherein:
(a) said dosage is therapeutically effective; and
(b) the composition is bioequivalent to a TRICOR® 160 mg tablet or 200 mg capsule, wherein bioequivalency is established by a 90% Confidence Interval of between 0.80 and 1.25 for both Cmax and AUC or a 90% Confidence Interval of between 0.80 and 1.25 for AUC and a 90% Confidence Interval of between 0.70 to 1.43 for Cmax, when administered to a human.
68. The composition of claim 67, wherein the fenofibrate particles have associated with the surface thereof at least one surface stabilizer.
69. The composition of claim 67, wherein the fenofibrate particles have an effective average particle size of less than about 2000 nm.
70. The composition of claim 67, wherein the dosage form is about 10% smaller than the TRICOR® 160 mg tablet or 200 mg capsule.
71. A fenofibrate composition comprising a dosage of 48 mg of particles of fenofibrate or a salt thereof, wherein:
(a) said dosage is therapeutically effective; and
(b) the composition is bioequivalent to a TRICOR® 54 mg tablet, wherein bioequivalency is established by a 90% Confidence Interval of between 0.80 and 1.25 for both Cmax and AUC or a 90% Confidence Interval of between 0.80 and 1.25 for AUC and a 90% Confidence Interval of between 0.70 to 1.43 for Cmax, when administered to a human.
72. The composition of claim 71, wherein the fenofibrate particles have associated with the surface thereof at least one surface stabilizer.
73. The composition of claim 71, wherein the fenofibrate particles have an effective average particle size of less than about 2000 nm.
74. The composition of claim 71, wherein the dosage form is about 10% smaller than the TRICOR® 160 mg tablet or 200 mg capsule.
75. A fenofibrate composition comprising the following:
(a) about 50 to about 500 g/kg fenofibrate or a salt thereof;
(b) about 10 to about 70 g/kg hypromellose;
(c) about 1 to about 10 g/kg docusate sodium;
(d) about 100 to about 500 g/kg sucrose;
(e) about 1 to about 40 g/kg sodium lauryl sulfate;
(f) about 50 to about 400 g/kg lactose monohydrate;
(g) about 50 to about 300 g/kg silicified microcrystalline cellulose;
(h) about 20 to about 300 g/kg crospovidone; and
(i) about 0.5 to about 5 g/kg magnesium stearate.
76. The composition of claim 75, further comprising a coating agent.
77. A fenofibrate composition comprising the following:
(a) about 100 to about 300 g/kg fenofibrate or a salt thereof;
(b) about 30 to about 50 g/kg hypromellose;
(c) about 0.5 to about 10 g/kg docusate sodium;
(d) about 100 to about 300 g/kg sucrose;
(e) about 1 to about 30 g/kg sodium lauryl sulfate;
(f) about 100 to about 300 g/kg lactose monohydrate;
(g) about 50 to about 200 g/kg silicified microcrystalline cellulose;
(h) about 50 to about 200 g/kg crospovidone; and
(i) about 0.5 to about 5 g/kg magnesium stearate.
78. The composition of claim 77, further comprising a coating agent.
79. A fenofibrate composition comprising the following:
(a) about 200 to about 225 g/kg fenofibrate or a salt thereof;
(b) about 42 to about 46 g/kg hypromellose;
(c) about 2 to about 6 g/kg docusate sodium;
(d) about 200 to about 225 g/kg sucrose;
(e) about 12 to about 18 g/kg sodium lauryl sulfate;
(f) about 200 to about 205 g/kg lactose monohydrate;
(g) about 130 to about 135 g/kg silicified microcrystalline cellulose;
(h) about 112 to about 118 g/kg crospovidone; and
(i) about 0.5 to about 3 g/kg magnesium stearate.
80. The composition of claim 79, further comprising a coating agent.
81. A fenofibrate composition comprising the following:
(a) about 119 to about 224 g/kg fenofibrate or a salt thereof;
(b) about 42 to about 46 g/kg hypromellose;
(c) about 2 to about 6 g/kg docusate sodium;
(d) about 119 to about 224 g/kg sucrose;
(e) about 12 to about 18 g/kg sodium lauryl sulfate;
(f) about 119 to about 224 g/kg lactose monohydrate;
(g) about 129 to about 134 g/kg silicified microcrystalline cellulose;
(h) about 112 to about 118 g/kg crospovidone; and
(i) about 0.5 to about 3 g/kg magnesium stearate.
82. The composition of claim 81, further comprising a coating agent.
83. A method of making a fibrate composition comprising contacting particles of a fibrate or a salt thereof with at least one surface stabilizer for a time and under conditions sufficient to provide a fibrate composition having an effective average particle size of less than about 2000 nm, wherein the surface stabilizer is not PEG-derivatized vitamin E,
84. The method of claim 83, wherein the fibrate is fenofibrate or a salt thereof.
85. The method of claim 83, wherein said contacting comprises grinding.
86. The method of claim 85, wherein said grinding comprises wet grinding.
87. The method of claim 83, wherein said contacting comprises homogenizing.
88. The method of claim 83, wherein said contacting comprises:
(a) dissolving the particles of a fibrate or a salt thereof in a solvent;
(b) adding the resulting fibrate solution to a solution comprising at least one surface stabilizer; and
(c) precipitating the solubilized fibrate having at least one surface stabilizer adsorbed on the surface thereof by the addition thereto of a non-solvent.
89. The method of claim 83, wherein the fibrate or a salt thereof is selected from the group consisting of a crystalline phase, an amorphous phase, a semi-crystalline phase, a semi-amorphous phase, and mixtures thereof.
90. The method of claim 83, wherein the effective average particle size of the fibrate particles is selected from the group consisting of less than about 1900 nm, less than about 1800 nm, less than about 1700 nm, less than about 1600 nm, less than about 1500 nm, less than about 1000 nm, less than about 1400 nm, less than about 1300 nm, less than about 1200 nm, less than about 1100 nm, less than about 900 nm, less than about 800 nm, less than about 700 nm, less than about 600 nm, less than about 500 nm, less than about 400 nm, less than about 300 nm, less than about 250 nm, less than about 200 nm, less than about 100 nm, less than about 75 nm, and less than about 50 nm.
91. The method of claim 83, wherein the composition is formulated for administration selected from the group consisting of oral, pulmonary, rectal, opthalmic, colonic, parenteral, intracistemal, intravaginal, intraperitoneal, local, buccal, nasal, and topical administration.
92. The method of claim 83, wherein the composition further comprises one or more pharmaceutically acceptable excipients, carriers, or a combination thereof.
93. The method of claim 83, wherein the fibrate or a salt thereof is present in an amount selected from the group consisting of from about 99.5% to about 0.001%, from about 95% to about 0.1%, and from about 90% to about 0.5%, by weight, based on the total combined weight of the fibrate or a salt thereof and at least one surface stabilizer, not including other excipients.
94. The method of claim 83, wherein the at least one surface stabilizer is present in an amount selected from the group consisting of from about 0.5% to about 99.999%, from about 5.0% to about 99.9%, and from about 10% to about 99.5% by weight, based on the total combined dry weight of the fibrate or a salt thereof and at least one surface stabilizer, not including other excipients.
95. The method of claim 83, comprising at least one primary surface stabilizer and at least one secondary surface stabilizer.
96. The method of claim 83, wherein the surface stabilizer is selected from the group consisting of an anionic surface stabilizer, a cationic surface stabilizer, a zwitterionic surface stabilizer, and an ionic surface stabilizer.
97. The method of claim 96, wherein the at least one surface stabilizer is selected from the group consisting of cetyl pyridinium chloride, gelatin, casein, phosphatides, dextran, glycerol, gum acacia, cholesterol, tragacanth, stearic acid, benzalkonium chloride, calcium stearate, glycerol monostearate, cetostearyl alcohol, cetomacrogol emulsifying wax, sorbitan esters, polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers, polyoxyethylene castor oil derivatives, polyoxyethylene sorbitan fatty acid esters, polyethylene glycols, dodecyl trimethyl ammonium bromide, polyoxyethylene stearates, colloidal silicon dioxide, phosphates, sodium dodecylsulfate, carboxymethylcellulose calcium, hydroxypropyl celluloses, hypromellose, carboxymethylcellulose sodium, methylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, hypromellose phthalate, noncrystalline cellulose, magnesium aluminum silicate, triethanolamine, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinylpyrrolidone, 4-(1,1,3,3-tetramethylbutyl)-phenol polymer with ethylene oxide and formaldehyde, poloxamers; poloxamines, a charged phospholipid, dioctylsulfosuccinate, dialkylesters of sodium sulfosuccinic acid, sodium lauryl sulfate, alkyl aryl polyether sulfonates, mixtures of sucrose stearate and sucrose distearate, p-isononylphenoxypoly-(glycidol), decanoyl-N-methylglucamide; n-decyl β-D-glucopyranoside; n-decyl β-D-maltopyranoside; n-dodecyl β-D-glucopyranoside; n-dodecyl β-D-maltoside; heptanoyl-N-methylglucamide; n-heptyl-β-D-glucopyranoside; n-heptyl β-D-thioglucoside; n-hexyl β-D-glucopyranoside; nonanoyl-N-methylglucamide; n-noyl β-D-glucopyranoside; octanoyl-N-methylglucamide; n-octyl-β-D-glucopyranoside; octyl β-D-thioglucopyranoside; lysozyme, PEG-phospholipid, PEG-cholesterol, PEG-cholesterol derivative, PEG-vitamin A, PEG-vitamin E, and random copolymers of vinyl acetate and vinyl pyrrolidone.
98. The method of claim 96, wherein the at least one cationic surface stabilizer is selected from the group consisting of a polymer, a biopolymer, a polysaccharide, a cellulosic, an alginate, a nonpolymeric compound, and a phospholipid.
99. The method of claim 96, wherein the surface stabilizer is selected from the group consisting of cationic lipids, polymethylmethacrylate trimethylammonium bromide, sulfonium compounds, polyvinylpyrrolidone-2-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate dimethyl sulfate, hexadecyltrimethyl ammonium bromide, phosphonium compounds, quaternary ammonium compounds, benzyl-di(2-chloroethyl)ethylammonium bromide, coconut trimethyl ammonium chloride, coconut trimethyl ammonium bromide, coconut methyl dihydroxyethyl ammonium chloride, coconut methyl dihydroxyethyl ammonium bromide, decyl triethyl ammonium chloride, decyl dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium chloride, decyl dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium chloride bromide, C12-15dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium chloride, C12-15dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium chloride bromide, coconut dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium chloride, coconut dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium bromide, myristyl trimethyl ammonium methyl sulphate, lauryl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride, lauryl dimethyl benzyl ammonium bromide, lauryl dimethyl (ethenoxy)4 ammonium chloride, lauryl dimethyl (ethenoxy)4 ammonium bromide, N-alkyl (C12-18)dimethylbenzyl ammonium chloride, N-alkyl (C14-19)dimethyl-benzyl ammonium chloride, N-tetradecylidmethylbenzyl ammonium chloride monohydrate, dimethyl didecyl ammonium chloride, N-alkyl and (C12-14) dimethyl 1-napthylmethyl ammonium chloride, trimethylammonium halide, alkyl-trimethylammonium salts, dialkyl-dimethylammonium salts, lauryl trimethyl ammonium chloride, ethoxylated alkyamidoalkyldialkylammonium salt, an ethoxylated trialkyl ammonium salt, dialkylbenzene dialkylammonium chloride, N-didecyldimethyl ammonium chloride, N-tetradecyldimethylbenzyl ammonium, chloride monohydrate, N-alkyl(C12-14) dimethyl 1-naphthylmethyl ammonium chloride, dodecyldimethylbenzyl ammonium chloride, dialkyl benzenealkyl ammonium chloride, lauryl trimethyl ammonium chloride, alkylbenzyl methyl ammonium chloride, alkyl benzyl dimethyl ammonium bromide, C12 trimethyl ammonium bromides, C15 trimethyl ammonium bromides, C17 trimethyl ammonium bromides, dodecylbenzyl triethyl ammonium chloride, poly-diallyldimethylammonium chloride (DADMAC), dimethyl ammonium chlorides, alkyldimethylammonium halogenides, tricetyl methyl ammonium chloride, decyltrimethylammonium bromide, dodecyltriethylammonium bromide, tetradecyltrimethylammonium bromide, methyl trioctylammonium chloride, POLYQUAT 10™, tetrabutylammonium bromide, benzyl trimethylammonium bromide, choline esters, benzalkonium chloride, stearalkonium chloride compounds, cetyl pyridinium bromide, cetyl pyridinium chloride, halide salts of quaternized polyoxyethylalkylamines, MIRAPOL™, ALKAQUAT™, alkyl pyridinium salts; amines, amine salts, amine oxides, imide azolinium salts, protonated quaternary acrylamides, methylated quaternary polymers, and cationic guar.
100. The method of any of claims 96, 98, or 99, wherein the composition is bioadhesive.
101. The method of claim 83, wherein the composition comprises hypromellose, dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate, and sodium lauryl sulfate as surface stabilizers.
102. A method of making a fibrate composition comprising contacting particles of a fibrate or a salt thereof with at least one surface stabilizer for a time and under conditions sufficient to provide a fibrate composition having an effective average particle size of less than about 2000 nm, wherein if heat is utilized during the method the temperature is kept below the melting point, or depressed melting point, of the fibrate.
103. A method of treating a subject in need comprising administering to the subject an effective amount of a composition comprising:
(a) particles of a fibrate or a salt thereof, wherein the fibrate particles have an effective average particle size of less than about 2000 nm; and
(b) at least one surface stabilizer associated with the surface of the fibrate particles, wherein the surface stabilizer is not PEG-derivatized vitamin E.
104. The method of claim 103, wherein the fibrate is fenofibrate or a salt thereof.
105. The method of claim 103, wherein a maximum blood plasma concentration of the fibrate is attained in a time selected from the group consisting of less than about 6 hours, less than about 5 hours, less than about 4 hours, less than about 3 hours, less than about 2 hours, less than about 1 hour, and less than about 30 minutes after administration to fasting subjects.
106. The method of claim 103, wherein the fibrate or a salt thereof is selected from the group consisting of a crystalline phase, an amorphous phase, a semi-crystalline phase, a semi-amorphous phase, and mixtures thereof.
107. The method of claim 103, wherein the effective average particle size of the fibrate particles is selected from the group consisting of less than about 1900 nm, less than about 1800 nm, less than about 1700 nm, less than about 1600 nm, less than about 1500 nm, less than about 1400 nm, less than about 1300 nm, less than about 1200 nm, less than about 1100 nm, less than about 1000 nm, less than about 900 nm, less than about 800 nm, less than about 700 nm, less than about 600 nm, less than about 500 nm, less than about 400 nm, less than about 300 nm, less than about 250 nm, less than about 200 nm, less than about 100 nm, less than about 75 nm, and less than about 50 nm.
108. The method of claim 103, wherein the composition is formulated for administration selected from the group consisting of oral, pulmonary, rectal, opthalmic, colonic, parenteral, intracisternal, intravaginal, intraperitoneal, local, buccal, nasal, and topical administration.
109. The method of claim 103, wherein the composition is a dosage form selected from the group consisting of liquid dispersions, oral suspensions, gels, aerosols, ointments, creams, controlled release formulations, fast melt formulations, lyophilized formulations, tablets, capsules, delayed release formulations, extended release formulations, pulsatile release formulations, and mixed immediate release and controlled release formulations.
110. The method of claim 103, wherein the composition further comprises one or more pharmaceutically acceptable excipients, carriers, or a combination thereof.
111. The method of claim 103, wherein the fibrate or a salt thereof is present in an amount selected from the group consisting of from about 99.5% to about 0.001%, from about 95% to about 0.1%, and from about 90% to about 0.5%, by weight, based on the total combined weight of the fibrate or a salt thereof and at least one surface stabilizer, not including other excipients.
112. The method of claim 103, wherein the at least one surface stabilizer is present in an amount selected from the group consisting of from about 0.5% to about 99.999% by weight, from about 5.0% to about 99.9% by weight, and from about 10% to about 99.5% by weight, based on the total combined dry weight of the fibrate or a salt thereof and at least one surface stabilizer, not including other excipients.
113. The method of claim 103, comprising at least one primary surface stabilizer and at least one secondary surface stabilizer.
114. The method of claim 103, wherein the surface stabilizer is selected from the group consisting of an anionic surface stabilizer, a cationic surface stabilizer, a zwitterionic surface stabilizer, and an ionic surface stabilizer.
115. The method of claim 1 14, wherein the at least one surface stabilizer is selected from the group consisting of cetyl pyridinium chloride, gelatin, casein, phosphatides, dextran, glycerol, gum acacia, cholesterol, tragacanth, stearic acid, benzalkonium chloride, calcium stearate, glycerol monostearate, cetostearyl alcohol, cetomacrogol emulsifying wax, sorbitan esters, polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers, polyoxyethylene castor oil derivatives, polyoxyethylene sorbitan fatty acid esters, polyethylene glycols, dodecyl trimethyl ammonium bromide, polyoxyethylene stearates, colloidal silicon dioxide, phosphates, sodium dodecylsulfate, carboxymethylcellulose calcium, hydroxypropyl celluloses, hypromellose, carboxymethylcellulose sodium, methylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, hypromellose phthalate, noncrystalline cellulose, magnesium aluminum silicate, triethanolamine, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinylpyrrolidone, 4-(1,1,3,3-tetramethylbutyl)-phenol polymer with ethylene oxide and formaldehyde, poloxamers; poloxamines, a charged phospholipid, dioctylsulfosuccinate, dialkylesters of sodium sulfosuccinic acid, sodium lauryl sulfate, alkyl aryl polyether sulfonates, mixtures of sucrose stearate and sucrose distearate, p-isononylphenoxypoly-(glycidol), decanoyl-N-methylglucamide; n-decyl β-D-glucopyranoside; n-decyl β-D-maltopyranoside; n-dodecyl β-D-glucopyranoside; n-dodecyl β-D-maltoside; heptanoyl-N-methylglucamide; n-heptyl-β-D-glucopyranoside; n-heptyl β-D-thioglucoside; n-hexyl β-D-glucopyranoside; nonanoyl-N-methylglucamide; n-noyl β-D-glucopyranoside; octanoyl-N-methylglucamide; n-octyl-β-D-glucopyranoside; octyl β-D-thioglucopyranoside; lysozyme, PEG-phospholipid, PEG-cholesterol, PEG-cholesterol derivative, PEG-vitamin A, PEG-vitamin E, and random copolymers of vinyl acetate and vinyl pyrrolidone.
116. The method of claim 114, wherein the at least one cationic surface stabilizer is selected from the group consisting of a polymer, a biopolymer, a polysaccharide, a cellulosic, an alginate, a nonpolymeric compound, and a phospholipid.
117. The method of claim 114, wherein the surface stabilizer is selected from the group consisting of benzalkonium chloride, polymethylmethacrylate trimethylammonium bromide, polyvinylpyrrolidone-2-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate dimethyl sulfate, hexadecyltrimethyl ammonium bromide, cationic lipids, sulfonium compounds, phosphonium compounds, quaternary ammonium compounds, benzyl-di(2-chloroethyl)ethylammonium bromide, coconut trimethyl ammonium chloride, coconut trimethyl ammonium bromide, coconut methyl dihydroxyethyl ammonium chloride, coconut methyl dihydroxyethyl ammonium bromide, decyl triethyl ammonium chloride, decyl dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium chloride, decyl dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium chloride bromide, C12-15dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium chloride, C12-15dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium chloride bromide, coconut dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium chloride, coconut dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium bromide, myristyl trimethyl ammonium methyl sulphate, lauryl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride, lauryl dimethyl benzyl ammonium bromide, lauryl dimethyl (ethenoxy)4 ammonium chloride, lauryl dimethyl (ethenoxy)4 ammonium bromide, N-alkyl (C12-18)dimethylbenzyl ammonium chloride, N-alkyl (C14-18)dimethyl-benzyl ammonium chloride, N-tetradecylidmethylbenzyl ammonium chloride monohydrate, dimethyl didecyl ammonium chloride, N-alkyl and (C12-14) dimethyl 1-napthylmethyl ammonium chloride, trimethylammonium halide, alkyl-trimethylammonium salts, dialkyl-dimethylammonium salts, lauryl trimethyl ammonium chloride, ethoxylated alkyamidoalkyldialkylammonium salt, an ethoxylated trialkyl ammonium salt, dialkylbenzene dialkylammonium chloride, N-didecyldimethyl ammonium chloride, N-tetradecyldimethylbenzyl ammonium, chloride monohydrate, N-alkyl(C12-14) dimethyl 1-naphthylmethyl ammonium chloride, dodecyldimethylbenzyl ammonium chloride, dialkyl benzenealkyl ammonium chloride, lauryl trimethyl ammonium chloride, alkylbenzyl methyl ammonium chloride, alkyl benzyl dimethyl ammonium bromide, C12 trimethyl ammonium bromides, C15 trimethyl ammonium bromides, C17 trimethyl ammonium bromides, dodecylbenzyl triethyl ammonium chloride, poly-diallyldimethylammonium chloride (DADMAC), dimethyl ammonium chlorides, alkyldimethylammonium halogenides, tricetyl methyl ammonium chloride, decyltrimethylammonium bromide, dodecyltriethylammonium bromide, tetradecyltrimethylammonium bromide, methyl trioctylammonium chloride, POLYQUAT 10™, tetrabutylammonium bromide, benzyl trimethylammonium bromide, choline esters, benzalkonium chloride, stearalkonium chloride compounds, cetyl pyridinium bromide, cetyl pyridinium chloride, halide salts of quaternized polyoxyethylalkylamines, MIRAPOL™, ALKAQUAT™, alkyl pyridinium salts; amines, amine salts, amine oxides, imide azolinium salts, protonated quaternary acrylamides, methylated quaternary polymers, and cationic guar.
118. The method of any of claims 114, 116, or 117, wherein the composition is bioadhesive.
119. The method of claim 103, wherein the composition comprises hypromellose, dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate, and sodium lauryl sulfate as surface stabilizers.
120. The method of claim 103, wherein administration of the fibrate composition does not produce significantly different absorption levels when administered under fed as compared to fasting conditions, when administered to a human.
121. The method of claim 120, wherein the difference in absorption of the fibrate composition of the invention, when administered in the fed versus the fasted state, is selected from the group consisting of less than about 35%, less than about 30%, less than about 25%, less than about 20%, less than about 15%, less than about 10%, less than about 5%, and less than about 3%.
122. The method of claim 103, wherein said Tmax of the fibrate is selected from the group consisting of less than about 5 hours, less than about 4 hours, less than about 3 hours, less than about 2 hours, less than about 1 hour, and less than about 30 minutes after administration to fasting subjects.
123. The method of claim 103, additionally comprising administering one or more active agents selected from the group consisting of HMG CoA reductase inhibitors and antihypertensives.
124. The method of claim 103, wherein the subject is a human.
125. The method of claim 103, wherein the method is used to treat a condition selected from the group consisting of hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, coronary heart disease, cardiovascular disorders, and peripheral vascular disease .
126. The method of claim 103, wherein the method is used as adjunctive therapy to diet for the reduction of LDL-C, total-C, triglycerides, or Apo B in adult patients with primary hypercholesterolemia or mixed dyslipidemia.
127. The method of claim 103, wherein the method is used as adjunctive therapy to diet for treatment of adult patients with hypertriglyceridemia.
128. The method of claim 103, wherein the method is used to decrease the risk of pancreatitis.
129. The method of claim 103, wherein the method is used to treat indications where lipid regulating agents are typically used.
130. A therapeutic method comprising orally administering to a mammalian subject in need an effective amount of a composition comprising a fibrate or a salt thereof formulated in such a way as to provide a blood plasma concentration profile, after an initial dose of the composition, with a Tmax of the fibrate of less than about 6 hours.
131. The method of claim 130, wherein the fibrate is fenofibrate or a salt thereof.
132. The method of claim 131, wherein administration of the fibrate composition does not produce significantly different absorption levels when administered under fed as compared to fasting conditions, when administered to a human.
133. The method of claim 132, wherein the difference in absorption of the fibrate composition of the invention, when administered in the fed versus the fasted state, is selected from the group consisting of less than about 35%, less than about 30%, less than about 25%, less than about 20%, less than about 15%, less than about 10%, less than about 5%, and less than about 3%.
134. A method of treating a subject in need comprising administering to the subject an effective amount of a composition comprising:
(a) particles of a fibrate or a salt thereof having an effective average particle size of less than about 2000 nm; and
(b) at least one surface stabilizer associated with the surface of the fibrate particles, wherein the surface stabilizer is categorized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as GRAS.
135. A method of treating a subject in need comprising administering to the subject an effective amount of a composition comprising:
(a) particles of a fibrate or a salt thereof having an effective average particle size of less than about 2000 nm; and
(b) at least one surface stabilizer associated with the surface of the fibrate particles,
wherein the composition when administered in the fed state to a human is bioequivalent to the composition when administered in the fasted state to a human, as established by a 90% Confidence Interval of between 0.80 and 1.25 for both Cmax and AUC or a 90% Confidence Interval of between 0.80 and 1.25 for AUC and a 90% Confidence Interval of between 0.70 to 1.43 for Cmax.
US10/693,496 2002-05-24 2003-10-27 Nanoparticulate fibrate formulations Abandoned US20040087656A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US10/693,496 US20040087656A1 (en) 2002-05-24 2003-10-27 Nanoparticulate fibrate formulations

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US38329402P 2002-05-24 2002-05-24
US10/370,277 US20030224058A1 (en) 2002-05-24 2003-02-21 Nanoparticulate fibrate formulations
US10/444,066 US7276249B2 (en) 2002-05-24 2003-05-23 Nanoparticulate fibrate formulations
US10/693,496 US20040087656A1 (en) 2002-05-24 2003-10-27 Nanoparticulate fibrate formulations

Related Parent Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US10/444,066 Division US7276249B2 (en) 2000-09-21 2003-05-23 Nanoparticulate fibrate formulations

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20040087656A1 true US20040087656A1 (en) 2004-05-06

Family

ID=31999117

Family Applications (6)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US10/444,066 Expired - Lifetime US7276249B2 (en) 2000-09-21 2003-05-23 Nanoparticulate fibrate formulations
US10/692,855 Expired - Lifetime US7320802B2 (en) 2002-05-24 2003-10-27 Methods of treatment using nanoparticulate fenofibrate compositions
US10/693,496 Abandoned US20040087656A1 (en) 2002-05-24 2003-10-27 Nanoparticulate fibrate formulations
US11/802,542 Expired - Lifetime US7927627B2 (en) 2002-05-24 2007-05-23 Nanoparticulate fibrate formulations
US11/802,567 Expired - Lifetime US7931917B2 (en) 2002-05-24 2007-05-23 Nanoparticulate fibrate formulations
US11/979,230 Abandoned US20080138424A1 (en) 2002-05-24 2007-10-31 Nanoparticulate fibrate formulations

Family Applications Before (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US10/444,066 Expired - Lifetime US7276249B2 (en) 2000-09-21 2003-05-23 Nanoparticulate fibrate formulations
US10/692,855 Expired - Lifetime US7320802B2 (en) 2002-05-24 2003-10-27 Methods of treatment using nanoparticulate fenofibrate compositions

Family Applications After (3)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US11/802,542 Expired - Lifetime US7927627B2 (en) 2002-05-24 2007-05-23 Nanoparticulate fibrate formulations
US11/802,567 Expired - Lifetime US7931917B2 (en) 2002-05-24 2007-05-23 Nanoparticulate fibrate formulations
US11/979,230 Abandoned US20080138424A1 (en) 2002-05-24 2007-10-31 Nanoparticulate fibrate formulations

Country Status (1)

Country Link
US (6) US7276249B2 (en)

Cited By (14)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20030185869A1 (en) * 2002-02-04 2003-10-02 Elan Pharma International Ltd. Nanoparticulate compositions having lysozyme as a surface stabilizer
EP1707197A1 (en) 2005-03-30 2006-10-04 Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. Formulations containing fenofibrate and a surfactant mixture
US20060222707A1 (en) * 2005-03-30 2006-10-05 Lerner E I Formulations of fenofibrate
US20060222706A1 (en) * 2005-03-30 2006-10-05 Moshe Flashner-Barak Formulations of Fenofibrate
US20070015833A1 (en) * 2005-07-18 2007-01-18 Moshe Flashner-Barak Formulations of fenofibrate containing menthol
US20070148233A1 (en) * 2005-12-28 2007-06-28 Lerner E I Pharmaceutical formulations of fenofibrate having improved bioavailability
EP1803441A1 (en) 2005-12-28 2007-07-04 Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd Pharmaceutical formulations of fenofibrate having improved bioavailability
US20080231403A1 (en) * 2007-03-19 2008-09-25 Abc Taiwan Electronics Corp. Independent planar transformer
US20090098200A1 (en) * 2007-09-25 2009-04-16 Solubest Ltd. Compositions comprising lipophilic active compounds and method for their preparation
US20090202649A1 (en) * 2008-02-06 2009-08-13 Subhash Gore Fenofibrate formulations
US20110311619A1 (en) * 2008-12-24 2011-12-22 Ethypharm Pharmaceutical formulation of nanonised fenofibrate
US20130115246A1 (en) * 2011-11-05 2013-05-09 Lupin Atlantis Holdings, S.A. Reduced dose oral pharmaceutical compositions of fenofibrate
US20130303612A1 (en) * 2003-10-10 2013-11-14 Veloxis Pharmaceuticals A/S Solid dosage form comprising a fibrate
WO2014091318A1 (en) 2012-12-11 2014-06-19 Lupin Atlantis Holdings, S.A. Reduced dose pharmaceutical compositions of fenofibrate

Families Citing this family (62)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2758459B1 (en) * 1997-01-17 1999-05-07 Pharma Pass FENOFIBRATE PHARMACEUTICAL COMPOSITION HAVING HIGH BIODAVAILABILITY AND PROCESS FOR PREPARING THE SAME
US20080113025A1 (en) * 1998-11-02 2008-05-15 Elan Pharma International Limited Compositions comprising nanoparticulate naproxen and controlled release hydrocodone
US20080102121A1 (en) * 1998-11-02 2008-05-01 Elan Pharma International Limited Compositions comprising nanoparticulate meloxicam and controlled release hydrocodone
US20030224058A1 (en) 2002-05-24 2003-12-04 Elan Pharma International, Ltd. Nanoparticulate fibrate formulations
US20080241070A1 (en) * 2000-09-21 2008-10-02 Elan Pharma International Ltd. Fenofibrate dosage forms
US7276249B2 (en) * 2002-05-24 2007-10-02 Elan Pharma International, Ltd. Nanoparticulate fibrate formulations
WO2003082247A2 (en) * 2002-03-26 2003-10-09 Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. Drug microparticles
US20070264348A1 (en) * 2002-05-24 2007-11-15 Elan Pharma International, Ltd. Nanoparticulate fibrate formulations
GEP20084540B (en) 2003-01-14 2008-11-25 Arena Pharm Inc 1,2,3-trisubstituted aryl and heteroaryl derivatives as modulators of metabolism and the prpphylaxis and treatment of disorders related thereto such as diabetes and hyperglycemia
US7786049B2 (en) * 2003-04-10 2010-08-31 Halliburton Energy Services, Inc. Drilling fluids with improved shale inhibition and methods of drilling in subterranean formations
AR045047A1 (en) * 2003-07-11 2005-10-12 Arena Pharm Inc ARILO AND HETEROARILO DERIVATIVES TRISUSTITUIDOS AS MODULATORS OF METABOLISM AND PROFILAXIS AND TREATMENT OF DISORDERS RELATED TO THEMSELVES
CA2532971A1 (en) 2003-07-14 2005-01-27 Arena Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Fused-aryl and heteroaryl derivatives as modulators of metabolism and the prophylaxis and treatment of disorders related thereto
US8173170B2 (en) 2004-12-22 2012-05-08 Nitto Denko Corporation Drug carrier and drug carrier kit for inhibiting fibrosis
US20120269886A1 (en) 2004-12-22 2012-10-25 Nitto Denko Corporation Therapeutic agent for pulmonary fibrosis
MY148521A (en) * 2005-01-10 2013-04-30 Arena Pharm Inc Substituted pyridinyl and pyrimidinyl derivatives as modulators of metabolism and the treatment of disorders related thereto
US7599828B2 (en) * 2005-03-01 2009-10-06 Microsoft Corporation Grammatically correct contraction spelling suggestions for french
EP1868587A2 (en) * 2005-04-08 2007-12-26 Abbott Laboratories Pharmaceutical formulations comprising fenofibric acid and/or its salts
US7905287B2 (en) 2005-04-19 2011-03-15 Halliburton Energy Services Inc. Methods of using a polymeric precipitate to reduce the loss of fluid to a subterranean formation
US7943555B2 (en) 2005-04-19 2011-05-17 Halliburton Energy Services Inc. Wellbore treatment kits for forming a polymeric precipitate to reduce the loss of fluid to a subterranean formation
EP1954253A4 (en) 2005-06-08 2011-07-27 Elan Pharma Int Ltd Nanoparticulate and controlled release compositions comprising cefditoren
US8455404B2 (en) * 2005-07-15 2013-06-04 Halliburton Energy Services, Inc. Treatment fluids with improved shale inhibition and methods of use in subterranean operations
US7833945B2 (en) * 2005-07-15 2010-11-16 Halliburton Energy Services Inc. Treatment fluids with improved shale inhibition and methods of use in subterranean operations
WO2007035348A2 (en) 2005-09-15 2007-03-29 Elan Pharma International, Limited Nanoparticulate aripiprazole formulations
US9572886B2 (en) 2005-12-22 2017-02-21 Nitto Denko Corporation Agent for treating myelofibrosis
US20070281011A1 (en) 2006-05-30 2007-12-06 Elan Pharma International Ltd. Nanoparticulate posaconazole formulations
WO2008002568A2 (en) * 2006-06-26 2008-01-03 Mutual Pharmaceutical Company, Inc. Active agent formulations, methods of making, and methods of use
WO2008000042A1 (en) * 2006-06-30 2008-01-03 Iceutica Pty Ltd Methods for the preparation of biologically active compounds in nanoparticulate form
AU2016203251B2 (en) * 2006-06-30 2017-11-16 Iceutica Pty Ltd Methods for the Preparation of Biologically Active Compounds in Nanoparticle Form
US7915247B1 (en) 2006-08-21 2011-03-29 Mutual Pharmaceutical Company, Inc. Methods of use of fenofibric acid
US9180110B2 (en) 2007-02-26 2015-11-10 Wockhardt Ltd. Pharmaceutical compositions of fenofibrate
WO2008104846A2 (en) * 2007-02-26 2008-09-04 Wockhardt Research Centre Pharmaceutical compositions of fenofibrate
TWI407971B (en) 2007-03-30 2013-09-11 Nitto Denko Corp Cancer cells and tumor-related fibroblasts
CN101854912A (en) * 2007-09-07 2010-10-06 诺瓦瓦克斯股份有限公司 Multi-phasic, nano-structured compositions containing a combination of a fibrate and a statin
US20100159010A1 (en) * 2008-12-24 2010-06-24 Mutual Pharmaceutical Company, Inc. Active Agent Formulations, Methods of Making, and Methods of Use
JP5779505B2 (en) 2009-01-02 2015-09-16 アボット・ラボラトリーズ・アイルランド・リミテッド New use of fibrates
WO2010096231A1 (en) * 2009-02-23 2010-08-26 NanoRx, Inc. Policosanol nanoparticles
DK2421513T3 (en) 2009-04-24 2018-03-26 Iceutica Pty Ltd UNKNOWN FORMULATION WITH INDOMETHACIN
WO2010131265A1 (en) * 2009-05-11 2010-11-18 Lupin Limited Novel pharmaceutical compositions of choline fenofibrate
WO2010138539A2 (en) 2009-05-27 2010-12-02 Elan Pharma International Ltd. Reduction of flake-like aggregation in nanoparticulate active agent compositions
AU2010261342A1 (en) 2009-06-19 2012-01-19 Sun Pharma Advanced Research Company Ltd., Nanodispersion of a drug and process for its preparation
EP4148045A1 (en) 2010-01-27 2023-03-15 Arena Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Intermediate compounds for the preparation of (r)-2-(7-(4-cyclopentyl-3- (trifluoromethyl)benzyloxy)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydrocyclopenta[b] indol-3-yl)acetic acid and salts thereof
WO2011146583A2 (en) 2010-05-19 2011-11-24 Elan Pharma International Limited Nanoparticulate cinacalcet formulations
WO2012027159A1 (en) 2010-08-23 2012-03-01 NanoRx, Inc. Policosanol nanoparticles
EP3323818A1 (en) 2010-09-22 2018-05-23 Arena Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Modulators of the gpr119 receptor and the treatment of disorders related thereto
WO2013130411A1 (en) 2012-02-27 2013-09-06 Essentialis, Inc. Salts of potassium atp channel openers and uses thereof
US8993041B2 (en) 2012-10-15 2015-03-31 New Jersey Institute Of Technology Taste masked active pharmaceutical powder compositions and processes for making them
EP2916824B1 (en) * 2012-11-12 2019-06-19 New Jersey Institute of Technology Pharmaceutical core-shell composite powder and processes for making the same
WO2014145699A1 (en) 2013-03-15 2014-09-18 New Jersey Institute Of Technology System and method for fabrication of uniform polymer films containing nano and micro particles via continuous drying process
EP2878311A1 (en) 2013-11-27 2015-06-03 Freund Pharmatec Ltd. Solubility Enhancement for Hydrophobic Drugs
US9526734B2 (en) 2014-06-09 2016-12-27 Iceutica Pty Ltd. Formulation of meloxicam
AU2016205361C1 (en) 2015-01-06 2021-04-08 Arena Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Methods of treating conditions related to the S1P1 receptor
US10166197B2 (en) 2015-02-13 2019-01-01 St. John's University Sugar ester nanoparticle stabilizers
ES2960344T3 (en) 2015-03-10 2024-03-04 Shionogi Inc Solid dispersions comprising ospemifene
EP3310760B8 (en) 2015-06-22 2022-10-19 Arena Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Crystalline l-arginine salt of (r)-2-(7-(4-cyclopentyl-3-(trifluoromethyl)benzyloxy)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydrocyclo-penta[b]indol-3-yl)acetic acid for use in s1p1 receptor-associated disorders
CN105832657B (en) * 2016-05-27 2019-02-26 湖北丽益医药科技有限公司 A kind of compound lactic acid emulsifiable paste, preparation method and application
CN109922796B (en) 2016-06-23 2023-04-07 考里安有限责任公司 Adhesive matrix with hydrophilic and hydrophobic domains and therapeutic agents
US10016372B2 (en) 2016-07-27 2018-07-10 Corium International, Inc. Transdermal delivery systems with pharmacokinetics bioequivalent to oral delivery
SG11201900712SA (en) 2016-07-27 2019-02-27 Corium Int Inc Memantine transdermal delivery systems
KR102406528B1 (en) 2016-07-27 2022-06-08 코리움, 인크. Sodium Bicarbonate In Situ Conversion Driven Transdermal Delivery of Amine Drugs
MA47504A (en) 2017-02-16 2019-12-25 Arena Pharm Inc COMPOUNDS AND TREATMENT METHODS FOR PRIMITIVE BILIARY ANGIOCHOLITIS
AU2018392686A1 (en) 2017-12-20 2020-07-09 Corium Pharma Solutions, Inc. Transdermal adhesive composition comprising a volatile liquid therapeutic agent having low melting point
CN111138427B (en) 2018-12-05 2021-09-17 江西富祥药业股份有限公司 Fenofibrate acid salt of berberine and analogues thereof, crystal form, preparation method and application

Citations (87)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3907792A (en) * 1969-01-31 1975-09-23 Andre Mieville Phenoxy-alkyl-carboxylic acid derivatives and the preparation thereof
US4250191A (en) * 1978-11-30 1981-02-10 Edwards K David Preventing renal failure
US4499289A (en) * 1982-12-03 1985-02-12 G. D. Searle & Co. Octahydronapthalenes
US4647576A (en) * 1984-09-24 1987-03-03 Warner-Lambert Company Trans-6-[2-(substitutedpyrrol-1-yl)alkyl]-pyran-2-one inhibitors of cholesterol synthesis
US4686237A (en) * 1984-07-24 1987-08-11 Sandoz Pharmaceuticals Corp. Erythro-(E)-7-[3'-C1-3 alkyl-1'-(3",5"-dimethylphenyl)naphth-2'-yl]-3,5-dihydroxyhept-6-enoic acids and derivatives thereof
US4783484A (en) * 1984-10-05 1988-11-08 University Of Rochester Particulate composition and use thereof as antimicrobial agent
US4826689A (en) * 1984-05-21 1989-05-02 University Of Rochester Method for making uniformly sized particles from water-insoluble organic compounds
US4895726A (en) * 1988-02-26 1990-01-23 Fournier Innovation Et Synergie Novel dosage form of fenofibrate
US5145684A (en) * 1991-01-25 1992-09-08 Sterling Drug Inc. Surface modified drug nanoparticles
US5298262A (en) * 1992-12-04 1994-03-29 Sterling Winthrop Inc. Use of ionic cloud point modifiers to prevent particle aggregation during sterilization
US5302401A (en) * 1992-12-09 1994-04-12 Sterling Winthrop Inc. Method to reduce particle size growth during lyophilization
US5318767A (en) * 1991-01-25 1994-06-07 Sterling Winthrop Inc. X-ray contrast compositions useful in medical imaging
US5326552A (en) * 1992-12-17 1994-07-05 Sterling Winthrop Inc. Formulations for nanoparticulate x-ray blood pool contrast agents using high molecular weight nonionic surfactants
US5328404A (en) * 1993-03-29 1994-07-12 Sterling Winthrop Inc. Method of x-ray imaging using iodinated aromatic propanedioates
US5336507A (en) * 1992-12-11 1994-08-09 Sterling Winthrop Inc. Use of charged phospholipids to reduce nanoparticle aggregation
US5340564A (en) * 1992-12-10 1994-08-23 Sterling Winthrop Inc. Formulations comprising olin 10-G to prevent particle aggregation and increase stability
US5346702A (en) * 1992-12-04 1994-09-13 Sterling Winthrop Inc. Use of non-ionic cloud point modifiers to minimize nanoparticle aggregation during sterilization
US5349957A (en) * 1992-12-02 1994-09-27 Sterling Winthrop Inc. Preparation and magnetic properties of very small magnetite-dextran particles
US5352459A (en) * 1992-12-16 1994-10-04 Sterling Winthrop Inc. Use of purified surface modifiers to prevent particle aggregation during sterilization
US5399363A (en) * 1991-01-25 1995-03-21 Eastman Kodak Company Surface modified anticancer nanoparticles
US5401492A (en) * 1992-12-17 1995-03-28 Sterling Winthrop, Inc. Water insoluble non-magnetic manganese particles as magnetic resonance contract enhancement agents
US5429824A (en) * 1992-12-15 1995-07-04 Eastman Kodak Company Use of tyloxapole as a nanoparticle stabilizer and dispersant
US5466440A (en) * 1994-12-30 1995-11-14 Eastman Kodak Company Formulations of oral gastrointestinal diagnostic X-ray contrast agents in combination with pharmaceutically acceptable clays
US5472683A (en) * 1995-03-09 1995-12-05 Eastman Kodak Company Nanoparticulate diagnostic mixed carbamic anhydrides as X-ray contrast agents for blood pool and lymphatic system imaging
US5500204A (en) * 1995-02-10 1996-03-19 Eastman Kodak Company Nanoparticulate diagnostic dimers as x-ray contrast agents for blood pool and lymphatic system imaging
US5510118A (en) * 1995-02-14 1996-04-23 Nanosystems Llc Process for preparing therapeutic compositions containing nanoparticles
US5518738A (en) * 1995-02-09 1996-05-21 Nanosystem L.L.C. Nanoparticulate nsaid compositions
US5518187A (en) * 1992-11-25 1996-05-21 Nano Systems L.L.C. Method of grinding pharmaceutical substances
US5521218A (en) * 1995-05-15 1996-05-28 Nanosystems L.L.C. Nanoparticulate iodipamide derivatives for use as x-ray contrast agents
US5525238A (en) * 1994-02-25 1996-06-11 Menke; Lucas Apparatus and process for separating substances
US5534270A (en) * 1995-02-09 1996-07-09 Nanosystems Llc Method of preparing stable drug nanoparticles
US5543133A (en) * 1995-02-14 1996-08-06 Nanosystems L.L.C. Process of preparing x-ray contrast compositions containing nanoparticles
US5545628A (en) * 1995-01-10 1996-08-13 Galephar P.R. Inc. Pharmaceutical composition containing fenofibrate
US5552160A (en) * 1991-01-25 1996-09-03 Nanosystems L.L.C. Surface modified NSAID nanoparticles
US5560932A (en) * 1995-01-10 1996-10-01 Nano Systems L.L.C. Microprecipitation of nanoparticulate pharmaceutical agents
US5560931A (en) * 1995-02-14 1996-10-01 Nawosystems L.L.C. Formulations of compounds as nanoparticulate dispersions in digestible oils or fatty acids
US5565188A (en) * 1995-02-24 1996-10-15 Nanosystems L.L.C. Polyalkylene block copolymers as surface modifiers for nanoparticles
US5569448A (en) * 1995-01-24 1996-10-29 Nano Systems L.L.C. Sulfated nonionic block copolymer surfactants as stabilizer coatings for nanoparticle compositions
US5571536A (en) * 1995-02-06 1996-11-05 Nano Systems L.L.C. Formulations of compounds as nanoparticulate dispersions in digestible oils or fatty acids
US5573750A (en) * 1995-05-22 1996-11-12 Nanosystems L.L.C. Diagnostic imaging x-ray contrast agents
US5573749A (en) * 1995-03-09 1996-11-12 Nano Systems L.L.C. Nanoparticulate diagnostic mixed carboxylic anhydrides as X-ray contrast agents for blood pool and lymphatic system imaging
US5573783A (en) * 1995-02-13 1996-11-12 Nano Systems L.L.C. Redispersible nanoparticulate film matrices with protective overcoats
US5580579A (en) * 1995-02-15 1996-12-03 Nano Systems L.L.C. Site-specific adhesion within the GI tract using nanoparticles stabilized by high molecular weight, linear poly (ethylene oxide) polymers
US5585108A (en) * 1994-12-30 1996-12-17 Nanosystems L.L.C. Formulations of oral gastrointestinal therapeutic agents in combination with pharmaceutically acceptable clays
US5587143A (en) * 1994-06-28 1996-12-24 Nanosystems L.L.C. Butylene oxide-ethylene oxide block copolymer surfactants as stabilizer coatings for nanoparticle compositions
US5591456A (en) * 1995-02-10 1997-01-07 Nanosystems L.L.C. Milled naproxen with hydroxypropyl cellulose as a dispersion stabilizer
US5593657A (en) * 1995-02-09 1997-01-14 Nanosystems L.L.C. Barium salt formulations stabilized by non-ionic and anionic stabilizers
US5622938A (en) * 1995-02-09 1997-04-22 Nano Systems L.L.C. Sugar base surfactant for nanocrystals
US5628981A (en) * 1994-12-30 1997-05-13 Nano Systems L.L.C. Formulations of oral gastrointestinal diagnostic x-ray contrast agents and oral gastrointestinal therapeutic agents
US5643552A (en) * 1995-03-09 1997-07-01 Nanosystems L.L.C. Nanoparticulate diagnostic mixed carbonic anhydrides as x-ray contrast agents for blood pool and lymphatic system imaging
US5662883A (en) * 1995-01-10 1997-09-02 Nanosystems L.L.C. Microprecipitation of micro-nanoparticulate pharmaceutical agents
US5665331A (en) * 1995-01-10 1997-09-09 Nanosystems L.L.C. Co-microprecipitation of nanoparticulate pharmaceutical agents with crystal growth modifiers
US5718388A (en) * 1994-05-25 1998-02-17 Eastman Kodak Continuous method of grinding pharmaceutical substances
US5718919A (en) * 1995-02-24 1998-02-17 Nanosystems L.L.C. Nanoparticles containing the R(-)enantiomer of ibuprofen
US5741522A (en) * 1991-07-05 1998-04-21 University Of Rochester Ultrasmall, non-aggregated porous particles of uniform size for entrapping gas bubbles within and methods
US5747001A (en) * 1995-02-24 1998-05-05 Nanosystems, L.L.C. Aerosols containing beclomethazone nanoparticle dispersions
US5834025A (en) * 1995-09-29 1998-11-10 Nanosystems L.L.C. Reduction of intravenously administered nanoparticulate-formulation-induced adverse physiological reactions
US5862999A (en) * 1994-05-25 1999-01-26 Nano Systems L.L.C. Method of grinding pharmaceutical substances
US6045829A (en) * 1997-02-13 2000-04-04 Elan Pharma International Limited Nanocrystalline formulations of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) protease inhibitors using cellulosic surface stabilizers
US6068858A (en) * 1997-02-13 2000-05-30 Elan Pharma International Limited Methods of making nanocrystalline formulations of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) protease inhibitors using cellulosic surface stabilizers
US6074670A (en) * 1997-01-17 2000-06-13 Laboratoires Fournier, S.A. Fenofibrate pharmaceutical composition having high bioavailability and method for preparing it
US6153225A (en) * 1998-08-13 2000-11-28 Elan Pharma International Limited Injectable formulations of nanoparticulate naproxen
US6165506A (en) * 1998-09-04 2000-12-26 Elan Pharma International Ltd. Solid dose form of nanoparticulate naproxen
US6177103B1 (en) * 1998-06-19 2001-01-23 Rtp Pharma, Inc. Processes to generate submicron particles of water-insoluble compounds
US6180138B1 (en) * 1999-01-29 2001-01-30 Abbott Laboratories Process for preparing solid formulations of lipid-regulating agents with enhanced dissolution and absorption
US20010006658A1 (en) * 1999-03-31 2001-07-05 Rong (Ron) Liu Novel formulations comprising lipid-regulating agents
US6264922B1 (en) * 1995-02-24 2001-07-24 Elan Pharma International Ltd. Nebulized aerosols containing nanoparticle dispersions
US6270806B1 (en) * 1999-03-03 2001-08-07 Elan Pharma International Limited Use of peg-derivatized lipids as surface stabilizers for nanoparticulate compositions
US6316029B1 (en) * 2000-05-18 2001-11-13 Flak Pharma International, Ltd. Rapidly disintegrating solid oral dosage form
US20010053385A1 (en) * 1998-12-18 2001-12-20 John M. Lipari Novel formulations comprising lipid-regulating agents
US20020012704A1 (en) * 2000-04-20 2002-01-31 Pace Gary W. Water-insoluble drug particle process
US20020012675A1 (en) * 1998-10-01 2002-01-31 Rajeev A. Jain Controlled-release nanoparticulate compositions
US6368620B2 (en) * 1999-06-11 2002-04-09 Abbott Laboratories Formulations comprising lipid-regulating agents
US6368622B2 (en) * 1999-01-29 2002-04-09 Abbott Laboratories Process for preparing solid formulations of lipid regulating agents with enhanced dissolution and absorption
US6372251B2 (en) * 1999-06-11 2002-04-16 Abbott Laboratories Formulations comprising lipid-regulating agents
US6375986B1 (en) * 2000-09-21 2002-04-23 Elan Pharma International Ltd. Solid dose nanoparticulate compositions comprising a synergistic combination of a polymeric surface stabilizer and dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate
US6383517B1 (en) * 1999-01-29 2002-05-07 Abbott Laboratories Process for preparing solid formulations of lipid-regulating agents with enhanced dissolution and absorption
US6384062B1 (en) * 1995-06-20 2002-05-07 Takeda Chemical Industries, Ltd. Pharmaceutical composition
US6428814B1 (en) * 1999-10-08 2002-08-06 Elan Pharma International Ltd. Bioadhesive nanoparticulate compositions having cationic surface stabilizers
US6431478B1 (en) * 1999-06-01 2002-08-13 Elan Pharma International Limited Small-scale mill and method thereof
US6444225B1 (en) * 1997-09-19 2002-09-03 Bernard Charles Sherman Pharmaceutical composition comprising fenofibrate
US6451339B2 (en) * 1999-02-26 2002-09-17 Lipocine, Inc. Compositions and methods for improved delivery of hydrophobic agents
US6465011B2 (en) * 1999-05-29 2002-10-15 Abbott Laboratories Formulations comprising lipid-regulating agents
US20030077297A1 (en) * 1999-02-26 2003-04-24 Feng-Jing Chen Pharmaceutical formulations and systems for improved absorption and multistage release of active agents
US6604698B2 (en) * 2000-05-10 2003-08-12 Skyepharma Canada, Inc. Media milling
US6634576B2 (en) * 2000-08-31 2003-10-21 Rtp Pharma Inc. Milled particles
US6696084B2 (en) * 2000-09-20 2004-02-24 Rtp Pharma Inc. Spray drying process and compositions of fenofibrate

Family Cites Families (35)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE3013839A1 (en) 1979-04-13 1980-10-30 Freunt Ind Co Ltd METHOD FOR PRODUCING AN ACTIVATED PHARMACEUTICAL COMPOSITION
DE3318649A1 (en) 1983-05-21 1984-11-22 Bayer Ag, 5090 Leverkusen TWO-PHASE FORMULATION
CA1327360C (en) 1983-11-14 1994-03-01 William F. Hoffman Oxo-analogs of mevinolin-like antihypercholesterolemic agents
IE58110B1 (en) 1984-10-30 1993-07-14 Elan Corp Plc Controlled release powder and process for its preparation
JPS62501009A (en) 1984-12-04 1987-04-23 サンド・アクチエンゲゼルシヤフト Indene congeners of mevalonolactone and derivatives thereof
US4668794A (en) 1985-05-22 1987-05-26 Sandoz Pharm. Corp. Intermediate imidazole acrolein analogs
WO1987002662A2 (en) 1985-10-25 1987-05-07 Sandoz Ag Heterocyclic analogs of mevalonolactone and derivatives thereof, processes for their production and their use as pharmaceuticals
DE3610037A1 (en) 1986-03-21 1987-09-24 Schering Ag NIFEDIPINE COMBINATION PRODUCT
JPH04501817A (en) * 1989-06-05 1992-04-02 デルフ エリック ウィリアム Improvements regarding body training equipment
US5091509A (en) * 1989-12-29 1992-02-25 Phillips Petroleum Company Recovery of poly(arylene sulfide ketone) and poly(arylene sulfide diketone) resins
US5324351A (en) 1992-08-13 1994-06-28 Euroceltique Aqueous dispersions of zein and preparation thereof
US5525328A (en) 1994-06-24 1996-06-11 Nanosystems L.L.C. Nanoparticulate diagnostic diatrizoxy ester X-ray contrast agents for blood pool and lymphatic system imaging
US6154484A (en) 1995-09-06 2000-11-28 Solana Technology Development Corporation Method and apparatus for embedding auxiliary data in a primary data signal using frequency and time domain processing
US7255877B2 (en) 1996-08-22 2007-08-14 Jagotec Ag Fenofibrate microparticles
DE19743968C2 (en) 1997-10-06 2002-07-11 Gruenenthal Gmbh Intravenous application form of thalidomide for the therapy of immunological diseases
WO1999029300A1 (en) * 1997-12-10 1999-06-17 Rtp Pharma Inc. Self-emulsifying fenofibrate formulations
ATE318132T1 (en) 1998-03-30 2006-03-15 Jagotec Ag PREPARATIONS CONTAINING MICROPARTICLES OF WATER-INSOLUBLE SUBSTANCES AND METHOD FOR THE PRODUCTION THEREOF
FR2783421B1 (en) 1998-09-17 2000-11-24 Cll Pharma PROCESS FOR THE PREPARATION OF NOVEL GALENIC FORMULATIONS OF FENOFIBRATE, GALENIC FORMULATIONS OBTAINED BY SAID PROCESS AND THEIR APPLICATIONS
CA2355820A1 (en) 1998-12-18 2000-06-29 Abbott Laboratories Novel formulations comprising lipid-regulating agents
CA2365128A1 (en) 1999-03-31 2000-10-05 Abbott Laboratories Novel formulations comprising lipid-regulating agents
JP2002540174A (en) 1999-03-31 2002-11-26 アボット・ラボラトリーズ Novel formulation containing lipid regulator
CA2374117A1 (en) 1999-05-28 2000-12-07 Abbott Laboratories Novel formulations comprising lipid-regulating agents
WO2001021154A2 (en) 1999-09-21 2001-03-29 Rtp Pharma Inc. Surface modified particulate compositions of biologically active substances
US6544465B1 (en) * 2000-08-18 2003-04-08 Micron Technology, Inc. Method for forming three dimensional structures from liquid with improved surface finish
EP1320362B1 (en) * 2000-09-20 2011-08-31 Jagotec AG Stabilised fibrate microparticles
US20030224058A1 (en) 2002-05-24 2003-12-04 Elan Pharma International, Ltd. Nanoparticulate fibrate formulations
US7198795B2 (en) * 2000-09-21 2007-04-03 Elan Pharma International Ltd. In vitro methods for evaluating the in vivo effectiveness of dosage forms of microparticulate of nanoparticulate active agent compositions
US7276249B2 (en) 2002-05-24 2007-10-02 Elan Pharma International, Ltd. Nanoparticulate fibrate formulations
US20080241070A1 (en) * 2000-09-21 2008-10-02 Elan Pharma International Ltd. Fenofibrate dosage forms
FR2814367B1 (en) 2000-09-25 2008-12-26 Inst Nat Sante Rech Med NPFF RECEPTOR LIGANDS FOR THE TREATMENT OF PAIN AND HYPERALGIA
AU2001259099B2 (en) 2001-02-22 2005-12-22 Skyepharma Canada Inc. Fibrate-statin combinations with reduced fed-fasted effects
DK1392441T3 (en) 2001-06-05 2010-01-25 Elan Pharma Int Ltd System and method for milling materials
CA2456713A1 (en) 2001-08-07 2003-02-20 Antonio Sereno Improved pharmaceutical composition containing a ppar alpha agent and a process for preparing it
GB0119480D0 (en) 2001-08-09 2001-10-03 Jagotec Ag Novel compositions
US20070264348A1 (en) 2002-05-24 2007-11-15 Elan Pharma International, Ltd. Nanoparticulate fibrate formulations

Patent Citations (99)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3907792A (en) * 1969-01-31 1975-09-23 Andre Mieville Phenoxy-alkyl-carboxylic acid derivatives and the preparation thereof
US4250191A (en) * 1978-11-30 1981-02-10 Edwards K David Preventing renal failure
US4499289A (en) * 1982-12-03 1985-02-12 G. D. Searle & Co. Octahydronapthalenes
US4826689A (en) * 1984-05-21 1989-05-02 University Of Rochester Method for making uniformly sized particles from water-insoluble organic compounds
US4997454A (en) * 1984-05-21 1991-03-05 The University Of Rochester Method for making uniformly-sized particles from insoluble compounds
US4686237A (en) * 1984-07-24 1987-08-11 Sandoz Pharmaceuticals Corp. Erythro-(E)-7-[3'-C1-3 alkyl-1'-(3",5"-dimethylphenyl)naphth-2'-yl]-3,5-dihydroxyhept-6-enoic acids and derivatives thereof
US4647576A (en) * 1984-09-24 1987-03-03 Warner-Lambert Company Trans-6-[2-(substitutedpyrrol-1-yl)alkyl]-pyran-2-one inhibitors of cholesterol synthesis
US4783484A (en) * 1984-10-05 1988-11-08 University Of Rochester Particulate composition and use thereof as antimicrobial agent
US4895726A (en) * 1988-02-26 1990-01-23 Fournier Innovation Et Synergie Novel dosage form of fenofibrate
US5451393A (en) * 1991-01-25 1995-09-19 Eastman Kodak Company X-ray contrast compositions useful in medical imaging
US5552160A (en) * 1991-01-25 1996-09-03 Nanosystems L.L.C. Surface modified NSAID nanoparticles
US5318767A (en) * 1991-01-25 1994-06-07 Sterling Winthrop Inc. X-ray contrast compositions useful in medical imaging
US5145684A (en) * 1991-01-25 1992-09-08 Sterling Drug Inc. Surface modified drug nanoparticles
US5494683A (en) * 1991-01-25 1996-02-27 Eastman Kodak Company Surface modified anticancer nanoparticles
US5399363A (en) * 1991-01-25 1995-03-21 Eastman Kodak Company Surface modified anticancer nanoparticles
US5741522A (en) * 1991-07-05 1998-04-21 University Of Rochester Ultrasmall, non-aggregated porous particles of uniform size for entrapping gas bubbles within and methods
US5776496A (en) * 1991-07-05 1998-07-07 University Of Rochester Ultrasmall porous particles for enhancing ultrasound back scatter
US5518187A (en) * 1992-11-25 1996-05-21 Nano Systems L.L.C. Method of grinding pharmaceutical substances
US5349957A (en) * 1992-12-02 1994-09-27 Sterling Winthrop Inc. Preparation and magnetic properties of very small magnetite-dextran particles
US5298262A (en) * 1992-12-04 1994-03-29 Sterling Winthrop Inc. Use of ionic cloud point modifiers to prevent particle aggregation during sterilization
US5346702A (en) * 1992-12-04 1994-09-13 Sterling Winthrop Inc. Use of non-ionic cloud point modifiers to minimize nanoparticle aggregation during sterilization
US5302401A (en) * 1992-12-09 1994-04-12 Sterling Winthrop Inc. Method to reduce particle size growth during lyophilization
US5340564A (en) * 1992-12-10 1994-08-23 Sterling Winthrop Inc. Formulations comprising olin 10-G to prevent particle aggregation and increase stability
US5336507A (en) * 1992-12-11 1994-08-09 Sterling Winthrop Inc. Use of charged phospholipids to reduce nanoparticle aggregation
US5429824A (en) * 1992-12-15 1995-07-04 Eastman Kodak Company Use of tyloxapole as a nanoparticle stabilizer and dispersant
US5352459A (en) * 1992-12-16 1994-10-04 Sterling Winthrop Inc. Use of purified surface modifiers to prevent particle aggregation during sterilization
US5447710A (en) * 1992-12-17 1995-09-05 Eastman Kodak Company Method of making nanoparticulate X-ray blood pool contrast agents using high molecular weight nonionic surfactants
US5401492A (en) * 1992-12-17 1995-03-28 Sterling Winthrop, Inc. Water insoluble non-magnetic manganese particles as magnetic resonance contract enhancement agents
US5326552A (en) * 1992-12-17 1994-07-05 Sterling Winthrop Inc. Formulations for nanoparticulate x-ray blood pool contrast agents using high molecular weight nonionic surfactants
US5328404A (en) * 1993-03-29 1994-07-12 Sterling Winthrop Inc. Method of x-ray imaging using iodinated aromatic propanedioates
US5525238A (en) * 1994-02-25 1996-06-11 Menke; Lucas Apparatus and process for separating substances
US5862999A (en) * 1994-05-25 1999-01-26 Nano Systems L.L.C. Method of grinding pharmaceutical substances
US5718388A (en) * 1994-05-25 1998-02-17 Eastman Kodak Continuous method of grinding pharmaceutical substances
US5587143A (en) * 1994-06-28 1996-12-24 Nanosystems L.L.C. Butylene oxide-ethylene oxide block copolymer surfactants as stabilizer coatings for nanoparticle compositions
US5585108A (en) * 1994-12-30 1996-12-17 Nanosystems L.L.C. Formulations of oral gastrointestinal therapeutic agents in combination with pharmaceutically acceptable clays
US6432381B2 (en) * 1994-12-30 2002-08-13 Elan Pharma International Limited Methods for targeting drug delivery to the upper and/or lower gastrointestinal tract
US5628981A (en) * 1994-12-30 1997-05-13 Nano Systems L.L.C. Formulations of oral gastrointestinal diagnostic x-ray contrast agents and oral gastrointestinal therapeutic agents
US5466440A (en) * 1994-12-30 1995-11-14 Eastman Kodak Company Formulations of oral gastrointestinal diagnostic X-ray contrast agents in combination with pharmaceutically acceptable clays
US5665331A (en) * 1995-01-10 1997-09-09 Nanosystems L.L.C. Co-microprecipitation of nanoparticulate pharmaceutical agents with crystal growth modifiers
US5560932A (en) * 1995-01-10 1996-10-01 Nano Systems L.L.C. Microprecipitation of nanoparticulate pharmaceutical agents
US5662883A (en) * 1995-01-10 1997-09-02 Nanosystems L.L.C. Microprecipitation of micro-nanoparticulate pharmaceutical agents
US5545628A (en) * 1995-01-10 1996-08-13 Galephar P.R. Inc. Pharmaceutical composition containing fenofibrate
US5569448A (en) * 1995-01-24 1996-10-29 Nano Systems L.L.C. Sulfated nonionic block copolymer surfactants as stabilizer coatings for nanoparticle compositions
US5571536A (en) * 1995-02-06 1996-11-05 Nano Systems L.L.C. Formulations of compounds as nanoparticulate dispersions in digestible oils or fatty acids
US5534270A (en) * 1995-02-09 1996-07-09 Nanosystems Llc Method of preparing stable drug nanoparticles
US5593657A (en) * 1995-02-09 1997-01-14 Nanosystems L.L.C. Barium salt formulations stabilized by non-ionic and anionic stabilizers
US5622938A (en) * 1995-02-09 1997-04-22 Nano Systems L.L.C. Sugar base surfactant for nanocrystals
US5518738A (en) * 1995-02-09 1996-05-21 Nanosystem L.L.C. Nanoparticulate nsaid compositions
US5500204A (en) * 1995-02-10 1996-03-19 Eastman Kodak Company Nanoparticulate diagnostic dimers as x-ray contrast agents for blood pool and lymphatic system imaging
US5591456A (en) * 1995-02-10 1997-01-07 Nanosystems L.L.C. Milled naproxen with hydroxypropyl cellulose as a dispersion stabilizer
US5573783A (en) * 1995-02-13 1996-11-12 Nano Systems L.L.C. Redispersible nanoparticulate film matrices with protective overcoats
US5560931A (en) * 1995-02-14 1996-10-01 Nawosystems L.L.C. Formulations of compounds as nanoparticulate dispersions in digestible oils or fatty acids
US5510118A (en) * 1995-02-14 1996-04-23 Nanosystems Llc Process for preparing therapeutic compositions containing nanoparticles
US5543133A (en) * 1995-02-14 1996-08-06 Nanosystems L.L.C. Process of preparing x-ray contrast compositions containing nanoparticles
US5580579A (en) * 1995-02-15 1996-12-03 Nano Systems L.L.C. Site-specific adhesion within the GI tract using nanoparticles stabilized by high molecular weight, linear poly (ethylene oxide) polymers
US5747001A (en) * 1995-02-24 1998-05-05 Nanosystems, L.L.C. Aerosols containing beclomethazone nanoparticle dispersions
US6264922B1 (en) * 1995-02-24 2001-07-24 Elan Pharma International Ltd. Nebulized aerosols containing nanoparticle dispersions
US5565188A (en) * 1995-02-24 1996-10-15 Nanosystems L.L.C. Polyalkylene block copolymers as surface modifiers for nanoparticles
US5718919A (en) * 1995-02-24 1998-02-17 Nanosystems L.L.C. Nanoparticles containing the R(-)enantiomer of ibuprofen
US5472683A (en) * 1995-03-09 1995-12-05 Eastman Kodak Company Nanoparticulate diagnostic mixed carbamic anhydrides as X-ray contrast agents for blood pool and lymphatic system imaging
US5573749A (en) * 1995-03-09 1996-11-12 Nano Systems L.L.C. Nanoparticulate diagnostic mixed carboxylic anhydrides as X-ray contrast agents for blood pool and lymphatic system imaging
US5643552A (en) * 1995-03-09 1997-07-01 Nanosystems L.L.C. Nanoparticulate diagnostic mixed carbonic anhydrides as x-ray contrast agents for blood pool and lymphatic system imaging
US5521218A (en) * 1995-05-15 1996-05-28 Nanosystems L.L.C. Nanoparticulate iodipamide derivatives for use as x-ray contrast agents
US5573750A (en) * 1995-05-22 1996-11-12 Nanosystems L.L.C. Diagnostic imaging x-ray contrast agents
US6384062B1 (en) * 1995-06-20 2002-05-07 Takeda Chemical Industries, Ltd. Pharmaceutical composition
US5834025A (en) * 1995-09-29 1998-11-10 Nanosystems L.L.C. Reduction of intravenously administered nanoparticulate-formulation-induced adverse physiological reactions
US6589552B2 (en) * 1997-01-17 2003-07-08 Laboratoires Fournier, S.A. Fenofibrate pharmaceutical composition having high bioavailability and method for preparing it
US6596317B2 (en) * 1997-01-17 2003-07-22 Laboratoires Fournier, Sa Fenofibrate pharmaceutical composition having high bioavailability and method for preparing it
US6074670A (en) * 1997-01-17 2000-06-13 Laboratoires Fournier, S.A. Fenofibrate pharmaceutical composition having high bioavailability and method for preparing it
US6277405B1 (en) * 1997-01-17 2001-08-21 Labaratoires Fournier, S.A. Fenofibrate pharmaceutical composition having high bioavailability and method for preparing it
US6221400B1 (en) * 1997-02-13 2001-04-24 Elan Pharma International Limited Methods of treating mammals using nanocrystalline formulations of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) protease inhibitors
US6068858A (en) * 1997-02-13 2000-05-30 Elan Pharma International Limited Methods of making nanocrystalline formulations of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) protease inhibitors using cellulosic surface stabilizers
US6045829A (en) * 1997-02-13 2000-04-04 Elan Pharma International Limited Nanocrystalline formulations of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) protease inhibitors using cellulosic surface stabilizers
US20030031705A1 (en) * 1997-09-19 2003-02-13 Sherman Bernard Charles Pharmaceutical composition comprising fenofibrate
US6444225B1 (en) * 1997-09-19 2002-09-03 Bernard Charles Sherman Pharmaceutical composition comprising fenofibrate
US6177103B1 (en) * 1998-06-19 2001-01-23 Rtp Pharma, Inc. Processes to generate submicron particles of water-insoluble compounds
US6153225A (en) * 1998-08-13 2000-11-28 Elan Pharma International Limited Injectable formulations of nanoparticulate naproxen
US6165506A (en) * 1998-09-04 2000-12-26 Elan Pharma International Ltd. Solid dose form of nanoparticulate naproxen
US20020012675A1 (en) * 1998-10-01 2002-01-31 Rajeev A. Jain Controlled-release nanoparticulate compositions
US20010053385A1 (en) * 1998-12-18 2001-12-20 John M. Lipari Novel formulations comprising lipid-regulating agents
US6368622B2 (en) * 1999-01-29 2002-04-09 Abbott Laboratories Process for preparing solid formulations of lipid regulating agents with enhanced dissolution and absorption
US6180138B1 (en) * 1999-01-29 2001-01-30 Abbott Laboratories Process for preparing solid formulations of lipid-regulating agents with enhanced dissolution and absorption
US6383517B1 (en) * 1999-01-29 2002-05-07 Abbott Laboratories Process for preparing solid formulations of lipid-regulating agents with enhanced dissolution and absorption
US20030077297A1 (en) * 1999-02-26 2003-04-24 Feng-Jing Chen Pharmaceutical formulations and systems for improved absorption and multistage release of active agents
US6451339B2 (en) * 1999-02-26 2002-09-17 Lipocine, Inc. Compositions and methods for improved delivery of hydrophobic agents
US6270806B1 (en) * 1999-03-03 2001-08-07 Elan Pharma International Limited Use of peg-derivatized lipids as surface stabilizers for nanoparticulate compositions
US20010006658A1 (en) * 1999-03-31 2001-07-05 Rong (Ron) Liu Novel formulations comprising lipid-regulating agents
US6465011B2 (en) * 1999-05-29 2002-10-15 Abbott Laboratories Formulations comprising lipid-regulating agents
US6431478B1 (en) * 1999-06-01 2002-08-13 Elan Pharma International Limited Small-scale mill and method thereof
US6372251B2 (en) * 1999-06-11 2002-04-16 Abbott Laboratories Formulations comprising lipid-regulating agents
US6368620B2 (en) * 1999-06-11 2002-04-09 Abbott Laboratories Formulations comprising lipid-regulating agents
US6428814B1 (en) * 1999-10-08 2002-08-06 Elan Pharma International Ltd. Bioadhesive nanoparticulate compositions having cationic surface stabilizers
US20020012704A1 (en) * 2000-04-20 2002-01-31 Pace Gary W. Water-insoluble drug particle process
US6604698B2 (en) * 2000-05-10 2003-08-12 Skyepharma Canada, Inc. Media milling
US6316029B1 (en) * 2000-05-18 2001-11-13 Flak Pharma International, Ltd. Rapidly disintegrating solid oral dosage form
US6634576B2 (en) * 2000-08-31 2003-10-21 Rtp Pharma Inc. Milled particles
US6696084B2 (en) * 2000-09-20 2004-02-24 Rtp Pharma Inc. Spray drying process and compositions of fenofibrate
US6375986B1 (en) * 2000-09-21 2002-04-23 Elan Pharma International Ltd. Solid dose nanoparticulate compositions comprising a synergistic combination of a polymeric surface stabilizer and dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate
US6592903B2 (en) * 2000-09-21 2003-07-15 Elan Pharma International Ltd. Nanoparticulate dispersions comprising a synergistic combination of a polymeric surface stabilizer and dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate

Cited By (21)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US8323641B2 (en) 2002-02-04 2012-12-04 Alkermes Pharma Ireland Limited Nanoparticulate compositions having lysozyme as a surface stabilizer
US20030185869A1 (en) * 2002-02-04 2003-10-02 Elan Pharma International Ltd. Nanoparticulate compositions having lysozyme as a surface stabilizer
US8652464B2 (en) 2002-02-04 2014-02-18 Alkermes Pharma Ireland Limited Method of treatment using nanoparticulate compositions having lysozyme as a surface stabilizer
US20090074875A1 (en) * 2002-02-04 2009-03-19 Elan Pharma International Ltd. Nanoparticulate compositions having lysozyme as a surface stabilizer
US20130303612A1 (en) * 2003-10-10 2013-11-14 Veloxis Pharmaceuticals A/S Solid dosage form comprising a fibrate
EP1707197A1 (en) 2005-03-30 2006-10-04 Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. Formulations containing fenofibrate and a surfactant mixture
US20060222707A1 (en) * 2005-03-30 2006-10-05 Lerner E I Formulations of fenofibrate
US20060222706A1 (en) * 2005-03-30 2006-10-05 Moshe Flashner-Barak Formulations of Fenofibrate
US20070015833A1 (en) * 2005-07-18 2007-01-18 Moshe Flashner-Barak Formulations of fenofibrate containing menthol
US20070148233A1 (en) * 2005-12-28 2007-06-28 Lerner E I Pharmaceutical formulations of fenofibrate having improved bioavailability
EP1803441A1 (en) 2005-12-28 2007-07-04 Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd Pharmaceutical formulations of fenofibrate having improved bioavailability
US20080231403A1 (en) * 2007-03-19 2008-09-25 Abc Taiwan Electronics Corp. Independent planar transformer
US20090098200A1 (en) * 2007-09-25 2009-04-16 Solubest Ltd. Compositions comprising lipophilic active compounds and method for their preparation
EP2601935A1 (en) 2007-09-25 2013-06-12 Solubest Ltd. Compositions comprising lipophilic active compounds and method for their preparation
US9254268B2 (en) 2007-09-25 2016-02-09 Solubest Ltd. Compositions comprising lipophilic active compounds and method for their preparation
US20090202649A1 (en) * 2008-02-06 2009-08-13 Subhash Gore Fenofibrate formulations
US20110311619A1 (en) * 2008-12-24 2011-12-22 Ethypharm Pharmaceutical formulation of nanonised fenofibrate
AU2009337766B2 (en) * 2008-12-24 2014-09-25 Ethypharm Pharmaceutical formulation of nanonised fenofibrate
US20130115246A1 (en) * 2011-11-05 2013-05-09 Lupin Atlantis Holdings, S.A. Reduced dose oral pharmaceutical compositions of fenofibrate
WO2014091318A1 (en) 2012-12-11 2014-06-19 Lupin Atlantis Holdings, S.A. Reduced dose pharmaceutical compositions of fenofibrate
US9314447B2 (en) 2012-12-11 2016-04-19 Lupin Atlantis Holdings, S.A. Reduced dose pharmaceutical compositions of fenofibrate

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US20040058009A1 (en) 2004-03-25
US20050276974A1 (en) 2005-12-15
US20070298115A1 (en) 2007-12-27
US20080095851A1 (en) 2008-04-24
US7320802B2 (en) 2008-01-22
US7931917B2 (en) 2011-04-26
US7927627B2 (en) 2011-04-19
US20080138424A1 (en) 2008-06-12
US7276249B2 (en) 2007-10-02

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US7320802B2 (en) Methods of treatment using nanoparticulate fenofibrate compositions
CA2487054C (en) Nanoparticulate fibrate formulations
US7763278B2 (en) Nanoparticulate polycosanol formulations and novel polycosanol combinations
US20110027371A1 (en) Nanoparticulate statin formulations and novel statin combinations
CA2488499C (en) Nanoparticulate formulations comprising hmg coa reductase inhibitor derivatives (&#34;statins&#34;),combinations thereof as well as manufacturing of these pharmaceutical compositions
US20040033202A1 (en) Nanoparticulate sterol formulations and novel sterol combinations
JP2006508105A5 (en)
US20080241070A1 (en) Fenofibrate dosage forms
US20080213378A1 (en) Nanoparticulate statin formulations and novel statin combinations
US20070264348A1 (en) Nanoparticulate fibrate formulations
ZA200410209B (en) Nanoparticulate fibrate formulations
NO346970B1 (en) Nanoparticulate fiber formulations

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
STCB Information on status: application discontinuation

Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION