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Erlotinib, an inhibitor of the epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase, causes skin disorders such as dry skin, which impairs the skin barrier function. Stratum corneum (SC) lipids play an important role in skin barrier function; therefore, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between erlotinib-related dry skin and changes in the intercellular lipid composition and structure of the SC. Overall, 21 patients with non-small lung cancer were enrolled in this study. All patients received 150 mg/day erlotinib orally. A SC sample of each patient was collected from the inner forearm using the tape stripping method on days 0, 7, 14, 28, and 56 after erlotinib administration. The intercellular lipid components of ceramide (CER), free fatty acid (FFA), and cholesterol sulfate (CS) in samples extracted from the tape were analyzed using liquid chromatography/time-of-flight/mass spectrometry. SC samples from six healthy subjects were collected as controls on days 0, 28 and 56 and analyzed similarly. Although total CER and FFA levels were not changed after erlotinib administration, the levels of CER subclasses [AP] and [AH] and hydroxy FFA, which are structural components of CER subclass [A], decreased. In contrast, the CS levels increased after erlotinib administration. Moreover, higher CS levels in the SC correlated with the clinical condition of dry skin. No changes were observed in the SC lipid composition in healthy subjects. Erlotinib-related dry skin was associated with a higher CS level in the SC.

A concise spherical granulation method is required to prepare extemporaneously granules remanufactured from oral dosage forms for administration to individuals who cannot swallow tablets or capsules. In this study, we determined the feasibility of spherical granulation using a planetary centrifugal mixer. A model formulation, 20% ibuprofen (IBP) granules, was prepared using a lactose/cornstarch (7 : 3, w/w) mixture or D-mannitol as diluents, and changes in granule characteristics (mean diameter (d50), distribution range of granule size (span), and yield) were evaluated according to the amount of water added and the granulation time. The amount of water was assessed using the plastic limit value as measured using a digital force gauge. We successfully produced granules, and larger amounts of water and longer granulation times resulted in larger d50 values and smaller span values. The optimal granulation time was 45 s and the optimal water contents were 70 and 67.5% of the plastic limit value for the lactose/cornstarch mixture and D-mannitol, respectively. When compared to commercial 20% IBP granules, powder X-ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry analyses showed that the granulation process did not alter the crystallinity of the drug. Thus, this novel granulation method using a planetary centrifugal mixer may be a promising technique for compounding in pharmacies and in pharmaceutical manufacturing.

Studies on the effectiveness of substances such as drugs and cosmetics that act on the skin require structural evidence at the molecular level in the stratum corneum to clarify their interaction with intercellular lipid and soft keratin. For this purpose, when applying the substances to the stratum corneum X-ray diffraction experiment is one of the powerful tools. To detect minute structural changes in a stratum corneum sample, using a "solution cell", dynamic synchrotron X-ray diffraction measurements were performed when applying aqueous solution of the substances to the stratum corneum: (1) It was found that a surfactant, sodium dodecyl sulfate, significantly disrupted the long-period lamellar structure. (2) To study the effects of water, structural modifications of the short-period lamellar structure and the soft keratin in corneocytes were measured as a function of time. At the initial water content of 15 wt%, the spacings of the short-period lamellar structure and the soft keratin increased toward those at the water content of 25 wt%, that is a key water content in the stratum corneum. (3) Nanoparticles composed of assembly of amphiphilic molecules are one of the leading pharmaceutical formulations. When the nanoparticles were applied, a new assembly of amphiphilic molecules originated from the nanoparticle appeared. This phenomenon suggests that the formation of the new assembly at the surface of skin is concerned with the release of the drug from the nanoparticles. (4) When ethanol was applied to the stratum corneum, only the liquid state in the intercellular lipid matrix was dissolved. After the removal of ethanol from this stratum corneum, the ordered hydrocarbon-chain packing structures appeared. From this fact we would propose that the liquid state region is the main pathway for hydrophobic drugs with a small molecular weight in connection with the so-called 500 Da rule. Here, not only the technique but also the background to these studies and the characteristic results obtained from these studies are explained.

The low-dose mixing efficiency of planetary centrifugal mixer (PCM) was evaluated by measuring content uniformity of processed mixtures (coefficient of variant; CV%). Atropine sulfate and crystalline lactose were mixed under various conditions, rotation speed (1000–2000 rpm), revolution speed (600–1200 rpm), filling rate (25, 50, 75 v/v%), and drug concentration (0.05–2 w/w%). As a result, a smaller CV% was obtained when higher speeds of both revolution and rotation and a moderate level of filling rate were used. Concentration of atropine sulfate slightly affected CV%, which was lower than 6.08% at a range of 0.25–2 w/w%. To confirm the reliability of this method, oxybutynin chloride and hydrocortisone were used as cohesive powders instead of atropine sulfate. The CV% was found to be below 6.08% at 1200 rpm at both speeds, indicating good uniformity. Particle size distribution analysis and scanning electron microscopy revealed that agglomerates of the drugs were broken down as primary particles, and dispersed on the surface of lactose particles, forming an interactive mixture. Finally, 0.1% atropine sulfate powder, a hospital formulation, was successfully prepared using PCM. Therefore, PCM is useful for compounding even small amounts of formulations.

The mechanism underlying the skin permeation of flurbiprofen (FLU)-loaded, glyceryl monooleyl ether-based liquid crystalline nanoparticles (LCNs) with a hexagonal structure was examined by synchrotron X-ray diffraction and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Fluorescent-labeled, FLU-loaded LCNs were prepared using coumarin 6 and rhodamine B 1,2-dihexadecanoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine, triethylammonium salt (Rh-PE), which produce green and red fluorescence, respectively. Application of FLU-loaded LCNs to the hairless mouse stratum corneum (SC) induced expansion of the lattice spacing of the hexagonal structure with FLU release, as confirmed by the changes in the small-angle X-ray diffraction profiles. In addition, the FLU-loaded LCNs completely released FLU near the surface of the SC, which then penetrated the SC. Consequently, the repeat distance of the long periodicity phase was slightly modified. CLSM revealed green fluorescence in the epidermis and hair follicles and red fluorescence in the SC. In conclusion, LCNs adopt several permeation pathways: one is partly via the intercellular matrix and the other is the epidermis via hair follicles.

Background and Aim: Since the pharmacological effects of diclofenac (DF) are short-lived because of its short half-life, prolongation of the pharmacological effect in a topical formulation is needed for more appropriate clinical use. For the enhancement of dermal accumulation and prolongation of the pharmacological effect of drugs, the aim of this study was to develop a simple gel formulation containing an ion-pair complex of DF and phenylephrine (PHE), which induce constriction of the vascular smooth muscles. Materials and Methods: The ion-pair complex was prepared by mixing sodium DF and an ethanolic solution of PHE. The formed complex was characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) and Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. The ion-pair complex for the gel formulation was prepared by mixing an equimolar concentration of 50% 1,3-butylene glycol and distilled aqueous solution of 2% xanthan gum, which was characterized by proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR). Skin permeation and accumulation of DF and PHE were evaluated by in vitro and in vivo studies. Results: From the results of PXRD and FT-IR, it was suggested that new crystalline peaks formed by the ion-pair complex and their complex interacted with the carboxyl group in DF and the amino group in PHE. In the gel formulation, the ion-pair complexes were detected by 1H-NMR. The ion-pair complex enhanced the accumulation of DF in the skin in the in vitro study. On the other hand, PHE accumulation in the dermis increased with the ion-pair complex, as exhibited by the in vivo study. Conclusion: A new gel formulation containing the ion-pair complex of DF and PHE was developed, which improved the accumulation of DF in skin.

Objectives Manipulation of tablets or capsules is frequently carried out in pharmacies to regulate doses for personalised therapy. We proposed the use of reconstructed granules as a suitable, flexible dosage form and developed an on-site granulation method using a compounding mixer. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the feasibility of small-scale preparation of granules in a pharmacy setting. Rifampicin capsules were used as a model medicine because of the associated need for drug desensitisation therapy. Methods The contents of a rifampicin capsule were granulated using a compounding mixer, and small ointment containers (12 mL) with filling rates of 4%, 8%, 12%, and 16% were used as granulation vessels. The obtained granules were examined for particle size distribution, yield, crystal transition, drug dissolution profile, storage stability, and weight loss during dosing. Results The yields increased by >95%, and the span of the particle size distribution decreased to 1.0, as the filling rate increased. The smallest batch size was found to be 0.8 g in a 12 mL vessel. Examination of the resultant granules revealed that granulation did not affect the crystal polymorphism, dissolution profile, or storage stability of rifampicin. Furthermore, the weight loss of the granules during the dosing process was significantly lower than that of the capsule powder content. Conclusions We demonstrated that granules with sufficient quality for clinical use could be extemporaneously prepared using a compounding mixer in pharmacies. This improved the usability of the medicine, preventing weight loss, and making it a suitable alternative formulation for precise personalised pharmacotherapy.

Dantrolene capsule, an effective therapeutic agent for the treatment of spasticity, is administered to children who cannot swallow the capsule after reformulation into a powder. The powdered drug can alter the specified dosage and it is also difficult to dispense the powdered formulation because of its bulky and sticky nature. To resolve these problems, we reformulated dantrolene capsules into granules using a centrifugal planetary mixer in the pharmacy. The granules containing lactose-cornstarch, D-mannitol, or microcrystalline cellulose as a diluent were examined to determine particle size distribution, flowability, drug content uniformity, and disintegration time. The granules with microcrystalline cellulose were superior to the other forms, owing to their smaller size, good drug content uniformity, and rapid disintegration. We further investigated the usability of the granules in the dispensing procedure (dividing and packing) and in the dosing process (retrieval from package) using the powders as controls. The deviation of the divided amount and loss on dosing were reduced relative to the powders. In addition, drug dissolution properties and storage stability for 12 months were the same as those of the powders. Therefore, we concluded that dantrolene granules are excellent alternatives as an extemporaneous preparation in pharmacies.

Phospholipid nanoparticles (PNs) encapsulating vitamin C and E derivatives, 3-O-cetyl ascorbic acid (CA) and tocopherol acetate (TA), respectively, were examined using the film rehydration and extrusion method. PN formulations (TA-Cassome) were prepared by mixing CA, soya phosphatidylcholine (Soya PC), sodium cholate, and TA at a molar ratio of 20/80/5/6. Glycerol (GL) or diglycerol (DG) were also added to improve the skin accumulation of CA and TA. Three TA-Cassome formulations were evaluated using a dynamic light scattering (DLS), NMR, TEM, skin accumulation test for CA and TA, and small-angle X-ray diffraction (SAXD) analysis. TA-Cassome formulations (150 nm) were stable for two weeks and they encapsulated 1.8 mg/mL of TA. TEM and SAXD analysis revealed that the nanoparticles formed a spherical multilayer structure. 1H and 31P NMR indicated that GL and DG enhanced the proton mobility of choline groups of soya PC molecules located on the membrane surface of TA-Cassome. Accumulation of CA and TA in the dermis was increased by adding GL and DG. SAXD analysis revealed that GL and DG promoted the formation of new lamellar structures on the stratum corneum, which contributed to improving the skin accumulation of CA and TA.

Tocopheryl phosphoric acid (TPA, a hydrophilic vitamin E derivative) loaded liposome and glycerin containing phospholipid nanoparticles (GPLNP) were prepared using the film rehydration and extrusion method. Nanoparticle formulations were evaluated for size, zeta potential, and in vitro permeation across hairless mouse skin, and 31P NMR spectral analysis was performed. The prepared formulations were stable for 2 weeks, and their mean nanoparticle size varied between 90 and 140 nm. Although glycerin did not affect the particle size of the empty (no TPA) system, TPA-loading resulted in the reduction of particle size and conferred a negative charge. The 31P NMR spectral analysis showed that the presence of glycerin in the formulation changed the nanoparticle structure from a bilayer to a nonbilayer. Moreover, it was suggested that TPA molecules interacted with phospholipid by entrapping nanoparticles in the formulations. TPA did not permeate across the hairless mouse skin after 48 h. However, the TPA concentration in the hairless mouse skin after permeation study increased in the nanoparticle systems and the 30% GPLNP formulation was the best formulation for the accelerated TPA permeation in the hairless mouse skin. These results demonstrate that 30% GPLNP improved TPA permeation in the hairless mouse skin model. And it was strongly suggested that glycerin has an important role for changing the structure of nanoparticles and enhancing the skin permeation of TPA.

Objective In this study, we aimed to investigate the immunogenicity of protein aggregates of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), generated by forced shaking stress with siliconized and nonsiliconized syringes in a mouse model. Methods Samples were filled in siliconized and nonsiliconized syringes with shaking and headspace air. Characterization studies were performed using high-performance size-exclusion chromatography, nanoparticle tracking analysis, flow cytometry, micro-flow imaging and resonant mass measurement. The samples (10 or 100 μg) were subcutaneously injected into BALB/c mice for 21 days, and the anti-drug antibody (ADA) concentrations were monitored. Key findings In samples shaken with siliconized syringes [SO (+)], large amounts of submicron and subvisible protein aggregates were formed by interactions with silicone oil droplets. The characteristics of protein aggregates differed between the mAb solution and shaken samples, which strongly indicates that silicone oil accelerates protein aggregation. When administered at low doses, the ADA concentration in all samples increased with repeated injections, and SO (+) induced the highest immunogenicity. However, when administered at high doses, ADA concentration decreased following prolonged repeated administration for tolerance. Conclusions These results indicated that mAb protein aggregation induced immunogenicity in mice, and SO (+) induced higher immunogenicity than samples shaken with nonsiliconized syringe.

In this symposium, we present a novel breathable protective ointment (BPO) formulation developed at the University of Shizuoka for the prevention of moisture-associated skin damage (MASD) intended for use in healthcare settings. MASD occurs when moisture is in constant contact with the skin for prolonged periods of time, causing degradation of the skin barrier. Exposure to physical or chemical stimuli in addition to moisture may lead to different types of moisture-associated dermatitis such as incontinence-associated or periwound dermatitis. Another type of moisture-associated dermatitis, diaper dermatitis, is treated with protective ointments such as white petrolatum and zinc ointment. These ointments protect the skin from irritants but also block insensible dermal perspiration, which promotes further skin maceration. Therefore, we have developed a BPO formulation from white petrolatum and calcium carbonate, which serve as a protectant and pore-forming agent, respectively. In vitro water-proof tests confirmed the skin-protective properties of the BPO, and moisture-permeation tests indicated its breathability. Moreover, the BPO protected the skin from irritants without the loss of skin hydration in rats. Our next step involves the trial of BPO in infants with diaper dermatitis. In the future, this BPO could be used as an ointment base for active pharmaceutical ingredients used to prevent MASD.

The aim of this study was to develop and evaluate novel polyglycerol fatty acid ester (PGFE)-based nanoparticles (NPs) for the dermal delivery of tocopherol acetate (TA). TA-loaded PGFE-based NPs (PGFE-NPs) were prepared by mixing PGFE, soya phosphatidylcholine, dimyristoylphosphatidylglycerol, and TA with film using the film rehydration and extrusion method. The prepared formulations were analyzed by dynamic light scattering, small-angle X-ray diffraction and polarization microscopy. An in vitro skin accumulation test was performed with TA under occlusive and non-occlusive applications, using Yucatan micropig skin. The size range of the TA-loaded liposome and PGFE-NPs was 107–128 nm, and they were encapsulated in 1.6–2.3 mg/mL TA. All PGFE-NP formulations were negatively charged and stable for 2 weeks. Under occlusive applications, all formulations induced small amounts of TA accumulation in the epidermis but not in the dermis. However, under non-occlusive applications, some of PGFE-NP formulations enhanced TA accumulation in the epidermis. Furthermore, only the polyglycerol 4-laurate (PG4L)-based formulation induced dermal TA accumulation with the change in the formulation from a vesicular to bilayer stacked structure following water evaporation under non-occlusive applications. These results indicated that the novel TA-loaded PG4L formulation enabled the dermal delivery of TA in non-occlusive applications.

Scientific approaches for dispensation are important for the quality and efficacy of drug treatments. Therefore, for the dispensation of powdered medicines, we have developed a powder blending method using a planetary centrifugal mixer (PCM) to replace the empirical manual method involving a mortar and pestle. The aim of this study was to optimize the formulation of pharmaceutical diluents for dispensing powdered medicines, using PCM. The diluents, composed of powdered lactose, crystalline lactose, and corn starch were assigned to a {3,2}-Simplex Lattice design. Then, the designed diluents were blended with model powders, such as carbazochrome sodium sulfonate powder, rifampicin capsule contents, and crushed sulfasarazine tablets, at ratios of 1 : 4, 1 : 1, and 4 : 1 using PCM at 800 rpm for 60 s at a 20% filling rate. The mixtures were examined for content uniformity relative standard deviation (RSD) and flowability angle of repose (AOR). Response surface methodology was applied to optimize the formulation with the smallest RSD and AOR, and then the design space of desired diluents was estimated. On the basis of the design space, crystalline lactose, the mixture of lactose powder and crystalline lactose at a ratio of 1 : 4, and the mixture of corn starch and crystalline lactose at a ratio of 1 : 4, were suitable diluents for the powdered formulation, the content of the capsules, and the crushed tablets, respectively. The selected diluents were successfully applied to other model medicines showing a sufficient RSD and AOR. This technique could contribute to the development of scientific approaches for dispensation.

Background The aim of this study was to investigate whether the lamellar and lateral structure of intercellular lipid of stratum corneum (SC) can be evaluated from millimeter-sized SC (MSC) by X-ray diffraction. Materials and methods A 12 mm × 12 mm SC sheet from hairless mouse was divided into 16 pieces measuring 3 mm × 3 mm square. From another sheet, 4 pieces of ultramillimeter-sized SC (USC:1.5 mm × 1.5 mm square) were prepared. Small and wide-angle X-ray diffraction (SAXD and WAXD) measurements were performed on each piece. For MSC and USC, changes in the lamellar and lateral structure after the application of d-limonene were measured. Results The intensity of SAXD peaks due to the lamellar phase of long periodicity phase (LPP) and WAXD peaks due to the lateral hydrocarbon chain-packing structures varied in MSC and USC pieces, although over the 12 mm × 12 mm SC sheet. These results indicated that the intercellular lipid components and their proportion appeared nearly uniform. Application of d-limonene on MSC and USC piece with strong peaks in SAXD and the WAXD resulted in the disappearance of peaks due to the lamellar phase of LPP and decrease in peak intensity for the lateral hydrocarbon chain-packing structures. These changes are consistent with normal-sized sample results. Conclusion We found that the selection of a sample piece with strong diffraction peaks due to the lamellar and lateral structure enabled evaluation of the SC structure in small-sized samples by X-ray diffraction.

Topical medications, such as ointments, creams, and lotions, are frequently used for dermatological treatments. In clinical situations, improper use of topical medications might often be observed. First of all, changes to topical generic medication from an innovator might induce a change in release of the main compound and thus clinical efficacy. Next, there are some precautions during the preparation of an admixture of a topical medication. For example, no differences in the vasoconstriction response were observed with small degrees (16 times) of dilution in a steroid ointment. Another important consideration is the combination effect of a change to a generic medication from an innovator with preparation of the admixture. From a pharmacist’s perspective, three precautions that should be considered when applying topical medications are considered here.

On dispensing powdered antineoplastic medicines, it is important to prevent cross-contamination and environmental exposure. Recently, we developed a method for blending powdered medicine in a disposable ointment container using a planetary centrifugal mixer. The disposable container prevents cross-contamination. In addition, environmental exposure associated with washing the apparatus does not arise because no blending blade is used. In this study, we aimed to confirm the uniformity of the mixture and weight loss of medicine in the blending procedure. We blended colored lactose powder with Leukerin(®) or Mablin(®) powders using the new method and the ordinary pestle and mortar method. Then, the blending state was monitored using image analysis. Blending variables, such as the blending ratio (1:9-9:1), container size (35-125 mL), and charging rate (20-50%) in the container were also investigated under the operational conditions of 500 rpm and 50 s. At a 20% charging rate in a 35 mL container, the blending precision of the mixtures was not influenced by the blending ratio, and was less than 6.08%, indicating homogeneity. With an increase in the charging rate, however, the blending precision decreased. The possible amount of both mixtures rose to about 17 g with a 20% charging rate in a 125 mL container. Furthermore, weight loss of medicines with this method was smaller than that with the pestle and mortar method, suggesting that this method is safer for pharmacists. In conclusion, we have established a precise and safe method for blending powdered medicines in pharmacies.

Purpose To determine the effect of elasticity on the skin permeation of ketoprofen from surfactant-based vesicular formulations and elastic liposomes. Methods Ketoprofen-loaded surfactant-based vesicles and elastic liposomes were prepared by sonication. Citric buffer (at pH 3.0) was used as rehydration buffer. Characterization studies of the prepared liposomal formulations were performed by dynamic light scattering, extrusion, and 1 H and 31 P nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Ketoprofen transport studies across human skin were performed for all formulations. Results Stable ketoprofen-loaded formulations were prepared. Addition of an edge activator, in the absence of the drug, increased the elasticity of the vesicles and liposomes. Ketoprofen loading reduced the elasticity of the liposomes and surfactant-based-vesicles. However, at saturation, the elasticity was still higher than that in the absence of the edge activator and ketoprofen, except for ketoprofen-loaded liposomes with Span 80. NMR studies revealed that the ketoprofen molecules were entrapped in a vesicle bilayer in all vesicular formulations and that the ketoprofen molecules affected the phosphate mobility in the liposomal formulations. Ketoprofen transport studies across human skin clearly showed that the surfactant-based vesicular formulations were superior to the elastic liposomal formulations. Conclusion Surfactant-based vesicles enhance ketoprofen transport across human skin, while no enhancement of ketoprofen was observed when loaded in elastic liposomes.

In the dispensing process, powdered medicines are often blended with diluents or different kinds of powder. With blending, the mass percent of the medicine in the mixture is unknown until the active pharmaceutical ingredient is determined with techniques such as spectroscopy and chromatography. However, pharmacists need to confirm the exact blending ratio of the dispensing mixture in pharmacies. We aimed to develop a precise and concise method to measure the mass percent of powdered medicine mixtures without an expensive analytical apparatus. Digital photographs of three kinds of mixture of lactose powder, as diluents, with Adona®, Anginal®, or Asverin® powder were taken with a microscope at a 30× magnification. Thereafter, the mass percent was calculated from digital images of the mixture using calibrated color information in the YCbCr color space. A linear regression, between the mass percent and color difference signal, Cb, value was obtained from 10 to 90% of the medicines (r(2)=0.9806-9993) in all systems. The intra-day accuracy and precision were 0.67-12% (relative error) and

Goreisan suppository is prepared as a hospital preparation, and successfully used for the treatment of diarrhea and vomiting in young children with common cold. While clinical efficacy of the suppository has been reported, few studies have been carried out to clarify the preparation procedure and pharmacokinetics of the suppository. In this study, trans-cinnamic acid (CA) was used as a representative substance of goreisan constituents, and assayed by HPLC-UV. We investigated the properties of goreisan suppositories prepared using various sizes of pulverized goreisan extract granules, in vitro dissolution profiles using the reciprocating dialysis tube method, and pharmacokinetics in rabbits compared with those for goreisan enema. Mass and content uniformity tests on the suppositories of three size fractions, 0-75, 75-150, and 150-300 µm, showed good acceptance for all kinds of suppository. Storage stability at 4°C was maintained until 4 months. In vitro dissolution of CA from the suppository was proportional to time until 45 min, and slower than that from the enema. Finally, 80% of CA had dissolved at 60 min. Pharmacokinetic study in rabbits revealed that the area under the plasma concentration-time curve from 0 to 120 min (AUC0-120 min) of the suppository was twice that of the enema. Moreover, from a study in rabbits using CA injection and CA suppository, we revealed that CA was rapidly and well absorbed from the rectum, showing 84% absolute bioavailability. Thus, we illustrated the defined preparation procedure of the suppository and the superiority of the suppository over the enema. This study will support evidence that the suppository is fast-acting and efficacious in clinical use.

The formulation characteristics of 6 brands of enteric-coated aspirin tablets under unpackaged conditions at 40°C and 60°C for 4 weeks were analyzed. Appearance, salicylic acid content, dissolution rates, and surface properties (by Raman microscopy) were evaluated to determine stability data, taking into account the clinical use of generic drugs. No change in appearance, decomposition, or dissolution rates was observed in unpackaged aspirin tablets stored at 40°C for 4 weeks. However, when stored at 60°C, tablets of 5 of the 6 brands showed whiskers on their surfaces along with an increase in salicylic acid content and a decrease in dissolution rate. Results of Raman mapping on the surface and cross sectional surface of the tablets with whiskers showed a salicylic acid peak associated with storage at 60°C for 4 weeks. However, for tablets from 1 of the 6 brands, no salicylic acid peaks were observed. For this tablet, Raman microscopy revealed 2 layers of film coating, and talc, which greatly affected the stability of the acetylsalicylic acid, was found only in the outer layer film. These results indicated that the protection of compatibility with talc is one of the important factors in enhancement of aspirin tablet stability in this tablet. We concluded that certification of the characteristics associated with stability and formulation is essential for generic drugs, which are not required to undergo stability testing under extreme storage conditions.

We introduced the application of a planetary centrifugal mixer to dispensing powdered medicines to prevent from individual variation in the skills of pharmacists with a manual blending. The blending performance of the mixer was explored in terms of four operational variables, namely, operation speed (400-1000 rpm), operation time (10-60 s), charging rate in vessel (20-50%), and size of vessel (35, 58, 125, 550 mL), using colored lactose and crystalline lactose as the principle model medicine and diluent, respectively. The blending degree was assessed by image analysis, so the extent of uniformity was expressed as the relative standard deviation of the color difference signal Cb value of YCrCb color space. Application of the mixer to blending three commercial medicines with diluents was carried out. Sufficient blending was achieved at 10 s using a 20% charging rate and 35 mL vessel irrespective of operation speed. As the charging rate was increased, a higher operation speed was needed to obtain uniform blending. A larger sized vessel also required a higher operation speed. Uniform blending was achieved in all of the mixtures of colored lactose and crystalline lactose at the weight ratio of 1 : 9-9 : 1. In the application studies using Adona®, Anginal® and Neophylline® powder, the blending performance of the mixer was equivalent to that of the manual blending method, showing relative standard deviations of 2.2-3.3% and 1.8-3.8%, respectively. These results revealed that the planetary centrifugal mixer was suitable for blending powdered medicine.

We evaluated the interaction between human stratum corneum (SC) and surfactant-based rigid or elastic vesicles during permeation using synchrotron X-ray diffraction to obtain the mechanism action of surfactant-based vesicles for enhanced skin permeation. The effects of vesicle elasticity on the interaction with SC were also investigated. Changes in the small-angle X-ray diffraction peaks of the human SC after buffer control and vesicle application were monitored. In the small-angle region, the control as the citrate buffer induced no significant changes of diffraction peaks for the lamellar structure of short periodicity phase (SPP), which is observed as a main peak in the human SC. Application of rigid vesicles resulted in small changes in the diffraction peaks attributed to lamellar phase of SPP. After application of elastic vesicles, however, a large shift to smaller angles due to swelling of the lamellar phase of SPP was clearly observed from the intensity difference profiles. All peaks due to the vesicles were still observed after 2h of application for all formulations, indicating that both vesicles interacted with the SC while maintaining their structures. These results strongly suggest that vesicles affect the lamellar phase of SPP of the intercellular lipids in the SC during permeation.

We evaluated the particle state change in emulsion admixtures using in situ flow particle imaging analysis (FPIA). Ropion® intravenous (flurbiprofen axetil: Ropion®) served as the model emulsion formulation. A binary mixture of Ropion® and normal saline (NS), and a ternary admixture of Ropion®, NS, and Gaster® injection (famotidine: Gaster®) or Primperan® injection (metoclopramide hydrochloride: Primperan®) were prepared and the change in emulsion particle state was analyzed using FPIA under in situ condition. The effect of storage on pH change and the chemical stability of flurbiprofen axetil were also investigated. In Ropion®, various particle images (mean diameter: 2.4 µm) were obtained. From our analysis of changes in scattergrams and particle images, changing behaviors of emulsion particles as a function of storage time depended on the systems of admixture samples. In Ropion®/NS and Ropion®/Gaster®/NS systems, mean particle size and particle number increased with lengthening storage time; however, these values were dramatically increased beyond 6 h in the Ropion®/Primperan®/NS system, corresponding to a decrease in measured pH. The decomposition of flurbiprofen axetil due to incompatibility was not observed in all systems. Detailed information on the change in emulsion particle state was obtained using FPIA, indicating that this method is useful to evaluate state changes in emulsion admixtures under in situ condition.

The release profiles of fluorescein isothiocyanate-dextran (FD) at various molecular weights (20–500 kDa) and the swelling behaviors of polyelectrolyte complex-forming tablets were investigated. Four types of tablets were prepared using different combinations of the following chemicals: carboxymethyl dextran (CMD), dextran sulfate (DS), 2-diethylaminoethyl dextran (EA), and 2-hydroxypropyltrimethylammonium dextran (CDC). Release tests were conducted via the rotating basket method at pH 6.8. Swelling behaviors were analyzed via the front movement method. For all FDs, release rates decreased with decreasing density of charged groups in the matrix, as follows: CMD-EA, CMD-CDC, DS-EA, and DS-CDC. Front movement profiles showed that the dried core disappeared within 3 h, leaving the swollen matrix. Results revealed that the tablets rapidly formed hydrated matrices, with release of the incorporated FDs by diffusion and erosion. The tablets successfully released the macromolecules, and we determined that the release rates could be controlled with a combination of dextran derivatives.

Marketing authorization holders do not disclose any information on the pharmaceutical properties of over-the-counter drugs (OTC). When a drug is switched from a prescription drug to OTC, pharmacists can acquire that information from the corresponding ethical drug (ED) through the package insert, interview form, and so on. However, the pharmaceutical equivalence between ED and OTC is unclear. In this study, we examined the drug dissolution behavior of both ED and OTCs containing scopolamine butylbromide. Dissolution tests were performed by the paddle method using Japanese Pharmacopeia (JP) XV test fluids at pH 1.2, 4.0 and 6.8 and water based on the guidelines for bioequivalence studies of generic products. The dissolution profiles of OTCs differed significantly from ED showing a similarity factor (f2) value ranging from 8.9 to 42.9. Time until 85% dissolution ranged from 23 to 95 min and from 17 to 174 min at pH 1.2 and pH 6.8, respectively. Then JP XV disintegration tests were conducted to investigate differences in the disintegration process. The disintegration time of preparations showing delayed dissolution was prolonged compared to that of others, suggesting that the disintegration of the tablet or capsule is one of the important factors affecting the drug dissolution. These differences in the disintegration and drug dissolution might cause differences in the bioavailability of the drug. For patient safety, more detailed product information of OTCs should be supplied by the manufacturer, and not be assumed from that of corresponding ED.

We developed a color difference signal method to evaluate the degree of blending powdered medicines in pharmacies. In the method, the degree of blending is expressed as the relative standard deviation of the color difference signal value (Cb or Cr) of the YCbCr color space after digital photos of the blended medicines are analyzed by image processing. While the method is effective to determine the degree of blending colored medicines, it remains unknown whether it can be applied to uncolored or white-colored medicines. To investigate this, we examined colored diluents to identify an indicator of the degree mixtures are blended. In this study, we applied this method to Pontal® and Prednisolone® powders, which were used as uncolored and white-colored medicines, respectively. Each of these medicines was blended with the colored lactose using a pestle and mortar, and then the uniformity of blending was evaluated. The degree of blending was well-monitored in both mixtures with various blending ratios (1 : 9-9 : 1), showing a sufficient uniformity at 60 rotations of the pestle. Moreover, the Cr values of the mixtures with various blending ratios were correlated with the concentration of active pharmaceutical ingredients in these medicines, which was determined using HPLC. This indicated the usefulness of the color difference signal method for the quantitative determination of medicines. Thus, we demonstrated the applicability and effectiveness of this method to check dispensing powders.

The aim of this study was to characterize protein aggregation during reconstitution of a highly concentrated solution of lyophilized L-asparaginase (L-ASP). The effect of the preparation method on L-ASP aggregation using siliconized or non-siliconized syringes and the effect of storage after preparation were evaluated by far-UV circular dichroism spectroscopy, Raman microscopy, flow cytometry, and flow particle image analysis. To investigate the effect of syringe type in combination with shaking and headspace air on L-ASP aggregation, four kinds of L-ASP in 5% glucose solutions were prepared (in the presence or absence of silicon oil and headspace air). Slight differences in L-ASP secondary structure were observed between the siliconized and non-siliconized syringe systems before shaking. Large numbers of sub-visible (0.1-100 µm) and submicron (0.1-1 µm) particles were formed by preparation with siliconized syringes and the combination of shaking and headspace air. The number of aggregated particles was not decreased with increased storage time. The Raman microscopy, flow cytometry and flow particle image results suggested that L-ASP interacted with silicone oil, which induced aggregation. Nevertheless, sub-visible and submicron particles were also formed with non-siliconized syringes. However, using non-siliconized syringes, the number of aggregated particles decreased with storage. No changes in particle character were observed before or after shaking with headspace air in non-siliconized syringes, indicating that soluble aggregates formed and dissolved with storage. Silicone oil in syringes, in combination with shaking and headspace air, strongly affected the aggregation of lyophilized L-ASP formulations during preparation.

Liquid crystalline nanoparticles (LCNs) were prepared using glyceryl monooleyl ether (GME) by the modified film rehydration method. Hydrogenated lecithin (HL), 1,3-butylene glycol (1,3-BG), and Poloxamer 407 were used as additives. The prepared LCN formulations were evaluated based on particle size, small-angle X-ray diffraction (SAXS) analysis, (1)H- and (19)F-NMR spectra, and in vitro skin permeation across Yucatan micropig skin. The composition (weight percent) of the LCN formulations were GME-HL-1,3-BG (4 : 1 : 15), 4% GME-based LCN and GME-HL-1,3-BG (8 : 1 : 15), 8% GME-based LCN and their mean particle sizes were 130-175 nm. Flurbiprofen 5 and 10 mg was loaded into 4% GME-based LCN and 8% GME-based LCN systems, respectively. The results of SAXS and NMR suggested that both flurbiprofen-loaded formulations consist of particles with reverse type hexagonal phase (formation of hexosome) and flurbiprofen molecules were localized in the lipid domain through interaction of flurbiprofen with the lipid components. Flurbiprofen transport from the LCN systems across the Yucatan micropig skin was increased compared to flurbiprofen in citric buffer (pH=3.0). The 8% GME-based LCN systems was superior to the 4% GME-based LCN for flurbiprofen transport. Since the internal hexagonal phase in the 8% GME-based LCN systems had a higher degree of order compared to the 4% GME-based LCN in SAXS patterns, the 8% GME-based LCN system had a larger surface area, which might influence flurbiprofen permeation. These results indicated that the GME-based LCN system is effective in improving the skin permeation of flurbiprofen across the skin.

The inclusion compounds of linear amylose and salicylic acid analogues preparedby sealed-heating were evaluated by using powder X-ray diffraction and infraredspectroscopy. Sealed-heating of amylose and either salicylamide or benzoic acidinduced the amylose structural change from the 61- to the 71-helix structure, while sealed-heating with o-toluic acid, o-chlorobenzoic acid and o-nitrobenzoic acid induced the change from the 61- to the 81-helix structure. In contrast to theresults in the salicylic acid system, the amylose helix type of sealed-heated samplewas not varied by the load of the guest compound, but was fixed only by the guestspecies. No change of the helical structure of amylose depending on the amylose molecular weight was observed. From the comparison of inclusion compound formation among different guest systems, it was found that the higher vapor pressure at 100 °C of the guest resulted in faster inclusion compound formation. The vapor pressure of the guest compound would be an important factor affecting the progress of inclusion compound formation.

Goreisan suppository is prepared as a hospital preparation, and successfully used for the treatment of diarrhea and vomiting in young children with common cold. While clinical efficacy of the suppository has been reported, few studies have been carried out to clarify the preparation procedure and pharmacokinetics of the suppository. In this study, trans-cinnamic acid (CA) was used as a representative substance of goreisan constituents, and assayed by HPLC-UV. We investigated the properties of goreisan suppositories prepared using various sizes of pulverized goreisan extract granules, in vitro dissolution profiles using the reciprocating dialysis tube method, and pharmacokinetics in rabbits compared with those for goreisan enema. Mass and content uniformity tests on the suppositories of three size fractions, 0-75, 75-150, and 150-300 µm, showed good acceptance for all kinds of suppository. Storage stability at 4°C was maintained until 4 months. In vitro dissolution of CA from the suppository was proportional to time until 45 min, and slower than that from the enema. Finally, 80% of CA had dissolved at 60 min. Pharmacokinetic study in rabbits revealed that the area under the plasma concentration-time curve from 0 to 120 min (AUC0-120 min) of the suppository was twice that of the enema. Moreover, from a study in rabbits using CA injection and CA suppository, we revealed that CA was rapidly and well absorbed from the rectum, showing 84% absolute bioavailability. Thus, we illustrated the defined preparation procedure of the suppository and the superiority of the suppository over the enema. This study will support evidence that the suppository is fast-acting and efficacious in clinical use.

When a mixture of linear amylose (AS200) and2-naphthol was heated in a glass ampoule above60 circC, an inclusion compound was formed. Theinclusion formation accompanied the structural changeof AS200 from a 61-helix to a 71-helix. Fromthe UV determination, one 2-naphthol molecule could beincluded per one 71-helical turn of amylose. It was found that the heating temperature, heating timeand water content in the physical mixture wereimportant parameters affecting the formation ofinclusion compounds during sealed-heating.

Flurbiprofen loaded rigid and elastic vesicles comprising the bilayer-forming surfactant sucrose-ester laurate were prepared by the film rehydration and extrusion method. The charge-inducing agent sodium dodecyl sulfate, and the micelle-forming surfactants, sorbitan monolaurate, polyethylene glycol monolaurate, and polysorbate 20, were used to enhance elasticity. Vesicle formulations were evaluated for size, zeta potential, (1)H and (19)F nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra, and in vitro skin permeation across Yucatan micropig (YMP) skin. Vesicle formulations were stable for 2 weeks and their mean sizes were 95-135 nm. NMR spectroscopy showed that flurbiprofen molecular mobility was restricted by interaction with vesicle components because of entrapment in vesicle bilayers. Moreover, sorbitan monolaurate-containing vesicles strongly retained flurbiprofen molecules. After non-occlusive application to YMP skin, flurbiprofen transport from all vesicle formulations was superior to that of flurbiprofen alone and remarkably decreased after water vaporization. Polarization microscopy and small-angle X-ray diffraction analysis showed that the vesicle formulation was transferred to liquid crystalline state. Suppression of vesicle transition to the liquid crystalline state was observed with applications of both large quantities and diluted samples. The presence of water in the formulations was associated with maintenance of the vesicle structure and greater flurbiprofen transport across YMP skin.

We evaluated the particle state change in emulsion admixtures using in situ flow particle imaging analysis (FPIA). Ropion® intravenous (flurbiprofen axetil: Ropion®) served as the model emulsion formulation. A binary mixture of Ropion® and normal saline (NS), and a ternary admixture of Ropion®, NS, and Gaster® injection (famotidine: Gaster®) or Primperan® injection (metoclopramide hydrochloride: Primperan®) were prepared and the change in emulsion particle state was analyzed using FPIA under in situ condition. The effect of storage on pH change and the chemical stability of flurbiprofen axetil were also investigated. In Ropion®, various particle images (mean diameter: 2.4 µm) were obtained. From our analysis of changes in scattergrams and particle images, changing behaviors of emulsion particles as a function of storage time depended on the systems of admixture samples. In Ropion®/NS and Ropion®/Gaster®/NS systems, mean particle size and particle number increased with lengthening storage time; however, these values were dramatically increased beyond 6 h in the Ropion®/Primperan®/NS system, corresponding to a decrease in measured pH. The decomposition of flurbiprofen axetil due to incompatibility was not observed in all systems. Detailed information on the change in emulsion particle state was obtained using FPIA, indicating that this method is useful to evaluate state changes in emulsion admixtures under in situ condition.

Characterization and release profiles of commercial dexamethasone dipropionate (DDP) from an innovator and 2 generic ointments (Methaderm (IM), Promethasone (GP), and Mainvate (GM)) and their admixtures with heparinoid ointment (Hirudoid Soft) were investigated. The admixtures were prepared using 2 mixing methods (slab or rotation/revolution mixer). Microscopic and FT-Raman spectrometric analyses revealed that the ointments, except for IM, contained DDP crystals. A silicone membrane was used for the evaluation of the DDP permeation. The permeated DDP amounts from GP and GM were lower than that from IM, indicating that DDP solubility in the ointment vehicle affected the release of DDP from the ointment. No significant differences were observed in DDP release between IM alone and its admixture prepared using a slab; however, DDP release from the admixture prepared using a rotation/revolution mixer was significantly lower than those from IM alone and its admixture by slab. In the GP system, DDP release from the admixtures by the 2 mixing methods was higher than that from GP alone, whereas no significant difference in DDP release between the 2 mixing methods was observed. No significant differences were observed between the GM and admixtures. The apparent solubility of DDP in the admixtures as determined by the ultracentrifugal separation method indicated that the DDP amount in the liquid phase of admixtures with GP was 6 times higher than that of admixtures with IM or GM. Therefore, the apparent solubility of DDP in the liquid phase in the GP system might influence the DDP release in admixtures.

Marketing authorization holders do not disclose any information on the pharmaceutical properties of over-the-counter drugs (OTC). When a drug is switched from a prescription drug to OTC, pharmacists can acquire that information from the corresponding ethical drug (ED) through the package insert, interview form, and so on. However, the pharmaceutical equivalence between ED and OTC is unclear. In this study, we examined the drug dissolution behavior of both ED and OTCs containing scopolamine butylbromide. Dissolution tests were performed by the paddle method using Japanese Pharmacopeia (JP) XV test fluids at pH 1.2, 4.0 and 6.8 and water based on the guidelines for bioequivalence studies of generic products. The dissolution profiles of OTCs differed significantly from ED showing a similarity factor (f2) value ranging from 8.9 to 42.9. Time until 85% dissolution ranged from 23 to 95 min and from 17 to 174 min at pH 1.2 and pH 6.8, respectively. Then JP XV disintegration tests were conducted to investigate differences in the disintegration process. The disintegration time of preparations showing delayed dissolution was prolonged compared to that of others, suggesting that the disintegration of the tablet or capsule is one of the important factors affecting the drug dissolution. These differences in the disintegration and drug dissolution might cause differences in the bioavailability of the drug. For patient safety, more detailed product information of OTCs should be supplied by the manufacturer, and not be assumed from that of corresponding ED.

Ketorolac loaded rigid and elastic vesicles were prepared by sonication and the physicochemical properties of the drug loaded-vesicle formulations were examined. Rigid and elastic vesicles were prepared from the double chain surfactant sucrose-ester laurate (L-595) and the single chain surfactant octaoxyethylene-laurate ester (PEG-8-L). Sulfosuccinate (TR-70) was used as a negative charge inducer. Evaluation of the prepared vesicle was performed by dynamic light scattering, extrusion and by (1)H NMR (T(2) relaxation studies). The vesicles mean size varied between 90 and 150 nm. The elasticity of the vesicles was enhanced with increasing PEG-8-L/L-595 ratio, while an increase in loading of ketorolac resulted in a reduction in vesicle elasticity. (1)H NMR measurements showed that the molecular mobility of ketorolac was restricted, which indicates that ketorolac molecules were entrapped within the vesicle bilayers. The T(2) values of the aromatic protons of ketorolac increased gradually at higher PEG-8-L levels, indicating that ketorolac mobility increased in the vesicle bilayer. The chemical stability of ketorolac was dramatically improved in the vesicle formulation compared to a buffer solution. The strong interactions of ketorolac with the bilayers of the vesicles might be the explanation for this increased stability of ketorolac.

Purpose: Extemporaneous compounding is an important part of pharmacy practice, and should be standardized and sophisticated to ensure the quality of the compounded preparations. Recently, we applied a planetary centrifugal mixer (PCM) to powder blending, which has attracted interest for its small scale and lack of contamination. In this study, we aimed to reveal the feasibility of dry powder coating through ordered mixing of fine particles using PCM. Methods: Cohesive lactose powders (Pharmatose450M) were dry coated with magnesium stearate (MgSt) using from 0.1 to 5%(w/w) content. The operational variables tested were operation time (1-30 min), operation speed (400-1000 rpm), vessel size (24-100 mL), and charging rate in the vessel (20-40%). The processed powders were evaluated for their surface morphology, flowability, and wettability. Furthermore, fine ibuprofen particles were coated with various lubricants, and then the dissolution profiles were examined. The crystallinity of ibuprofen was assessed using FT-IR and PXRD. Results: Lactose powders were successfully coated with MgSt using PCM. When the level of MgSt was over 1%, the surface of the lactose powders was thoroughly covered. Angles of repose were 51° and 41° for unprocessed and processed powders with 1% MgSt, respectively. The contact angle of the water drop on the 1% MgSt sample leached to be 132°, changing to a hydrophobic surface. Investigations under various operational conditions revealed that higher improvement was observed upon higher speed and longer time, and a smaller charging rate in the vessel. Vessel size had no impact. Moreover, improved dissolution of ibuprofen coated with both hydrophilic and hydrophobic lubricants was observed owing to good dispersing behavior. Besides, no alteration of crystallinity was detected. Conclusions: PCM is an effective tool for dry powder coating with low impact stress. The presented method will contribute a great deal to making crushed tablets a functional powder. This article is open to POST-PUBLICATION REVIEW. Registered readers (see “For Readers”) may comment by clicking on ABSTRACT on the issue’s contents page.