Abstract: A dry powder cubic gel precursor comprising an encapsulating compound, an amphiphile capable of forming a cubic liquid crystalline phase, and optionally a solvent. The encapsulating compound (A), amphiphile (B), and optional solvent (C) are present in mass fractions relative to each other such that 1.0=a+b+c wherein a is the mass fraction of A, b is the mass fraction of B, and c is the mass fraction of C. Further, 1.0>a>0, 1.0>b>0, 1.0>c>0 and a, b, and c do not fall within a cubic liquid crystalline phase region on a phase diagram representing phase behavior of A, B, and C.

Abstract: This invention refers to: multiparticulate formulations of Lithium salts for oral administration constituted by either modified release granules or mixtures of modified and conventional release granules, suitable for once-a-day administration also at high strengths of Lithium salts, and to the preparation process of said formulations.

Abstract: Disclosed are antibiotic products for delivering at least two different antibiotics, wherein the products are comprised of at least three or four dosage forms with different release profiles and the at least two different antibiotics comprise at least one protein synthesis inhibiting antibiotic and at least one non-protein synthesis inhibiting antibiotic.

Abstract: Once daily pharmaceutical compositions containing lithium carbonate in the form of coated granules.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods using pulsed laser ablation to prepare coated drug particles of uniform size and thickness. The coated drug particles ranged in size from several nanometers to several millimeters in diameter size, and were coated with organic polymer particle having average diameter sizes from about 1 to 50 nm. In illustrative embodiments, coated drug particles or drug delivery particles are disclosed comprising a biodegradable or biocompatible polymer coating having controlled thickness and controlled coating uniformity, that offer superior pharmaceutical properties for controlled delivery and increased bioavailability.

Abstract: Particles of water insoluble biologically active compounds, particularly water-insoluble drugs, with an average size of 100 nm to about 300 nm, are prepared by dissolving the compound in a solution then spraying the solution into compressed gaz, liquid or supercritical fluid in the presence of appropriate surface modifiers.

Abstract: Microcapsules comprising an agglomeration of primary microcapsules, each individual primary microcapsule having a primary shell and the agglomeration being encapsulated by an outer shell, may be prepared by providing an aqueous mixture of a loading substance and a shell material, adjusting pH, temperature, concentration and/or mixing speed to form primary shells of shell material around the loading substance and cooling the aqueous mixture until the primary shells agglomerate and an outer shell of shell material forms around the agglomeration. Such microcapsules are useful for storing a substance and for delivering the substance to a desired environment.

Abstract: Described herein are microcapsules and emulsions prepared from low Bloom gelatin and methods of making and using thereof.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical composition for slow release of active ingredient in the gastrointestinal tract, comprising a plurality of active ingredient-containing particles coated with a material insoluble in gastric and intestinal juices, where the particles have as core a homogeneous mixture comprising an active pharmaceutical ingredient and a polymer insoluble in gastric and intestinal juices, with an average internal pore diameter not exceeding 35 ?m, makes efficient and pH-independent delaying of release possible even with comparatively small amounts of polymer. It is additionally distinguished by a long shelf life and is particularly suitable also for nonspherical particles.

Abstract: A modified release preparation having one or more coated core elements, each core element including an active ingredient and having a modified release coating, wherein a stabilising coat is provided between each core element and its modified release coating so that, upon in vitro dissolution testing, the amount of active ingredient released at any time on a post-storage dissolution profile is within 40 percentage points of the amount of active ingredient released at any time on a pre-storage dissolution profile.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical composition in the form of a solid dispersion comprising a macrolide, e.g. a rapamycin or an ascomycin, and a carrier medium.

Abstract: The invention concerns coated particles based on granulated microcrystals of ibuprofen, its pharmaceutically acceptable isomers and salts, characterized in that they comprise a coating obtained in a fluidized bed apparatus with a hydroalcoholic dispersion consisting of a mixture comprising (A) 5 to 50% by weight of ethylcellulose relative to ibuprofen; (B) 10 to 60% by weight of hydroxypeopylmethylcellulose relative to the ethylcellulose; and (C) 1 to 40% by weight of silica with antistatic and permeabilizing properties relative to the ethylcellulose, the resulting coating, whereof at least one of the constituents can be used for granulating the ibuprofen microcrystals resulting in said particles, thereby masking the unpleasant taste of ibuprofen and significantly reducing its irritating effect on the throat after deglutition and substantially immediate release of ibuprofen when the particles are placed in an aqueous medium.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a coating composition for coating a solid dosage form of a medicament, where the coating composition controls the release of the medicament, said coating composition comprising (a) at least 50% (w/w) by dry weight of a water insoluble polymer insoluble in both acidic, basic and neutral pH, present in the form of an aqueous latex dispersion, (b) a water soluble non-polymeric component present in a weight ratio of about 5 to about 50% (w/w) by dry weight of the coating, having a molecular weight of less than about 15,000 daltons and water solubility in excess of 5 grams per 100 grams of water at room temperature at 1 atm pressure, said water soluble non-polymeric component being organic and either solid or liquid; said ratio of water insoluble polymer to water soluble non-polymeric component ranging from about 95:5 to about 1:1, the solid content in the coating composition ranges from about 5% to about 25%, said water soluble component being completely dissolved in the aqueo

Abstract: The present invention provides a pharmaceutical composition which is substantially free of unpleasant tastes and orally administrable which comprises: (a) an active medicament, (b) an inner coating layer comprising an oil substance having a melting point at a range of from about 50° C. to about 100° C., (c) an outer coating layer comprising at least a polymeric substance.

Abstract: The present invention provides low-residual-solvent containing excipients with residual solvent less than <3000 ppm. Most of the excipients are required to first be modified to become more water absorbing such as by attaching a water absorbing radical, e.g., (—CH2COONa) to the carbinol groups (—CH2OH) of the excipients to form a —CH2—O—CH2COONa linkage. The linkage of the water-absorbing groups to e excipients improves the water absorbing property of the excipients, which facilitates the replacing residual solvent with water. The residual solvent can be extracted from the excipient by way of mixing with a solvent/water solution containing (1) about 75-95% (v/v) isopropanol and about 5-25% water (v/v); (2) about 65-95% acetone and about 5-35% water; and (3) about 60-85% methanol and about 15-40% water.

Abstract: A method for microencapsulation of substances is provided. The substance(s) is/are dissolved or dispersed in an organic solvent of the kind that is partially miscible in water media. This organic solution is then mixed with an aqueous solution, which is saturated with an organic solvent and an emulsifier to form an emulsion. The emulsion is then poured into water under continuous agitation for the extraction of residual solvent. The formation of the solid capsules takes place during this extraction process. The capsules are undergone to further purification, whereby the microcapsules can be separated from the water and dried. By conditions of incubation of microcapsules in water-containing formulations the wall-softening process takes place. The unique system for controlled releasing the ingredients from microcapsules is based on the above-mentioned process.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical composition comprises a once-a-day sustained release formulation of at least one amphetamine salt which provides mean plasma concentration profile aspects in human ADHD patients which are substantially the same as that provided by ADDERALL XR® type pulsatile formulations.

Abstract: A controlled release bead comprises: (i) a core unit of a substantially water-soluble or water-swellable inert material; (ii) a first layer on the core unit of a substantially water-insoluble polymer; (iii) a second layer covering the first layer and containing an active ingredient; and (iv) a third layer of polymer on the second layer effective for controlled release of the active ingredient, wherein the first layer is adapted to control water penetration into the core. A method of producing the controlled release bead is also disclosed.

Abstract: A stabilized solid controlled release dosage form having a coating derived from an aqueous dispersion of ethylcellulose is obtained by overcoating a substrate including a therapeutically active with an aqueous dispersion of ethylcellulose and then curing the coated substrate at a temperature and relative humidity elevated to a suitable level above ambient conditions until the coated dosage form attains a stabilized dissolution profile substantially unaffected by exposure to storage conditions of elevated temperature and/or elevated relative humidity.

Abstract: The present invention provides oral pharmaceutical compositions for acetic acid class of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), particularly ketorolac. The pharmaceutical composition contains a core, a drug layer (which comprises the drug, a binder, and a disintegrant), a protecting layer, and an enteric coating layer. The oral pharmaceutical compositons are particularly useful for treating patients with moderate to acute pain. The present invention also provides a method for making the pharmaceutical compositions and a method for using the pharmaceutical compositions.

Abstract: Method of preventing parturient hypocalcemia and milk fever (parturient paresis) in lactating animals comprising administering to the animal during the dry period a compound which reduces absorption of calcium from the drinking water and/or from the ration of said animal. The method is based on the powerful, natural calcium regulating mechanisms and is applicable under commercial farming conditions.

Abstract: There is provided an orally-administrable formulation for the controlled release or stable storage of a granulated isoflavone-enriched fraction or mixture of such fractions, comprising at least one granulated isoflavone-enriched fraction and at least one carrier, diluent or excipient therefor. Preferably, the formulation is characterized in that the total in vitro dissolution time of said formulation required for release of 75% of the active ingredients available from the formulation is between about 4 and about 18 hours, as determined by the U.S.P. XXIII paddle method at a paddle speed of 75 rpm, using simulated intestinal fluid without the digestive enzymes normally found in intestinal fluid, at pH 6.8, and a temperature of 37° C. A process for the preparation of such a formulation is also provided.

Abstract: A process for producing a self-cross-linking alkyl cellulose derivative, which includes irradiating, with radioactive rays, a mixture of a starting alkyl cellulose derivative (the number of carbon atoms of the alkyl group is 1 through 3, the alkyl group may be substituted by a hydroxyl group or a carboxyl group, and the carboxyl group may form a salt) (100 parts by weight) and water (5-2,000 parts by weight), and thus obtained self-cross-linking alkyl cellulose derivative has an improved biodegradability and excellent water-absorbability.

Abstract: A hematopoietic growth factor delivery composition includes a hematopoietic growth factor, a liquid vehicle, a first biocompatible polymer and a second biocompatible polymer. The composition exhibits reverse-thermal viscosity behavior, due to interaction between the first biocompatible polymer and the liquid vehicle. The second biocompatible polymer helps to protect the first biocompatible polymer from being dissolved in vivo following administration to a host.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to the encapsulation of long chain alcohols, C20-C36, in various materials including polymers and waxes. Through the proper selection of the polymer the encapsulated long chain alcohol can be advantageously added to foods such as margarines, salad dressings and the like.

Abstract: A microcrystalline cellulose-based excipient having improved compressibility, whether utilized in direct compression, dry granulation or wet granulation formulations, is disclosed. The excipient is an agglomerate of microcrystalline cellulose particles and from about 0.1% to about 20% silicon dioxide particles, by weight of the microcrystalline cellulose, wherein the microcrystalline cellulose and silicon dioxide are in intimate association with each other. The silicon dioxide utilized in the novel excipient has a particle size from about 1 nanometer to about 100 microns. Most preferably, the silicon dioxide is a grade of colloidal silicon dioxide.

Abstract: Granulation of microcrystalline cellulose with a granulating fluid consisting of water and a water-miscible, volatile, polar organic solvent yields porous granules which are comprised of particles that are larger than the ungranulated microcrystalline cellulose. This granulated microcrystalline cellulose is capable of cushioning controlled release particles and barrier coated particles from the compression forces used in tableting, thereby maintaining the physical integrity of the components of the tablet.

Abstract: Pharmaceutical formulations and dosage forms are provided having improved stability to moisture-induced degradation when compared with conventional dosage forms, especially tablets. The invention features low compression forms of thyroid drugs together with excipients, preferably in encapsulated forms. In other embodiments, relatively non-volatile oils can be admixed with the drug and/or the excipients to stabilize the formulation toward moisture-induced degradation. Hydrophobic powders are also optionally added to the formulations.

Abstract: This invention relates to proliposomal drug-delivery systems for medicaments. In particular, it relates to enteric-coated proliposomal formulations for poorly water soluble drugs and methods for making the same. The drug delivery system comprises a pharmaceutical agent, a phospholipid and a coating material. The present invention provides enhanced stability and bioavailability for pharmaceutical formulations.

Abstract: A method for controlling the formation of a hydroxyapatite bone filler from dry calcium phosphate precursors in an aqueous solution uses coated sodium phosphate powder. The sodium phosphate powder is coated with a water soluble cellulose. Until the cellulose dissolves in the aqueous solution setting of the calcium phosphate cements proceeds slowly but when the exposed sodium phosphate particles start to solubilize in the aqueous solution the setting rate increases.

Abstract: A regenerated cellulose-encapsulated active substance and a method for encapsulating an active substance in a regenerated cellulose matrix are disclosed. The distribution of the active substance is preferably substantially homogeneous within the matrix of regenerated cellulose. The regenerated cellulose (i) has about the same molecular weight as the original cellulose from which it is prepared (ii) is substantially free of added substituent groups relative to the starting cellulose and is also substantially free of entrapped ionic liquid degradation products.

Abstract: Injectable compositions having improved injectability. The injectable compositions include microparticles suspended in an aqueous injection vehicle having a viscosity of at least 20 cp at 20° C. The increased viscosity of the injection vehicle that constitutes the fluid phase of the suspension significantly reduces in vivo injectability failures. The injectable compositions can be made by mixing dry microparticles with an aqueous injection vehicle to form a suspension, and then mixing the suspension with a viscosity enhancing agent to increase the viscosity of the fluid phase of the suspension to the desired level for improved injectability.

Abstract: A phospholipidic composition with an L-&agr;-glycerophosphatidyl-choline concentration of at least 10% by weight is described, where said composition is granular and also contains, in addition to L-&agr;-glycerophosphatidylcholine, at least one granulation aid selected from the group consisting of a monophosphate, diphosphate or triphosphate of an alkali metal or an alkaline earth metal or a mixture thereof.

Abstract: A composition is disclosed which has been shown to stop or control bleeding and seal open small blood vessels while accelerating the healing process of abraded oral “gum” and other “skin” (epithelial) tissues. The composition is preferably in the form of a paste which promotes ease of application and use of the composition. A variety of instruments can be used in application and cleanup of the composition showing versatile unparalleled friendly usage. The composition preferably comprises aluminum chloride, ferric sulfate (subsulfate), regenerated oxidized cellulose, aluminum ammonium sulfate, absorbable gelatin and a solvent. The composition has many dental and medical procedure applications.

Abstract: The invention provides solid preparations for oral administration of gene-related drugs comprising a core containing the gene-related drug with a coating which does not disintegrated in small intestines, wherein said preparations can be easily tabletted, remain stable during the preparation process and said drug can be efficiently absorbed in digestive tracts.

Abstract: Solid modified release dosage forms, prepared from melt granulated compositions comprising (A) one or more hydrophilic cellulose ether polymers, (B) a hydrophilic melt binder, and (C) a therapeutically active ingredient.

Abstract: The invention provides a pharmaceutically elegant solid oral formulation of olanzapine and a process for making such formulation.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical composition of omeprazole for oral administration is described which consists essentially of: (a) a pellet comprising an inert core component, a therapeutically effective amount of omeprazole, a surface active agent, a filler, a pharmaceutically acceptable alkaline agent and a binder; and (b) a single layer of coating on said pellet which comprises a layer of an enteric coating agent.

Abstract: The pharmaceutical formulation consists of a number of pellets that comprise an inert nucleus, a layer with the active ingredient, one or more intermediate layers that comprise at least a system of modified release, and an external layer of enteric coating. These pellets can be obtained applying the different layers by means of fluid bed coating techniques using aqueous solutions or suspensions of the components of such layers. The pharmaceutical formulations can be hard gelatin capsules or tablets and are suitable for use in the prevention and treatment of disorders related to abnormal gastric acid secretion.

Abstract: A gel rehydration electrolyte composition provides a convenient and effective way of replenishing lost fluid and electrolytes. The gel rehydration electrolyte composition masks unpleasant tastes of electrolyte and is readily consumed by young children and elderly who cannot tolerate the liquid or frozen forms of electrolytes.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical composition for the treatment of acute disorders is described. The composition comprises an essentially water-free, ordered mixture of at least one pharmaceutically active agent in the form of microparticles which are adhered to the surfaces of carrier particles which are substantially larger than the particles of the active agent or agents, and are essentially water-soluble, in combination with the bioadhesion and/or mucoadhesion promoting agent. The invention also relates to a method for preparing the composition and to the use of the composition for the treatment of acute disorders.

Abstract: This invention relates to enteric-coated proliposomal formulations for oral medicaments. In particular, it relates to an enteric-coated proliposomal oral drug delivery system for poorly water soluble drugs and methods for making the same. The drug delivery system comprises a pharmaceutical agent, a phospholipid and an enteric coating material. The present invention provides enhanced stability and bioavailability for orally administered drugs.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical composition for the treatment of acute pain by sublingual administration is described. The composition comprises an essentially water-free, ordered mixture of fentanyl or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof in the form of microparticles which are adhered to the surface of carrier particles which are substantially larger than the particles of fentanyl, and are essentially water-soluble. In a preferred embodiment, the composition also contains a bioadhesion and/or mucoadhesion promoting agent. The invention also relates to the preparation of the composition, and to the use of the composition for the treatment of acute pain.

Abstract: The present invention provides a time-release dosage form for delivering an acid-labile pharmaceutical, such as omeprazole, into the upper portion of the gastrointestinal tract downstream of the stomach. The dosage form includes a drug-containing core surrounded by an inert time-release coating that delays release of the drug from the core until expiration of a certain time period after administration, generally 0.5-5.0 hours or 1-3 hours. When the gastrointestinal fluid contacts the core, the drug is released rapidly into the GI tract. The dosage form does not contain an enteric coating. The dosage form can also include one or more additional coatings exterior to the time-release coating to provide delivery of an immediately released loading dose of the acid-labile drug or another drug.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an oral preparation of esculetin with controlled release. The oral preparation of esculetin with controlled release of the present invention comprises a gel-forming polymer base, preferably hydroxypropylmethylcellulose. The preparation may be coated with an enteric polymer base such as hydroxypropylmethylcellulose acetate succinate to thereby enhance solubility in the intestines. When orally administered, the preparation can continuously release esculetin. Thus, the administration frequency and dose can be reduced and a therapeutic effect on arthropathy can be established.

Abstract: A slow release formulation includes a biocompatible anionic polysaccharide material containing glucuronic acid in the polymer chain.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a core containing a drug encased in a spacing layer and a taste masking layer which provides effective taste masking for in-mouth disintegrable dosage forms containing highly objectionable tasting drugs, as well as dosage forms containing these cores.

Abstract: It comprises a compound having antifungal activity as active principle, an inert core and a coating including said active principle, and is characterized in that said inert core has a particle size comprised between 50 and 600 &mgr;m, and in that said coating comprises a single layer obtained by spraying, on said inert core, a solution comprising a compound having antifungal activity, a hydrophilic polymer and a non-ionic surfactant. The method consists in carrying out a coating, comprising a single layer, of the inert cores having a size between 50 and 600 &mgr;m, by means of the spraying of a solution composed by the antifungal agent, the hydrophilic polymer and the non-ionic surfactant, at a constant coating speed throughout the whole process; and a single drying step of said coating in the same apparatus.

Abstract: A stable pharmaceutical pellet formulation that employs a core containing omeprazole or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt of omeprazole and lysine or arginine. The pellet core is directly enteric coated without a separating layer being applied between the core and the enteric coating.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a solid oral dosage form comprising a combination of metformin and glibenclamide in which the size of glibenclamide is such that the glibenclamide bioavailability is comparable to the glibenclamide bioavailability obtained with a separate administration of metformin and glibenclamide.