Background
The field of pharmaceutical technology has made significant strides in developing drug delivery systems that optimize the therapeutic effects of medications while minimizing side effects. One such advancement is the creation of modified-release formulations, which are designed to release a drug at a predetermined rate, thereby maintaining a consistent drug concentration in the bloodstream over an extended period. This approach is particularly beneficial for chronic conditions requiring long-term medication, as it can improve patient compliance, reduce dosing frequency, and enhance the overall efficacy of the treatment.
Despite these advantages, there is still need for innovative methods to further refine these delivery systems to ensure they meet the evolving demands of modern medicine. Current approaches to modified-release pharmaceutical formulations often face several challenges. One major issue is the difficulty in maintaining the controlled release characteristics of the drug during the manufacturing process. Traditional methods can lead to variations in drug release rates, affecting the consistency and reliability of the medication. Additionally, the incorporation of multi-particulates into a polymeric or wax-like matrix can be problematic, as the thermal processing required may degrade the drug or alter its release profile. This degradation not only compromises the therapeutic efficacy but also poses significant safety concerns.
Therefore, there is a pressing need for improved methods that can embed modified-release multi-particulates into a matrix without compromising their controlled release properties.
Technology description
The technology involves compositions and methods for creating a modified-release pharmaceutical formulation, which includes embedding modified-release multi-particulates into a polymeric or wax-like matrix. These multi-particulates contain an effective amount of a therapeutic compound with a specific drug-release profile. The modified release multi-particulates may have a polymeric coat or be incorporated into a core material. The polymer matrix used comprises thermoplastic polymers, lipophilic carriers, or a combination of both, which soften or melt at elevated temperatures. This thermal processing allows for the even distribution of the multi-particulates within the matrix. The formulation, compounds, and processing conditions are meticulously selected to ensure that the controlled release characteristics and drug-protective properties of the multi-particulates are preserved.
Competitive advantage
This technology is differentiated by its ability to maintain the controlled release properties and protective characteristics of the therapeutic compounds through a specialized embedding process. The use of thermoplastic polymers or lipophilic carriers that soften at elevated temperatures ensures that the modified-release multi-particulates are evenly distributed within the matrix without compromising their integrity.
This approach offers a significant advantage over traditional methods by providing a more consistent and reliable release profile for the therapeutic compounds. Additionally, the flexibility in choosing formulation compounds and processing conditions allows for customization based on the specific needs of the drug-release profile, making it a versatile solution for a wide range of pharmaceutical applications.
Benefits
- Controlled release of therapeutic compounds
- Preservation of drug-release profile
- Enhanced drug-protective properties
- Use of thermoplastic polymer or lipophilic carrier
- Effective distribution during thermal processing
Commercial applications
- Extended-release pain relief
- Chronic disease management
- Hormone replacement therapy
- Antidepressant medication
- Antibiotic treatments
Opportunity
This invention describes a method for creating modified-release pharmaceutical formulations by embedding therapeutic compounds with controlled release profiles into a polymer or wax matrix, ensuring consistent drug release and protection during thermal processing. The University of Texas at Austin is seeking an industry partner to license this technology.
