Bioequivalence

Distribution by Scientific Domains

Terms modified by Bioequivalence

  • bioequivalence studies
  • bioequivalence study

  • Selected Abstracts


    Conference report: Bio-International 2005

    JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES, Issue 4 2007
    Kamal K. Midha
    Abstract This is a summary report of the International Pharmaceutical Federation/Board of Pharmaceutical Sciences (FIP/BPS) international conference, Bio-International 2005, which was held October 24,26, 2005 at the Royal Pharmaceutical Society, in London, UK. Bioequivalence (BE) issues related to multisource locally delivered topical dosage forms, oral inhalation drug products, highly variable drug products (HVDP), and endogenously occurring drugs were discussed. The conference also focused on alternate approaches to assess BE for some of these drug products. Pharmacokinetic (PK) approaches like, dermatopharmacokinetics (DPK) for dermatological topical dosage forms, scaled average BE (s-ABE) where within-subject variability is considered for estimation of 90% confidence intervals to document BE for highly variable drugs (HVD) were recommended. In addition, issues and difficulties related to the BE assessment of oral inhalation products, role, and appropriateness of metabolites in BE assessment, importance of base line correction in BE assessment of endogenously occurring drugs, and waiver of BE study requirements for certain drugs based on a Biopharmaceutics Classification System (BCS), were also discussed. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association J Pharm Sci 96: 747,754, 2007 [source]


    Bioequivalence of four preparations of enrofloxacin in poultry

    JOURNAL OF VETERINARY PHARMACOLOGY & THERAPEUTICS, Issue 5 2001
    L. H. Sumano
    In various parts of the world, many 10% enrofloxacin commercial preparations for water medication of chicken are being employed. To avoid the development of bacterial resistance to this agent, the original trademark and similar preparations must be bioequivalent. To assess whether or not bioequivalence exists among the pioneer vs. three commercial preparations of enrofloxacin, a controlled pharmacokinetic study was conducted. The following variables were compared: maximal plasma concentration (Cpeak), time to Cpeak, bioavailability (expressed as the area under the concentration vs. time curve), elimination half-life, and the shapes of the respective time-serum concentrations of enrofloxacin profiles. Results indicate that all three similar commercial preparations had lower Cpeak values than the reference formulation, being 39.62 to 67.77% of the corresponding Cpeak reference. Additionally, bioavailability of enrofloxacin in the pioneer product was statistically higher (P < 0.05). Based upon these results, we conclude that although all preparations were formulated as water-soluble products, bioequivalence studies are mandatory for the analogue formulations to ensure product comparability. Lack of product bioequivalence could facilitate the development of bacterial resistance and limit the useful life span of the product. [source]


    Bioequivalence of a new liquid formulation of ursodeoxycholic acid (Ursofalk suspension) and Ursofalk capsules measured by plasma pharmacokinetics and biliary enrichment

    ALIMENTARY PHARMACOLOGY & THERAPEUTICS, Issue 6 2005
    K. D. R. Setchell
    Summary Background:, Ursodeoxycholic acid is an approved therapy for hepatobiliary disorders but in infants and children compliance is compromised because it is formulated exclusively as capsules, or tablets. Aim:, To determine the pharmacokinetics and bioequivalence of a new liquid formulation of ursodeoxycholic acid (Ursofalk suspension) with a standard capsule (Ursofalk) in a randomized, unblinded, crossover designed study of 24 healthy adults. Methods:, Equivalence was based on single bolus oral plasma pharmacokinetics and biliary ursodeoxycholic acid enrichments after repeat doses. Biliary bile acid composition and hydrophobicity index were also compared. Ursodeoxycholic acid was measured in duodenal bile by high-performance liquid chromatography and in plasma by mass spectrometry. Results:, The mean percentage biliary ursodeoxycholic acid enrichment after administration of the suspension was not significantly different from that obtained with capsules (44.2 ± 11.7% vs. 46.9 ± 10.2%, respectively). The equivalence ratio was 0.94 (95% CI: 0.8,1.1), establishing bioequivalence between suspension and capsules. Both formulations reduced the biliary hydrophobicity index and no differences in bile acid composition were observed between formulations. The plasma pharmacokinetics of both formulations was similar and the tolerability of the suspension was excellent. Conclusions:, A new liquid formulation of ursodeoxycholic acid suitable for paediatric patients is pharmacologically bioequivalent to capsules when given as single, or repeated oral doses. [source]


    The New European Medicines Agency Guideline on the Investigation of Bioequivalence

    BASIC AND CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY & TOXICOLOGY, Issue 3 2010
    José Augusto Guimarćes Morais
    Several new features have been added to this guideline, as well as changes aimed at improving the clarity of the guidance provided. The first issue to be addressed was to limit the scope of the guideline to bioequivalence studies for immediate release dosage forms with systemic action. Therefore, the guideline refers to bioequivalence alone. Moreover, the new definition of Generic Medicinal Product has been incorporated. Clearer guidance covering more specific cases is now given on sections such as: fed/fasting conditions, use of metabolite data, enantiomers and strength to be used in the bioequivalence study. Steady-state design is now restricted and other designs, such as parallel group design, replicate design and two-stage design, are now incorporated in a more explicit form. New practical guidance on Highly Variable Drug Products and Narrow Therapeutic Index Drugs has been incorporated. The possibility for a biowaiver based on the Biopharmaceutics Classification System is now more explicit for Class I drugs and can be extended to Class III drugs under restricted conditions. We are aware that the initial goal of providing a very specific and clear guidance on these issues has not been entirely achieved, mainly because it is almost impossible to cover all individual cases and predict every possible situation that may arise. Demonstration of bioequivalence will still require in many instances a case by case approach. [source]


    Bioanalytical LC-MS/MS method validation for plasma determination of topiramate in healthy Indian volunteers

    BIOMEDICAL CHROMATOGRAPHY, Issue 11 2009
    Dipanjan Goswami
    Abstract A LC-MS/MS method for plasma topiramate analysis is delineated involving least number of healthy volunteers. Topiramate and amlodipine internal standard (IS) were extracted by simple centrifuge-coupled solid-phase extraction and reverse-phase chromatographic separation was performed on an Ascentis C18 column. Turbo-spray negative-ion mode multiple-reaction monitoring was selected for mass pair detection at m/z 338.3 , 78.0 and m/z 407.3 , 295.5 for analyte and IS respectively. The method showed a dynamic linearity range from 10.4 to 2045.0 ng/mL, lower limit of quantitation achieved at 10.4 ng/mL and finally a mass spectrometric total run time of within 2.5 min for human sample analysis. Bioequivalence was assessed successfully using this fully validated method on 16 fasted Indian male subjects with 25 mg topiramate tablet administration. An appropriate study design describes plasma samples collection up to 216 h post dose in two periods, separated by a 28 day washout period. The challenge of half-life matching for test and reference drug was achieved with 73.43 ± 9.68 and 73.06 ± 14.03 h, respectively, and intra-subject coefficient of variation achieved within 11% for AUCs and Cmax evaluated by non-compartmental pharmacokinetic analysis. The results of LCMS topiramate complete method validation supported by pharmacokinetic study have not been published before, and are presented and discussed for the first time in this article. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]


    The Structural Error-in-Equation Model to Evaluate Individual Bioequivalence

    BIOMETRICAL JOURNAL, Issue 5 2005
    Josep L. Carrasco
    Abstract Individual bioequivalence is assessed using an extension of the classical structural equation model, known as the error-in-equation model. This procedure estimates the relationship between individual means, as well as the variance-covariance parameters, of the bioavailabilities measurement model, by considering individual means related through a straight line with a random term, whereas the classical structural equation considers a deterministic linear relationship. We discuss the implications of this approach in terms of the bioavailabilities measurement model and how to test the overall hypothesis of individual bioequivalence. Both models are compared in a simulation study and a case example is presented. (© 2005 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim) [source]


    Simultaneous fitting of R- and S-ibuprofen plasma concentrations after oral administration of the racemate

    BRITISH JOURNAL OF CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, Issue 4 2001
    Jörn Lötsch
    Aims, To assess the pharmacokinetic equivalence of two different formulations of ibuprofen lysinate with special focus on the expected effects. Methods, Sixteen healthy volunteers received cross-over ibuprofen lysinate as either one tablet of 400 mg (,test') or two tablets of 200 mg (,reference'). Ibuprofen plasma concentrations were followed up for 10 h. Bioequivalence was assessed by standard noncompartmental methods. Ibuprofen plasma concentrations were fitted with a model that took bioinversion of R- to S-ibuprofen into account. Results, Peak plasma concentrations of R- and S-ibuprofen were 18.1 and 20 µg ml,1 (test), and 18.2 and 20 µg ml,1 (reference). Areas under the plasma concentration vs time curves were 39.7 and 67.5 µg ml,1 h (test), and 41.1 and 68.2 µg ml,1 h (reference). Clearance of R-ibuprofen was 5.2 (test) and 5 l h,1 (reference). A specific plasma concentration was reached with the test formulation about 5 min later than with the reference. Parameters from compartmental modelling were (given for R-and then for S-ibuprofen): body clearance: 4.9 and 4.64 l h,1, central volume of distribution: 2.8 and 4.1 l, intercompartment clearance: 5.1 and 5.45 l h,1, peripheral volume of distribution: 4.1 and 5.2 l. The absorption rate constant was 1.52 h,1, and the test but not the reference formulation had a lag time of 0.1 h. Simulations showed similarity between formulations of the expected effects except for a calculated delay of 6 min with the test formulation. Conclusions, Ibuprofen formulations were bioequivalent. The pharmacokinetic model may serve as a basis for future pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic calculations after administration of racemic ibuprofen. [source]


    Generic Products of Antiepileptic Drugs (AEDs): Is It an Issue?

    EPILEPSIA, Issue 10 2007
    Meir Bialer
    Summary:, The availability of generic products of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) has raised the following concerns: (1) Do generic AEDs work as well as brand AEDs in terms of their efficacy, safety and quality? (2) Can generic AEDs be used as substitutions for brand AEDs? and (3) Can generic products of AEDs be used interchangeably? The traditional average bioequivalence analysis addresses concern 1 but does not provide a complete adequate response to concerns 2 and 3. Drug interchangeability can be classified as drug prescribability or drug switchability. Drug prescribability refers to the situation where a patient is treated for the first time so that either a brand or a bioequivalent generic AED can be chosen. Drug switchability refers to the situation in which a brand AED is switched to a bioequivalent generic product of the same AED. The traditional average bioequivalence approach is sufficient to evaluate the prescribability of generic products, but does not ensure the switchability between prescribable formulations. The necessity of assuring switchability of two formulations can be addressed by individual bioequivalence. While the switch to generic AEDs is well tolerated by many patients and in general cost-effective, seizure control should not be sacrificed on the basis of cost alone, as the major end point in treating epilepsy with AEDs is seizure control without side effects. Until we have individual (within patient) bioequivalence data on generic AEDs and/or the tools to a priori identify the subset of patients susceptible to the generic switch, a switch of AED products in seizure-free patients is not recommended. [source]


    Biosimilar therapeutic agents: issues with bioequivalence and immunogenicity

    EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF CLINICAL INVESTIGATION, Issue 12 2004
    H. Schellekens
    No abstract is available for this article. [source]


    New metabolic and pharmacokinetic characteristics of thiocolchicoside and its active metabolite in healthy humans

    FUNDAMENTAL & CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, Issue 4 2004
    M. Trellu
    Abstract Thiocolchicoside (TCC) has been prescribed for several years as a muscle relaxant drug, but its pharmacokinetic (PK) profile and metabolism still remain largely unknown. Therefore, we re-investigated its metabolism and PK, and we assessed the muscle relaxant properties of its metabolites. After oral administration of 8 mg (a therapeutic dose) of 14C-labelled TCC to healthy volunteers, we found no detectable TCC in plasma, urine or faeces. On the other hand, the aglycone derivative obtained after de-glycosylation of TCC (M2) was observed and, in addition, we identified, as the major circulating metabolic entity, 3-O-glucuronidated aglycone (M1) obtained after glucuro-conjugation of M2. One hour after oral administration, M1 plus M2 accounted for more than 75% of the circulating total radioactivity. The pharmacological activity of these metabolites was assessed using a rat model, the muscle relaxant activity of M1 was similar to that of TCC whereas M2 was devoid of any activity. Subsequently, to investigate the PK profile of TCC in human PK studies, we developed and validated a specific bioanalytical method that combines liquid chromatography and ultraviolet detection to assay both active entities. After oral administration, TCC was not quantifiable with an lower limit of quantification set at 1 ng/mL, whereas its active metabolite M1 was detected. M1 appeared rapidly in plasma (tmax = 1 h) and was eliminated with an apparent terminal half-life of 7.3 h. In contrast, after intramuscular administration both active entities (TCC and M1) were present; TCC was rapidly absorbed (tmax = 0.4 h) and eliminated with an apparent terminal half-life of 1.5 h. M1 concentration peaked at 5 h and this metabolite was eliminated with an apparent terminal half-life of 8.6 h. As TCC and M1 present an equipotent pharmacological activity, the relative oral pharmacological bioavailability of TCC vs. intramuscular administration was calculated and represented 25%. Therefore, to correctly investigate the PK and bioequivalence of TCC, the biological samples obtained must be assayed with a bioanalytical method able to specifically analyse TCC and its active metabolite M1. [source]


    A randomized, double-blind trial demonstrating bioequivalence of the current recombinant activated factor VII formulation and a new robust 25°C stable formulation

    HAEMOPHILIA, Issue 5 2007
    B. V. BYSTED
    Summary., Recombinant activated factor VIIa (rFVIIa) is a well-established treatment for bleeding episodes in patients with congenital or acquired haemophilia A or B with inhibitors to factors VIII and IX and patients with FVII deficiency. The aim of this trial was to demonstrate bioequivalence between the currently marketed (rFVIIa/NovoSeven®) and a new rFVIIa formulation (VII25) stable at up to 25°C. Furthermore, short-term safety and tolerability of VII25 and pharmacokinetics of both formulations were investigated. In this single-centre, randomized, double-blind, two-way cross-over trial, healthy male subjects received one intravenous bolus injection of rFVIIa and one of VII25, both at 90 ,g kg,1, in a randomized order 2,3 weeks apart. Mean VII25/rFVIIa ratio for area under the plasma activity-time curve from time 0 to last quantifiable activity (primary bioequivalence endpoint), was 0.93, 90% confidence interval (CI) (0.89,0.96), within the predefined bioequivalence range (0.80,1.25). Secondary pharmacokinetic parameters were comparable between formulations. No serious adverse events were observed. Six mild or moderate treatment-emergent adverse events were reported in five subjects. Coagulation-related parameter profiles were similar between rFVIIa and VII25. No clinically abnormal changes were observed for laboratory parameters and no subjects developed FVIIa antibodies. This trial demonstrated bioequivalence between the currently available rFVIIa and VII25 stable at up to 25°C. VII25's ,user-friendly' formulation removes the inconvenience of storing/transporting at 2,8°C, and as the drug substance is the same, the activity and safety established for rFVIIa is maintained. [source]


    B-domain deleted recombinant factor VIII preparations are bioequivalent to a monoclonal antibody purified plasma-derived factor VIII concentrate: a randomized, three-way crossover study

    HAEMOPHILIA, Issue 2 2005
    C. M. Kessler
    Summary., Background:, Deletion of the B-domain of recombinant blood coagulation factor VIII (BDDrFVIII) increases the manufacturing yield of the product but does not impair in vitro or in vivo functionality. BDDrFVIII (ReFacto®) has been developed with the additional benefit of being formulated without human albumin. Objective:, The primary objective of this three-way crossover-design study was to compare the pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters of two BDDrFVIII formulations (one reconstituted with 5 mL of sterile water, the other reconstituted with 4 mL sodium chloride 0.9% USP) with those of a plasma-derived, full-length FVIII preparation (Hemofil® M) in patients with haemophilia A to determine bioequivalence. Methods:, A series of blood samples were collected over a period of 48 h after i.v. administration of each of the FVIII preparations. Plasma FVIII activity was determined using a validated chromogenic substrate assay. Plasma FVIII activity vs. time curves was characterized for a standard set of PK parameter estimates. Two parameter estimates, the maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) and the area under plasma concentration vs. time curves (AUCs), were used to evaluate bioequivalence. The two preparations were considered bioequivalent if the 90% confidence intervals for the ratio of geometric means for Cmax and AUCs fell within the bioequivalence window of 80% to 125%. Results/Conclusion:, Results show that each BDDrFVIII formulation is bioequivalent to Hemofil M and the two formulations of BDDrFVIII are bioequivalent to each other. [source]


    Is there variability in drug release and physical characteristics of amiodarone chloride from different commercially available tablets?

    INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMACY PRACTICE, Issue 4 2010
    Possible therapeutic implications
    Abstract Objectives, Amiodarone is a low-solubility, high-permeability drug with a narrow therapeutic index and reported bioavailability problems associated with switching formulations. The aim of this study was to identify whether there is variability in drug release and physical characteristics of different commercially available amiodarone hydrochloride formulations in Australia. Methods, Four available formulations (innovator Cordarone (COR) and generic products G1, G2 and G3) were tested for drug dissolution, content uniformity, hardness, weight variation, friability and disintegration in accordance with the US Pharmacopeia specifications. Key findings, The tested formulations exhibited variable dissolution behaviours: G1 and G3 exhibited the fastest dissolution, G2 dissolution was the slowest and Cordarone showed a medium dissolution. After 3 months' exposure to high temperature (40 ± 2°C) and relative humidity (75 ± 5%), the products exhibited a higher degree of disparity, with drug-release profiles of the generics being markedly different from that of Cordarone. This suggests possible implications on bioequivalence for patients who live in warm/tropical regional areas. Most products met the US Pharmacopeia specifications for drug-content uniformity and other test physical characteristics. Conclusions, The results suggested that variability in drug release profiles in vitro of amiodarone formulations might be a potential indicator of compromised bioavailability, causing possible interference with the therapeutic response of the drug. [source]


    Ticlopidine quantification in human plasma by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray tandem mass spectrometry.

    JOURNAL OF MASS SPECTROMETRY (INCORP BIOLOGICAL MASS SPECTROMETRY), Issue 12 2004
    Application to bioequivalence study
    Abstract A rapid, sensitive and specific method to quantify ticlopidine in human plasma using clopidogrel as the internal standard (IS) is described. The analyte and the IS were extracted from acidified plasma by liquid,liquid extraction using diethyl ether,hexane (80 : 20, v/v). The extracts were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC/MS/MS). Chromatography was performed isocratically on a Jones Genesis C8 4 µm analytical column (150 × 4.1 mm i.d.). The method had a chromatographic run time of 3.0 min and a linear calibration curve over the range 1.0,1000 ng ml,1 (r2 > 0.999427). The limit of quantification was 1.0 ng ml,1. This HPLC/MS/MS procedure was used to assess the bioequivalence of two ticlopidine 250 mg tablet formulations (ticlopidine test formulation from Apotex do Brasil, Brazil, and Ticlid from Sanofi-Synthelabo, standard reference formulation). A single 250 mg dose of each formulation was administered to healthy volunteers. The study was conducted using an open, randomized, two-period crossover design with a 2 week washout interval. Since the 90% confidence interval for Cmax and area under the curve ratios were all inside the 80,125% interval proposed by the US Food and Drug Administration, it was concluded that ticlopidine formulation from Apotex do Brasil is bioequivalent to Ticlid formulation with respect to both the rate and the extent of absorption. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]


    Biowaiver monographs for immediate release solid oral dosage forms: Doxycycline hyclate,,

    JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES, Issue 4 2010
    E. Jantratid
    Abstract Literature data relevant to the decision to allow a waiver of in vivo bioequivalence (BE) testing for the approval of immediate release (IR) solid oral dosage forms containing doxycycline hyclate are reviewed. According to the Biopharmaceutics Classification System (BCS), doxycycline hyclate can be assigned to BCS Class I. No problems with BE of IR doxycycline formulations containing different excipients and produced by different manufacturing methods have been reported and hence the risk of bioinequivalence caused by these factors appears to be low. Doxycycline has a wide therapeutic index. Further, BCS-based dissolution methods have been shown to be capable of identifying formulations which may dissolve too slowly to generate therapeutic levels. It is concluded that a biowaiver is appropriate for IR solid oral dosage forms containing doxycycline hyclate as the single Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) provided that (a) the test product contains only excipients present in doxycycline hyclate IR solid oral drug products approved in the International Conference on Harmonization (ICH) or associated countries; and (b) the comparator and the test products comply with the BCS criteria for "very rapidly dissolving" or, alternatively, when similarity of the dissolution profiles can be demonstrated and the two products are "rapidly dissolving.". © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association J Pharm Sci 99: 1639,1653, 2010 [source]


    Biowaiver monographs for immediate release solid oral dosage forms: Quinidine sulfate,,

    JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES, Issue 7 2009
    S. Grube
    Abstract Literature data are reviewed relevant to the decision to allow a waiver of in vivo bioequivalence (BE) testing for the approval of new multisource and reformulated immediate release (IR) solid oral dosage forms containing quinidine sulfate. Quinidine sulfate's solubility and permeability, its therapeutic use and index, pharmacokinetics, excipient interactions and reported BE/bioavailability (BA) problems were taken into consideration. The available data are not fully conclusive, but do suggest that quinidine sulfate is highly soluble and moderately to highly permeable and would likely be assigned to BCS Class I (or at worst BCS III). In view of the inconclusiveness of the data and, more important, quinidine's narrow therapeutic window and critical indication, a biowaiver based approval of quinidine containing dosage forms cannot be recommended for either new multisource drug products or for major postapproval changes (variations) to existing drug products. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association J Pharm Sci 98:2238,2251, 2009 [source]


    Biowaiver monographs for immediate release solid oral dosage forms: Diclofenac sodium and diclofenac potassium,

    JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES, Issue 4 2009
    B. Chuasuwan
    Abstract Literature data are reviewed regarding the scientific advisability of allowing a waiver of in vivo bioequivalence (BE) testing for the approval of immediate release (IR) solid oral dosage forms containing either diclofenac potassium and diclofenac sodium. Within the biopharmaceutics classification system (BCS), diclofenac potassium and diclofenac sodium are each BCS class II active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). However, a biowaiver can be recommended for IR drug products of each salt form, due to their therapeutic use, therapeutic index, pharmacokinetic properties, potential for excipient interactions, and performance in reported BE/bioavailability (BA) studies, provided: (a) test and comparator contain the same diclofenac salt; (b) the dosage form of the test and comparator is identical; (c) the test product contains only excipients present in diclofenac drug products approved in ICH or associated countries in the same dosage form, for instance as presented in this paper; (d) test drug product and comparator dissolve 85% in 30 min or less in 900 mL buffer pH 6.8, using the paddle apparatus at 75 rpm or the basket apparatus at 100 rpm; and (e) test product and comparator show dissolution profile similarity in pH 1.2, 4.5, and 6.8. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association J Pharm Sci 98:1206,1219, 2009 [source]


    Biowaiver monographs for immediate release solid oral dosage forms: Aciclovir

    JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES, Issue 12 2008
    J. Arnal
    Abstract Literature data relevant to the decision to allow a waiver of in vivo bioequivalence (BE) testing (biowaiver) for the approval of immediate release (IR) solid oral dosage forms containing aciclovir are reviewed. Aciclovir therapeutic use and therapeutic index, pharmacokinetic properties, data related to the possibility of excipient interactions and reported BE/bioavailability (BA) studies were also taken into consideration in order to ascertain whether a biowaiver can be recommended. According to the Biopharmaceutics Classification System (BCS) and considering tablet strengths up to 400 mg, aciclovir would be BCS Class III. However, in some countries also 800 mg tablets are available which fall just within BCS Class IV. Aciclovir seems not to be critical with respect to a risk for bioinequivalence, as no examples of bioinequivalence have been identified. It has a wide therapeutic index and is not used for critical indications. Hence, if: (a) the test product contains only excipients present in aciclovir solid oral IR drug products approved in ICH or associated countries, for instance as presented in this article; and (b) the comparator and the test product both are very rapidly dissolving, a biowaiver for IR aciclovir solid oral drug products is considered justified for all tablet strengths. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association J Pharm Sci 97:5061,5073, 2008 [source]


    Biowaiver monographs for immediate release solid oral dosage forms: ethambutol dihydrochloride,,

    JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES, Issue 4 2008
    C. Becker
    Abstract Literature data relevant to the decision to allow a waiver of in vivo bioequivalence (BE) testing for the approval of immediate release (IR) solid oral dosage forms containing ethambutol dihydrochloride as the only active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) are reviewed. Ethambutol dihydrochloride is a Biopharmaceutics Classification System (BCS) Class III drug with permeability properties approaching the border between BCS Class I and III. BE problems of ethambutol formulations containing different excipients and different dosages forms have not been reported and hence the risk of bioinequivalence caused by excipients is low. Ethambutol has a narrow therapeutic index related to ocular toxicity. However, as long as the prescribers' information of the test product stipulates the need for regular monitoring of ocular toxicity, the additional patient risk is deemed acceptable. It is concluded that a biowaiver can be recommended for IR solid oral dosage forms provided that the test product (a) contains only excipients present in ethambutol IR solid oral drug products approved in ICH or associated countries, for instance as presented in this paper, (b) complies with the criteria for "very rapidly dissolving" and (c) has a prescribers' information indicating the need for testing the patient's vision prior to initiating ethambutol therapy and regularly during therapy. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association J Pharm Sci 97:1350,1360, 2008 [source]


    Biowaiver monographs for immediate release solid oral dosage forms: Prednisolone,,

    JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES, Issue 1 2007
    M. Vogt
    Abstract Literature data relevant to the decision to allow a waiver of in vivo bioequivalence (BE) testing for the approval of immediate release (IR) solid oral dosage forms containing prednisolone are reviewed. Data on its solubility, oral absorption, and permeability are not totally conclusive, but strongly suggest a BCS Class 1 classification. Prednisolone's therapeutic indications and therapeutic index, pharmacokinetics, and the possibility of excipient interactions were also taken into consideration. Available evidence indicates that a biowaiver for IR solid oral dosage forms formulated with the excipients tabulated in this article would be unlikely to expose patients to undue risks. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association J Pharm Sci 96:27,37, 2007 [source]


    Biowaiver monographs for immediate release solid oral dosage forms: Amitriptyline hydrochloride,

    JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES, Issue 5 2006
    R.H. Manzo
    Abstract Literature data relevant to the decision to allow a waiver of in vivo bioequivalence (BE) testing for the approval of immediate release (IR) solid oral dosage forms containing amitriptyline hydrochloride are reviewed. Its therapeutic uses, its pharmacokinetic properties, the possibility of excipient interactions and reported BE/bioavailability (BA) problems are also taken into consideration. Literature data indicates that amitriptyline hydrochloride is a highly permeable active pharmaceutical ingredient (API). Data on the solubility according to the current Biopharmaceutics Classification System (BCS) were not fully available and consequently amitriptyline hydrochloride could not be definitively assigned to either BCS Class I or BCS Class II. But all evidence taken together, a biowaiver can currently be recommended provided that IR tablets are formulated with excipients used in existing approved products and that the dissolution meets the criteria defined in the Guidances. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association J Pharm Sci 95:966,973, 2006 [source]


    Pharmacokinetic comparison of orally-disintegrating metoclopramide with conventional metoclopramide tablet formulation in healthy volunteers

    ALIMENTARY PHARMACOLOGY & THERAPEUTICS, Issue 3 2009
    R. FASS
    Summary Background, Oral tablet formulations of metoclopramide are effective therapies for gastroparesis and gastro-oesophageal reflux disease; however, difficulty swallowing tablets or nausea/vomiting may reduce patient adherence to therapy. Because of this, a metoclopramide orally-disintegrating tablet (ODT) has been developed. Aim, To evaluate the bioequivalence of a single administration of a 10-mg metoclopramide ODT and a conventional 10-mg oral metoclopramide tablet in healthy volunteers. Methods, In a randomized, single-dose, crossover study, healthy volunteers received single administration of 10-mg metoclopramide ODT and 10-mg conventional metoclopramide tablet, with a 7-day interval between treatments. Serial blood samples were collected before dosing and during 24 h post-treatment. Results, Forty-one volunteers completed both treatment arms. Metoclopramide ODT was bioequivalent to conventional tablets; 90% CIs for geometric mean treatment ratios of Cmax [91.6% (90% CI, 87.7,95.8%)], AUClast [97.3% (90% CI, 94.5,100.2%)] and AUCinf [97.6% (90% CI, 94.5,100.8%)] were within the predefined range. Of the 44 volunteers included in the safety analysis, 9 (20%) reported AEs after ODT, compared with 13 (30%) after conventional tablets. Conclusion, In healthy volunteers, single administration of 10-mg metoclopramide ODT was well tolerated and bioequivalent to single administration of a conventional 10-mg metoclopramide tablet. [source]


    Bioequivalence of four preparations of enrofloxacin in poultry

    JOURNAL OF VETERINARY PHARMACOLOGY & THERAPEUTICS, Issue 5 2001
    L. H. Sumano
    In various parts of the world, many 10% enrofloxacin commercial preparations for water medication of chicken are being employed. To avoid the development of bacterial resistance to this agent, the original trademark and similar preparations must be bioequivalent. To assess whether or not bioequivalence exists among the pioneer vs. three commercial preparations of enrofloxacin, a controlled pharmacokinetic study was conducted. The following variables were compared: maximal plasma concentration (Cpeak), time to Cpeak, bioavailability (expressed as the area under the concentration vs. time curve), elimination half-life, and the shapes of the respective time-serum concentrations of enrofloxacin profiles. Results indicate that all three similar commercial preparations had lower Cpeak values than the reference formulation, being 39.62 to 67.77% of the corresponding Cpeak reference. Additionally, bioavailability of enrofloxacin in the pioneer product was statistically higher (P < 0.05). Based upon these results, we conclude that although all preparations were formulated as water-soluble products, bioequivalence studies are mandatory for the analogue formulations to ensure product comparability. Lack of product bioequivalence could facilitate the development of bacterial resistance and limit the useful life span of the product. [source]


    Comparison of plasma pharmacokinetics and bioequivalence of ceftiofur sodium in cattle after a single intramuscular or subcutaneous injection

    JOURNAL OF VETERINARY PHARMACOLOGY & THERAPEUTICS, Issue 5 2000
    S. A. Brown
    Ceftiofur sodium, a broad-spectrum cephalosporin, is active against gram-positive and gram-negative pathogens of veterinary importance. This study was designed to compare the bioequivalence of the sodium salt in cattle after a single intramuscular (i.m.) or subcutaneous dose (s.c.) of 2.2 mg ceftiofur equivalents/kg body weight. The criteria used to evaluate bioequivalence were (1) the area under the curve from time of injection to the limit of quantitation (LOQ) of the assay (AUC0-LOQ), and (2) time concentrations remained above 0.2 ,g/mL (t>0.2). Twelve crossbred beef cattle were enrolled in a three-period, two-treatment crossover trial, with a minimum 2-week washout period between doses of 2.2 mg ceftiofur equivalents/kg. Blood samples were collected serially for up to 72 h post-injection. Plasma samples were then analyzed using a validated assay that measures ceftiofur, and all desfuroylceftiofur-related metabolites, by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) as the stable derivative, desfuroylceftiofur acetamide. A maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) of 13.9±3.55 ,g/mL was observed from 0.67,2.0 h after i.m. administration, whereas a Cmax of 13.6±3.85 ,g/mL was observed from 0.67,3.0 h after s.c. administration. The AUC0-LOQ was 108±35.0 ,g · h/mL after i.m. dosing, compared with 105±29.8 ,g · h/mL after s.c. dosing. The pre-established criterion for equivalence of the AUC0-LOQ for the i.m. and s.c. routes of administration was satisfied. The t>0.2 was 49.2±8.55 h after i.m. administration, compared with 47.0±9.40 h after s.c. administration. The pre-established criterion for equivalence of the t>0.2 for i.m. and s.c. administration was satisfied. The equivalence of AUC0-LOQ and t>0.2 for i.m. and s.c. administration of 2.2 mg ceftiofur equivalents (CE)/kg doses of ceftiofur sodium suggest similar therapeutic efficacy and systemic safety for the two routes of administration. [source]


    In vitro comparative study of three pancreatic enzyme preparations: dissolution profiles, active enzyme release and acid stability

    ALIMENTARY PHARMACOLOGY & THERAPEUTICS, Issue 3 2008
    A. ALOULOU
    Summary Background, Various pancreatic enzyme preparations are used for the treatment of pancreatic insufficiency but their bioequivalence is often unknown. Aim, To determine in vitro the pH-dependent release and acid resistance of enzymes from three commercially available pancreatin capsules, two containing enteric-coated (Creon 25000; Eurobiol 25000) and one uncoated (Eurobiol 12500) microspheres. Methods, Dissolution experiments were performed at pH values ranging from 4.0 to 5.8. Lipase, chymotrypsin and amylase activities were measured in the solution as a function of time. Results, Eurobiol 25000 started to release its enzymes significantly at pH 5.0 (t1/2 = 71 min), whereas the enzymes from Creon 25000 were only released at higher pH value (5.4; t1/2 = 49.2 min). Unlike chymotrypsin, lipase and amylase were highly sensitive to acidic conditions at the lowest pH values tested. Both enzymes were also found to be sensitive to proteolytic inactivation at the highest pH values tested. Overall, Eurobiol 25000 released higher amounts of active amylase and lipase than Creon 25000 at the pH values usually found in duodenal contents. The uncoated Eurobiol 12500 preparation was, however, the only one that could immediately release rather high levels of active chymotrypsin and lipase at low pH (4.5). Conclusion, These findings suggest that pH-sensitive enteric-coated pancreatin products containing similar amounts of enzymes might not be bioequivalent depending on the pH of duodenal contents. [source]


    Bioequivalence of a new liquid formulation of ursodeoxycholic acid (Ursofalk suspension) and Ursofalk capsules measured by plasma pharmacokinetics and biliary enrichment

    ALIMENTARY PHARMACOLOGY & THERAPEUTICS, Issue 6 2005
    K. D. R. Setchell
    Summary Background:, Ursodeoxycholic acid is an approved therapy for hepatobiliary disorders but in infants and children compliance is compromised because it is formulated exclusively as capsules, or tablets. Aim:, To determine the pharmacokinetics and bioequivalence of a new liquid formulation of ursodeoxycholic acid (Ursofalk suspension) with a standard capsule (Ursofalk) in a randomized, unblinded, crossover designed study of 24 healthy adults. Methods:, Equivalence was based on single bolus oral plasma pharmacokinetics and biliary ursodeoxycholic acid enrichments after repeat doses. Biliary bile acid composition and hydrophobicity index were also compared. Ursodeoxycholic acid was measured in duodenal bile by high-performance liquid chromatography and in plasma by mass spectrometry. Results:, The mean percentage biliary ursodeoxycholic acid enrichment after administration of the suspension was not significantly different from that obtained with capsules (44.2 ± 11.7% vs. 46.9 ± 10.2%, respectively). The equivalence ratio was 0.94 (95% CI: 0.8,1.1), establishing bioequivalence between suspension and capsules. Both formulations reduced the biliary hydrophobicity index and no differences in bile acid composition were observed between formulations. The plasma pharmacokinetics of both formulations was similar and the tolerability of the suspension was excellent. Conclusions:, A new liquid formulation of ursodeoxycholic acid suitable for paediatric patients is pharmacologically bioequivalent to capsules when given as single, or repeated oral doses. [source]


    Confidence intervals for ratios of AUCs in the case of serial sampling: a comparison of seven methods

    PHARMACEUTICAL STATISTICS: THE JOURNAL OF APPLIED STATISTICS IN THE PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY, Issue 1 2009
    Thomas Jaki
    Abstract Pharmacokinetic studies are commonly performed using the two-stage approach. The first stage involves estimation of pharmacokinetic parameters such as the area under the concentration versus time curve (AUC) for each analysis subject separately, and the second stage uses the individual parameter estimates for statistical inference. This two-stage approach is not applicable in sparse sampling situations where only one sample is available per analysis subject similar to that in non-clinical in vivo studies. In a serial sampling design, only one sample is taken from each analysis subject. A simulation study was carried out to assess coverage, power and type I error of seven methods to construct two-sided 90% confidence intervals for ratios of two AUCs assessed in a serial sampling design, which can be used to assess bioequivalence in this parameter. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]


    Comparison of sample size formulae for 2 × 2 cross-over designs applied to bioequivalence studies

    PHARMACEUTICAL STATISTICS: THE JOURNAL OF APPLIED STATISTICS IN THE PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY, Issue 4 2005
    Arminda Lucia Siqueira
    Abstract We consider the comparison of two formulations in terms of average bioequivalence using the 2 × 2 cross-over design. In a bioequivalence study, the primary outcome is a pharmacokinetic measure, such as the area under the plasma concentration by time curve, which is usually assumed to have a lognormal distribution. The criterion typically used for claiming bioequivalence is that the 90% confidence interval for the ratio of the means should lie within the interval (0.80, 1.25), or equivalently the 90% confidence interval for the differences in the means on the natural log scale should be within the interval (,0.2231, 0.2231). We compare the gold standard method for calculation of the sample size based on the non-central t distribution with those based on the central t and normal distributions. In practice, the differences between the various approaches are likely to be small. Further approximations to the power function are sometimes used to simplify the calculations. These approximations should be used with caution, because the sample size required for a desirable level of power might be under- or overestimated compared to the gold standard method. However, in some situations the approximate methods produce very similar sample sizes to the gold standard method. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]


    Simulation assessments of statistical aspects of bioequivalence in the pharmaceutical industry

    PHARMACEUTICAL STATISTICS: THE JOURNAL OF APPLIED STATISTICS IN THE PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY, Issue 1 2004
    Scott D. Patterson
    Abstract An Erratum has been published for this article in Pharmaceutical Statistics 2004; 3(3): 232 Since the early 1990s, average bioequivalence (ABE) has served as the international standard for demonstrating that two formulations of drug product will provide the same therapeutic benefit and safety profile. Population (PBE) and individual (IBE) bioequivalence have been the subject of intense international debate since methods for their assessment were proposed in the late 1980s. Guidance has been proposed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the implementation of these techniques in the pioneer and generic pharmaceutical industries. Hitherto no consensus among regulators, academia and industry has been established on the use of the IBE and PBE metrics. The need for more stringent bioequivalence criteria has not been demonstrated, and it is known that the PBE and IBE criteria proposed by the FDA are actually less stringent under certain conditions. The statistical properties of method of moments and restricted maximum likelihood modelling in replicate designs will be summarized, and the application of these techniques in the assessment of ABE, IBE and PBE will be considered based on a database of 51 replicate design studies and using simulation. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]


    Latest news and product developments

    PRESCRIBER, Issue 7 2007
    Article first published online: 11 JUL 200
    Poor asthma control with off-licence prescribing Children who are prescribed off-licence medications are more likely to have poor asthma control, according to an analysis from Dundee (Br J Gen Practice 2007;57:220-2). The review of 17 163 consultations identified 1050 (6.1 per cent) who received a prescription for an unlicensed use (defined as not licensed for children or the particular age group, or dose not licensed). High doses (4.5 per cent) were more frequent than unlicensed indications (1.9 per cent). Children who received off-label prescriptions reported statistically significantly more symptoms in the day or night, symptoms during activity, and increased use of daily short-acting beta2-agonists. The authors note that off-label prescribing appears to be increasing. Atkins diet most effective over one year? The ultra low-carbohydrate, high-protein Atkins diet achieved greater weight loss than other popular diets in overweight women over one year, say US investigators (J Am Med Assoc 2007;297:969-77). The study compared the Atkins diet with three diets designed as low- or very high-carbohydrate, or based on USA nutritional guidance, in 311 women with body mass index 27-40. After one year, mean weight loss was 4.7kg with the Atkins diet , significantly greater than with the low- carbohydrate diet (1.6kg) but not compared with very high-carbohydrate (2.2kg) or the nutrition-based diet (2.6kg). Metabolic endpoints were comparable or more favourable in women using the Atkins diet. Androgen therapy linked to gum disease The majority of men treated with androgen deprivation therapy for prostate cancer are more likely to have periodontal disease (J Urol 2007;177:921-4). After controlling for risk factors, the prevalence of periodontal disease was 80.5 per cent among treated men compared with 3.7 per cent in matched controls not receiving treatment. There was no difference in bone mineral density between the groups but plaque scores were significantly higher among treated men. Food Commission rebuts MHRA on additives An independent watchdog has not accepted the MHRA's justification for including certain additives in medicines for children. The Food Commission (www.foodcomm.org.uk) found that most medicines for children contained additives, some of which , including azo dyes and benzoates , are not permitted in food. The Commission called on the pharmaceutical industry to stop using ,questionable additives'. The MHRA stated that the licensing process takes into account the likely exposure to excipients that are considered essential to make medicines palatable to children. Colouring helps children to identify the correct medicine, and preservatives ensure a reasonable shelf-life. A list of additives is included in the product's summary of product characteristics and patient information leaflet. In response, the Commission states: , , it is quite possible to flavour medicines with natural oils or extracts, and natural colourings such as beetroot and beta-carotene can be used instead of azo dyes. If parents were advised to give these medicinal products at mealtimes the manufacturers could also add a little sugar to sweeten their products, rather than relying on artificial sweeteners.' All triptans the same? There is no economic case for choosing one triptan over another and no evidence for preferring a particular triptan for adults, a systematic review has concluded. The Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (www.cadth.ca) found that published trials had compared most triptans with sumatriptan but not with one another, and most economic evaluations were flawed. New drug for HIV Janssen-Cilag has introduced darunavir (Prezista), a new protease inhibitor for the treatment of HIV infection. Licensed for highly pre- treated patients in whom more than one other pro- tease inhibitor regimen has failed, darunavir must be co-administered with ritonavir (Norvir). A month's treatment at the recommended dose of 600mg twice daily costs £446.70. Variation in liquid captopril for children The NHS uses a wide range of liquid formulations of captopril to treat children with heart failure , with no assurance of their bioequivalence (Arch Dis Child 2007; published online 15 March. doi: 10.1136/adc.2006.109389). Specialists in Leicester surveyed 13 tertiary paediatric cardiac centres and 13 hospitals that referred patients to them. Only three tertiary centres supplied the same liquid for-mulation of captopril as their referring hospitals. Four hospitals supplied tablets for crushing and dissolving in water; the other hospitals and centres used a total of nine different formulations. The authors say the formulations had widely varying shelf-lives, determined empirically in all but one case, and were used interchangeably despite a lack of quality control data to establish their bioequivalence. QOF CVD targets not good enough for GPs Two-thirds of GPs want Quality Outcome Framework (QOF) targets for cardiovascular disease brought into line with those of the Joint British Societies latest guidance (JBS2), according to a survey by doctor.net.uk. The survey of 1000 GPs showed that 88 per cent were aware of the JBS2 guidelines and most were already implementing the targets for lipids, blood pressure and blood glucose in some form; however, only 55 per cent were implementing the JBS2 obesity target and 14 per cent were implementing screening for the over-40s. The JBS2 target for lipids in at-risk patients is <4mmol per litre total cholesterol and <2 mmol per litre LDL-cholesterol, compared with <5 and <3mmol per litre respectively in QOF and the NSF. The survey was commissioned by Merck Sharp & Dohme and Schering- Plough. Fracture warning Following warnings in the US that rosiglitazone (Avandia) is associated with an increased risk of fractures in women, Takeda has advised prescribers that pioglitazone (Actos) carries a similar risk. An analysis of the company's clinical trials database has revealed an excess risk of fractures of bones below the elbow and knee. The incidence was similar to the excess risk associated with rosiglitazone and also confined to women. Scottish approvals The Scottish Medicines Consortium (www.scottish medicines.org.uk) has approved for use within NHS Scotland the sublingual tablet formulation buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone) for the treatment of opioid dependence. It has also approved the combined formulation of valsartan and amlodipine (Exforge) and the restricted use of the If inhibitor ivabradine (Procoralan). [source]