Fixed-dose Combination Tablet Research Articles

Pharmacokinetics and bioequivalence of a rosuvastatin/ezetimibe fixed-dose combination tablet versus single agents in healthy male subjects .

The pharmacokinetic profiles and bioequivalence of a new rosuvastatin/ezetimibe fixed-dose combination (FDC; NVP-1205) vs. rosuvastatin and ezetimibe concomitantly administered as single agents were evaluated. In this open-label, single-dose, crossover study (NCT02029625), eligible subjects were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive a single dose of rosuvastatin (10 mg) with ezetimibe (10 mg) as either a FDC or as single agents concomitantly administered under fasted conditions, followed by a 2-week washout period and administration of the alternate formulation. Serial blood samples were collected predose and up to 96 hours postdose in each period for determination of plasma rosuvastatin and ezetimibe concentrations by liquid-chromatography tandem mass spectroscopy and calculation of pharmacokinetic parameters. The mean Cmax and AUC0-t values of rosuvastatin were 12.5 ng/mL and 115.6 ng×h/mL for the FDC, and 12.2 ng/mL and 115.1 ng×h/mL for the single agents concomitantly administered, respectively. The mean Cmax and AUC0-t values of ezetimibe were 4.7 ng/mL and 67.3 ng×h/mL for the FDC, and 4.5 ng/mL and 68.2 ng×h/mL for the single agents concomitantly administered, respectively. The geometric mean ratio (GMR) and 90% confidence interval (CI) for the rosuvastatin Cmax and AUC0-t were 106.20 (96.62-116.74) and 102.88 (96.32-109.90), respectively. The GMR and 90% CI for the ezetimibe Cmax and AUC0-t were 108.96 (98.56-120.51) and 98.13 (92.01-104.66), respectively. All treatments were well tolerated during this study, with no serious adverse events reported. The rosuvastatin/ezetimibe (10/10 mg) FDC was bioequivalent to single agents concomitantly administered. A single dose of rosuvastatin/ezetimibe as the FDC or as single agents was well tolerated. .

Strength in Amalgamation: Newer Combination Agents for HIV and Implications for Practice

Antiretroviral (ART) therapy for the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection has undergone significant changes over the past 30 years. Many single-tablet regimens (STRs), including newer fixed-dose combination (FDC) tablets, are available, offering patients several options for choosing a treatment regimen that works best for them. Given these changes, patients are more likely to adhere to treatment, achieve better clinical outcomes, and experience both fewer side effects and drug-drug interactions. Newer STRs include dolutegravir (DTG)/lamivudine (3TC)/abacavir (ABC) (Triumeq; Viiv Healthcare, Research Triangle Park, NC), rilpivirine (RPV)/emtricitabine (FTC)/tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) (Odefsey; Gilead, Foster City, CA), RPV/FTC/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) (Complera; Gilead), elvitegravir (EVG)/cobicistat (COBI)/FTC/TDF (Stribild; Gilead), and EVG/COBI/FTC/TAF (Genvoya; Gilead). Recently approved FDCs, such as atazanavir (ATV)/COBI (Evotaz; Bristol-Myers Squibb, Princeton, NJ), darunavir (DRV)/COBI (Prezcobix; Janssen Products, Titusville NJ), and FTC/TAF (Descovy; Gilead), are also now available. The Department of Health and Human Services treatment guidelines for HIV recommend many of these integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI) STRs as a preferred choice for initiation of treatment in both ART-naive and -experienced patients because they offer comparably faster rates of virologic suppression, reduced rates of resistance development (especially with DTG), and overall better adherence than protease inhibitors or NNRTIs. Numerous phase 3 clinical trials support these recommendations including several switch or simplification clinical trials. Notably, the novel pharmacokinetic booster COBI, with its water soluble properties, has enabled the development and coformulation of a few of these STRs and FDCs. Also, a newer tenofovir salt formulation, TAF, has an advantageous pharmacokinetic profile, contributing to better overall renal and bone tolerability compared with TDF. Further simplification regimens comprising dual ART therapies are currently being explored. This review provides an overview of the clinical efficacy and safety data for these coformulated agents, highlighting the relative impact on comparative adverse events, assessing the potential for experiencing fewer drug-drug interactions, and discussing the clinical implications regarding adherence to treatment.

Sustained Effectiveness of a Fixed-Dose Combination of Artesunate and Amodiaquine in 480 Patients with Uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum Malaria in Côte d'Ivoire.

The objective of this study was to monitor the effectiveness of artesunate-amodiaquine fixed-dose combination tablets (ASAQ Winthrop®) in the treatment of uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria in Côte d'Ivoire. Two enrolment periods (November 2009 to May 2010 and March to October 2013) were compared using an identical design. Subjects with proven monospecific P. falciparum infection according to the WHO diagnostic criteria were eligible. 290 patients during each period received a dose of ASAQ Winthrop tablets appropriate for their age. The primary outcome measure was PCR-corrected adequate clinical and parasitological response at Day 28 in the per protocol population (255 in Period 1 and 240 in Period 2). This was achieved by 95.7% of patients during Period 1 and 96.3% during Period 2. Over 95% of patients were afebrile at Day 3 and complete parasite clearance was achieved at Day 3 in >99% of patients. Nineteen adverse events in nineteen patients were considered as possibly related to treatment, principally vomiting, abnormal liver function tests, and pruritus. There was no evidence for loss of effectiveness over the three-year period in spite of strong drug pressure. This trial was registered in the US Clinical Trials Registry (clinical.trials.gov) under the identifier number NCT01023399.

Reducing medical comorbidities associated with long-term HIV infection: beyond optimizing antiretroviral therapy regimens.

Reducing medical comorbidities associated with long-term HIV infection: beyond optimizing antiretroviral therapy regimens.

Use of chemometrics to compare NIR and HPLC for the simultaneous determination of drug levels in fixed-dose combination tablets employed in tuberculosis treatment

The World Health Organization recommends that TB treatment be administered using combination therapy. The methodologies for quantifying simultaneously associated drugs are highly complex, being costly, extremely time consuming and producing chemical residues harmful to the environment. The need to seek alternative techniques that minimize these drawbacks is widely discussed in the pharmaceutical industry. Therefore, the objective of this study was to develop and validate a multivariate calibration model in association with the near infrared spectroscopy technique (NIR) for the simultaneous determination of rifampicin, isoniazid, pyrazinamide and ethambutol. These models allow the quality control of these medicines to be optimized using simple, fast, low-cost techniques that produce no chemical waste. In the NIR – PLS method, spectra readings were acquired in the 10,000–4000cm−1 range using an infrared spectrophotometer (IRPrestige – 21 – Shimadzu) with a resolution of 4cm−1, 20 sweeps, under controlled temperature and humidity. For construction of the model, the central composite experimental design was employed on the program Statistica 13 (StatSoft Inc.). All spectra were treated by computational tools for multivariate analysis using partial least squares regression (PLS) on the software program Pirouette 3.11 (Infometrix, Inc.). Variable selections were performed by the QSAR modeling program. The models developed by NIR in association with multivariate analysis provided good prediction of the APIs for the external samples and were therefore validated. For the tablets, however, the slightly different quantitative compositions of excipients compared to the mixtures prepared for building the models led to results that were not statistically similar, despite having prediction errors considered acceptable in the literature.

Crystalline structure of the marketed form of Rifampicin: a case of conformational and charge transfer polymorphism

Rifampicin is a semi-synthetic drug derived from rifamycin B, and currently integrates the fixed dose combination tablet formulations used in the treatment of tuberculosis. It is also used in the leprosy polychemotherapy and prophylaxis, which are diseases classified as neglected according to the World Health Organization. Rifampicin is a polymorphic drug and its desirable polymorphic form is labeled as II, being the main goal of this study the elucidation of its crystalline structure. Polymorph II is characterized by two molecules with different conformations in the asymmetric unit and the following lattice parameters: a = 14.0760 (10) Å, b = 17.5450 (10) Å, c = 17.5270 (10) Å, β = 92.15°. Differently to the previously reported structures, a charge transference from the hydroxyl group of the naphthoquinone of one conformer to the nitrogen of the piperazine group of the second conformer was observed. The relevance of the knowledge of this crystalline structure, which is the preferred polymorph for pharmaceutical formulations, was evidenced by analyzing raw materials with polymorphic mixtures. Thus, the results presented in this contribution close an old information gap allowing the complete solid-state characterization of rifampicin.

Elbasvir-grazoprevir: A new direct-acting antiviral combination for hepatitis C.

The chemistry, pharmacology, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, efficacy, safety, dosage, administration, and role of elbasvir-grazoprevir in the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection are reviewed. Elbasvir-grazoprevir was recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of chronic HCV genotype 1 or 4 infections with or without ribavirin in patients with or without compensated cirrhosis. Elbasvir exhibits antiviral activity against HCV genotypes 1a, 1b, 2a, 3a, and 4a. Elbasvir-grazoprevir undergoes fecal excretion, does not require dosage adjustment in patients with renal impairment, and is contraindicated in moderate and severe hepatic impairment. In Phase II and III clinical trials, elbasvir-grazoprevir administered orally for 12 weeks was shown to achieve a high sustained virological response 12 weeks after the end of treatment. Elbasvir-grazoprevir is a once-daily, fixed-dose combination tablet that can be taken without regard to food. The adverse drug reactions most commonly reported include fatigue, headache, and nausea. Elbasvir-grazoprevir is indicated with ribavirin for treatment-naive and treatment-experienced patients with genotype 1a with baseline NS5A polymorphisms, for treatment-experienced patients with genotype 1b, and for treatment-experienced patients with genotype 4. Elbasvir-grazoprevir achieves a high cure rate in the treatment of patients with chronic HCV with a once-daily oral regimen and without serious adverse effects; however, it requires close monitoring of liver function values. It is an effective option for patients with HCV genotype 1a, 1b, or 4 with or without compensated cirrhosis and is a particularly attractive option in patients with chronic kidney disease receiving hemodialysis and in patients with HIV coinfection.

A Randomized Trial of Bictegravir or Dolutegravir with Emtricitabine and Tenofovir Alafenamide (F/TAF) Followed by Open Label Switch to Bictegravir/F/TAF Fixed Dose Combination

BackgroundIntegrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTIs) are widely recommended for initial HIV-1 treatment. Bictegravir (BIC, B) is a novel, once-daily INSTI with potent antiviral activity being developed in coformulation with emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide (F/TAF).MethodsIn this Phase 2 study, treatment naïve, HIV-infected adults were randomized 2:1 to receive blinded treatment with BIC or dolutegravir (DTG) coadministered with open label F/TAF (200/25 mg). After all participants completed 48 weeks, they were unblinded and switched to a single fixed-dose combination tablet of B/F/TAF 50/200/25 mg. The proportion of participants with HIV-1 RNA <50 copies/mL (c/mL) was assessed at Week (W) 24 and W48 of the blinded phase and 12 weeks after switching to open label B/F/TAF (W72).ResultsOf 98 participants enrolled in the blinded treatment phase, 65 were randomized to BIC+F/TAF and 33 to DTG+F/TAF. Most were male, had asymptomatic HIV infection, with median HIV-1 RNA 4.4–4.5 log10 c/mL. The proportion of subjects with HIV-1 RNA <50 c/mL at W24 was 97% for the BIC arm and 94% for the DTG arm, and at W48 was 97% and 91%, respectively (Table). All 92 participants who completed the blinded phase were switched to B/F/TAF at W60. At W72 or 12 weeks after switching to open-label B/F/TAF, 99% (91/92) maintained HIV-1 RNA <50 c/mL (98% prior BIC arm [N = 62]; 100% prior DTG arm [N = 30]) and one individual withdrew prior to the analysis. No viral resistance was detected in participants treated with BIC. No participants discontinued open label B/F/TAF due to an adverse event, there were no treatment-related serious adverse events and no deaths. One individual on BIC previously discontinued due to an adverse event of urticaria following the W24 visit.ConclusionAll participants switched from DTG+F/TAF to open-label B/F/TAF maintained virologic suppression, with none discontinuing due to adverse events. During 72 weeks of follow-up, no treatment-emergent resistance to any components was detected in participants taking B/F/TAF. B/F/TAF demonstrated durable virologic suppression in naïve patients through W72 and was safe and effective after switching from DTG + F/TAF, further study in treatment naïve and experienced populations is warranted.Disclosures P. E. Sax, Gilead: Consultant and Investigator, Consulting fee, Research grant and Research support; BMS: Consultant and Investigator, Consulting fee, Research grant and Research support; GlaxoSmithKline/ViiV: Consultant and Investigator, Consulting fee, Research grant and Research support; AbbVie: Consultant, Consulting fee; Janssen: Consultant, Consulting fee; Merck: Consultant, Consulting fee; E. Dejesus, Gilead Sciences: Consultant, Investigator and Speaker’s Bureau, Consulting fee and Speaker honorarium; Janssen: Consultant, Investigator and Speaker’s Bureau, Consulting fee and Speaker honorarium; G. Crofoot, Gilead: Investigator and Scientific Advisor, Advisory honorarium and Research grant; ViiV: Investigator and Scientific Advisor, Advisory honorarium, Research grant and Research support; D. Ward, Gilead: Investigator, Research support; P. Benson, Gilead Sciences: Investigator, Shareholder and Speaker’s Bureau, Research support and Speaker honorarium; ViiV Healthcare: Investigator, Research support; L. Wei, Gilead: Employee and Shareholder, Salary; K. White, Gilead Sciences, Inc.: Employee and Shareholder, Salary; S. Collins, Gilead: Employee and Shareholder, Salary; H. Martin, Gilead Sciences: Employee, Salary; A. Cheng, Gilead: Employee and Shareholder, Salary; E. Quirk, Gilead: Employee and Shareholder, Salary

Glecaprevir/Pibrentasvir: First Global Approval.

A fixed-dose combination tablet of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) NS3/4A protease inhibitor (PI) glecaprevir and the HCV NS5A inhibitor pibrentasvir [glecaprevir/pibrentasvir; MAVIRET™ (EU); MAVYRET™ (USA)] has been developed by AbbVie. Oral glecaprevir/pibrentasvir 300mg/120mg (three 100mg/40mg tablets) taken once daily has been approved by the EMA for the treatment of all major genotypes (genotypes 1-6) of chronic HCV infection in adults. It has also been approved by the US FDA for the treatment of adult patients with chronic HCV genotype 1-6 infection without cirrhosis and with compensated cirrhosis, and for the treatment of adult patients with HCV genotype 1 infection who previously have been treated with a regimen containing either an HCV NS5A inhibitor or an NS3/4A PI, but not both. This article summarizes the milestones in the development of glecaprevir/pibrentasvir leading to its first global approval in the EU and subsequent approval in the USA for chronic HCV infection.

Comparison of Pharmacokinetics and Safety of a Fixed-dose Combination of Rosuvastatin and Ezetimibe Versus Separate Tablets in Healthy Subjects

PurposeRosuvastatin and ezetimibe are concomitantly used for dyslipidemia treatment. Compared with separate tablets, fixed-dose combination (FDC) tablets of rosuvastatin/ezetimibe could increase patient compliance. The aim of this study was to compare the pharmacokinetic (PK) profiles of an FDC tablet of rosuvastatin/ezetimibe and co-administration of rosuvastatin and ezetimibe as separate tablets in healthy Korean volunteers. MethodsThis trial was a randomized, open-label, single-dose, 2-way crossover study. The healthy subjects received an FDC tablet of rosuvastatin 20 mg/ezetimibe 10 mg (test) or co-administration of rosuvastatin 20 mg and ezetimibe 10 mg (reference) in each period (periods 1 and 2), with a 14-day washout period. The blood samples for PK analysis were collected predose and up to 96 hours after administration, and safety was assessed throughout the study. FindingsSixty-four healthy Korean subjects were enrolled, and 57 subjects completed the study. All subjects were men and mean age was 28.52 ± 5.93. The geometric least squares mean ratios (test/reference) and 90% CIs of Cmax and AUC0–last were 101.54% (94.03–109.65) and 97.71% (91.86–103.93) for rosuvastatin, 108.93% (98.55–120.40) and 102.90% (96.72–109.47) for free ezetimibe, and 106.74% (98.18–116.05) and 104.24 % (99.53–109.17) for total ezetimibe. Twenty-four adverse events (AEs) were reported in 22 subjects. Three cases were related to the study drugs; 2 cases were mild, and 1 case was severe. However, all AEs were resolved without any sequelae. In addition, there were no serious AEs throughout the study. ImplicationsThe FDC tablet of rosuvastatin/ezetimibe was well tolerated and resulted in comparable systemic exposure with co-administration of rosuvastatin and ezetimibe. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02941848.

Oral pyridoxine can substitute for intravenous pyridoxine in managing patients with severe poisoning with isoniazid and rifampicin fixed dose combination tablets: a case report

BackgroundFixed drug combination of isoniazid and rifampicin is a rare cause of poisoning even in endemic countries for tuberculosis infection. Severe poisoning can cause severe morbidity and mortality if not treated promptly. Though intravenous pyridoxine is the preferred antidote for severe standard isoniazid poisoning it is not freely available even in best of care centers. We describe a case of severe poisoning with fixed drug combination of isoniazid and rifampicin successfully managed with oral pyridoxine at national hospital of Sri Lanka.Case presentationA 22 year old, Sri Lankan female presented to a local hospital 1 h after self-ingestion of 28 tablets of fixed drug combination of isoniazid and rifampicin which contained 4.2 g of standard isoniazid and 7.2 g of rifampicin. One and half hours after ingestion she developed generalized tonic–clonic seizure with loss of consciousness. She was given intravenous diazepam 5 mg immediately and transferred to national hospital of Sri Lanka, for further care. Upon arrival to tertiary care hospital in 3.5 h of poisoning she had persistent vomiting, dizziness and headache. On examination, she was drowsy but arousable, orange–red discoloration of the body was noted even with the dark skin complexion. She also had orange–red colour urine and vomitus. Pulse rate was 104 beats/min, blood pressure 130/80 mmHg, respiratory rate was 20 breaths/min. The arterial blood gas analysis revealed compensated metabolic acidosis and mildly elevated lactic acid level. Considering the clinical presentation with neurological toxicity and the large amount of isoniazid dose ingested, crushed oral tablets of pyridoxine 4.2 g (equal to standard isoniazid dose ingested) administered immediately via a nasogastric tube since intravenous preparation was not available in the hospital. Simultaneously forced diuresis using intravenous 0.9% saline was commenced in order to enhance excretion of toxic metabolites via kidneys. She had no recurrence of seizures but had acute liver injury subsequently which gradually improved with supportive care. Her liver functions found to be completely normal 1 week after the discharge.ConclusionsPoisoning with fixed drug combination of isoniazid and rifampicin tablets is rare but can cause severe morbidity and mortality if not treated promptly. Oral pyridoxine can substitute for intravenous pyridoxine with almost similar efficacy at a low cost in managing patients with acute severe standard isoniazid poisoning in resource poor setting.

Pharmacokinetics of Pyrazinamide and Optimal Dosing Regimens for Drug-Sensitive and -Resistant Tuberculosis.

Pyrazinamide is used in the treatment of tuberculosis (TB) because its sterilizing effect against tubercle bacilli allows the shortening of treatment. It is part of standard treatment for drug-susceptible and drug-resistant TB, and it is being considered as a companion drug in novel regimens. The aim of this analysis was to characterize factors contributing to the variability in exposure and to evaluate drug exposures using alternative doses, thus providing evidence to support revised dosing recommendations for drug-susceptible and multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB). Pyrazinamide pharmacokinetic (PK) data from 61 HIV/TB-coinfected patients in South Africa were used in the analysis. The patients were administered weight-adjusted doses of pyrazinamide, rifampin, isoniazid, and ethambutol in fixed-dose combination tablets according to WHO guidelines and underwent intensive PK sampling on days 1, 8, 15, and 29. The data were interpreted using nonlinear mixed-effects modeling. PK profiles were best described using a one-compartment model with first-order elimination. Allometric scaling was applied to disposition parameters using fat-free mass. Clearance increased by 14% from the 1st day to the 29th day of treatment. More than 50% of patients with weight less than 55 kg achieved lower pyrazinamide exposures at steady state than the targeted area under the concentration-time curve from 0 to 24 h of 363 mg · h/liter. Among patients with drug-susceptible TB, adding 400 mg to the dose for those weighing 30 to 54 kg improved exposure. Average pyrazinamide exposure in different weight bands among patients with MDR-TB could be matched by administering 1,500 mg, 1,750 mg, and 2,000 mg to patients in the 33- to 50-kg, 51- to 70-kg, and greater than 70-kg weight bands, respectively.

Enhanced Prophylaxis plus Antiretroviral Therapy for Advanced HIV Infection in Africa

BackgroundIn sub-Saharan Africa, among patients with advanced human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, the rate of death from infection (including tuberculosis and cryptococcus) shortly after the initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) is approximately 10%.MethodsIn this factorial open-label trial conducted in Uganda, Zimbabwe, Malawi, and Kenya, we enrolled HIV-infected adults and children 5 years of age or older who had not received previous ART and were starting ART with a CD4+ count of fewer than 100 cells per cubic millimeter. They underwent simultaneous randomization to receive enhanced antimicrobial prophylaxis or standard prophylaxis, adjunctive raltegravir or no raltegravir, and supplementary food or no supplementary food. Here, we report on the effects of enhanced antimicrobial prophylaxis, which consisted of continuous trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole plus at least 12 weeks of isoniazid–pyridoxine (coformulated with trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole in a single fixed-dose combination tablet), 12 weeks of fluconazole, 5 days of azithromycin, and a single dose of albendazole, as compared with standard prophylaxis (trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole alone). The primary end point was 24-week mortality.ResultsA total of 1805 patients (1733 adults and 72 children or adolescents) underwent randomization to receive either enhanced prophylaxis (906 patients) or standard prophylaxis (899 patients) and were followed for 48 weeks (loss to follow-up, 3.1%). The median baseline CD4+ count was 37 cells per cubic millimeter, but 854 patients (47.3%) were asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic. In the Kaplan–Meier analysis at 24 weeks, the rate of death with enhanced prophylaxis was lower than that with standard prophylaxis (80 patients [8.9% vs. 108 [12.2%]; hazard ratio, 0.73; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.55 to 0.98; P=0.03); 98 patients (11.0%) and 127 (14.4%), respectively, had died by 48 weeks (hazard ratio, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.58 to 0.99; P=0.04). Patients in the enhanced-prophylaxis group had significantly lower rates of tuberculosis (P=0.02), cryptococcal infection (P=0.01), oral or esophageal candidiasis (P=0.02), death of unknown cause (P=0.03), and new hospitalization (P=0.03). However, there was no significant between-group difference in the rate of severe bacterial infection (P=0.32). There were nonsignificantly lower rates of serious adverse events and grade 4 adverse events in the enhanced-prophylaxis group (P=0.08 and P=0.09, respectively). Rates of HIV viral suppression and adherence to ART were similar in the two groups.ConclusionsAmong HIV-infected patients with advanced immunosuppression, enhanced antimicrobial prophylaxis combined with ART resulted in reduced rates of death at both 24 weeks and 48 weeks without compromising viral suppression or increasing toxic effects. (Funded by the Medical Research Council and others; REALITY Current Controlled Trials number, ISRCTN43622374.)

Pharmacokinetics of Fixed Dose Combination Tablets of Empagliflozin/Metformin Compared with Individual Tablets in Healthy Subjects Under Fed Conditions

Pharmacokinetics of Fixed Dose Combination Tablets of Empagliflozin/Metformin Compared with Individual Tablets in Healthy Subjects Under Fed Conditions

Bioequivalence of the Highest Dose Strength Fixed-Dose Combination Tablet Of Gemigliptin/Metformin Sustained Release (SR) and Individual Component Gemigliptin and Metformin XR Tablets in Healthy Subjects

Bioequivalence of the Highest Dose Strength Fixed-Dose Combination Tablet Of Gemigliptin/Metformin Sustained Release (SR) and Individual Component Gemigliptin and Metformin XR Tablets in Healthy Subjects

Bioequivalence Study of a New Fixed-dose Combination Tablet Containing S-Amlodipine Nicotinate and Olmesartan Medoxomil in Healthy Korean Male Subjects

PurposeA fixed-dose combination (FDC) pill of amlodipine (relatively old calcium channel blocker as dihydropyridine) and olmesartan (relatively new angiotensin II receptor blocker) is used for hypertension that is not adequately controlled with a single-formulation drug. Because the FDC is a one-pill formulation, and amlodipine and olmesartan have different mechanisms of action, it is expected to improve patients’ medication compliance and have an increased blood pressure-lowering efficacy. The purpose of this study was to assess the safety profile and the bioequivalence of two different FDC formulations [amlodipine besylate/olmesartan medoxomil 10/40 mg (reference product) and S-amlodipine nicotinate/olmesartan medoxomil 5/40 mg (test product)]. MethodsA randomized, open-label, single-dose, 2-treatment, 2-way, and 2-period crossover study, including a 3-week washout period, was performed in 32 healthy Korean male volunteers. To analyze the concentration of S-amlodipine or olmesartan, plasma samples were collected up to 144 hours after the dose for S-amlodipine and 48 hours after the dose for olmesartan. Pharmacokinetic parameters, including the Cmax and the area under the curve from time 0 to the last measurable concentration (AUC0–last) for the time versus concentration plot, were calculated. Analysis of variance for bioequivalence was conducted using Cmax and AUC0–last converted to log scale, and the mean ratios and 90% CIs were determined. Safety data included analysis of adverse events (AEs), vital signs, physical examinations, clinical laboratory test, and 12-lead ECGs. FindingsOf the 32 enrolled participants, 29 healthy volunteers completed the study. For both S-amlodipine and olmesartan, the main pharmacokinetic parameters were all within the acceptable range for regulatory bioequivalence. The 90% CIs for the geometric mean ratios of Cmax and AUC0–last were 0.8766 to 0.9760 and 0.8288 to 0.9224, respectively, for S-amlodipine and 0.9097 to 1.1229 and 0.8904 to 1.0407, respectively, for olmesartan. Hypotension was the most frequent AE, and it was observed in 4 volunteers with the test product and 7 volunteers with the reference product. Both the test and reference formulations were well tolerated. ImplicationsThe present study demonstrates that the newly developed FDC product (test drug) and the conventional FDC product (reference drug) have comparable pharmacokinetic characteristics in healthy adult male volunteers. Both the test and reference products indicated good tolerance in this population, and no serious AEs were observed.

Effectiveness and safety of ledipasvir/sofosbuvir ± ribavirin in the treatment of HCV infection: The real-world HARVEST study

BackgroundTo evaluate the effectiveness and safety of ledipasvir/sofosbuvir (LDV/SOF)±ribavirin (RBV) regimen in a real-world setting. MethodsPatients received a fixed-dose combination tablet containing LDV and SOF with or without RBV, for 8, 12 or 24 weeks. Patients were assessed at baseline, end of treatment, and 12 weeks after the end of treatment. The primary effectiveness endpoint was sustained virologic response 12 weeks after the end of treatment (SVR12). ResultsOf the 86 patients, aged 20–80 years, 82.6% were HCV genotype 1b-infected and 50.0% were cirrhotic. More than half (52.3%) had previously followed pegylated interferon-containing (PEG-IFN) treatment regimens, and 38.5% were null-responders. SVR12 was achieved by 94.2% of patients. All non-responders were cirrhotic: two demonstrated virologic breakthrough and the remaining three relapsed. All patients treated with an 8-week regimen achieved SVR12 despite having high viral load at baseline (HCV RNA of >1 million IU/mL in 8/10 patients, including one with a viral load of >6 million IU/mL). Adverse events were generally mild and transient. Most frequently, fatigue (22.1%), headache (15.1%), and arthralgia (7.0%) were observed. Laboratory abnormalities included anemia and hyperbilirubinemia. ConclusionsTreatment with LDV/SOF±RBV is an effective and safe option for patients with HCV, including those with advanced liver disease or a history of non-response to PEG-IFN-based therapy.

A retrospective study of treatment persistence and adherence to \u03b1-blocker plus antimuscarinic combination therapies, in men with LUTS/BPH in the Netherlands

BackgroundTo assess treatment persistence and adherence in men ≥45 years of age with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), using prescription records from the Netherlands IMS Lifelink™ LRx database.MethodsIn this retrospective, observational cohort study, we identified men who received combination therapy with an α-blocker plus an antimuscarinic (e.g. solifenacin or tolterodine) between 1 November 2013 and 31 October 2014. Treatment could be received as a fixed-dose combination (FDC) tablet or as two drugs administered together (concomitant therapy), if both combination drugs were prescribed within 30 days. The primary objective was to assess treatment persistence, defined as the time from initiation of combination therapy until first discontinuation of the FDC or at least one of the drugs given concomitantly (i.e. ≥30 days without prescription renewal). Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were conducted to assess persistence by antimuscarinic agent, and with different gap lengths used to define discontinuation (45, 60 and 90 days), respectively.ResultsA total of 1891 men received an α-blocker plus an antimuscarinic (FDC, N = 665; concomitant therapy, N = 1226). Median time to discontinuation was significantly longer with FDC versus concomitant therapy (414 vs. 112 days; adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 2.04, 95% confidence interval 1.77, 2.35; p < 0.0001). Persistence at 12 months (51.3% vs. 29.9%) was also significantly greater with FDC compared with concomitant therapy. Assessment of antimuscarinic subgroups showed that median time to discontinuation was longest with solifenacin combinations (214 days) compared with other antimuscarinic combinations (range, 47–164 days; adjusted HR range, 1.27–1.77, p = 0.037). No observable impact on treatment persistence was found by adjusting the gaps used to define discontinuation.DiscussionThis study of real-world evidence of men with LUTS/BPH treated with α-blocker plus antimuscarinic combination therapy in the Netherlands showed that treatment persistence was significantly greater in those who received a FDC tablet compared with combination therapy given concomitantly. The study also shows that treatment persistence was extended in men who received combination therapy containing solifenacin compared with other antimuscarinics.ConclusionsOverall, these findings may be useful for prescribers, as improved persistence on-treatment may translate into improved outcomes for men with LUTS/BPH. Further study is warranted to establish the key drivers of persistence in men receiving combination therapy for LUTS/BPH.

Elbasvir/Grazoprevir: A Review in Chronic HCV Genotypes 1 and 4.

A fixed-dose combination tablet comprising the hepatitis C virus (HCV) NS5A inhibitor elbasvir and the HCV NS3/4A protease inhibitor grazoprevir (elbasvir/grazoprevir; Zepatier™) was recently approved for the treatment of chronic HCV genotype 1 and 4 infection in the EU and the USA. In phase III trials, 12 or 16weeks of treatment with once-daily elbasvir/grazoprevir (fixed-dose tablet or as individual agents), taken with or without ribavirin, generally provided high rates of sustained virological response at 12weeks (SVR12) in treatment-naive and -experienced adult patients with chronic HCV genotype 1a, 1b or 4 infection, including those with or without compensated cirrhosis, HIV co-infection, inherited blood disorders or chronic kidney disease or patients receiving opioid agonist therapy or of Japanese origin. Elbasvir/grazoprevir was generally well tolerated. Thus, elbasvir/grazoprevir, with or without ribavirin, represents an effective new option for the treatment of adults with chronic HCV genotype 1 and 4 infection, including a number of difficult-to-treat populations.

Reducing the Hygroscopicity of the Anti-Tuberculosis Drug (S,S)-Ethambutol Using Multicomponent Crystal Forms

Ethambutol (ETB) is a chiral dibasic compound formulated and marketed as the (S,S)-ethambutol dihydrochloride, (S,S)-EDH, to treat tuberculosis. It is administered orally in a solid formulation composed of isoniazid, rifampicin, and pyrazinamide as a fixed-dose combination tablet. Because of its high hygroscopicity, (S,S)-EDH is known for catalyzing the degradation of isoniazid by rifampicin to yield isonicotinyl hydrazone. In order to avoid or even minimize these mutual drug–drug interactions, in this work we have focused on the development of less hygroscopic multicomponent solid forms of ETB. Four salts of this drug, namely, oxalate (ETBOXA), maleate, terephthalate, and trichloroacetate, were prepared via supramolecular synthesis by the slow evaporation method and characterized by X-ray diffraction (single crystal X-ray diffraction, powder X-ray diffraction), spectroscopic (Fourier transform-infrared), and thermal (thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, hot stage microscopy) techniques. The hygroscopic nature of these salts, including (S,S)-EDH, were evaluated, and all of them were found to be hygroscopic, with the exception of ETBOXA.