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1.
Pharmaceutics ; 16(6)2024 Jun 08.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38931905

Dry-powder inhalers (DPIs) are valued for their stability but formulating them is challenging due to powder aggregation and limited flowability, which affects drug delivery and uniformity. In this study, the incorporation of L-leucine (LEU) into hot-melt extrusion (HME) was proposed to enhance dispersibility while simultaneously maintaining the high aerodynamic performance of inhalable microparticles. This study explored using LEU in HME to improve dispersibility and maintain the high aerodynamic performance of inhalable microparticles. Formulations with crystalline itraconazole (ITZ) and LEU were made via co-jet milling and HME followed by jet milling. The LEU ratio varied, comparing solubility, homogenization, and aerodynamic performance enhancements. In HME, ITZ solubility increased, and crystallinity decreased. Higher LEU ratios in HME formulations reduced the contact angle, enhancing mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) size and aerodynamic performance synergistically. Achieving a maximum extra fine particle fraction of 33.68 ± 1.31% enabled stable deep lung delivery. This study shows that HME combined with LEU effectively produces inhalable particles, which is promising for improved drug dispersion and delivery.

2.
Pharmaceutics ; 16(6)2024 Jun 08.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38931904

The aim of this study was to fabricate mini-tablets of polyhedrons containing theophylline using a fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printer, and to evaluate the correlation between release kinetics models and their geometric shapes. The filaments containing theophylline, hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC), and EUDRAGIT RS PO (EU) could be obtained with a consistent thickness through pre-drying before hot melt extrusion (HME). Mini-tablets of polyhedrons ranging from tetrahedron to icosahedron were 3D-printed using the same formulation of the filament, ensuring equal volumes. The release kinetics models derived from dissolution tests of the polyhedrons, along with calculations for various physical parameters (edge, SA: surface area, SA/W: surface area/weight, SA/V: surface area/volume), revealed that the correlation between the Higuchi model and the SA/V was the highest (R2 = 0.995). It was confirmed that using 3D- printing for the development of personalized or pediatric drug products allows for the adjustment of drug dosage by modifying the size or shape of the drug while maintaining or controlling the same release profile.

3.
Stem Cells Int ; 2023: 3320211, 2023.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37810631

Brain organoids have been considered as an advanced platform for in vitro disease modeling and drug screening, but numerous roadblocks exist, such as lack of large-scale production technology and lengthy protocols with multiple manipulation steps, impeding the industrial translation of brain organoid technology. Here, we describe the high-speed and large-scale production of midbrain organoids using a high-throughput screening-compatible platform within 30 days. Micro midbrain organoids (µMOs) exhibit a highly uniform morphology and gene expression pattern with minimal variability. Notably, µMOs show dramatically accelerated maturation, resulting in the generation of functional µMOs within only 30 days of differentiation. Furthermore, individual µMOs display highly consistent responsiveness to neurotoxin, suggesting their usefulness as an in vitro high-throughput drug toxicity screening platform. Collectively, our data indicate that µMO technology could represent an advanced and robust platform for in vitro disease modeling and drug screening for human neuronal diseases.

4.
Asian J Pharm Sci ; 18(3): 100815, 2023 May.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37304227

Corrugated surface microparticles comprising levofloxacin (LEV), chitosan and organic acid were prepared using the 3-combo spray drying method. The amount and the boiling point of the organic acid affected the degree of roughness. In this study, we tried to improve the aerodynamic performance and increase aerosolization by corrugated surface microparticle for lung drug delivery efficiency as dry powder inhaler. HMP175 L20 prepared with 175 mmol propionic acid solution was corrugated more than HMF175 L20 prepared with 175 mmol formic acid solution. The ACI and PIV results showed a significant increase in aerodynamic performance of corrugated microparticles. The FPF value of HMP175 L20 was 41.3% ± 3.9% compared with 25.6% ± 7.7% of HMF175 L20. Corrugated microparticles also showed better aerosolization, decreased x-axial velocity, and variable angle. Rapid dissolution of drug formulations was observed in vivo. Low doses administered to the lungs achieved higher LEV concentrations in the lung fluid than high doses administered orally. Surface modification in the polymer-based formulation was achieved by controlling the evaporation rate and improving the inhalation efficiency of DPIs.

5.
Pharmaceutics ; 15(6)2023 Jun 09.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37376145

The conventional dosage form of Ethyol® (amifostine), a sterile lyophilized powder, involves reconstituting it with 9.7 mL of sterile 0.9% sodium chloride in accordance with the United States Pharmacopeia specifications for intravenous infusion. The purpose of this study was to develop inhalable microparticles of amifostine (AMF) and compare the physicochemical properties and inhalation efficiency of AMF microparticles prepared by different methods (jet milling and wet ball milling) and different solvents (methanol, ethanol, chloroform, and toluene). Inhalable microparticles of AMF dry powder were prepared using a wet ball-milling process with polar and non-polar solvents to improve their efficacy when delivered through the pulmonary route. The wet ball-milling process was performed as follows: AMF (10 g), zirconia balls (50 g), and solvent (20 mL) were mixed and placed in a cylindrical stainless-steel jar. Wet ball milling was performed at 400 rpm for 15 min. The physicochemical properties and aerodynamic characteristics of the prepared samples were evaluated. The physicochemical properties of wet-ball-milled microparticles (WBM-M and WBM-E) using polar solvents were confirmed. Aerodynamic characterization was not used to measure the % fine particle fraction (% FPF) value in the raw AMF. The % FPF value of JM was 26.9 ± 5.8%. The % FPF values of the wet-ball-milled microparticles WBM-M and WBM-E prepared using polar solvents were 34.5 ± 0.2% and 27.9 ± 0.7%, respectively; while the % FPF values of the wet-ball-milled microparticles WBM-C and WBM-T prepared using non-polar solvents were 45.5 ± 0.6% and 44.7 ± 0.3%, respectively. Using a non-polar solvent in the wet ball-milling process resulted in a more homogeneous and stable crystal form of the fine AMF powder than using a polar solvent.

6.
Chem Pharm Bull (Tokyo) ; 71(9): 678-686, 2023 Sep 01.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37357388

Pirfenidone (PRF) is an anti-fibrotic agent that has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of mild to moderate idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. However, the current oral administration dosing regimen of PRF is complex and requires high doses. Patients are instructed to take PRF three times daily, with each dose consisting of up to three capsules or tablets (600 mg/d or 1.8 g/d of PRF) taken with food. To improve the dosing regimen, efforts are being made to develop an extended-release tablet with a zero-order release pattern. In this study, two types of extended-release matrix tablets were compared: non-channeled extended-release matrix tablets (NChMT) and channeled extended-release matrix tablets (ChMT). In vitro release tests, swelling and erosion index, rheology studies, and X-ray microcomputed tomography (XRCT), were conducted. The results indicated that ChMT maintained a zero-order release pattern with a constant release rate, while NChMT exhibited a decreased release rate in the latter half of the dissolution. ChMT exhibited accelerated swelling and erosion compared to other formulations, and this was made possible by the presence of channels within the tablet. These channels allowed for thorough wetting and swelling throughout the entire depth of the tablet. The formation of channels was confirmed through XRCT images. In conclusion, the presence of channels in ChMT tablets increased the rate of swelling and erosion, resulting in a zero-order release pattern. This development offers the potential to improve the dosage of PRF and reduce its associated side effects.


Delayed-Action Preparations , Humans , X-Ray Microtomography , Tablets , Solubility
7.
Int J Pharm ; 630: 122454, 2023 Jan 05.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-36455755

Airborne particulate matter has been designated as a class 1 carcinogen by the World Health Organization. Nitrate is a toxic substance that accounts for a large proportion of particulate matter, and nitrate toxicity has long been reported. In this study, we aimed to optimize the adsorption and removal of particulate matter containing nitrate for effective elimination by the lungs. To this end, particles were designed to optimize the inhalation and removal efficiencies. These particles were prepared as chitosan-based particles containing N-acetylcysteine by using emulsion diffusion methods. Chitosan adsorbs nitrate, while N-acetylcysteine dissolves mucus. This removal mechanism has been found to occur in various in vitro models that mimic respiratory environments and in vivo models. In particular, the removal of exogenous substances, such as particulate matter, by the motility of respiratory cilia through mucolytic effect was investigated. This new approach for the adsorption and elimination of toxic substances entering the lungs represents an alternative defense mechanism against exposure to nitrates from air pollution.


Air Pollutants , Chitosan , Particulate Matter , Nitrates , Adsorption , Ferrosoferric Oxide , Acetylcysteine
8.
Drug Des Devel Ther ; 16: 4279-4289, 2022.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-36561308

Purpose: This study aimed to ensure the convenience of administration and reproducibility of efficacy, regardless of the meal, by improving the solubility of rivaroxaban (RIV). Methods: RIV is a non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants that exhibits a coagulation effect by directly inhibiting coagulation factor Xa. However, RIV has a very low solubility; therefore, it must be administered with a meal at high doses. We used a drug- hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin (CD)-water-soluble polymer triple complex (R-C-P complex) to solubilize RIV. Using Minitab, we evaluated the effect of each factor on RIV solubility and developed an optimal R-C-P complex formulation. The amount of CD, amount of polymer, and polymer type were set as the independent variables X1, X2, and X3, respectively. RIV solubility (Y1) and dissolution rate for 45 min in pH 4.5 medium (Y2) and pH 1.2 medium (Y3) were set as response variables. Results: The most efficient RIV solubilization effect was obtained from the composition using CD and HPMC 2208, and physicochemical properties and dissolution parameters were analyzed. RIV in the R-C-P complex was present in an amorphous form and showed high solubility. Unlike commercial products, it showed a 100% dissolution rate. The R-C-P complex formulation secured high RIV solubility and 100% release regardless of pH. Conclusion: The results imply that high-dose RIV can be administered regardless of the meal, reducing the risk of changing the drug effect due to the patient's administration mistake.


Cyclodextrins , Rivaroxaban , Humans , Solubility , Reproducibility of Results , Cyclodextrins/chemistry , Pharmaceutical Preparations , 2-Hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin , Polymers
9.
J Control Release ; 352: 570-585, 2022 12.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-36341935

Pirfenidone (PRF), the first FDA-approved drug to treat idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and formulated as an oral dosage form, has many side effects. To enhance the therapeutic effect, we discovered a high-load nanoemulsion using a novel deep eutectic solvent (DES) and developed an inhalation drug with improved bioavailability. The DES of PRF and N-acetylcysteine were discovered, and their physicochemical properties were evaluated in this study. The mechanism of DES formation was confirmed by FT-IR and 1H NMR and suggested to involve hydrogen bonding. The DES nanoemulsion in which the nano-sized droplets were dispersed is optimized by mixing the DES and distilled water in a ratio. The in vivo pharmacokinetic study showed that the pulmonary route of administration is superior to that of the oral route, and the DES nanoemulsion is superior to that of the PRF solution in achieving better bioavailability and lung distribution. The therapeutic effect of PRF for IPF could be confirmed through in vivo pharmacodynamics studies, including lung function assessment, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, histology, and micro-computed tomography using the bleomycin-induced IPF rat model. In addition, the pulmonary route administration of PRF is advantageous in reducing the toxicity risk.


Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis , Rats , Animals , Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis/drug therapy , Deep Eutectic Solvents , Spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared , X-Ray Microtomography , Pyridones/therapeutic use
10.
Drug Deliv ; 29(1): 3384-3396, 2022 Dec.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-36415157

Pirfenidone (PRF) is the first FDA-approved API in the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). However, PRF induces serious side effects, such as photophobia and gastrointestinal disorder. PRF inhalation can be expected with a lower effective dose and reduced side effects. In this study, PRF was prepared as inhalable co-spray-dried particles for dry powder inhalation. Mannitol, L-leucine (Leu), and NaCl were used as a stabilizer. The kinds and ratios of stabilizers affecting the physicochemical properties of particles were analyzed, including particle size and surface composition, because of the surface enrichment properties of Leu, the most effective stabilizer. The co-spray-dried PRF and Leu microparticle (SD-PL1:1) have the smallest size and highest aerosol performance. The bioavailability was confirmed by in vivo pharmacokinetics (PK) studies. In addition, in vivo pharmacodynamics (PD) experiments were conducted using a bleomycin-induced IPF rat model. In vivo PK experiments demonstrated that pulmonary administration of SD-PL1:1 was 4 times more effective than the oral route. Similar to the PK results, the therapeutic effect was improved when SD-PL1:1 was administered via the pulmonary route compared to the oral route.


Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions , Pyridones , Rats , Animals , Pyridones/pharmacology , Biological Availability , Bleomycin , Excipients
11.
Korean J Women Health Nurs ; 28(2): 100-111, 2022 Jun 30.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-36312864

Purpose: Based on the theory of unpleasant symptoms (TOUS), this study aimed to examine the direct effect of antecedent factors on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and its indirect effect via symptoms in Korean women during the late menopausal transition (MT) and early postmenopause. Methods: This cross-sectional survey employed a descriptive correlational research design. The respondents were 152 middle-aged women 40 to 60 years with an intermenstrual interval of 60 days or more (late MT) or less than 5 years from the last menstrual period (early postmenopause). The respondents were recruited through convenience sampling in Busan, Korea, from December 1, 2020, to January 31, 2021. Based on the TOUS, self-report data were collected on perceived health status, psychological distress, social support, menopausal symptoms, and HRQoL. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statics, independent t-test, one-way analysis of variance, Pearson's correlation coefficient, and the Hayes' PROCESS macro. Results: TOUS was supported on this sample (n=152) of Korean women during the late MT and early postmenopause. Perceived health status, psychological distress, and social support had significant direct relationships with HRQoL. Menopausal symptoms had significant indirect relationships between antecedent factors (perceived health status, psychological distress, and social support) and partially mediated HRQoL. Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that menopausal symptoms play an important role as an intervening factor of HRQoL in women during the late MT and early postmenopause. Therefore, women need an integrated program that manages antecedent factors and menopausal symptoms to improve HRQoL in these menopausal stages.

12.
Int J Nanomedicine ; 17: 3405-3419, 2022.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-35945926

Introduction: Dry powder inhalations are an attractive pharmaceutical dosage form. They are environmentally friendly, portable, and physicochemical stable compared to other inhalation forms like pressurized metered-dose inhalers and nebulizers. Sufficient drug deposition of DPIs into the deep lung is required to enhance the therapeutic activity. Nanoscale surface roughness in microparticles could improve aerosolization and aerodynamic performance. This study aimed to prepare microspheres with nanoscale dimples and confirm the effect of roughness on inhalation efficiency. Methods: The dimpled-surface on microspheres (MSs) was achieved by oil in water (O/W) emulsion-solvent evaporation by controlling the stirring rate. The physicochemical properties of MSs were characterized. Also, in vitro aerodynamic performance of MSs was evaluated by particle image velocimetry and computational fluid dynamics. Results: The particle image velocimetry results showed that dimpled-surface MSs had better aerosolization, about 20% decreased X-axial velocity, and a variable angle, which could improve the aerodynamic performance. Furthermore, it was confirmed that the dimpled surface of MSs could cause movement away from the bronchial surface, which helps the MSs travel into the deep lung using computational fluid dynamics. Conclusion: The dimpled-surface MSs showed a higher fine particle fraction value compared to smooth-surface MSs in the Andersen Cascade Impactor, and surface roughness like dimples on microspheres could improve aerosolization and lung deposition.


Budesonide , Dry Powder Inhalers , Administration, Inhalation , Aerosols/chemistry , Microspheres , Particle Size , Powders/chemistry
13.
Pharmaceutics ; 14(7)2022 Jul 05.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-35890304

This study aimed to prepare mucus-penetrating inhalable microparticles for dry powder inhalers and to evaluate their applicability in an asthma-induced rat model. Microparticles were prepared from water solutions containing tiotropium bromide, L-leucine, and sodium glycocholate (NaGc) as permeation enhancers using the spray drying method. Four formulations (SDL1, SDL2, SDL3, and SDL4) were used, depending on the various NaGc concentrations. Tiotropium microparticles were characterized by standard methods. Additionally, an asthma-induced rat model was used to confirm the effects of the formulations on lung function. Tiotropium microparticles with NaGc resulted in formulations with a more corrugated morphology and smaller particle size distribution than those without NaGc. SDL 1 had a rough surface with irregular morphology, and SDL 2, 3, and 4 had a corrugated morphology. All SDL formulations had an aerodynamic size of <3 µm. The microparticles with a corrugated morphology aerosolized better than SDL1 microparticles. The apparent permeability coefficient (Papp) values of SDL3 and SDL4 were significantly higher than those for raw tiotropium. In an in vivo study using an asthma-induced rat model, the specific airway resistance (Sraw), airway wall thickness, and mean alveolus size recovered to those of the negative control group in the SDL4 formulation.

14.
Pharmaceutics ; 14(7)2022 Jul 05.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-35890307

Esomeprazole magnesium (EMP) is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that reduces acid secretion. EMP has a short plasma half-life (approximately 1.3 h); hence, nocturnal acid breakthrough (NAB) frequently occurs, disturbing the patient's nighttime comfort and sleep. We aimed to develop a novel esomeprazole magnesium-loaded dual-release mini-tablet polycap (DR polycap) with a prolonged onset time and improved bioavailability to prevent NAB. The formulation of the EPM mini-tablet core resulted in rapid drug release. The core was coated with an inner coating and an Eudragit® L30D-55 aqueous dispersion coating to prepare the first-release mini-tablet. In addition, the core was coated with an inner coating and an aqueous dispersion of Eudragit® S100 and Eudragit® L100 coating to prepare the second-release mini-tablet. Each mini-tablet type was characterized using an in vitro dissolution test and microscopic examination. After testing, 10 of each mini-tablets were placed together in hard capsules to form DR polycaps. The combination of mini-tablets was optimized via in vitro release testing and in vivo pharmacokinetic studies. The AUC0-24h of the DR polycap was similar to that of a comparable commercial product (Nexium®); Cmax was lower by approximately 50%, and Tmax was extended by approximately 1.7-fold. In conclusion, DR polycap is an alternative to commercial products with improved NAB and dosing compliance because of its dual-release characteristics.

16.
Pharmaceutics ; 13(9)2021 Sep 14.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-34575544

Lidocaine, a commonly used local anesthetic, has recently been developed into a number of ointment products to treat hemorrhoids. This study examined its efficient delivery to the dermis through the pharmaceutical improvement of hemorrhoid treatment ointments. We attempted to increase the amount of skin deposition of lidocaine by forming a nanoemulsion through the self-nanoemulsifying effect that occurs when glycerol monostearate (GMS) is saturated with water. Using Raman mapping, the depth of penetration of lidocaine was visualized and confirmed, and the local anesthetic effect was evaluated via an in vivo tail-flick test. Evaluation of the physicochemical properties confirmed that lidocaine was amorphous and evenly dispersed in the ointment. The in vitro dissolution test confirmed that the nanoemulsifying effect of GMS accelerated the release of the drug from the ointment. At a specific concentration of GMS, lidocaine penetrated deeper into the dermis; the in vitro permeation test showed similar results. When compared with reference product A in the tail-flick test, the L5 and L6 compounds containing GMS had a significantly higher anesthetic effect. Altogether, the self-nanoemulsifying effect of GMS accelerated the release of lidocaine from the ointment. The compound with 5% GMS, the lowest concentration that saturated the dermis, was deemed most appropriate.

17.
Pharmaceutics ; 13(9)2021 Sep 19.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-34575594

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by a new strain of coronavirus called severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is spreading rapidly worldwide. Nafamostat mesylate (NFM) suppresses transmembrane serine protease 2 and SARS-CoV-2 S protein-mediated fusion. In this study, pharmacokinetics and lung distribution of NFM, administered via intravenous and intratracheal routes, were determined using high performance liquid chromatography analysis of blood plasma, lung lumen using bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, and lung tissue. Intratracheal administration had higher drug delivery and longer residual time in the lung lumen and tissue, which are the main sites of action, than intravenous administration. We confirmed the effect of lecithin as a stabilizer through an ex vivo stability test. Lecithin acts as an inhibitor of carboxylesterase and delays NFM decomposition. We prepared inhalable microparticles with NFM, lecithin, and mannitol via the co-spray method. The formulation prepared using an NFM:lecithin:mannitol ratio of 1:1:100 had a small particle size and excellent aerodynamic performance. Spray dried microparticles containing NFM, lecithin, and mannitol (1:1:100) had the longest residual time in the lung tissue. In conclusion, NFM-inhalable microparticles were prepared and confirmed to be delivered into the respiratory tract, such as lung lumen and lung tissue, through in vitro and in vivo evaluations.

18.
Drug Dev Ind Pharm ; 47(5): 685-693, 2021 May.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-33866911

As an active pharmaceutical ingredient, dapagliflozin propanediol monohydrate (D-PD) has been used in the solvated form consisting of dapagliflozin compounded with (S)-propylene glycol and monohydrate at a 1:1:1 ratio. However, dapagliflozin propanediol loses the solvent's reduced lattice structure at slightly higher temperatures. Due to its sensitive solid-state stability, the temperature and humidity are strictly controlled during the production and storage of dapagliflozin. Thus, crystalline molecular complexes containing pharmaceutical salts, solvates, monohydrates, and cocrystals have recently been developed as alternative strategies. This study investigated the dapagliflozin free base (D-FB), D-PD, and dapagliflozin l-proline cocrystals (D-LP). Their solid-state behavior was also evaluated in stress stability studies. The compounds were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, dynamic vapor sorption (DVS), and powder rheology testing. In addition, Carr's index, the Hausner ratio, contact angle, and intrinsic dissolution rate were calculated. Dapagliflozin exhibited distinct physical properties depending upon the differences in solid form and also showed significant differences in solid-state behavior in the stress stability test. In conclusion, D-LP was superior to D-FB or D-PD in physicochemical and mechanical properties.


Glucosides , Benzhydryl Compounds , Calorimetry, Differential Scanning , Powder Diffraction , Solubility , Spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared , X-Ray Diffraction
19.
J Korean Acad Nurs ; 51(1): 119-132, 2021 Feb.
Article Ko | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-33706336

PURPOSE: This study aimed to identify the effects of a direct breastfeeding program for premature infants in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). METHODS: This quasi-experimental study was conducted during August 2016 to April 2017. Sixty mothers of premature infants were assigned to the experimental (n = 31) or control groups (n = 29). The program was comprised of breastfeeding education and direct breastfeeding support. The experimental and control groups were provided with education and counseling on breastfeeding at the time of admission and discharge. In the experimental group, the mothers initiated oral feeding with direct breastfeeding and engaged in breastfeeding at least seven times during the NICU stay. The collected data were analyzed by the χ²-test and repeated measures ANOVA using an SPSS program. RESULTS: The experimental group showed a higher direct breastfeeding practice rate (χ² = 19.29, p < .001), breastfeeding continuation rate (χ² = 3.76, p < .001), and self-efficacy (F = 25.37, p < .001) than the control group except for maternal attachment. CONCLUSION: The direct breastfeeding program in the NICU has significant effects on the practice and continuation rate of breastfeeding and breastfeeding self-efficacy. Therefore, this program can be applied in the NICU settings where direct breastfeeding is limited.


Breast Feeding , Mothers/psychology , Program Evaluation , Adult , Female , Humans , Infant, Newborn , Infant, Premature , Intensive Care Units, Neonatal , Male , Mother-Child Relations , Self Efficacy , Surveys and Questionnaires
20.
J Control Release ; 329: 468-481, 2021 01 10.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-32871206

The conventional treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) with oral bosentan hydrate has limitations related to the lack of pulmonary selectivity. In this study, we verified the hypothesis of the feasibility of dry powder inhalation of bosentan as an alternative to oral bosentan hydrate for the treatment of PAH. Inhalable bosentan microparticles with the capability of delivery to the peripheral region of the lungs and enhanced bioavailability have been formulated for PAH. The bosentan microparticles were prepared by the co-spray-drying method with bosentan hydrate and mannitol at different weight ratios. The bosentan microparticles were then characterized for their physicochemical properties, in vitro dissolution behavior, and in vitro aerodynamic performance. The in vivo pharmacokinetics and pathological characteristics were evaluated in a monocrotaline-induced rat model of PAH after intratracheal powder administration of bosentan microparticles, in comparison to orally administered bosentan hydrate. The highest performance bosentan microparticles, named SDBM 1:1, had irregular and porous shape. These microparticles had not only the significantly highest aerosol performance (MMAD of 1.91 µm and FPF of 51.68%) in the formulations, but also significantly increased dissolution rate, compared with the raw bosentan hydrate. This treatment to the lungs was also safe, as evidenced by the cytotoxicity assay. Intratracheally administered SDBM 1:1 elicited a significantly higher Cmax and AUC0-t that were over 10 times higher, compared with those of the raw bosentan hydrate administered orally in the same dose. It also exhibited ameliorative effects on monocrotaline-induced pulmonary arterial remodeling, and right ventricular hypertrophy. The survival rate of the group administrated SDBM1:1 intratracheally was 0.92 at the end of study (Positive control and orally administrated groups were 0.58 and 0.38, respectively). In conclusion, SDBM 1:1 showed promising in vitro and in vivo results with the dry powder inhalation. The inhaled bosentan microparticles can be considered as a potential alternative to oral bosentan hydrate for the treatment of PAH.


Monocrotaline , Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension , Administration, Inhalation , Animals , Bosentan , Dry Powder Inhalers , Particle Size , Rats
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