Pharmaceutical Compositions Containing Diacerein

Abstract
A once-daily controlled-release formulation of diacerein for treating inflammatory or autoimmune diseases or their complications, with reduced adverse side effects and methods of treating such diseases are disclosed.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Diacerein (4,5-bis(acetyloxy)-9,10-dioxo-2-anthracene carboxylic acid) is a highly purified anthraquinone derivative. It is known to inhibit interleukin-1 activity, and has been approved as a Symptomatic Slow-Acting Drug in Osteoarthritis (SYSADOA) in several countries.


Diacerein has a log P value of 2.42 and is practically insoluble in water. Diacerein is entirely converted into rhein before reaching the systemic circulation. Rhein itself is either eliminated by the renal route (20%) or conjugated in the liver to rhein glucuronide (60%) and rhein sulfate (20%). These metabolites are mainly eliminated by the kidney.


There are two major adverse side effects of diacerein: diarrhea or soft stools and yellow-brown coloring of urine. The severity of diarrhea is mild-to-moderate and occurs within the first two weeks of treatment. Coloring of urine is due to the metabolites of diacerein present in the urine. In vitro and in vivo studies have showed that non-absorbed diacerein is metabolized to rhein in the colon. Rhein in the colon induces a laxative effect via activating chloride secretion by excitation of submucosal neurons and release of acetylcholine and endogenous prostaglandins, but not by release of histamine or serotonin.


Oral bioavailability of diacerein is about 35-56%. A 3-year clinical study indicated that up to 30% diarrhea or soft stools occurred in the patients who took diacerein twice a day with meals (M. Dougados et al., Arthritis & Rheumatism, 44(11), 2539-2547, 2001). Even though feeding increases the bioavailability of diacerein to 43-70%, incomplete absorption still results in a local effect in the colon. The incidence rate of diarrhea was dose proportional, in contrast to a dose disproportional nature of the other side effects (J. P. Pelletier et al., Arthritis & Rheumatism, 43(10), 2339-2348, 2000). This finding implies that minimizing the exposure of diacerein to the colon could improve diarrhea symptoms by enhancing absorption in the intestine.


In addition to the treatment of osteoarthritis, diacerein may be considered for use in treating other inflammatory or autoimmune diseases, for example, type I/II diabetes and its complications, such as nephropathy, retinopathy, neuropathy or foot ulcers, etc. There are non-clinical studies indicating that diacerein and rhein slow down the disease progression of diabetes and suppress the hyper-metabolism of the kidney in diabetic animals. The potential mechanism of diacerein and its metabolite, rhein, to decrease the progression of type I/II diabetes and its complications involves decreasing the expression and activity of pro-inflammatory cytokines, IL-1; downregulating the expression of IL-6, TNF-α and TGF-β; and inhibiting iNOS expression; thereby decreasing the expression and function of GLUT-1 and decreasing the uptake of glucose.


SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An object of the present invention is to provide a once-daily controlled-release formulation of diacerein for treating inflammatory, autoimmune diseases or their complications, such as osteoarthritis, type I/II diabetes or diabetic nephropathy, with reduced adverse side effects. More specifically, the once-daily controlled-release formulations of diacerein of the present invention could be a membrane-controlled formulation, a matrix formulation or an osmotic pump formulation. In a preferred embodiment, the controlled-release formulations of diacerein of the present invention could further provide increased bioavailability when compared to commercial immediate release (IR) formulations. More specifically, said method reduces the adverse side effect of diarrhea caused by diacerein.


Yet another object of the invention is to provide a once-daily controlled-release formulation comprising diacerein and a second active ingredient for treating inflammatory, autoimmune diseases or their complications. More specifically, the second active ingredient could be an angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor or an angiotensin II receptor blocker for treating diabetic nephropathy, an antihyperglycemic drug for treating type I/II diabetes, or a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) for treating osteoarthritis.







DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The major adverse side effects of diacerein are diarrhea and soft stools. In vitro and in vivo studies have showed that non-absorbed diacerein is metabolized to rhein in the colon. Rhein in the colon induces a laxative effect via activating chloride secretion by excitation of submucosal neurons and release of acetylcholine and endogenous prostaglandins, but not by release of histamine or serotonin.


The present invention provides a once-daily controlled-release formulation of diacerein which can minimize the release of diacerein in the colon to reduce these adverse side effects. An ideal control of diacerein release is when the drug release rate and the absorption rate are close to identical so that the adverse side effects caused by the contact of diacerein and the colon mucosa can be minimized. Technologies for controlling the release of diacerein include, but are not limited to, membrane-controlled technology, matrix-controlled technology and osmotic pump technology.


The diacerein, or other active ingredient that is utilized in the present invention, may be prepared either through micronization alone or with a milling aid.


The diacerein utilized in the formulations of the present invention may be crystalline or in the amorphous state.


The sustained-release formulation may include common additives in addition to the active ingredient and a polymer. For example, the sustained-release core may include a diluent such as a microcrystalline cellulose, dextrose, starch, sucrose, lactose, sorbitol, mannitol or calcium phosphate; a disintegrating agent such as talc, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, L-hydroxypropylcellulose, cropovidone, or corn starch; a binder such as polyvinylpyrrolidone, starch, gelatin, tragacanth, methylcellulose, or hydroxypropylcellulose; and a solvent such as water or a lower alcohol such as ethanol or isopropanol; and a lubricant such as light anhydrous silicic acid, talc, stearic acid and its zinc, magnesium, or calcium salt or polyethyleneglycol. In addition, the sustained-release formulation may also include a disintegrating agent such as sodium starch glycolate, starch, alginic acid or its sodium salt.


A pharmaceutical composition of the present invention can be formulated as various types of oral formulations having the above-described composition. Preferably, the pharmaceutical composition of the present invention can be formulated as tablets or beads.


Membrane-Controlled Technology

In one embodiment, the formulation of the invention may be surrounded by a controlled-release film that can isolate the drug core from the GI environment to minimize direct contact of diacerein with the colon mucosa.


The controlled-release film may contain a water-insoluble polymer which forms a membrane to avoid direct contact of diacerein and the colon mucosa. The water-insoluble polymer may include cellulose acetate, cellulose triacetate, agar acetate, amylose triacetate, beta glucan acetate, acetaldehyde dimethyl acetate, cellulose acetate methyl carbamate, cellulose acetate phthalate, cellulose acetate succinate, cellulose acetate dimethylamino acetate, cellulose acetate ethyl carbonate, cellulose acetate chloroacetate, cellulose acetate ethyl oxalate, cellulose acetate propionate, poly(vinylmethylether) copolymers, cellulose acetate butyl sulfonate, cellulose acetate octate, cellulose acetate laurate, cellulose acetate p-toluene sulfonate, triacetate of locust gum bean, hydroxylated ethylene-vinyl acetate, cellulose acetate butyrate, ethyl cellulose and the like.


The controlled-release film can further contain a plasticizer or a pore-forming agent to obtain suitable film properties. Examples of suitable plasticizers are dibutyl sebacate, triethyl citrate and polyethylene glycol (PEG). Examples of suitable pore-forming agents are hydroxymethylpropylcellulose (HPMC), polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and hydroxypropylcellulose (HPC).


The drug release rate of diacerein can be controlled by adjusting the weight gain of the controlled-release film. Suitable weight gain could be 3-50% of the core tablet or bead.


In one embodiment of the invention, the controlled-release formulation comprises an active layer, a sustained-release film layer and a delayed-release film layer.


In one embodiment of the invention, the active layer comprises between about 40.0% and about 50.0% by weight of microcrystalline cellulose, between about 20.0% and about 30.0% by weight of diacerein, between about 2.0% and about 5.0% by weight of povidone and between about 20.0% and about 30.0% by weight of mannitol.


In another embodiment of the invention, the active layer comprises about 50.0% by weight of microcrystalline cellulose, about 25.0% by weight of diacerein, about 2.0% by weight of povidone and about 23.0% by weight of mannitol.


The sustained-release film layer may comprise, but is not limited to, ethyl cellulose polymers, povidone, triethyl citrate and talc.


The delayed-release film layer may comprise, but is not limited to, Eudragit® polymers, triethyl citrate and talc.


Matrix Technology

In another embodiment, the formulation of the invention may contain a controlled-release material, such as a hydrophilic polymer, a hydrophobic polymer or wax to form a controlled-release matrix. Diacerein is trapped in the matrix to avoid contact of the diacerein and the colon mucosa.


Examples of controlled release materials include hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose with a molecular weight of between 1,000 and 4,000,000, hydroxypropyl cellulose with a molecular weight of from 2,000 to 2,000,000, sodium alginate, carbomer (Carbopol®), sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, xanthan gum, guar gum, locust bean gum, poly vinyl acetate, polyvinyl alcohol carboxyvinyl polymers, polyvinyl alcohols, glucans, scleroglucans, mannans, xanthans, alginic acid and its derivatives, polyanhydrides, polyaminoacids, carboxymethyl cellulose, cross-linked sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, cross-linked polyvinyl pyrrolidone, carboxymethylamide, potassium methacrylate/divinylbenzene copolymer, starches and their derivatives, β-cyclodextrin, dextrin derivatives with linear or branched chains, ethyl cellulose, methyl cellulose and cellulose derivatives.


In one embodiment of the invention, the controlled-release formulation comprises about 20.0% by weight of diacerein, between about 20.0% and 40.0% by weight of hydroxymethylpropylcellulose, between about 37.0% and about 57.0% by weight of mannitol, about 2.0% by weight of povidone and about 1.0% by weight of magnesium stearate.


In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the controlled-release formulation comprises about 20.0% by weight of diacerein, about 20.0% by weight of hydroxymethylpropylcellulose, about 57.0% by weight of mannitol, about 2.0% by weight of povidone and about 1.0% by weight of magnesium stearate.


In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the controlled-release formulation comprises about 20.0% by weight of diacerein, about 40.0% by weight of hydroxymethylpropylcellulose, about 37.0% by weight of mannitol, about 2.0% by weight of povidone and about 1.0% by weight of magnesium stearate.


In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the controlled-release formulation comprises about 20.0% by weight of diacerein, about 33.0% by weight of hydroxymethylpropylcellulose, about 46.0% by weight of mannitol and about 1.0% by weight of magnesium stearate.


Osmotic Pump System

In another embodiment, the release rate of diacerein can be controlled by an osmotic pump system. A drug-containing core is covered by a semipermeable membrane, allowing only water to permeate. When external aqueous fluids are imbibed through the semipermeable membrane into the core by an osmotic pressure gradient, the drug is released from a passageway in the membrane. Said passageway may be a hole, aperture, orifice, bore, weakened area or an erodible element that erodes to form an passageway for the release of diacerein.


The materials used for the semipermeable membrane in the invention are well-known in the pharmaceutical industry. For example, commercially available non-plasticized cellulose acetate, plasticised cellulose triacetate, agar acetate, pentacglucose acetate, dextran acetate, cellulose acetate methylurethane, cellulose acetate phthalate, cellulose acetate ethylurethane, cellulose acetate succinate, cellulose acetate dimethylglycine, cellulose acetate ethanecarbonate, cellulose acetate methanesulfonate, cellulose acetate butanesulfonate, cellulose acetate propionate, vinyl methyl ether polymer, cellulose acetate coctanoate, cellulose acetate laurate, cellulose acetate p-toluenesulfonate, ethyl cellulose, locust bean gum triacetate, cellulose acetate with acetyl hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxation ethylene vinyl acetate, membrane material made with expoxy polymer, alkylidene oxide-alkyl glycidyl ether, polyurethane, polyglycolic acid, and the well-known polyoxygen-polyanionic membrane may be used in the present invention.


In one embodiment, a controlled-release formulation of diacerein which is controlled by osmotic pump technology may utilize a formulation comprising a drug layer and a push layer. A push layer of an osmotic delivery dosage comprises an osmopolymer. The osmopolymer swells when aqueous liquids are absorbed. Examples of osmopolymers include poly(hydroxyalkylmethacrylate with a molecular weight of 30,000˜5,000,000, poly(vinylpyrrolidone) with a molecular weight of 10,000˜36,000, anion and cation hydrogels, polyelectrolyte complexes, poly(vinyl alcohol), polyethylene oxide, N-vinyl lactams, Carbopol® acidic carboxy polymers with a molecular weight of 4,000˜4,500,000, Cyanamer® polyacrylamides, cross-linked water swellable indene-maleic anhydride polymers, aminopectin copolymer, Aqua-Keeps® acrylate polymer and polysaccharides.


Methods for Improving Bioavailability

In another embodiment, the controlled-release formulation of the invention could further provide increased bioavailability of diacerein when compared to commercial immediate release formulations (ex. Arthrodar®, TRB Pharma s.a.). It is believed that the increase in bioavailability could be helpful to decrease the adverse side effects. Methods for increasing the bioavailability include, but are not limited to, (a) adding surfactants; (b) forming a solid dispersion; (c) utilizing micronized or nanonized diacerein, (d) adding acidifying or buffering agents and (e) complexation with cyclodextrins.


The addition of suitable surfactants into pharmaceutical compositions of diacerein can enhance the in vitro dissolution rate and in vivo bioavailability. Suitable surfactants include, but are not limited to, sodium lauryl sulfate, polyethylene-polypropylene glycol, glycerol-polyethylene glycol oxystearate, PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil and stearoyl macrogolglycerides (polyoxylglycerides).


Solid dispersions have been traditionally employed to enhance the dissolution rate of drugs, with a view to improve bioavailability. The drug may be entrapped in a carrier in an amorphous form without undergoing recrystallization. The process to prepare a solid dispersion is well known by a skilled artisan.


Controlling the particle size of diacerein is also considered to be helpful to improve its bioavailability. The preferred particle size of diacerein is D50 less than 20 μm and, more preferably, D50 less than 5 μm. In addition, the combination of co-micronized diacerein with hydrophilic milling aids can facilitate drug dissolution and bioavailability. Suitable hydrophilic milling aids include, but are not limited to, HPMC, sucrose, lactose, surfactants and superdisintegrants. The process may be practiced by utilizing a mill or a micronizer, such as an Aljet mill. The co-micronized diacerein can then be mixed or granulated with other excipients.


The tables below indicate the solubility and stability of diacerein in buffer solutions with different pH values. At a pH below 4.17, diacerein is stable and its solubility is relatively low. The degradation products including rhein increase at a pH above 5. The poor stability of diacerein in the intestinal environment may result in incomplete absorption and cause poor and variable bioavailability. Moreover, one of the increased degradants in the intestinal environment, rhein, has been suspected to be a major factor in stimulating colon mucosa and results in diarrhea. Accordingly, methods to stabilize diacerein during gastro-intestinal absorption might improve its bioavailability as well as the side effect of diarrhea. The stabilization methods for use with diacerein may include the addition of acidifying or buffering agents or complexation with cyclodextrins.









TABLE 1







Solubility and stability pH profile of diacerein at ambient temperature for 48 hours











Final
Total
Proportion of Diacerein and its degradants (%)













Buffer
pH
solubility



Monoacetylrhein


system
value
(μg/mL)
Diacerein
Rhein
Monoacetylrhein I
II
















0.1N
1.17
0.17
100
0
0
0


HCl


0.01N
1.98
0.15
100
0
0
0


HCl


50 mM
3.03
0.35
100
0
0
0


NaH2PO4
4.17
0.43
100
0
0
0



5.04
1.40
60
27
0
13



5.97
152.7
77
10
8
5



6.55
1105.2
45
28
14
13



6.70
3746.2
34
36
16
14


Water
5.79
44.0
90
2
5
3
















TABLE 2







Solubility and stability of diacerein at ambient


temperature for one hour










Total
Proportion of Diacerein and its degradants (%)












Final pH
solubility


Monoacetyl-
Monoacetyl-


value
(μg/mL)
Diacerein
Rhein
rhein I
rhein II















6.55*
901.9
90
4
4
2


6.70*
4444.1
83
4
7
6









Use of the Formulations of the Invention

The pharmaceutical compositions of diacerein of the present invention can be used for treating inflammatory or autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, inflammatory bowel disease, including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, multiple sclerosis, periodontitis, gingivitis, graft versus host reactions, psoriasis, scleroderma, atopic dermatitis, asthma, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), nephropathy and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Dermal conditions that may be treated include those given above, and also psoriatic arthritis, epidermolysis bullosa, atopic dermatitis and vasculitis. Anti-angiogenic activity may allow the treatment of conditions such as age-related macular degeneration and cancer. Preferably, the pharmaceutical compositions of the invention are used for treating osteoarthritis, type I/II diabetes or diabetic nephropathy, with fewer adverse side effects.


Suitable doses of diacerein for treating the above diseases are in the range of 5-200 mg/per day, preferably, 20-150 mg/per day.


When administered to a patient who has reached the steady state of plasma concentration, a 50 mg commercial IR diacerein formulation administered twice daily only maintains the plasma concentration of rhein above 2 mg/L for about 12 hours. However, in a preferred embodiment of the invention:


a 50 mg diacerein formulation of the present invention maintains the plasma concentration of rhein above the concentration of 1 mg/L for more than 12 hours in humans when orally administered to a human patient who has reached the steady state condition;


a 100 mg diacerein formulation of the present invention maintains the plasma concentration of rhein above the concentration of 2 mg/L for more than 12 hours in humans when orally administered to a human patient who has reached the steady state condition;


a 150 mg diacerein formulation of the present invention maintains the plasma concentration of rhein above the concentration of 3 mg/L for more than 12 hours in humans when orally administered to a human patient who has reached the steady state condition;


and


a 200 mg diacerein formulation of the present invention maintains the plasma concentration of rhein above the concentration of 4 mg/L for more than 12 hours in humans when orally administered to a human patient who has reached the steady state condition.


Combo Formulations

The controlled-release formulation of the invention can further comprise another active ingredient, such as Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs), antihyperglycemics or NSAIDs. More specifically, the formulations of diacerein according to the present invention can further contain an angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor or a angiotensin II receptor blocker for treating diabetic nephropathy, a antihyperglycemic drug for treating type I/II diabetes, or a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) for treating osteoarthritis.


Examples of ACEIs include captopril, benazepril, enalapril, lisinopril, fosinopril, ramipril, perindopril, quinapril, moexipril and trandolapril. Examples of ARBs include candesartan, eprosartan, irbesartan, telmisartan, valsartan and losartan. Examples of antihyperglycemics include sulfonylureas, such as glyburide, glipizide, and glimepiride; meglitinides such as repaglinide and nateglinide; biguanides such as metformin; thiazolidinediones such as pioglitazone and rosiglitazone; alpha glucosidase inhibitor such as acarbose. Examples of NSAIDs include salicylates such as aspirin; arylalkanoic acids, such as acetaminophen; 2-Arylpropionic acids such as Ibuprofen, Ketorolac and Naproxen; n-arylanthranilic acids such as mefenamic acid, meclofenamic acid; Oxicams such as piroxicam, meloxicam; and COX-2 inhibitors such as Celecoxib.


The second active ingredient may be in a controlled-release dosage form or in an immediate release dosage form.


It should be noted that the present embodiments are to be considered as illustrative and the invention is not to be limited to the details given herein.


EXAMPLES
Example 1
Preparation of Solid Dispersion

Acceptable ranges for the components of representative solid dispersions are shown in Table 3.











TABLE 3





Ingredients
Examples
%







API
Diacerein
10~90


Carriers
hydrophilic polymers (HPMC, HPC, HEC,
10~90



MC, sod. CMC etc.),



hydrophobic polymers (EC, PVA,



Methylmethacrylate etc.),



Surfactants (SLS, Tween 80, Gelucire,



Cremophor, poloxamer, PEG etc.),



water-soluble excipients (lactose, sucrose,



mannitol, glucose etc.),



Wax (glyceryl behenate, cetyl alcohol etc.),



or combinations thereof


Organic solvents
Acetone, Isopropyl alcohol, or Ethanol
qs









Process:

Diacerein may be dissolved with suitable organic solvents to form a drug solution. Carriers, such as hydrophilic polymers, hydrophobic polymers, surfactants, water-soluble excipients, or wax, or a combination of the above carriers are then dissolved or dispersed in the drug solution. Spray drying of the above solution may be used to obtain a solid dispersion, or the solution may be coated onto suitable excipients (water-soluble materials that function as a second carrier) using a fluidized bed.


Example 2
Complexation with Cyclodextrins

Acceptable ranges for the components of representative complexes with cyclodextrins are shown in Table 4.












TABLE 4







Ingredients
%


















API
Diacerein
10~90


Cyclodextrins
α-cyclodextrin, β-cyclodextrin,
10~90



γ-cyclodextrin and their derivatives, for



example, 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin



etc.









Process:

Water solutions of cyclodextrins may be prepared with various percentages. Diacerein is added to the above solutions to yield saturated solutions. The solutions are stirred for at least 72 hours and then allowed to stand until all undissolved material has precipitated. The supernatant solution is filtered and dried by oven, spray drying or freeze drying or coated onto suitable excipients (which function as diluents) using a fluidized bed.


Example 3
Matrix System (Tablet)

Acceptable ranges for the components of representative tablet matrix systems are shown in Table 5.












TABLE 5







Ingredients
%


















API
Diacerein, Diacerein in solid dispersion or in
10~90



comlexation with cyclodextrins


Controlled
water-swellable polymers, hydrophilic polymers
10~90


release
(HPMC, HPC, HEC, MC, sod. CMC etc.), hydro-


materials
phobic polymers (EC, PVA, Methylmethacrylate



etc.), wax (glyceryl behenate, cetyl alcohol etc.).









Process:

The API part is prepared as described in the above examples. The diacerein API part is physically mixed or granulated with controlled release materials and then the mixture is compressed to obtain matrix tablets. Optionally, an acidifying agent or buffering agent may be included in the tablet formulation.


Example 4
Matrix System (Tablet)

Two representative matrix tablet formulations are shown in Table 6.














TABLE 6









Formula A

Formula B














Ingredients
mg
%
mg
%


















Granule I
Diacerein
100
20.0
100
20.0




HPC
100
20.0






HPMC


179
35.8




Mannitol
204
40.8






SLS
10
2.0






Cremophor


10
2.0



Granule II
HPMC
80
16.0






Mannitol


180
36.0




PVP
3
0.6
3
0.6




Tartaric acid


25
5.0



Lubricant
Mg. stearate
3
0.6






SiO2


3
0.6




Total
500
100.0
500
100.0










Process:

A solid dispersion of granule I was prepared as described in Example 1. Granule II was prepared by wet granulation. Granules I and II were mixed with lubricants and then compressed to obtain matrix tablets.


Example 5
Matrix System (Tablet)

A further representative matrix tablet formulation is shown in Table 7.












TABLE 7









Formula C














Ingredients
mg
%
















Granule
Diacerein
100
20.0




HPMC
175
35.0




Mannitol
147
29.4




Cremophor
50
10.0




Tartaric acid
25
5.0



Lubricant
Mg. stearate
3
0.6




Total
500
100.0










Process:

Diacerein, HPMC, mannitol, cremophor and tartaric acid were granulated by wet granulation. The granules were mixed with lubricants and then compressed.


Example 6
Matrix System (Beads)

Acceptable ranges for the components of representative bead matrix systems are shown in Table 8.












TABLE 8







Ingredients
Percentage
















Core bead









API
Diacerein
10~90%




of core


Carriers
hydrophilic polymers (HPMC, HPC, HEC, MC,
10~90%



sod. CMC etc.),
of core



hydrophobic polymers (EC, PVA, Methylmeth-



acrylate etc.),



Surfactants (SLS, Tween 80, Gelucire, Cremophor,



poloxamer, PEG etc.),



water-soluble excipients (lactose, sucrose, mannitol,



glucose etc.),



Wax (glyceryl behenate, cetyl alcohol etc.), or



combinations thereof


Seeds
Sphere of microcrystalline cellulose, sugar seed etc.
10~90%




of core









Process:

Diacerein is dissolved with suitable organic solvents to form a drug solution. Carriers such as hydrophilic polymers, hydrophobic polymers, surfactants, water-soluble excipients, wax or the combination of above carriers are then dissolved or dispersed in the drug solution. The solution is sprayed onto seeds by fluidized bed to obtain matrix beads. The beads are then encapsulated in a capsule with suitable size.


Example 7
Matrix System (Beads)

A representative bead matrix formulation is shown in Table 9.












TABLE 9









Formula D












Ingredients
mg
%
















Core Bead
API
100
20.0




HPC
100
20.0




EC
50
10.0




MCC sphere
240
48.0




Cremophor
10
2.0




Total
500.0
100.0










The formula D was prepared by the process described in Example 6.


Example 8
Membrane-Controlled System (Tablet)

Acceptable ranges for the components of representative membrane controlled tablet formulations are shown in Table 10.












TABLE 10







Ingredients
Percentage
















Core tablet









API
Diacerein in solid dispersion or in
 10~90% of



complexation with cyclodextrins
core


Diluents
Lactose, MCC, mannitol etc.
 10~90% of




core


Lubricants
Mg. stearate
0.1~5% of core







Film coating









Composition
hydrophobic polymers (EC, PVA,
  3~50% weight


of controlled
Methylmethacrylate etc.), pore-forming
gain of core


release
agent (HPMC, PVP, HPC, etc.)
tablets


membrane
Plasticizer (dibutyl sebacate, triethyl



citrate, PEG etc.)









The API part is prepared as described in the above examples. The Diacerein API part is physically mixed or granulated with suitable diluents and lubricants then compressed to obtain core tablets. Optionally, the acidifying agent or buffering agent may be included in the core tablet formulation. The controlled release materials are dissolved along with pore forming agents and plasticizer in organic solvents to obtain the coating solution for above core tablet. Then, the tablets are coated in a tablet coater.


Example 9
Membrane-Controlled System (Tablet)

Three representative membrane controlled tablet formulations are shown in Table 11.













TABLE 11









Formula E
Formula F
Formula G















Ingredients
mg
%
mg
%
mg
%


















Core
Diacerein
100
22.7
100
23.0
100
23.0


Tablet
Mannitol
304
69.1
274.5
63.0
289.5
66.5



SLS
20
4.5


30
6.9



Cremophor


20
4.6





PVP
14
3.2
14
3.2
14
3.2



Tartaric acid


25
5.7





Mg. stearate
2
0.5
2
0.5
2
0.5



Subtotal
440
100
435.5
100
435.5
100


Seal Coat
Core tablet
440
97.3
435.5
97.3
435.5
97.3



HPMC
8
1.8
8
1.8
8
1.8



Talc
4
0.9
4
0.9
4
0.9



Subtotal
452.0
100.0
447.5
100.0
447.5
100.0


SR Coat
Seal-coated tablet
452.0
90.4
447.5
89.5
447.5
89.5



EC
30
6.0
25
5.0
25
5.0



PVP
15
3.0
25
5.0
25
5.0



TEC
3
0.6
2.5
0.5
2.5
0.5



Total
500.0
100.0
500.0
100.0
500.0
100.0









Process:

The core tablet was manufactured by a solid dispersion method as described in the above examples or by a wet granulation method. The core tablet was then coated with a seal coat and a sustained-release coat.


Example 10
Membrane-Controlled System (Beads)

Acceptable ranges for the components of representative bead membrane-controlled systems are shown in Table 12.












TABLE 12







Ingredients
Percentage
















Core bead









API
Diacerein
10~90% of




core


Carriers
hydrophilic polymers (HPMC, HPC, HEC,
10~90% of



MC, sod. CMC etc.),
core



hydrophobic polymers (EC, PVA,



Methylmethacrylate etc.),



Surfactants (SLS, Tween 80, Gelucire,



Cremophor, poloxamer, PEG etc.),



water-soluble excipients (lactose,



sucrose, mannitol, glucose etc.),



Wax (glyceryl behenate, cetyl



alcohol etc.), or combinations



thereof


Seeds
Sphere of microcrystalline cellulose,
10~90% of



sugar seed etc.
core







Film coating









Composition
hydrophobic polymers (EC, PVA,
 3~50% weight


of controlled
Methylmethacrylate etc.), pore-forming
gain of core


release
agent (HPMC, PVP, HPC, etc.)
bead


membrane
Plasticizer (dibutyl sebacate, triethyl



citrate, PEG etc.)









Process:

Diacerein is dissolved with suitable organic solvents to form a drug solution. Carriers such as hydrophilic polymers, hydrophobic polymers, surfactants, water-soluble excipients, wax or the combination of above carriers are then dissolved or dispersed in the drug solution. The solution is sprayed onto seeds by a fluidized bed to obtain core beads. The controlled release materials are dissolved along with pore forming agents and plasticizer in organic solvents to obtain the coating solution for the core beads. Then, the beads are coated with a controlled-release membrane. The extended-release beads are then encapsulated in a capsule with suitable size.


Example 11
Membrane-Controlled System (Beads)

Representative bead membrane-controlled system formulations are shown in Table 13.












TABLE 13









Formula H












Ingredients
mg
%
















Core Bead
API
100
22.8




HPC
100
22.8




MCC sphere
228.5
52.1




SLS
10
2.3




Subtotal
438.5
100



Seal Coat
Core bead
438.5
98.0




HPMC
6
1.3




Talc
3
0.7




Subtotal
447.5
100.0



CR Coat
Seal-coated bead
447.5
89.5




EC
25
5.0




PVP
25
5.0




TEC
2.5
0.5




Total
500.0
100.0










The formula H was prepared by the process described in Example 10.


Example 12
Osmotic Pump (Push Pull) System

Acceptable ranges for the components of representative osmotic pump (push pull) formulations are shown in Table 14.













TABLE 14







Ingredients
Example
Percentage



















Drug layer
API
Diacerein, Diacerein in solid
  10~90% of drug layer




dispersion or in comlexation with




cyclodextrins



Osmotic agent
NaCl, mannitol, fructose etc.
  10~90% of drug layer



Osmotic polymer
Polyethylene oxide (PEO)
  10~90% of drug layer



Antioxidant
BHT
0.01~0.5% of PEO



Binder
HPMC, PVP, HPC etc.
 0.5~30% of drug



Lubricant
Mg. stearate, SiO2
layer





 0.1~5% of drug layer


Push layer
Osmotic agent
NaCl, mannitol, fructose etc.
  10~90% of push



Osmotic polymer
Polyethylene oxide (PEO)
layer



Antioxidant
BHT
  10~90% of push



Binder
HPMC, PVP, HPC etc.
layer



Lubricant
Mg. stearate, SiO2
0.01~0.5% of PEO





 0.5~30% of push





layer





 0.1~5% of push layer


Composition of
Film-former
Cellulose acetate
  3~50% weight gain of


semipermeable
Pore-forming
(HPMC, PVP, HPC, etc.)
bi-layered tablets


membrane
agent
dibutyl sebacate, triethyl citrate, PEG



Plasticizer
etc.









The API part as described in the above examples is prepared by physically mixing or granulating the diacerein API part with PEO, an osmotic agent, a binder, and an antioxidant and then blending with a lubricant to obtain the drug layer. Optionally, the acidifying agent or buffering agent may be included in the drug layer formulation. The push layer is also prepared by physically mixing or granulating. The semipermeable membrane is introduced by dissolving cellulose acetate along with a pore forming agent and plasticizer in organic solvents and then performing the coating process in a tablet coater. A passageway is formed by laser or mechanical drilling on the surface of the CA film next to the drug layer.


Example 13
Osmotic Pump (Push Pull) System

A representative push pull osmotic pump formulation is shown in Table 15.











TABLE 15









Formula I











Ingredients
mg
%














Drug Layer
Diacerein
100.00
20.00



PEO (MW 200,000)
282.25
56.45



NaCl
100.00
20.00



HPMC E5
15.00
3.00



BHT (Butylated hydroxytoluene)
0.25
0.05



Glyceryl monostearate
2.50
0.50



subtotal
500.00
100.00


Push Layer
PEO (MW 7,000,000)
194.00
77.48



NaCl
50.00
19.97



HPMC E5
5.00
2.00



BHT
0.125
0.05



Glyceryl monostearate
1.25
0.50



subtotal
250.38
100


Semi-
Bi-layer tablet
750.38
83.34


permeable
Cellulose acetate (CA-398)
112.5
12.49


Membrane
PEG 4000
7.5
0.83



HPC (Klucel EF)
30
3.33



Acetone/water*
qs
qs



Total
900.38
100.00





*which are evaporated during processing.






The formula I was prepared by the process described in Example 12.


Example 14
Osmotic Pump System (In-Situ Hole)

Acceptable ranges for the components of representative osmotic pump (in-situ hole) formulations are shown in Table 16.













TABLE 16







Ingredients
Example
Percentage



















Core tablet
API
Diacerein, Diacerein in solid
  10~90% of core




dispersion or in comlexation with
tablet




cyclodextrins



Osmotic agent
NaCl, mannitol, fructose etc.
  10~90% of core



Osmotic polymer
Polyethylene oxide (PEO)
tablet



Antioxidant
BHT
  10~90% of core



Binder
HPMC, PVP, HPC etc.
tablet



Lubricant
Mg. stearate, glyceryl monostearate,
0.01~0.5% of PEO




SiO2 etc.
 0.5~30% of core





tablet





 0.1~5% of core tablet


Composition
Hydrophilic polymer
HPMC, HPC, PVP, HEC etc.(NaCl,
 0.5~15% weight gain


of seal coat
Osmotic agent
sugars etc.
of core tablets



Lubricant
(Talc, SiO2 etc.)


Composition
Film-former
Cellulose acetate
  1~20% weight gain of


of
Pore-forming agent
(HPMC, PVP, HPC, sugars etc.
seal-coated tablets


semipermeable
Plasticizer
dibutyl sebacate, triethyl citrate, PEG


membrane

etc.









Process:

The API part is prepared as described in the above examples. The diacerein API part is physically mixed or granulated with PEO, a binder, an osmotic agent and an antioxidant. The mixture is blended with lubricants and then compressed to obtain the core tablet. Optionally, the acidifying agent or buffering agent may be included in the core tablet formulation. A seal coating solution is prepared by dissolving or dispersing a hydrophilic polymer, an osmotic agent and lubricants in water, then spraying the coating solution onto the core tablets in a coater. A semipermeable coating is prepared by dissolving cellulose acetate along with a pore forming agent and plasticizer in an organic solvent and then spraying the coating solution onto the seal-coated tablet in a coater. At least one passageway is formed during the dissolution of the dosage form.


Example 15
Osmotic Pump System (In-Situ Hole)

A representative osmotic pump (in-situ hole) formulation is shown in Table 17.











TABLE 17









Formula J











Ingredients
mg
%














Drug Layer
Diacerein
100.00
19.93



PEO (MW 5,000,000)
48.00
9.57



PEO (MW 200,000)
192.00
38.27



NaCl
139.00
27.70



Sodium lauryl sulfate
15.00
2.99



BHT (Butylated hydroxytoluene)
0.25
0.05



SiO2
2.50
0.50



Glyceryl monostearate
5.00
1.00



subtotal
501.75
100.00


Seal Coat
Core tablet
501.75
97.29



Opadry
10.50
2.04



NaCl
3.50
0.67



Water*
qs
qs



subtotal
515.75
100.00


Semi-
Seal-coated tablet
515.75
97.06


permeable
Cellulose acetate (CA-398)
9.30
1.75


Membrane
PEG 400
0.80
0.15



Triacetin
0.80
0.15



Mannitol
4.70
0.88



Acetone/water*
qs
qs



Total
531.35
100.00





*Evaporated during processing.






The formula J was prepared by the process described in Example 14.


Example 16
Sustained-Release Formulation (Matrix System)

Acceptable ranges for the components of representative matrix sustained release formulations are shown in Table 18.












TABLE 18







Ingredients
Percentage
















Sustained Release Core









API
Diacerein, Micronized Diacerein or
 10~90% of



Comilled Diacerein,
core


Sustained
water-swellable polymers, hydrophilic
 10-50% of


Release
polymers (HPMC, HPC, HEC, MC,
core


Polymer
sod. CMC etc.), hydrophobic polymers



(EC, PVA, Methylmethacrylate etc.),



wax (glyceryl behenate, cetyl alcohol



etc.). or combination of the polymers


Diluents
microcrystalline cellulose, dextrose,
 10~50% of



starch, sucrose, lactose, sorbitol,
core



mannitol, and calcium phosphate


Binder
PVP, HMPC, HPC
  1-20% of core


Disintegrant
L-HPC, sodium glycolate,
  1-10% of core



croscarmellose sodium,


Lubricants
Mg. stearate
0.1~5% of core









Process:

The sustained-release formulation of the present invention can be prepared by direct compression, compaction-granulation, wet granulation or extrusion and spheronization.


In the case of using direct compression or compaction-granulation, the sustained-release formulation can be prepared in such a manner that the diacerein, a swellable polymer, a diluent, a disintegrating agent, a binder, and a lubricant are mixed, followed by granulation with a compaction granulator (e.g. roller compacter), screening through an about 20-mesh screen, and tabletting.


In the case of wet granulation, the sustained-release formulation can be prepared in such a manner that the diacerein, a swellable polymer, a diluent, a disintegrating agent, and a binder are mixed in a high shear granulator with the addition of water or solvent (e.g. ethanol or isopropyl alcohol). The granules are further dried, milled and mixed with lubricant and tabletting.


In the case of using extrusion and sphernoization, the sustained-release formulation can be prepared in such a manner that the diacerein, a swellable polymer, a diluent, a disintegrating agent, a binder, and a lubricant are mixed in a low shear granulator or mixer with the addition of water or solvent (e.g. ethanol or isopropyl alcohol). The wet mass is added to a single screw or twin screw extruder, the extrudate is spheronized in a marumerizer to obtain sustained release beads.


Example 17

A representative matrix sustained release tablet formulation is shown in Table 17.












TABLE 19









Formula K












Ingredients
mg
%
















Granule
Diacerein
100
20.0




HPMC
175
35.0




MCC
147
29.4




SLS
50
10.0




L-HPC
25
5.0



Lubricant
Mg. stearate
3
0.6




Total
500
100.0










Formula K was prepared by the process described in Example 16.


Example 18
Membrane Controlled System

Acceptable ranges for the components of representative sustained release membrane-controlled system formulations are shown in Table 20.












TABLE 20







Ingredients
Percentage
















Core tablet or bead









API
Diacerein, micronized Diacerein or
 10~90% of



comilled Diacerein
core


Diluents
Lactose, MCC, mannitol, sorbitol, etc.
 10~90% of




core


Binder
PVP, HPC, HPMC, etc
  1-10% of core


Lubricants
Mg. stearate
0.1~5% of core







Film coating









Composition
hydrophobic polymers (EC, PVA,
  3~50% weight


of controlled
Methylmethacrylate etc.), pore-forming
gain of core


release
agent (HPMC, PVP, HPC, etc.)
tablets


membrane
Plasticizer (dibutyl sebacate, triethyl



citrate, PEG etc.)









Process:

The core tablet is prepared by direct compression, compaction-granulation is used, or wet granulation. The core bead is prepared by fluid bed granulation.


When direct compression or compaction-granulation is used, the tablet core can be prepared in such a manner that the diacerein, a diluent, a binder, and a lubricant are mixed, followed by granulation with a compaction granulator (e.g. roller compacter), screening through an about 20-mesh screen, and tabletting.


When wet granulation is used, the core tablet can be prepared in such a manner that the diacerein, a diluent, and a binder are mixed in a high shear granulator with the addition of water or solvent (e.g. ethanol or isopropyl alcohol). The granules are further dried, milled and blended with lubricant and tabletted.


For bead core preparation, the beads can be prepared in such a manner that the diacerein, a diluent, and a binder are granulated in a fluid bed granulator with the addition of water or solvent (e.g. ethanol or isopropyl alcohol). The bead granules are further dried and sieved through an appropriate mesh.


The controlled release materials are dissolved along with pore forming agents and plasticizer in organic solvents to obtain the coating solution for the above core tablets or beads. Then, the tablets or beads are coated either in a tablet coater or a fluid bed coater.


Example 19
Bead Formulation for a Membrane-Controlled System

A representative bead formulation for a membrane-controlled system is shown in Table 21.












TABLE 21









Formula L












Ingredients
mg
%
















Core bead
Diacerein
100
22.7




Lactose
302.6
68.8




SLS
13.2
3




PVP
22
5.0




Mg. stearate
2.2
0.5




Subtotal
440
100



Seal Coat
Core beads
440
97.3




HPMC
8
1.8




Talc
4
0.9




Subtotal
452.0
100.0



SR Coat
Seal-coated
452.0
90.4




beads




EC
30
6.0




PVP
15
3.0




TEC
3
0.6




Total
500.0
100.0










Example 20
Hydrogel Matrix Formulations

Representative hydrogel matrix formulations are shown in Table 22.
















TABLE 22









DIAC-2001
DIAC-2002
DIAC-2005
DIAC-2006
DIAC-2017
DIAC-2018



















Ingredients
Mg/tab
% Solid
Mg/tab
% Solid
Mg/tab
% Solid
Mg/tab
% Solid
Mg/tab
% Solid
Mg/tab
% Solid






















Diacerein








50.0
20.0
50.0
20.0


(Highsun)


Diacerein
50.0
20.0
50.0
20.0


(TRB)


Diacerein




50.0
20.0
50.0
20.0


(Micronized)


HPMC
50.0
20.0
100.0
40.0%
25.0
10.0


K4MCR


HPMC




25.0
10.0
50.0
20.0
75.0
30.0
100.0
40.0


K100LVCR


Mannitol
142.5
57.0
92.5
37.0
142.5
57.0
142.5
57.0
115.0
46.0
90.0
36.0


HPMC








7.5
3.0
7.5
3.0


E5LV


Povidone
5.0
2.0
5.0
2.0
5.0
2.0
5.0
2.0


K30


Mg Stearate
2.5
1.0
2.5
1.0
2.5
1.0
2.5
1.0
2.5
1.0
2.5
1.0


Total
250.0
100.0
250.0
100.0
250.0
100.0
250.0
100.0
250.0
100.0
250.0
100.0





Diacerein (Highsun) refers to diacerein produced by Taizhou Highsun Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.


Diacerein (TRB) refers to diacerein produced by TRB Chemedica.


“HPMC K4MCR,” “HPMC K100LVCR,” and “HPMC E5LVCR” are various METHOCEL ™ hypromellose products produced by the Dow Chemical Company.






Example 21
Dissolution Data for Hydrogel Matrix Formulations

Dissolution tests were performed on diacerein hydrogel matrix formulations of Example 20. The dissolution tests were performed according to the so-called “basket” method and/or the “paddle and sinker” method.


“Basket” Method

The “basket method” uses USP apparatus 1. It is usually operated at 100 rpm (revolutions per minute) and is usually used for beads formulation. The FDA guidances contain descriptions of the “basket” method.


“Paddle and Sinker Method”

The “paddle and sinker” method uses USP apparatus 2. It is usually operated at 50 rpm. A “sinker” can be some wires wrapped around the capsules before the capsules are put into dissolution vessels. The FDA guidances contain descriptions of the “paddle and sinker” method.


Both methods are usually used at 37° C.±0.5° C. The samples are usually dissolved in 900 ml of aqueous media.


Table 23 contains the results of the dissolution tests performed on formulations DIAC-2002, DIAC-2005, DIAC-2017 and DIAC-2018. All tests were performed utilizing pH 6.0 PBS buffer. The tests on DIAC-2002 and DIAC-2005 formulations were performed utilizing the “basket” method at 100 rpm, and the tests on DIAC-2017 and DIAC-2018 formulations were performed utilizing the “paddle and sinker” method at 100 rpm.














TABLE 23









DIAC-
DIAC-
DIAC-
DIAC-



2002
2005
2017
2018

















St.

St.

St.

St.


Time (hr)
Mean
dev.
Mean
dev.
Mean
dev.
Mean
dev.


















2
26
4.6
24
2.2
36
13.4
23
2.5


4
51
7.6
48
4.1
64
8.9
44
4.8


6
66
6.8
68
0.8
85
6.1
64
6.7


8
78
5.2
82
2.7
93
1.9
78
6.6


12
88
1.7
96
2.0
95
0.7
94
2.3


16
89
1.0
97
3.0
95
0.7
96
1.1





“St. dev.” stands for “standard deviation.”






Table 24 contains the results of the dissolution tests performed on formulations DIAC-2001, DIAC-2002, DIAC-2005 and DIAC-2006. All tests were performed using pH 6.8 PBS buffer and the “basket” method at 100 rpm. The tests were performed in triplicates, and the table shows the data for the mean of these triplicates.














TABLE 24









DIAC-
DIAC-
DIAC-
DIAC-



2001
2002
2005
2006

















St.

St.

St.

St.


Time (hr)
Mean
dev.
Mean
dev.
Mean
dev.
Mean
dev.


















2
23
0.2
12
0.3
32
9.0
49
3.6


4
44
0.1
22
1.4
54
14.9
78
7.0


6
58
0.7
31
3.6
69
16.8
93
3.8


8
68
1.2
39
5.0
77
13.9
90
4.0


12
79
1.4
50
5.0
85
4.3
86
3.8


16
87
1.1
59
7.0
86
0.5
83
3.8









Example 22
Sustained-Release Formulations

Representative sustained release formulations are shown in Tables 25-29 as follows. Tables 25 and 26 show compositions of active layers of formulations DIAC-3002, DIAC-3004, DIAC-3006, DIAC-3007, DIAC-3008, DIAC-3010, DIAC-3011 and DIAC-3012; Tables 27 and 28 show compositions of Sustained-Release (SR) film layers of these formulations; and Table 29 shows compositions of Delayed-Release (DR) film layers of formulations DIAC-3007, DIAC-3008, DIAC-3011 and DIAC-3012 (the other formulations do not contain DR film layer).









TABLE 25







ACTIVE LAYER












DIAC-3002
DIAC-3004
DIAC-3006
DIAC-3007















Ingredients
mg/cap
% Solid
mg/cap
% Solid
mg/cap
% Solid
mg/cap
% Solid


















Cellets ® 350
100
48.8%


100.0
47.6%
100.0
47.6%


Cellets ® 700


100.0
47.6%


Diacerein
50.0
24.4%
50.0
23.8%
50.0
23.8%
50.0
23.8%


(Highsun)


Diacerein


(TRB)


Povidone K30
5.0
2.4%
10.0
4.8
10.0
4.8%
10.0
4.8%


Mannitol
50.0
24.4%
50.0
23.8%
50.0
23.8%
50.0
23.8%


Subtotal
205.0
100.0%
210.0
100.0%
210.0
100.0%
210.0
100.0%





Cellets ® 350 and Cellets ® 750 are neutral starter cores for controlled release formulation produced by the Glatt Group.













TABLE 26







ACTIVE LAYER












DIAC-3008
DIAC-3010
DIAC-3011
DIAC-3012















Ingredients
mg/cap
% Solid
mg/cap
% Solid
mg/cap
% Solid
mg/cap
% Solid


















Cellets ® 350
100.0
47.6%
100.0
47.6%
100.0
47.6%
100.0
47.6%


Diacerein
50.0
23.8%


(Highsun)


Diacerein


50.0
23.8%
50.0
23.8%
50.0
23.8%


(TRB)


Povidone K30
10.0
4.8%
10.0
4.8%
10.0
4.8%
10.0
4.8%


Mannitol
50.0
23.8%
50.0
23.8%
50.0
23.8%
50.0
23.8%


Subtotal
210.0
100.0%
210.0
100.0%
210.0
100.0%
210.0
100.0%
















TABLE 27







SR FILM LAYER












DIAC-3002
DIAC-3004
DIAC-3006
DIAC-3007















Ingredients
mg/cap
% Solid
mg/cap
% Solid
mg/cap
% Solid
mg/cap
% Solid


















Ethocel 10 cps

36.4%

36.4%

36.4%
21.0
36.4%


Povidone K30

36.4%

36.4%

36.4%
21.0
36.4%


Triethyl Citrate

7.3%

7.3%

7.3%
4.2
7.3%


Talc

20.0%

20.0%

20.0%
11.5
20.0%


Subtotal

100.0%

100.0%

100.0%
57.6
100.0%
















TABLE 28







SR FILM












DIAC-3008
DIAC-3010
DIAC-3011
DIAC-3012















Ingredients
mg/cap
% Solid
mg/cap
% Solid
mg/cap
% Solid
mg/cap
% Solid


















Ethocel 10 cps
21.0
36.4%

36.4%
18.2
36.4%
18.2
36.4%


Povidone K30
21.0
36.4%

36.4%
18.2
36.4%
18.2
36.4%


Triethyl Citrate
4.2
7.3%

7.3%
3.6
7.2%
3.6
7.2%


Talc
11.5
20.0%

20.0%
10.0
20.0%
10.0
20.0%


Subtotal
57.6
100.0%

100.0%
50.0
100.0%
50.0
100.0%
















TABLE 29







DR FILM LAYER












DIAC-3007
DIAC-3008
DIAC-3011
DIAC-3012


Ingredients
% Solid
% Solid
% Solid
% Solid














Eudragit
66.9%





L30D-55


Eudragit S100

66.9%

66.9%


Eudragit L100


66.9%


Tiethyl Citrate
10.0%
10.0%
10.0%
10.0%


Talc
23.1%
23.1%
23.1%
23.1%


Subtotal
100.0%
100.0%
 100%
 100%









Example 23
Dissolution Data for Sustained-Release Formulations

Dissolution tests were performed on diacerein sustained-release formulations of Example 22. The dissolution tests were performed according to the “basket” method and/or the “paddle and sinker” method as described in Example 21.


Table 30 contains the results of the dissolution tests performed on formulations DIAC-3002, DIAC-3004, DIAC-3006 and DIAC-3007. All tests were performed utilizing pH 6.0 PBS buffer and utilizing the “basket” method at 100 rpm.














TABLE 30









DIAC-3002
DIAC-3004
DIAC-3006

















18%

16%

18%
DIAC-3007


Time
6% SR*
SR
7% SR
SR
6% SR
SR
19% DR


(hr)
Mean
Mean
Mean
Mean
Mean
Mean
Mean

















2
26
13
9
7
29
16
23


4
49
25
15
12
51
27
35


6
69
35
21
16
72
38
45


8
85
46
27
20
88
48
54


12
99
64
39
28
102
67
72


16
102
80
51
35
105
82
85





*The % refers to the Sustained-Release (SR) or the Delayed-Release (DR) polymer percentage in each tested formulation.






Table 31 contains the results of the dissolution tests performed on formulations DIAC-3010 and DIAC-3011. All tests were performed utilizing pH 6.0 PBS buffer and utilizing the “basket” method at 100 rpm.













TABLE 31









DIAC-3010
DIAC-3011














16% SR
6% DR
19% DR



Time (hr)
Mean
Mean
Mean
















2
4
5
3



4
7
10
8



6
11
14
13



8
14
19
17



12
20
26
25



16
26
34
33










Table 32 contains the results of the dissolution tests performed on formulations DIAC-3004, DIAC-3006 and DIAC-3007. All tests were performed utilizing pH 6.8 PBS buffer and utilizing the “basket” method at 100 rpm.














TABLE 32









DIAC-3004

DIAC-3006
DIAC-3007












7% SR
16% SR
18% SR
19% DR


Time (hr)
Mean
Mean
Mean
Mean














2
46
25
67
92


4
84
48
93
120


6
98
69
97
119


8
97
86
95
116


12
93
95
91
112


16
92
93
89
110









Table 33 contains the results of the dissolution tests performed on formulations DIAC-3008, DIAC-3010, DIAC-3011 and DIAC-3012. All tests were performed utilizing pH 6.8 PBS buffer and utilizing the “basket” method at 100 rpm.














TABLE 33









DIAC-3008
DIAC-3010
DIAC-3011

















13%

16%

19%
DIAC-3012


Time
5% DR
DR
7% SR
SR
7% DR
DR
5% DR


(hr)
Mean
Mean
Mean
Mean
Mean
Mean
Mean

















2
15
5
44
22
28
27
1


4
58
9
72
42
54
52
2


6
87
15
86
59
75
74
4


8
95
27
91
74
91
91
7


12
93
69
92
90
98
103
16


16
91
101
91
92
96
101
32








Claims
  • 1. A once-daily controlled-release formulation of diacerein for treating inflammatory diseases, autoimmune diseases or their complications with reduced adverse side effects, comprising an active layer, a sustained-release film layer, and a delayed-release film layer, wherein said sustained-release film layer comprises an ethyl cellulose polymer, povidone, triethyl citrate and talc, and wherein said delayed-release film layer comprises an Eudragit® polymer, triethyl citrate and talc.
  • 2. The controlled-release formulation according to claim 1, wherein the formulation is a membrane-controlled formulation, matrix formulation or osmotic pump formulation.
  • 3. The controlled-release formulation according to claim 1, wherein the formulation comprises a surfactant, acidifying agent or a buffering agent.
  • 4. The controlled-release formulation according to claim 1, wherein the particle size of diacerein is less than 2000 μm.
  • 5. The controlled-release formulation according to claim 1, wherein the diacerein is presented as an amorphous state in a solid carrier.
  • 6. The controlled-release formulation according to claim 1, wherein the diacerein is formed as a complex with cyclodextrins.
  • 7. The controlled-release formulation according to claim 1, wherein the diacerein is crystalline.
  • 8. The controlled release formulation according to claim 1 wherein a formulation containing 50 mg diacerein maintains the plasma concentration of rhein above the concentration of 1 mg/L for more than 12 hours in humans, when orally administered to a human patient who has reached the steady state condition
  • 9. The controlled release formulation according to claim 1 wherein a formulation containing 100 mg diacerein maintains the plasma concentration of rhein above the concentration of 2 mg/L for more than 12 hours in humans, when orally administered to a human patient who has reached the steady state condition.
  • 10. A method of treating inflammatory diseases, autoimmune diseases or their complications comprising administering to a subject in need thereof a once-daily controlled-release formulation of diacerein according to claim 1, wherein said method results in fewer adverse side effects as compared to administering immediate release formulations of diacerein.
  • 11. The method according to claim 10, wherein said adverse side effect is diarrhea.
  • 12. The method of claim 10, wherein the controlled-release formulation is administered to treat type I/type II diabetes or osteoarthritis.
  • 13. The method of claim 10, wherein the controlled-release formulation is administered to treat complications from type I/type II diabetes.
  • 14. The method of claim 10 wherein the complications from type I/type II diabetes are nephropathy, retinopathy, neuropathy or foot ulcers.
  • 15. A once-daily controlled-release formulation according to claim 1 comprising a first active of diacerein and a second active ingredient for treating inflammatory diseases, autoimmune diseases or their complications.
  • 16. The controlled-release formulation according to claim 15, wherein said second active ingredient is an angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor, a angiotensin II receptor blockers, a antihyperglycemic drug, or a Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug.
  • 17. The controlled-release formulation according to claim 1 comprising about 20.0% by weight of diacerein, about 20.0% by weight of hydroxymethylpropylcellulose, about 57.0% by weight of mannitol, about 2.0% by weight of povidone and about 1.0% by weight of magnesium stearate.
  • 18. The controlled-release formulation according to claim 1 comprising about 20.0% by weight of diacerein, about 40.0% by weight of hydroxymethylpropylcellulose, about 37.0% by weight of mannitol, about 2.0% by weight of povidone and about 1.0% by weight of magnesium stearate.
  • 19. The controlled-release formulation according to claim 1, wherein said active layer comprises between about 40.0% and about 50.0% by weight of microcrystalline cellulose, between about 20.0% and about 30.0% by weight of diacerein, between about 2.0% and about 5.0% by weight of povidone and between about 20.0% and about 30.0% by weight of mannitol.
  • 20. The controlled-release formulation according to claim 21, wherein said active layer comprises about 50.0% by weight of microcrystalline cellulose, about 25.0% by weight of diacerein, about 2.0% by weight of povidone and about 23.0% by weight of mannitol.
Provisional Applications (1)
Number Date Country
61108931 Oct 2008 US
Continuations (1)
Number Date Country
Parent 12607251 Oct 2009 US
Child 13768844 US