Patent ID: 6074580
Filing Date: 2000-06-13
Classification: A61J,A61K,B01J

Abstract:
A process for the preparation of pearls of an active principle exhibiting an indefinite crystallization point, wherein said pearls exhibit a prolonged release profile, comprising the steps of melting the active principle and a crystallization excipient to create a molten mixture; introducing the mixture into feed receptacles of a prilling tower; passing the mixture through a nozzle which is vibrated to form pearls; and allowing the pearls to fall in the tower countercurrentwise to cold air, said cold air being at a first temperature which causes supercooling of said pearls, wherein the tower is provided with a fluidized bed proximate the bottom of the tower, wherein said fluidized bed is maintained at a second temperature that is higher than said first temperature. said second temperature being above the glass transition temperature of the active principle and below the temperature of onset of liquefaction of the excipient.