Patent Description:
Prostaglandins (PGs) have been associated with the onset of labor in women. Naturally occurring PGs are potent stimulants of human uterine contractility at any stage of pregnancy and also cause cervical ripening.

Induction of labor is defined as the process of artificially stimulating the uterus to start labor. It may be performed by administering oxytocin or prostaglandins to the pregnant woman. Labor induction is one of the most frequent procedures in pregnant women.

Cytotec and Misofar are commercially available misoprostol products, which comprise an extended release agent, hydrogenated castor oil.

The article "<NPL>, describes off-label use of misoprostol for labor induction.

The commercial preparation is Cytotec containing <NUM> or <NUM>µg misoprostol and inactive ingredients including hydrogenated castor oil, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, and sodium starch glycolate. Similarly, the article "<NPL>, describes oral or sublingual administration of <NUM>µg misoprostol for use in the induction of labor, wherein a <NUM>µg Cytotec tablet was cut in half.

The International patent application <CIT> mentions the possibility of oral, sublingual, rectal or vaginal administration of misoprostol used in obstetric practice for controlling post-partum and post-abortive bleeding, and inducing labor or abortion. This application fails to disclose a pharmaceutical dosage form suitable for the mentioned administration forms.

The International patent application <CIT> relates to a controlled release pharmaceutical gel for vaginal administration, the pharmaceutical gel comprising misoprostol, a cellulose derivative and a polyol, wherein the gel is a substantially nonaqueous gel which forms a hydrogel when placed in a vaginal tract.

The International patent application <CIT> relates to the use of misoprostol for the induction of labor in a pregnant female, and in particular to the use of a sustained delivery device or insert containing <NUM>µg misoprostol for intravaginal use.

The International patent application <CIT> discloses vaginal tablets comprising misoprostol. The disclosed tablets comprise <NUM>µg misoprostol. A purported immediate release vaginal tablet and a sustained release vaginal tablet are disclosed, wherein the purported immediate release vaginal tablet are described as adhering to a tilted glass plate when placed on drops of water. Embodiments of the tablets are purported to adhere to an epithelial membrane. The vaginal tablets comprise lactose monohydrate, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, corn starch and magnesium stearate. The vaginal tablets are manufactured by method steps comprising wet granulation, followed by drying in a fluid bed. The disclosed indications comprise cervical ripening and uterine contractions but not human labor.

Known misoprostol formulations for labor induction comprises at least one extended release agent and/or is intended for sustained delivery. In particular, existing misoprostol products for vaginal use comprise an extended release agent, such as hydrogenated castor oil, and/or are supposed to adhere to the vaginal tract of a subject.

Further, no misoprostol products for oral or sublingual use have yet been approved by regulatory agencies for induction of labor.

There is a need for a misoprostol product which is developed for both sublingual and oral administration, as guidelines on a national level as well as at the level of the individual hospital may suggest use of misoprostol through either route of administration.

These and other needs are met by aspects and embodiments of the present invention.

According to an aspect the present invention concerns a pharmaceutical composition comprising misoprostol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, for use in a treatment comprising cervical ripening or the induction of labor, having a content of <NUM> - <NUM>µg misoprostol, or an equivalent amount of pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein said pharmaceutical composition is suitable for an administration form selected among sublingual and oral administration; and wherein said pharmaceutical composition is subject to at least one of the following provisos:.

WHO recommends that all women giving birth should be offered uterotonics, preferably oxytocin, during the third stage of labour for the prevention of PHH (postpartum hemorrhage). Unfortunately oxytocin requires cool storage, sterile equipment and trained personnel, so that routine use of oxytocin in low-resource settings may be difficult. Misoprostol offers several advantages over oxytocin in that it may be formulated as a tablet; it is stable at ambient room temperature, widely available and less expensive. Further the administration of Misoprostol does not require any special skills, equipment, or facilities. In accordance with this, WHO recommends the use of alternatives to oxytocin such as Misoprostol in cases where oxytocin is not available, a skilled attendant is not present or if the patient does not respond to oxytocin. Thus, in places where geographic, financial, and infrastructure constraints often hinder the efforts of administering oxytocin, misoprostol could potentially have a significant impact on maternal morbidity and mortality.

Prompt recognition of excessive bleeding after delivery is crucial in the treatment of PHH. A healthy woman may lose <NUM>-<NUM>% of her blood volume without a drop in blood pressure. By the time her blood pressure drops appreciably, the patient frequently has lost at least <NUM>% of her blood volume. Thus, relying on vital signs to initiate treatment or to assess the severity of the bleeding could be misleading and may cause unnecessary delay in initiating appropriate treatment.

There is a need for a misoprostol product which may provide a consistent dose irrespective of the route of administration, such as vaginal, oral or sublingual.

Sublingual administration is associated with a rapid absorption and high peak levels compared to the oral administration route. This further result in an increased rate of onset of uterine contractions, as well as diminished variations in absorption making it easier to administer due to the more sustained effects compared to other administration routes.

However, the more rapid absorption and higher peak levels following sublingual administration may translate into increased gastrointestinal side effects. Thus, when the treatment with uterotonics are used in a preventive manner and therefore does not require a fast rate of onset, other routes of administration might prove advantageous. For example the oral, rectal or vaginal route of administration could to some extend reduce the degree of side effects. In correlation with this, WHO recommends that in the above mentioned cases where the use of oxytocin is not an option for preventing PPH, orally administered Misoprostol could be used as an alternative.

The vaginal or rectal route of administration seems advantageous especially in cases where the patient is vomiting or under anesthesia and therefore is unable to take oral medication.

According to the above mentioned reasons, there is an obvious need for a misoprostol product which is developed for both sublingual as well as other administration routes, such as oral, rectal or vaginal administration routes. This may provide advantages such as greatly enhance the ease of administration by persons not medically skilled, and/or allow for flexibility and continued adjustments during treatment with Misoprostol according to the individual case.

According to an embodiment, the present invention concerns a pharmaceutical composition for use in a treatment comprising cervical ripening or the induction of labor comprising misoprostol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, allowing an administration form selected among sublingual and oral administration, as described by the claims.

Sublingual (abbreviated SL), from the Latin for "under the tongue", refers to the pharmacological route of administration by which drugs diffuse into the blood through tissues under the tongue.

When a chemical comes in contact with the mucous membrane beneath the tongue, it diffuses through it. Because the connective tissue beneath the epithelium contains a profusion of capillaries, the substance then diffuses into them and enters the venous circulation. In contrast, substances absorbed in the intestines are subject to "first-pass metabolism" in the liver before entering the general circulation.

Sublingual administration has certain advantages over oral administration. Being more direct, it is often faster, and it ensures that the substance will risk degradation only by salivary enzymes before entering the bloodstream, whereas orally administered drugs must survive passage through the hostile environment of the gastrointestinal tract, which risks degrading them, either by stomach acid or bile, or by the many enzymes therein, such as monoamine oxidase (MAO). Furthermore, after absorption from the gastrointestinal tract, such drugs must pass to the liver, where they may be extensively altered; this is known as the first pass effect of drug metabolism. Due to the digestive activity of the stomach and intestines and the solubility of the GI tract, the oral route is unsuitable for certain substances.

A phamacokinetic study in pregnant woman, who was to terminate their pregnancy before <NUM> weeks, investigated plasma levels after administration of <NUM>µg misoprostol (<NPL>). Sublingual administration provided a larger peak in plasma concentration of misoprostol than oral and vaginal, and oral administration provided a larger peak than vaginal administration. The inter-subject variability in % at peak concentration was smaller following the sublingual route of administration than for oral and vaginal application, and the inter-subject variability in % at peak concentration for the oral route of administration was smaller than for vaginal application. Lower inter-subject variability allows administration of a more precise dosage, providing fewer side-effects and improved efficacy.

While this would point to using the sublingual administration route, no one has succesfully produced a sublingual misoprostol product before the present invention. Sublingual administration would appear to offer faster effective administration of misoprostol. This is likely to provide better efficacy and fewer side effects, as adjusting the dosage becomes easier.

The present invention concerns the pharmaceutical composition, wherein said pharmaceutical composition allows any administration form selected among sublingual and oral administration.

According to the present invention the pharmaceutical composition is for use in a treatment comprising cervical ripening or the induction of labor upon administration to a subject.

The pharmaceutical composition, can provide a mean terminal half-life (t<NUM>/<NUM>) of less than <NUM>; preferably less than <NUM>; more preferred less than <NUM>; preferably less than <NUM> hours.

The pharmaceutical composition, can provide a mean duration of induction to delivery of less than <NUM>; preferably less than <NUM>; more preferred less than <NUM>; preferably less than <NUM>; more preferred less than <NUM>; preferably less than <NUM>; more preferred less than <NUM>; preferably less than <NUM> hours.

Providing a product which combines oral and sublingual administration is complicated by the fact that oral administration have to take into account the varying pH conditions in the gastrointestinal tract, depending on location and timing of administration.

According to an embodiment, the present invention concerns the pharmaceutical composition, wherein misoprostol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof is the sole active ingredient. Naturally, according to this embodiment other inactive ingredients, i.e. excipients, may be present.

According to an embodiment, the present invention concerns the pharmaceutical composition, comprising a disintegrant comprising cross-linked PVP, preferably crospovidone. According to a preferred embodiment, the disintegrant is a superdisintegrant.

The cross-linked form of PVP is used as a disintegrant in pharmaceutical tablets.

Polyvinylpolypyrrolidone (polyvinyl polypyrrolidone, PVPP, crospovidone, crospolividone or E1202) is a highly cross-linked modification of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), making it insoluble in water, though it still absorbs water and swells very rapidly generating a swelling force. This property makes it useful as a disintegrant in tablets.

Crospovidone may provide rapid disintegration in the mouth, and is particularly preferred for a pharmaceutical composition of the invention for buccal or sublingual administration.

Disintegrating agents are substances routinely included in the tablet formulations to aid in the break up of the compacted mass when it is put into a fluid environment. They promote moisture penetration and dispersion of the tablet matrix. In recent years, several newer disintegrants have been developed known as "Superdisintegrants". These newer substances are more effective at lower concentrations with greater disintegrating efficiency and mechanical strength. On contact with water the superdisintegrants swell, hydrate, change volume or form and produce a disruptive change in the tablet. Effective superdisintegrants provide improved compressibility, compatibility and have little negative impact on the mechanical strength of formulations. Commonly available superdisintegrants along with their commercial trade names are briefly described herewith.

Modified starches: Sodium starch glycolate which is the sodium salt of a carboxymethyl ether of starch. It is usually effective at a concentration of <NUM>-<NUM>%. It can take up more than <NUM> times its weight in water and the resulting high swelling capacity combined with rapid uptake of water accounts for its high disintegration rate and efficiency. It is available in various grades i.e. Type A, B and C, which differ in pH, viscosity and sodium content.

Modified celluloses, Carboxymethylcellulose and its derivative (Croscarmellose Sodium): Cross-linked sodium carboxymethylcellulose is a white, free flowing powder with high absorption capacity. It has a high swelling capacity and thus provides rapid disintegration and drug dissolution at lower levels. It also has an outstanding water wicking capability and its cross-linked chemical structure creates an insoluble hydrophilic, highly absorbent material resulting in excellent swelling properties. Its usual recommended concentration is <NUM>-<NUM>%, which can be used up to <NUM>% L-HPC (Low substituted Hydroxy propyl cellulose). It is insoluble in water, swells rapidly and is usually used in the range of <NUM>-<NUM>%. The grades LH- <NUM> and LH-<NUM> exhibit the greatest degree of swelling.

Cross-linked polyvinylpyrrolidone is a completely water insoluble polymer. It rapidly disperses and swells in water but does not gel even after prolonged exposure. The rate of swelling is highest among all the superdisintegrants and is usually effective at <NUM>-<NUM>%. It acts by wicking, swelling and possibly some deformation recovery. The polymer has a small particle size distribution that imparts a smooth mouth feel to dissolve quickly.

Soy polysaccharide is a natural super disintegrant that does not contain any starch or sugar so can be used in nutritional products. Cross-linked alginic acid is insoluble in water and disintegrates by swelling or wicking action. It is a hydrophilic colloidal substance, which has high sorption capacity. It is also available as salts of sodium and potassium. Gellan gum is an anionic polysaccharide of linear tetrasaccharides, derived from Pseudomonas elodea having good superdisintegrant property similar to the modified starch and celluloses. Xanthan Gum derived from Xanthomonas campestris is official in the USP with high hydrophilicity and low gelling tendency. It has low water solubility and extensive swelling properties for faster disintegration. Calcium Silicate It is a highly porous, lightweight superdisintegrant, which acts by wicking action. Ion exchange resins The INDION <NUM> has been used as a superdisintegrant.

Superdisintegrants, such as natural or synthetic superdisintegrants, may be used for the present pharmaceutical compositions. Natural superdisintegrants used in formulations, comprise, but are not limited to the group consisting of: Cassia fistula gum, LepidumSativum, Locust Bean gum, Plantago ovate Mucilage, Seed powder, Plantago ovata Husk powder, and Treated Agar. Synthetic Superdisintegrants used in formulations, comprise, but are not limited to the group consisting of: crospovidone, Sodium Starch glycolate, Croscarmellose sodium (Ac-Di-Sol), kollidon CL, β-cyclodextrin, and Citric Acid and Sodium bicarbonate.

According to an embodiment, the present invention concerns the pharmaceutical composition, comprising at least two disintegrants.

According to an embodiment, the present invention concerns the pharmaceutical composition, wherein at least one of said at least two disintegrants is a cross-linked carboxymethylcellulose, preferably croscarmellose sodium.

A suitable disintegrant is a modified cellulose, preferably a modified carboxymethylcellulose, more preferred a crosslinked polymer of carboxymethylcellulose, preferably croscarmellose. Croscarmellose sodium is an internally cross-linked sodium carboxymethylcellulose for use as a superdisintegrant in pharmaceutical formulations. The cross-linking reduces water solubility while still allowing the material to swell (like a sponge) and absorb many times its weight in water. As a result, it provides superior drug dissolution and disintegration characteristics, thus improving formulas subsequent bioavailability by bringing the active ingredients into better contact with bodily fluids.

According to an embodiment, the present invention concerns the pharmaceutical composition, wherein said at least two disintegrants use different mechanisms of disintegration. The expression "different mechanisms" also covers the case of partly overlap between the different mechanisms.

Disintegrants may be classified by mechanism of disintegration as noted below.

According to an embodiment, the present invention concerns the pharmaceutical composition, wherein said at least two disintegrants use mechanisms of disintegration comprising swelling, porosity and capillary action, and deformation. In other words preferably all of the mechanisms, I. (swelling), II. (wicking) and IV. (deformation) are covered by said at least two disintegrants.

According to an embodiment, the present invention concerns the pharmaceutical composition, wherein said at least two disintegrants are superdisintegrants.

According to an embodiment, the present invention concerns the pharmaceutical composition comprising a disintegrant which is starch, preferably maize starch.

According to an embodiment, the present invention concerns the pharmaceutical composition, further comprising at least one superdisintegrant.

According to an embodiment, the present invention concerns the pharmaceutical composition, wherein said pharmaceutical composition comprises an excipient selected among the group consisting of Maize starch (also known as Corn starch), Potato starch, Pea starch, Rice starch, Tapioca starch (also known as Cassava or Manioc starch), Wheat starch, and Modified starch.

Formerly, Potato starch was commonly used as a disintegrant. Recently, the use of so-called superdisintegrants such as crospovidone, croscarmellose sodium, and sodium starch glycolate have become more popular.

Maize starch suffers from the drawback that tablets comprising maize starch tend to be hygroscopic and thus unstable. It has surprisingly been discovered that starch, in particular maize starch, is particularly preferred for solving the problems of the present invention. This is in particular true, if starch is combined with another disintegrant, preferably at least one superdisintegrant, more preferred at least two superdisintegrants.

According to an embodiment, the present invention concerns the pharmaceutical composition, wherein said pharmaceutical composition comprises maize starch.

According to an embodiment, the present invention concerns the pharmaceutical composition, wherein said pharmaceutical composition comprises an amount of disintegrant of <NUM>-<NUM>%, preferably <NUM>-<NUM>%, more preferred <NUM>-<NUM>%, preferably <NUM>-<NUM>%, more preferred <NUM>-<NUM>%, preferably <NUM>-<NUM>%, more preferred about <NUM>%.

The pharmaceutical composition can comprise an amount of superdisintegrant of <NUM>-<NUM>%, preferably <NUM>-<NUM>%, more preferred <NUM>-<NUM>%, preferably <NUM>-<NUM>%, more preferred <NUM>-<NUM>%, preferably <NUM>-<NUM>%, more preferred about <NUM>%.

The pharmaceutical composition can comprise an amount of croscarmellose sodium of <NUM>-<NUM>%, preferably <NUM>-<NUM>%, more preferred <NUM>-<NUM>%, preferably <NUM>-<NUM>%, more preferred <NUM>-<NUM>%, preferably <NUM>-<NUM>%, more preferred about <NUM>%.

The pharmaceutical composition can comprise an amount of crospovidone of <NUM>-<NUM>%, preferably <NUM>-<NUM>%, more preferred <NUM>-<NUM>%, preferably <NUM>-<NUM>%, more preferred <NUM>-<NUM>%, preferably <NUM>-<NUM>%, more preferred about <NUM>%.

The pharmaceutical composition can comprise an amount of starch of <NUM>-<NUM>%, preferably <NUM>-<NUM>%, more preferred <NUM>-<NUM>%, preferably <NUM>-<NUM>%, more preferred <NUM>-<NUM>%, preferably <NUM>-<NUM>%, more preferred about <NUM>%.

The pharmaceutical composition can comprise an amount of maize starch of <NUM>-<NUM>%, preferably <NUM>-<NUM>%, more preferred <NUM>-<NUM>%, preferably <NUM>-<NUM>%, more preferred <NUM>-<NUM>%, preferably <NUM>-<NUM>%, more preferred about <NUM>%.

The pharmaceutical composition can comprise an amount of microcrystalline cellulose of <NUM>-<NUM>%, preferably <NUM>-<NUM>%, more preferred <NUM>-<NUM>%, preferably <NUM>-<NUM>%, more preferred <NUM>-<NUM>%, preferably <NUM>-<NUM>%, more preferred <NUM>-<NUM>%, preferably <NUM>-<NUM>%, more preferred about <NUM>%.

The pharmaceutical composition can comprise an amount of flow agent of <NUM>-<NUM>%, preferably <NUM>-<NUM>%, more preferred <NUM>-<NUM>%, preferably <NUM>-<NUM>%, more preferred <NUM>-<NUM>%, preferably about <NUM>%.

In the pharmaceutical composition, said flow agent can be colloidal silicon dioxide.

According to an embodiment, the present invention concerns the pharmaceutical composition, having a content of misoprostol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, selected among <NUM> - <NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM> - <NUM>, <NUM> - <NUM>, and <NUM>µg. In the case of a pharmaceutically acceptable salt the amount is preferably equivalent to an amount of misoprostol selected among <NUM> -<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM> - <NUM>, <NUM> - <NUM>, and about <NUM>µg.

According to an embodiment, the present invention concerns the pharmaceutical composition, having a content of misoprostol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, selected among <NUM> - <NUM>; <NUM> - <NUM>; <NUM> - <NUM>; <NUM> - <NUM>; <NUM> - <NUM>; <NUM> - <NUM>; <NUM>-<NUM>; and <NUM>-<NUM>.

The pharmaceutical composition, may have a content of misoprostol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, selected among <NUM>% - <NUM>%; <NUM>% - <NUM>%; <NUM>% - <NUM>%; and <NUM>% - <NUM>% by weight of the pharmaceutical composition.

The pharmaceutical composition, may have a content of misoprostol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, selected among less than <NUM>%; less than <NUM>%; less than <NUM>%; less than <NUM>%; less than <NUM>% and less than <NUM> % by weight of the pharmaceutical composition.

The pharmaceutical composition, which is a tablet can have a score-line. A score-line may also be known as a groove.

Said score-line allows fractional dosing. Preferably said score-line allows fractional dosing providing a consistent dosage of active ingredient.

Said score-line allows fractional dosing of ½ or ¼ of the total dosage of said pharmaceutical composition. A tablet allowing fractional dosing provides dose flexibility. Preferably the tablets are suitable for administering the half dose or the quarter dose by splitting.

According to an embodiment, the present invention concerns the pharmaceutical composition having a disintegration time of less than <NUM> minutes, more preferred less than <NUM> minute, preferably less than <NUM> seconds, more preferred less than <NUM> seconds, preferably less than <NUM> seconds, more preferred less than <NUM> seconds, preferably less than <NUM> seconds, more preferred less than <NUM> seconds, preferably less than <NUM> seconds, more preferred less than <NUM> seconds, preferably less than <NUM> seconds, more preferred less than <NUM> seconds, preferably less than <NUM> seconds, more preferred less than <NUM> seconds, preferably less than <NUM> seconds, more preferred less than <NUM> seconds.

The disintegration time is preferably measured using Disintegration apparatus A according to European Pharmacopoeia <NUM>, placing one tablet in each of the <NUM> tubes of the basket without disc. The apparatus is operated using water medium as the immersion fluid, maintained at <NUM>±<NUM>.

Short disintegration time allows sublingual administration without the need of an extended release agent. A few drops of water, such as about ten drops or less, are sufficient to disintegrate compositions of the present invention. Thus, sublingual administration may be feasible.

Fast dissolving drug delivery provides a number of advantages, comprising improved patient compliance, ease of swallowing, no water needed, and accuracy of dosage (<NPL>)).

Said disintegration time can be measured initially after manufacture, preferably <NUM> months after manufacture, more preferred <NUM> months after manufacture, preferably <NUM> months after manufacture, more preferred <NUM> months after manufacture, preferably <NUM> months after manufacture, more preferred <NUM> months after manufacture.

According to an embodiment, the present invention concerns the pharmaceutical composition, which allows dispersion of one or more of said pharmaceutical compositions in <NUM> water at <NUM> within <NUM> minutes, preferably within <NUM> minutes, more preferred within <NUM> minutes, preferably within <NUM> minute, upon stirring, thereby providing a dispersion; said dispersion passing through a sieve screen with a nominal mesh aperture of <NUM>. Preferably the dispersion passes through the sieve screen without leaving any residue, e.g. as determined by visual inspection.

According to an embodiment, dispersion tests are performed with six (<NUM>) samples, and the average of the measured dispersion times is used.

According to an embodiment, the present invention concerns the pharmaceutical composition, which allows dispersion of one or more of said pharmaceutical compositions in <NUM> water at <NUM> within <NUM> minute, preferably less than <NUM> seconds, more preferred less than <NUM> seconds, preferably less than <NUM> seconds, more preferred less than <NUM> seconds, preferably less than <NUM> seconds, more preferred less than <NUM> seconds, preferably less than <NUM> seconds, more preferred less than <NUM> seconds, preferably less than <NUM> seconds, more preferred less than <NUM> seconds, preferably less than <NUM> seconds, more preferred less than <NUM> seconds, preferably less than <NUM> seconds, more preferred less than <NUM> seconds, upon stirring, thereby providing a dispersion; said dispersion passing through a sieve screen with a nominal mesh aperture of <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, the present invention concerns the pharmaceutical composition, which allows dispersion of one or more of said pharmaceutical compositions in <NUM> water at <NUM> within <NUM> minutes, preferably within <NUM> minutes, more preferred within <NUM> minutes, preferably within <NUM> minute, substantially without stirring, thereby providing a dispersion; said dispersion passing through a sieve screen with a nominal mesh aperture of <NUM>. The expression "substantially without stirring" means that the pharmaceutical composition provides a dispersion spontaneously upon contact with water without the need of stirring, shaking or other form of agitation, or stirring up to a speed of <NUM> RPM.

The term "complete dispersion" covers the case wherein at least <NUM>%, more preferred at least <NUM>%, preferably at least <NUM>%, more preferred <NUM>%, preferably <NUM>% misoprostol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof is dispersed or dissolved.

According to the present invention, the pharmaceutical composition is a tablet.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a pharmaceutical composition which is a dispersible tablet. The expression "dispersible tablet" refers to a tablet, which may be dispersed in water before administration, providing a homogeneous dispersion. Dispersible tablets disintegrate within <NUM> minutes using water at <NUM> - <NUM>. The fineness of dispersion should comply with a test comprising placing <NUM> tablets in <NUM> water and stirring until completely dispersed. A smooth dispersion is produced, which passes through a sieve screen with a nominal mesh aperture of <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, the present invention concerns the pharmaceutical composition, which is a dispersible tablet, which may be dispersed in water before administration, providing a homogeneous dispersion; wherein said dispersible tablet disintegrates within <NUM> minutes using water at <NUM> - <NUM> forming a dispersion; wherein the fineness of said dispersion complies with a test comprising placing <NUM> tablets in <NUM> water and stirring until completely dispersed, whereby a preferably smooth dispersion is produced, which passes through a sieve screen with a nominal mesh aperture of <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, the present invention concerns the pharmaceutical composition, which is a dispersible tablet, which may be dispersed in water before administration, providing a homogeneous dispersion; wherein said dispersible tablet disintegrates within <NUM> minutes using water at <NUM> forming a dispersion; wherein the fineness of said dispersion complies with a test comprising placing <NUM> tablets in <NUM> water and stirring until completely dispersed, whereby a preferably smooth dispersion is produced, which passes through a sieve screen with a nominal mesh aperture of <NUM>, preferably <NUM>, more preferred <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, the present invention concerns the pharmaceutical composition, which is an orodispersible tablet.

An orodispersible or orally disintegrating tablet (ODT) is designed to be dissolved on the tongue rather than swallowed whole. The ODT may be used for patients who experience dysphagia (difficulty in swallowing). An additional reason to use an ODT is the convenience of a tablet that can be taken without water.

The pharmaceutical composition can be an immediate release tablet.

The term "immediate release" pharmaceutical formulation includes any formulation in which the rate of release of drug from the formulation and/or the absorption of drug, is neither appreciably, nor intentionally, retarded by galenic manipulations. Thus, the term excludes formulations which are adapted to provide for "modified", "controlled", "sustained", "prolonged", "extended" or "delayed" release of drug. In this context, the term "release" includes the provision (or presentation) of drug from the formulation to the gastrointestinal tract, to body tissues and/or into systemic circulation.

The pharmaceutical composition can be free of any extended release agents. Examples of extended release agents comprise hydrogenated castor oil and hydrogenated vegetable oil.

The pharmaceutical composition can further comprise a coating. While a preferred embodiment is a tablet without coating, another alternative is a tablet having a coating, e.g. to improve storage stability. Preferably said coating does not interfere with or substantially affect dispersibility.

According to an embodiment, the present invention concerns the pharmaceutical composition, further comprising at least one excipient, preferably selected among diluents, disintegrants, binders, glidants, lubricants, and coatings.

An excipient is generally a pharmacologically inactive substance. Examples include, but are not limited to, diluents, disintegrants, binders, glidants, lubricants, and coatings. Other examples of suitable excipients may be found in<NPL>on.

Diluents are inactive ingredients that are added to tablets and capsules in addition to the active drug. Some very common diluents in tablets include starch, cellulose derivatives, and magnesium stearate (also a lubricant). Diluents fill out the size of a tablet or capsule, making it practical to produce and convenient for the consumer to use. By increasing the bulk volume, diluents make it possible for the final product to have the proper volume for patient handling. A good diluent must be inert, compatible with the other components of the formulation, non-hygroscopic, relatively cheap, compactable, and preferably tasteless or pleasant tasting. Plant cellulose (pure plant diluent) is a popular diluent in tablets or hard gelatin capsules. Dibasic calcium phosphate is another popular tablet diluent. A range of vegetable fats and oils can be used in soft gelatin capsules. Other examples of diluents include: lactose, sucrose, glucose, mannitol, sorbitol, calcium carbonate, and magnesium stearate.

Disintegrants may expand and dissolve when wet causing the tablet to break apart. They ensure that when the tablet is in contact with water, it rapidly breaks down into smaller fragments, facilitating dissolution or dispersion. Examples of disintegrants include, but are not limited to: crosslinked polymers, such as crosslinked polyvinylpyrrolidone (crospovidone), and crosslinked sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (croscarmellose sodium); and the modified starch sodium starch glycolate. Specific examples further include Indion <NUM>, L-HPC, and pregelatinised starch.

Binders hold the ingredients in a tablet together. Binders ensure that tablets and granules can be formed with required mechanical strength, and give volume to tablets. Examples of binders include: saccharides and their derivatives: disaccharides, sucrose, lactose; polysaccharides and their derivatives, such as starches, cellulose or modified cellulose, such as microcrystalline cellulose and cellulose ethers such as hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC); sugar alcohols such as xylitol, sorbitol or maltitol; further Protein: gelatin; and Synthetic polymers: polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), polyethylene glycol (PEG). Examples include gelatin, cellulose, cellulose derivatives, polyvinylpyrrolidone, starch, sucrose and polyethylene glycol. Other examples include cellulose, methyl cellulose, polyvinylpyrrolidone and polyethylene glycol.

Glidants are used to promote powder flow by reducing interparticle friction and cohesion. These are used in combination with lubricants as they have no ability to reduce die wall friction. Examples include fumed silica, talc, and magnesium carbonate.

Lubricants are agents added to tablet and capsule formulations to improve certain processing characteristics. Lubricants inter alia prevent ingredients from clumping together and from sticking to the tablet punches or capsule filling machine (see also: <NPL>). Lubricants also ensure that tablet formation and ejection can occur with low friction between the solid and die wall. Common minerals like talc or silica, and fats, e.g. vegetable stearin, magnesium stearate or stearic acid are examples of lubricants used in tablets or hard gelatin capsules (see also: <NPL>).

Coatings protect ingredients from deterioration by moisture in the air and make large or unpleasant-tasting tablets easier to swallow. For most coated tablets, a cellulose ether hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) film coating is used which is free of sugar and potential allergens. Occasionally, other coating materials are used, for example synthetic polymers, shellac, corn protein zein or other polysaccharides. A specific example is Opadry. Capsules are coated with gelatin.

The present invention concerns a pharmaceutical composition for use in a method for obtaining cervical ripening or the induction of labor comprising administration of said pharmaceutical composition.

Preferably the pharmaceutical formulation is used for female human subjects.

<NUM>-<NUM>µg misoprostol, or an equivalent amount of a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, may be administered orally or sublingually every <NUM> - <NUM> hours.

Also disclosed is a method for the manufacture of a pharmaceutical composition, wherein said pharmaceutical composition is a tablet and said method comprises a step of compression.

Also disclosed is a method, wherein said tablet is manufactured by a method comprising a step of dry mixing followed by a step of direct compression.

The tablet can be manufactured by a method comprising a step of geometrical mixing of misoprostol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, with at least one excipient. The term "excipient" indicates an ingredient, which is not an active pharmaceutical ingredient.

The accompanying Figures and Examples are provided to explain rather than limit the present invention. It will be clear to the person skilled in the art that aspects, embodiments and claims of the present invention may be combined.

Unless otherwise mentioned, all percentages are in weight/weight. Unless otherwise mentioned, all measurements are conducted under standard conditions (ambient temperature and pressure).

The following ingredients were used to manufacture tablets:.

<FIG> provides a flow chart of the manufacturing process.

Key steps of the applied process, which follows the procedure of <FIG>, are described as follows:.

Misoprostol and other excipients pass through <NUM># sieve.

Load step <NUM> blend into the main bowl of planetary mixer and mix for <NUM>.

Then add remaining quantity of previously mixed Microcrystalline cellulose PH <NUM>, Starch Plain, Cros carmellose sodium, Polyplasdone XL10 and Colloidal silicon dioxide and mix for <NUM>.

Compress in a compression machine (using <NUM>. <NUM> - punch) (see also: <NPL> and <NPL>).

A container closure system was selected. Based on preformulation studies and a stability study, misoprostol (<NUM> % HPMC Dispersion) is hygroscopic in nature and also susceptible to degradation in presence of heat, light and humidity. Thus the tablet requires additional packaging precautions to protect the drug substance from heat, high humidity and light. Based on a sample Alu/ Alu packing is suitable for this product.

The disintegration time of tablets manufactured according to Example <NUM> were measured initially (right after manufacture) as well as after several months. The tablets were packed in Alu-Alu blister packs, maintained at <NUM>±<NUM> and <NUM>±<NUM> % RH. The disintegration time was measured according to European Pharmacopoeia <NUM>, using Disintegration apparatus A, placing one tablet in each of the <NUM> tubes of the basket without disc. The apparatus was operated using water medium as the immersion fluid, maintained at <NUM>±<NUM>. After disintegration of the tablets the basket was lifted from the fluid, and all of the tablets had disintegrated completely.

The measured disintegration times are provided in the table below.

The tablets were found to have satisfactory disintegration time and stability.

In order to compare a tablet of the present invention with a tablet of the prior art, a tablet manufactured according to Example <NUM> ("Tablet A") was subjected to the test of Example <NUM> of <CIT>. Tablet A was compared to a commercially available Cytotec misoprostol tablet.

Three drops of water were placed on a glass plate. A tablet was placed on the drops of water. The plate was then tilted at a <NUM> degree angle. Tablet A of the present invention immediately began to swell and disintegrate upon contacting the water. When the plate was tilted, the disintegrated Tablet A slid without adhering to the glass plate. The Cytotec tablet showed far greater adherence to the glass plate.

Due to the short disintegration time, Tablet A will immediately form a dispersion upon contact with water or an aqueous medium. Therefore, Tablet A is not dependent on adherence to the vaginal tract upon administration.

A tablet of the present invention was compared with a tablet of the prior art. A tablet manufactured according to Example <NUM> ("Tablet A") was compared to a commercially available Cytotec misoprostol <NUM> tablet. Each tablet was placed in a beaker with a few drops of water. Photographs were recorded after <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> seconds. Between each photograph, the beakers were very gently agitated by rotating the beakers.

<FIG> shows the tablets before being subjected to a disintegration experiment. Tablet A is on the left side, Cytotec is on the right side.

<FIG> shows the tablets <NUM> seconds after being placed in beakers with a few drops of water.

A dispersion is formed immediately after bringing Tablet A in contact with water. For Cytotec, no dispersion is formed, large flakes are formed, and the Cytotec tablet is not suitable for sublingual administration. Further, vaginal administration would require the Cytotec tablet to stay for a prolonged time in the vaginal tract.

Experiments were conducted to determine whether tablets of the invention and tablets of the prior art are dispersible tablets. Tablets manufactured according to Example <NUM> ("Tablet A"), comprising <NUM>µg misoprostol, were compared to commercially available Cytotec tablets, comprising misoprostol <NUM>.

Dispersibility test were performed using water at room temperature. Two tablets of Tablet A were mixed with <NUM> water (Mixture I), and two tablets of Cytotec were mixed with <NUM> (Mixture II) water in both cases while stirring for <NUM> seconds. For Tablet A, a dispersion forms within a few seconds. For Cytotec, no dispersion is formed, the tablets disintegrate slowly and a suspension is formed. Upon discontinuing stirring, the dispersion comprising Tablet A remains stable, while precipitate is clearly visible in the bottom of the suspension comprising Cytotec.

The mixtures were poured through sieve screens #<NUM>, #<NUM>, #<NUM>, #<NUM>, #<NUM>, and #<NUM>, having apertures of <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>. For Mixture II it was necessary to continue stirring until just before pouring, in order ensure substantially all of the mixture was poured into the sieve. This was not the case for Mixture I which had formed a stable dispersion.

Mixture I, passed through the screens #<NUM>, #<NUM>, #<NUM> without leaving any trace of precipitate, while a small amount of precipitate was visible in screen #<NUM>. At least <NUM>% of the precipitate was apparent in screens #<NUM> and #<NUM> (<FIG> upper row, from left to right: sieve #<NUM>, #<NUM>, #<NUM>; lower row: sieve #<NUM>, #<NUM>, #<NUM>). Upon pouring Mixture II through the screens, particles remained in all sieve screens (<FIG> upper row, from left to right: sieve #<NUM>, #<NUM>, #<NUM>; lower row: sieve #<NUM>, #<NUM>, #<NUM>).

It was thus confirmed that Tablet A is a dispersible tablet, while Cytotec is not a dispersible tablet.

Additional experiments were conducted using larger amounts of water mixed with the Cytotec tablets, but no dispersions were formed, and particles remained in all the sieve screens.

The table below provides manufactured (A) or contemplated (B and C) compositions of the invention.

Cytotec tablets contain <NUM> micrograms (µg) of the active substance, misoprostol. The other ingredients are indicated to be: microcrystalline cellulose, sodium starch glycolate, hydrogenated castor oil, and hypromellose (E464). Cytotec tablets are white to off white hexagonal tablets scored on both sides. According to the package leaflet, the tablets may help prevent getting ulcers in the stomach or duodenum, and can also be used to heal existing ulcers. Patients are warned against using Cytotec if they are pregnant or trying to become pregnant, because it may cause a miscarriage according to the leaflet. According to the leaflet, patients should take two <NUM> microgram Cytotec tablets twice a day with food, or alternatively one Cytotec tablet four times a day, at regular intervals with food.

Cytotec tablets containing <NUM> micrograms (µg) misoprostol may be mixed with water to produce mixtures comprising solid residues. Solid tablets according to the invention (Tablet A) comprising <NUM>µg misoprostol were compared to <NUM>µg Cytotec tablets mixed with and diluted to <NUM> with water (CYTOTEC), of which either <NUM> or <NUM> was administered orally. The mixture CYTOTEC is presently used as off-label treatment in Sweden for labor induction. Note that the dosage of <NUM>µg of the Cytotec tablets make them unsuitable for providing dosages of <NUM> or <NUM>µg without division of the tablet. However, the tablets have a hexagonal shape with one groove making it difficult to divide the tablets precisely in <NUM>/<NUM> or <NUM>/<NUM> fractions.

A trial was performed giving misoprostol for the induction of labor. The four (<NUM>) treatment groups comprise oral administration of <NUM>µg <NUM>-hourly and <NUM>µg <NUM>-hourly, comparing Tablet A and CYTOTEC for each administration dosage. Each group consisted of <NUM> women. The results are provided below. The symbol t<NUM>/<NUM> denotes the terminal half-life.

These results indicate that the Mean t<NUM>/<NUM> is shorter for Tablet A than for CYTOTEC. Further, the results indicate that the duration of induction to delivery is shorter for Tablet A than for CYTOTEC. For the <NUM>µg <NUM>-hourly groups Tablet A provides a desirable higher number of vaginal deliveries (the remaining women being Caesarean or instrumental), than CYTOTEC. For the <NUM>µg <NUM>-hourly groups, the difference of number of vaginal deliveries appears to be too small to make any conclusion of efficacy upon comparing Tablet A with CYTOTEC.

Claim 1:
A pharmaceutical composition comprising misoprostol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, for use in a treatment comprising cervical ripening or the induction of labor, having a content of <NUM> - <NUM>µg misoprostol, or an equivalent amount of pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein said pharmaceutical composition is suitable for an administration form selected among sublingual and oral administration; and wherein said pharmaceutical composition is subject to at least one of the following provisos:
i. the pharmaceutical composition, wherein the pharmaceutical composition is a tablet, comprises:
i. Misoprostol (as <NUM>% HPMC dispersion) <NUM>/tablet;
ii. Microcrystalline cellulose <NUM>/tablet;
iii. Starch plain <NUM>/tablet;
iv. Croscarmellose sodium <NUM>/tablet;
v. Crospovidone <NUM>/tablet; and
vi. Colloidal silicon dioxide <NUM>/tablet;
or
ii. the pharmaceutical composition, wherein the pharmaceutical composition is an orodispersible or orally disintegrating tablet that can be taken without water.