Patent Description:
Different kinds of delivery vehicles have been applied for oral administration of nicotine to users. Such delivery vehicles include pouches, chewing gum and lozenges. General expectations from the users are that relief from nicotine craving is obtained at the right time, while still experiencing pleasure during administration of the nicotine.

It is however a significant challenge within the technical area to address what the users really want with respect to user experience. What is important in relation to the effect of the nicotine in relation of craving and what is important parameters in relation to taste and user of the delivery vehicles and even more important, what is the most acceptable tradeoffs between the different reaction- and experience chains during use of the delivery vehicle.

These tradeoffs have been an ongoing challenge for the relevant industry during many years.

The present invention addressed the challenges and tradeoffs particularly related to users expectations related to nicotine delivery vehicles when comparing to what a user may experience when e.g. smoking a cigarette.

United States Patent Application (<CIT>) relates to a dosage form that includes both a disintegrative tablet portion and a candy glass shell portion.

The invention relates to a water-dissolvable compressed oral nicotine lozenge comprising a first module and a second module,.

In the present context a module is defined as a plurality of a compressed particles. A typical implementation of such a lozenge would e.g. be a lozenge consisting of two modules, a first and a second module, and where each module is a layer of the lozenge. In other words, such an example would be a two-layer lozenge. Other number of modules may be applied within the scope of the invention.

It should be noted that the understanding of a module in the present context is a module enabling and facilitating the intended effect, i.e. an effective delivery or administration of nicotine and at the same time providing the intended masking. This imposes some structural restrictions on the modules in the sense that modules must be large enough to be able to not only deliver the nicotine but also the desired masking compounds, and at the right time.

A module in the present context thus, in an advantageous embodiment, encompasses a population of compressed particles weighing at least <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge. In other words, a module is not intended to refer to individual particles as conventionally understood from the art of tableting.

In terms of the first module being a lozenge, a lozenge is a well-known term in relation to medicated tablets intended to be dissolved or disintegrated slowly in the mouth, typically to release an active ingredient. Lozenges with different active ingredients are known, e.g. nicotine lozenges and lozenges for temporarily stopping e.g. coughs and lubricate and soothe irritated tissues of the throat (usually due to a sore throat).

The second module is designed and provided as a module which in itself is characterized by being an FDT, i.e. a module having the characteristics of a so-called fast disintegrating tablet. Fast disintegrating tablets generally exhibits fast disintegration, typically below <NUM> seconds from placing it in the mouth, or even faster such as <NUM> seconds from placing it in the mouth.

The idea of combining two structurally differently designed modules, one module containing nicotine, makes it possible to provide a nicotine delivering lozenge where taste masking and pleasure is combined with an impressive effect to a user.

The second module is typically designed to disintegrate in less than <NUM> seconds upon oral administration in the multimodule lozenge.

It is however surprising that the desired effect is obtained by masking by the first module, but at the same time keeping the concentration of nicotine in the FDT under a certain level. The desired effect may e.g. include nicotine craving relief, taste and/or pleasure as perceived by the user.

Fast dissolving tablets represent an ideal way of providing the nicotine user with a fast dose/burst of nicotine giving fast effect. However, this fast craving relief does not fully cover the pleasure often associated with desired pleasure for the nicotine user. Also, undesired side effects may occur in case of too high nicotine load delivered too fast.

A prolonged pleasure sensation may thus be obtained by merging the fast craving relief sensation with a second phase sensation into one lozenge.

Compression/fusion of two such different composition into a single multi-modular lozenge may not necessarily be trivial as the invention requires a certain design to get the desired effect.

The invention, among many advantages, benefits from an intuitive and fool-proof use of nicotine as compared to prior art delivery vehicles.

User time may be easily designed to by around <NUM> minutes, i.e. similar to smoking a cigarette. The bitter taste of nicotine may be reduced.

A further advantage of the invention may be that a surprisingly effective craving relief is obtained. By providing a second module being an FDT-module comprising at least one sugar alcohol and nicotine, the lozenge of the invention facilitates fast action of nicotine, but at the same time has been shown to provide a sustained craving relief, which is very effective. Having a very effective craving relief may further provide the reducing the necessary nicotine dose of the tablet, without compromising the resulting effect. A lower nicotine dose may in tern result in a reduction in production cost, as nicotine may be relatively expensive, but may also assist users who want to lower their intake of nicotine.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the first module provides suitable long-term masking of the nicotine and at the same time the second module provides a very fast release of nicotine at a concentration preferably at a level which is below a certain level, thereby ensuring that the initial burning is masked the best way possible.

The use of a module FDT in a lozenge applied as nicotine release vehicle furthermore facilitates the manufacture of robust tablets, providing a prolonged release of masking compounds while at the same time prolonging an invoked salivation during use of the tablet.

In an advantageous embodiment the second module comprises nicotine in an amount of less than <NUM>% by weight of the second module, such as less than <NUM>% by weight of the second module.

In an embodiment of the invention the second module comprises nicotine in an amount of <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the second module, such as <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the second module, such as <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the second module.

In an embodiment of the invention the second module comprises nicotine in an amount of at least <NUM>% by weight of the second module, such as at least <NUM>% by weight of the second module, such as at least <NUM>% by weight of the second module.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the weight of the second modules is between <NUM> and <NUM>, such as between <NUM> and <NUM>.

In the present context, the invention provides an attractive bi-phasic delivery of masking, even if the delivery of nicotine is "single-phased".

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the second module comprises at least <NUM> of nicotine.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the second module comprises between <NUM> and <NUM> of nicotine, such as between <NUM> and <NUM> of nicotine, such as between <NUM> and <NUM> of nicotine.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the lozenge comprises nicotine in an amount of at least <NUM>, such as at least <NUM>, such as at least <NUM>.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the lozenge comprises nicotine in an amount of <NUM> to <NUM>, such as <NUM> to <NUM>, such as <NUM> to <NUM>.

In an embodiment, the nicotine of the second module is selected from the group consisting of a nicotine salt, nicotine free base, nicotine bound to an ion exchanger, such as an ion exchange resin, such as nicotine polacrilex resin, a nicotine inclusion complex or nicotine in any non-covalent binding; nicotine bound to zeolites; nicotine bound to cellulose, such as microcrystalline cellulose, or starch microspheres, and mixtures thereof.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the second module comprises a nicotine salt.

In an embodiment of the invention the nicotine of the second module is a nicotine salt.

In an embodiment of the invention, the nicotine salt is selected from nicotine ascorbate, nicotine aspartate, nicotine benzoate, nicotine monotartrate, nicotine bitartrate, nicotine chloride (e.g., nicotine hydrochloride and nicotine dihydrochloride), nicotine citrate, nicotine fumarate, nicotine gensitate, nicotine lactate, nicotine mucate, nicotine laurate, nicotine levulinate, nicotine malate nicotine perchlorate, nicotine pyruvate, nicotine salicylate, nicotine sorbate, nicotine succinate, nicotine zinc chloride, nicotine sulfate, nicotine tosylate and nicotine salt hydrates (e.g., nicotine zinc chloride monohydrate).

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the second module comprises nicotine bitartrate.

In an embodiment of the invention the nicotine of the second module is nicotine bitartrate.

In an embodiment of the invention the nicotine is nicotine bitartrate.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the second module comprises nicotine free base.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the nicotine of the second module is nicotine free base.

Free base nicotine includes nicotine mixed with sugar alcohols, modified Calcium carbonate, water-soluble fibers, ion exchange resin, and combinations thereof. Nicotine bound to modified Calcium carbonate is described in international patent application <CIT>.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the first module comprises nicotine.

In an embodiment, the nicotine of the first module is selected from the group consisting of a nicotine salt, nicotine free base, nicotine bound to an ion exchanger, such as an ion exchange resin, such as nicotine polacrilex resin, a nicotine inclusion complex or nicotine in any non-covalent binding; nicotine bound to zeolites; nicotine bound to cellulose, such as microcrystalline cellulose, or starch microspheres, and mixtures thereof.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the first module comprises nicotine bound to an ion exchange resin.

In an embodiment of the invention the nicotine of the first module is nicotine bound to an ion exchange resin.

In an advantageous embodiment the first module comprises nicotine polacrilex resin (NPR).

In an embodiment the nicotine of the first module is nicotine polacrilex resin (NPR).

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the nicotine in the first module has a slower uptake in the average mucosa than the nicotine in the second module.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the first module comprises a nicotine salt.

In an embodiment of the invention the nicotine of the first module is a nicotine salt.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the first module comprises nicotine bitartrate.

In an embodiment of the invention the nicotine of the first module is nicotine bitartrate.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the first module is free of nicotine.

Thus, in the above embodiment, and when the lozenge consists of the first and second modules, the second module comprises the nicotine.

In an embodiment of the invention, the nicotine is comprised in the second module. Thus, the first module and any further modules, if any, are free of nicotine.

In an embodiment of the invention the lozenge comprises a nicotine salt.

In an embodiment of the invention the nicotine of the lozenge is a nicotine salt.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the lozenge comprises nicotine bitartrate.

In an embodiment of the invention the nicotine of the lozenge is nicotine bitartrate.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the lozenge comprises nicotine free base.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the nicotine of the lozenge is nicotine free base.

According to the invention the second module comprises disintegrant.

The disintegrant in the present context is referring to compounds other than sugar alcohols.

According to the invention, the amount of super disintegrant is between <NUM> and <NUM> % by weight of the second module, where the super disintegrant includes crosslinked polymers. The disintegrant may comprise further disintegrant(s), such as starch, pregelatinated starch, modified starch (including potato starch, maize starch, starch <NUM>, and starch derivatives), cellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, alginates, ion-exchange resin, and calcium silicate, and combinations thereof.

In an embodiment of the invention the disintegrant comprises cross-linked polyvinylpyrrolidone.

In an embodiment of the invention the disintegrant is cross-linked polyvinylpyrrolidone.

An advantage of using cross-linked polyvinylpyrrolidone, also known as crospovidone, as disintegrant, may be that it decreases the dependence of the disintegration time on the compression force while allowing rather low disintegration times. Also, by being more independent from compression force, a lower variation between second modules of different lozenges due to variations in compression force is facilitated.

In an embodiment of the invention at least <NUM>% by weight of the cross-linked polyvinylpyrrolidone has a particle size below <NUM> micrometers.

This corresponds to commercial grades Kollidon CL-F and CL-SF available from BASF.

This corresponds to commercial grade Kollidon CL-SF available from BASF.

An advantage of the above embodiment of using cross-linked polyvinylpyrrolidone with a smaller particle size facilitates a shorter disintegration time, e.g. due to a larger relative surface of the disintegrant particles.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the disintegrant comprises starch.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the disintegrant comprises low-substituted hydroxypropylcellulose (L-HPC).

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the amount of super disintegrant is between <NUM> and <NUM> % by weight of the second module.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the super disintegrants is selected from the group of croscarmellose sodium, crospovidone, and sodium starch glycolate.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the disintegrant comprises cross-linked polyvinylpyrrolidone.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention at least <NUM>% by weight of the cross-linked polyvinylpyrrolidone has a particle size below <NUM> micrometers.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the second module comprises disintegrant and sugar alcohol.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the second module comprises.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the average particle size of the particles applied for the compression of the first module is larger than the average particle size of the particles applied for the compression of the second module.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the average particle size of the particles applied for the compression of the second module is smaller than <NUM> micrometer, such as <NUM> micrometer, such as <NUM> micrometer.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the particles applied for the compression of the second module comprises particles with a particle size of at least <NUM> micrometer, such as at least <NUM> micrometer, such as at least <NUM> micrometer.

In an embodiment of the invention, the particles applied for the compression of the second module comprises at least <NUM> % by weight of particles with a particle size of at least <NUM> micrometer, such as at least <NUM> micrometer, such as at least <NUM> micrometer.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the first module comprises at least <NUM> % by weight of the lozenge, such as at least <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the first module comprises <NUM>% to <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge, such as <NUM>% to <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge, such as <NUM>% to <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge, such as <NUM>% to <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge, such as <NUM>% to <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge, such as <NUM>% to <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge, such as <NUM>% to <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the second module comprises at least <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge, such as at least <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the second module comprises <NUM>% to <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge, such as <NUM>% to <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge, such as <NUM>% to <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge, such as <NUM>% to <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention second module has an exposed surface area comprises maximum <NUM>% of a total exposed surface area of the lozenge, such as <NUM>% of the total exposed surface area of the lozenge, such as <NUM>% of the total exposed surface area of the lozenge, such as <NUM>% of the total exposed surface area of the lozenge.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the lozenge has a maximum total volume of <NUM> cm3, such as <NUM> cm3, such as <NUM> cm3, such as <NUM> cm3, such as <NUM> cm3.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the lozenge has a maximum total weight of <NUM> gram, such as <NUM> gram, such as <NUM> gram, such as <NUM> gram, such as <NUM> gram, such as <NUM> gram.

An advantage of lozenges having a volume below the maximum stated volume is the possibility to use the lozenge discretely. Furthermore, it provides the option of self-titration.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the lozenge has a total weight of <NUM> to <NUM> gram, such as <NUM> to <NUM> gram, such as <NUM> to <NUM> gram, such as <NUM> to <NUM> gram.

Lozenges having a volume below the maximum stated volume may provide the user with desired disintegration time and dissolution time.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the second module is fused by compression to the first module applying a minimum compression force of at least <NUM> kN, such as at least <NUM> kN, such as at least <NUM> kN, such as at least <NUM> kN, such as at least <NUM> kN.

In an embodiment of the invention the second module is fused by compression to the first module applying a minimum compression force of <NUM> to <NUM> kN, such as <NUM> to <NUM> kN, such as <NUM> to <NUM> kN, such as <NUM> to <NUM> kN, such as <NUM> to <NUM> kN.

In an embodiment of the invention the second module is fused by compression to the first module applying a minimum compression force of <NUM> to <NUM> kN, such as <NUM> to <NUM> kN, such as <NUM> to <NUM> kN.

When referring to pressing force, this refers to the applied force when using a circular punch with a diameter of <NUM>, unless otherwise stated. When using punches with other diameters or shapes, the pressing force is adjusted accordingly with respect to area of the punch to obtain the required punching pressure. Higher punching pressure results in higher pressure force, and vice versa.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the first module and second modules are two layers fused by compression.

The layers or modules of the lozenge may be formed in many different ways within the scope of the invention. As seen from above, the lozenge may be circular, oval or edged, e.g. square.

In an embodiment of the invention, the lozenge consists of the first module and second module, the first and second modules being two layers fused by compression.

In an embodiment of the invention, the second module at least partly encapsulates the first module.

In an embodiment of the invention, the second module encapsulates the first module.

Obtaining a lozenge with a first module encapsulated by a second module may be obtained by applying a press coat as the second module around the first module.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the lozenge comprises the at least one sugar alcohol in an amount of at least <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge, such as at least <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge, such as at least <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge.

In an embodiment of the invention, the lozenge comprises the at least one sugar alcohol in an amount of <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge, such as <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge, such as <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge.

In an embodiment of the invention the lozenge comprises the at least one sugar alcohol in an amount of at least <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge, such as at least <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge, such as at least <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the at least one sugar alcohol of the second module comprises at least one sugar alcohol selected from the group of xylitol, maltitol, mannitol, erythritol, isomalt, sorbitol, lactitol or any combination thereof.

In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one sugar alcohol of the second module is selected from the group of xylitol, maltitol, mannitol, erythritol, isomalt, sorbitol, lactitol or any combination thereof.

In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one sugar alcohol in the second module comprises mannitol, erythritol or xylitol.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the at least one sugar alcohol of the second module comprises mannitol.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the at least one sugar alcohol of the second module comprises erythritol.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the at least one sugar alcohol of the second module has a water solubility when measured at <NUM> degrees Celsius of maximum <NUM>/L.

In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one sugar alcohol of the second module has a water solubility when measured at <NUM> degrees Celsius of <NUM> to <NUM>/L.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the second module comprises the at least one sugar alcohol in an amount of at least <NUM>% by weight of the second module, such as at least <NUM>% by weight of the second module.

In an embodiment of the invention, the second module comprises the at least one sugar alcohol in an amount of <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the second module, such as <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the second module, such as <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the second module.

In an embodiment of the invention the second module comprises the at least one sugar alcohol in an amount of at least <NUM>% by weight of the second module, such as at least <NUM>% by weight of the second module, such as at least <NUM>% by weight of the second module.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the at least one sugar alcohol of the second module comprises non-DC (non-direct compressible) grade sugar alcohol.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the at least one sugar alcohol of the first module comprises at least one sugar alcohol selected from the group of xylitol, maltitol, mannitol, erythritol, isomalt, sorbitol, lactitol or any combination thereof.

In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one sugar alcohol of the first module is selected from the group of xylitol, maltitol, mannitol, erythritol, isomalt, sorbitol, lactitol or any combination thereof.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the at least one sugar alcohol of the first module is selected from the group of mannitol, erythritol, isomalt, sorbitol, or any combination thereof.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the first module comprises the at least one sugar alcohol in an amount of at least <NUM>% by weight of the second module, such as at least <NUM>% by weight of the first module.

In an embodiment of the invention, the first module comprises the at least one sugar alcohol in an amount of <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the first module, such as <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the first module, such as <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the first module.

In an embodiment of the invention the first module comprises the at least one sugar alcohol in an amount of at least <NUM>% by weight of the first module, such as at least <NUM>% by weight of the second module, such as at least <NUM>% by weight of the first module, such as at least <NUM>% by weight of the first module.

In an embodiment of the invention, the first module comprises the at least one sugar alcohol in an amount of <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the first module, such as <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the first module, such as <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the first module, such as <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the first module.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the lozenge is substantially free of mono- and disaccharides.

In an embodiment of the invention, the lozenge is sugar-free. Thus, in this embodiment, the lozenge does not comprise any sugar.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the lozenge comprises a pH regulating agent.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the pH regulating agent is selected from carbonates, including monocarbonate, bicarbonate and sesquicarbonate, glycerinate, phosphate, glycerophosphate, acetate, glyconate or citrate of an alkali metal, ammonium, tris buffer, amino acids, and any combination thereof.

In an embodiment of the invention, encapsulated buffer such as Effersoda may also be used.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the pH regulating agent is selected from sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, potassium phosphate, potassium carbonate, potassium bicarbonate, and any combination thereof.

Combinations of a carbonate and a bicarbonate may be especially advantageous. Such combination may e.g. be a sodium carbonate - sodium bicarbonate buffer system, e.g. sodium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate in a weight-ratio between <NUM>:<NUM> and <NUM>:<NUM>, preferably in a weight-ratio between <NUM>:<NUM> and <NUM>:<NUM>.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the pH regulating agent comprises or is sodium carbonate.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the lozenge comprises pH regulating agent in an amount of at least <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge, such as at least <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge, such as at least <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge, such as at least <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge.

In an embodiment of the invention, the lozenge comprises pH regulating agent in an amount of <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge, such as <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge, such as <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge, such as <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge, such as <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge, such as <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the lozenge is free of pH regulating agent.

In an embodiment of the invention, the lozenge comprises no more than <NUM>% by weight of pH regulating agent, such as no more than <NUM>% by weight of pH regulating agent, such as no more than <NUM>% by weight of pH regulating agent. Thus, in this embodiment, the lozenge may be free of pH regulating agent or comprise pH regulating agent in an amount of no more than <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge, such as no more than <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge, such as no more than <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the first module comprises pH regulating agent.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the first module comprises pH regulating agent in an amount of at least <NUM>% by weight of the first module, such as at least <NUM>% by weight of the first module, such as at least <NUM>% by weight of the first module, such as at least <NUM>% by weight of the first module.

In an embodiment of the invention, the first module comprises pH regulating agent in an amount of <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the first module, such as <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the first module, such as <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the first module, such as <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the first module, such as <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the first module, such as <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the first module.

In an embodiment of the invention, the first module is free of pH regulating agent.

In an embodiment of the invention, the first module comprises no more than <NUM>% by weight of pH regulating agent, such as no more than <NUM>% by weight of pH regulating agent, such as no more than <NUM>% by weight of pH regulating agent. Thus, in this embodiment, the first module may be free of pH regulating agent or comprise pH regulating agent in an amount of no more than <NUM>% by weight of the first module, such as no more than <NUM>% by weight of the first module, such as no more than <NUM>% by weight of the first module.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the second module comprises pH regulating agent.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the second module comprises pH regulating agent in an amount of at least <NUM>% by weight of the second module, such as at least <NUM>% by weight of the second module, such as at least <NUM>% by weight of the second module, such as at least <NUM>% by weight of the second module.

In an embodiment of the invention, the second module comprises pH regulating agent in an amount of <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the second module, such as <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the second module, such as <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the second module, such as <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the second module, such as <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the second module, such as <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the second module.

The pH regulating agents, such as alkaline buffering agents, suitable for use in the present invention include sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, potassium phosphate, potassium carbonate and potassium bicarbonate. In one embodiment, the buffering agents are selected from potassium bicarbonate, sodium carbonate and mixtures thereof. The pH regulating agents, e.g. buffering agents, may be incorporated in the first and/or the second module. The total amount of buffer present in the compositions of the present invention is from about <NUM> to about <NUM>. In one embodiment the total amount of buffer present in the compositions of the present invention is from about <NUM> to about <NUM>. In one embodiment the ratio of nicotine to total buffer is from about <NUM>:<NUM> to about <NUM>:<NUM> by total weight.

In an embodiment of the invention, the second module comprises pH regulating agent in an amount of <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the second module, such as <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the second module.

In an embodiment of the invention, the second module is free of pH regulating agent.

In an embodiment of the invention, the second module comprises no more than <NUM>% by weight of pH regulating agent, such as no more than <NUM>% by weight of pH regulating agent, such as no more than <NUM>% by weight of pH regulating agent. Thus, in this embodiment, the second module may be free of pH regulating agent or comprise pH regulating agent in an amount of no more than <NUM>% by weight of the second module, such as no more than <NUM>% by weight of the second module, such as no more than <NUM>% by weight of the second module.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the pH regulating agent is a basic pH regulating agent.

Thus, in the above embodiment the pH regulating agent of the first and/or second module is a basic pH regulating agent.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the pH regulating agent is a buffering agent.

Thus, in the above embodiment the pH regulating agent of the first and/or second module is a buffering agent.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the pH regulating agent is a basic buffering agent.

Thus, in the above embodiment the pH regulating agent of the first and/or second module is a basic buffering agent.

In an embodiment of the invention, the nicotine and the pH regulating agent is comprised in the same module.

In an embodiment of the invention, the nicotine and the pH regulating agent is comprised in opposite modules. In this embodiment, when the lozenge has no modules further to the first and second modules, the nicotine and the pH regulating agent may be comprised in the first module and the second module, respectively, or vice versa.

In an embodiment of the invention, the first module comprises nicotine and pH regulating agent.

In an embodiment of the invention, the nicotine and pH regulating agent is comprised in the first module. Thus, the second module is free of nicotine and pH regulating agent.

One advantage of the above embodiment may be an improved taste and mouthfeel while retaining a desirable nicotine release and uptake. In order to obtain a desirable nicotine uptake, it is desirable that the nicotine is released into saliva with a relative high pH. However, the pH regulating agent added to obtain this high pH may give rise to unpleasant taste and mouthfeel, especially if positioned in the second module. However, by having a second module without pH regulating agent and instead including the pH regulating agent in the first module, an acceptable saliva pH may be obtained thereby facilitating nicotine uptake, while giving the user the desired taste and mouthfeel without any unpleasant alkaline sensation.

In an embodiment of the invention, the second module comprises nicotine and pH regulating agent.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the nicotine and pH regulating agent is comprised in the second module.

Thus, in the above embodiment, the first module is free of nicotine and pH regulating agent.

In an embodiment of the invention, the first module comprises nicotine, and the second module comprises pH regulating agent.

In an embodiment of the invention, the nicotine is comprised in the first module, and the pH regulating agent is comprised in the second module. Thus, the first module is free of pH regulating agent and the second module is free of nicotine.

In an embodiment of the invention, the second module comprises nicotine, and the first module comprises pH regulating agent.

In an embodiment of the invention, the nicotine is comprised in the second module, and the pH regulating agent is comprised in the first module. This the first module is free of nicotine and the second module is free of pH regulating agent.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the formulation provides a peak saliva concentration of nicotine of more than <NUM>/mL, such as more than <NUM>/mL.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the formulation provides a peak saliva pH of more than <NUM> during the first <NUM> seconds upon oral administration.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the lozenge comprises high intensity sweetener.

In an embodiment of the invention, the high intensity sweetener is selected from sucralose, aspartame, salts of acesulfame, such as acesulfame potassium, alitame, saccharin and its salts, cyclamic acid and its salts, glycyrrhizin, dihydrochalcones, thaumatin, monellin, stevioside, and any combination thereof.

In an embodiment of the invention, the first module comprises high intensity sweetener.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the high intensity sweetener is comprised in the first module.

Thus, in the above embodiment, all high intensity sweetener is comprised in the first module, i.e. the second module is free of high intensity sweetener. An advantage of this embodiment may be that the lozenge is relatively simple to manufacture due to a limited amount of ingredients in each module, while obtaining surprisingly good results with respect to taste and flavor perception for the users.

In an embodiment of the invention, the second module is free of high intensity sweetener.

In an embodiment of the invention, the second module comprises no more than <NUM>% by weight of high intensity sweetener, such as no more than <NUM>% by weight of high intensity sweetener. Thus, in this embodiment, the second module may be free of high intensity sweetener or may comprise high intensity sweetener, but only op to <NUM>% by weight of the second module, such as op to <NUM>% by weight of the second module.

In an embodiment of the invention, the second module comprises high intensity sweetener.

In an embodiment of the invention, the high intensity sweetener is comprised in the second module.

Thus, in the above embodiment, all high intensity sweetener is comprised in the second module, i.e. the first module is free of high intensity sweetener.

In an embodiment of the invention, the high intensity sweetener is comprised in the first and second module.

Thus, in the above embodiments, both the first and the second module comprises high intensity sweetener.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the lozenge comprises flavor.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the lozenge comprises flavor in an amount of at least <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge.

In an embodiment of the invention, the lozenge comprises flavor in an amount of <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge, such as <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge, such as <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge, such as <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the lozenge.

In an embodiment of the invention the first module comprises flavor.

In an embodiment of the invention the first module comprises flavor in an amount of at least <NUM>% by weight of the first module.

In an embodiment of the invention, the first module comprises flavor in an amount of <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the first module, such as <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the first module, such as <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the first module, such as <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the first module.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the flavor is comprised in the first module.

Thus, in the above embodiment, all flavor is comprised in the first module, i.e. the second module is free of flavor.

An advantage of the above embodiment may be that nicotine stability is increased by facilitating separation of nicotine from flavor and thereby minimizing any flavor induced degradation of nicotine in the second module. A further advantage of the above embodiment may be that the lozenge is relatively simple to manufacture due to a limited amount of ingredients in each module, while obtaining surprisingly good results with respect to taste and flavor perception for the users.

In an embodiment of the invention, the second module comprises no more than <NUM>% by weight of flavor, such as no more than <NUM>% by weight of flavor. Thus, in this embodiment, the second module may be free of flavor or may comprise flavor, but only op to <NUM>% by weight of the second module, such as op to <NUM>% by weight of the second module.

In an embodiment of the invention the second module comprises flavor.

In an embodiment of the invention the second module comprises flavor in an amount of at least <NUM>% by weight of the second module.

In an embodiment of the invention, the second module comprises flavor in an amount of <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the second module, such as <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the second module, such as <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the second module, such as <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the second module.

In an embodiment of the invention, the flavor is comprised in the second module. Thus, in this embodiment, all flavor is comprised in the second module, i.e. the first module is free of flavor.

In an embodiment of the invention, the first module comprises no more than <NUM>% by weight of flavor, such as no more than <NUM>% by weight of flavor. Thus, in this embodiment, the first module may be free of flavor or may comprise flavor, but only op to <NUM>% by weight of the first module, such as op to <NUM>% by weight of the first module.

In an embodiment of the invention, the flavor is comprised in the first and second modules, i.e. both modules comprise flavor.

In an embodiment of the invention, the nicotine and the flavor are comprised in opposite modules.

An advantage of the above embodiment may be that nicotine stability is increased by facilitating separation of nicotine from flavor and thereby minimizing any flavor induced degradation of nicotine.

In an embodiment of the invention, the nicotine is comprised in the first module and the flavor is in the second module.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the nicotine is comprised in the second module and the flavor is in the first module.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the flavor is selected from the group of menthol, peppermint, wintergreen, sweet mint, spearmint, vanillin, chocolate, coffee, cinnamon, clove, tobacco, citrus and fruit flavors and mixtures thereof.

Flavors may e.g. be present in an amount about <NUM> to about <NUM> per lozenge.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the first module comprises at least one mucoadhesive in the amount of <NUM> to <NUM>% by weight of the first module.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the first module comprises dissolution modifiers.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the dissolution modifiers comprise any of acacia, agar, alginic acid or a salt thereof, carbomer, carboxymethylcellulose, carrageenan, cellulose, chitosan, copovidone, cyclodextrins, ethylcellulose, gelatin, guar gum, hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl methylcellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hypromellose, inulin, methylcellulose, pectin, polycarbophil or a salt thereof, polyethylene glycol, polyethylene oxide, polyvinyl alcohol, pullulan, starch, tragacanth, trehalose, xanthan gum and mixtures thereof.

In one embodiment, the dissolution modifiers included within the formulations of the present invention may be selected from the group consisting of alginic acid or a salt thereof, polycarbophil or a salt thereof, xanthan gum and mixtures thereof. In one embodiment, dissolution modifier is used in an amount of from about <NUM> to about <NUM> per lozenge, in another embodiment from about <NUM> to about <NUM> per lozenge.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the second module comprises binder, such as microcrystalline cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC), or a mixture thereof.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the first module comprises binder, such as microcrystalline cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC), or a mixture thereof.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the lozenge has a breaking point of at least <NUM> N, such as at least <NUM> N, such as at least <NUM> N.

In an embodiment of the invention, the lozenge has a breaking point of <NUM> N to 400N, such as <NUM> N to 400N, such as <NUM> N to 400N.

In an embodiment of the invention, the breaking point is measured by a PTB <NUM> from Pharma Test.

The invention further relates to a method of manufacturing a water-dissolvable compressed oral nicotine lozenge, the method comprising the steps of.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention the method comprises.

In an advantageous embodiment the pressing is performed with a pressing force of at least <NUM> kN, such as at least <NUM> kN, such as at least <NUM> kN, such as at least <NUM> kN.

In an embodiment of the invention, the pressing is performed with a pressing force of <NUM> to <NUM> kN, such as <NUM> to <NUM> kN, such as <NUM> to <NUM> kN, such as <NUM> to <NUM> kN.

In an embodiment of the invention, the water-dissolvable compressed oral nicotine lozenge of the invention or any of its embodiments is obtained by the method of the invention or any of its embodiments.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the lozenge does not comprise a coating.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the second module has a water content of less than <NUM>% by weight, such as less than <NUM>% by weight, such as less than <NUM>% by weight, such as less than <NUM>% by weight.

An advantage of the above embodiment may be that stability of the second module is increased. This is in particular since the second module comprises disintegrant, which comprises superdisintegrant.

In an embodiment of the invention, the second module has a water content of <NUM>-<NUM>% by weight, such as <NUM>-<NUM>% by weight, such as <NUM>-<NUM>% by weight, such as <NUM> - <NUM>% by weight. in the above embodiments, the second module may be free of water.

In an embodiment of the invention, the first module has a water content of less than <NUM>% by weight, such as less than <NUM>% by weight, such as less than <NUM>% by weight, such as less than <NUM>% by weight.

In an embodiment of the invention, the first module has a water content of <NUM>-<NUM>% by weight, such as <NUM>-<NUM>% by weight, such as <NUM>-<NUM>% by weight, such as <NUM> - <NUM>% by weight.

in the above embodiments, the first module may be free of water.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the water-dissolvable compressed oral nicotine lozenge has a water content of less than <NUM>% by weight, such as less than <NUM>% by weight, such as less than <NUM>% by weight, such as less than <NUM>% by weight.

In an embodiment of the invention, the water-dissolvable compressed oral nicotine lozenge has a water content of <NUM>-<NUM>% by weight, such as <NUM>-<NUM>% by weight, such as <NUM>-<NUM>% by weight, such as <NUM> - <NUM>% by weight.

in the above embodiments, the water-dissolvable compressed oral nicotine lozenge may be free of water.

The invention will now be described with reference to the figures where
<FIG> illustrates craving relief of a lozenge according to an embodiment of the invention.

As used herein the term "water-dissolvable compressed oral nicotine lozenge" refers to a compressed tablet that overall is slowly dissolvable in water. While the nicotine lozenge of the invention comprises a fast dissolvable FDT module, it also comprises a slowly dissolvable lozenge module. The nicotine lozenge of course does not comprise e.g. chewing gum modules that does not dissolve in water. Furthermore, the nicotine lozenge is water-dissolvable in the sense that it disintegrates and that main constituents dissolve in water. The nicotine lozenge of the invention is a compressed lozenge, formed by compression of at least a first powdered composition and a second powdered composition to give the first and second layer, respectively. The nicotine lozenge may comprise some amounts of water-insoluble material, such as e.g. MCC. For example, the nicotine lozenge may dissolve within a period of at least <NUM> minutes upon oral administration, such as at least <NUM> minutes, such as at least <NUM> minutes, such as at least <NUM> minutes.

As used herein, the term "FDT-module" (Fast Disintegrating Tablet-module) refers to a module of a lozenge for oral administration. The FDT module disintegrates in the oral cavity relatively fast from the administration, such as within about <NUM> seconds from oral administration.

As used herein the term "lozenge module" refers to a module imparting lozenge properties, i.e. a module that dissolve or disintegrate slowly in the mouth, whereby its constituents are slowly released, e.g. pH regulating agents, flavor, nicotine etc. depending on the specific embodiment. For example, the lozenge module may dissolve within a period of at least <NUM> minutes upon oral administration, such as at least <NUM> minutes, such as at least <NUM> minutes, such as at least <NUM> minutes.

As used herein, the term "disintegrate" refers to a reduction of an object to components, fragments or particles. Disintegration time may be measured in vitro or in vivo. Unless otherwise stated, the in vitro measurements are carried out in accordance to European Pharmacopeia <NUM>, section <NUM>. <NUM>, Disintegration of tablets and capsules.

As used herein, the term "dissolve" is the process where a solid substance enters a solvent (oral saliva) to yield a solution. Unless otherwise stated, dissolving implies a full dissolving of the compound in question.

As used herein, the terms "disintegrant" refers to an ingredient facilitating disintegration of an FDT-module, when the FDT-module comes into contact with saliva. Disintegrants usable within the scope of the invention may include starch, pregelatinated starch, modified starch (including potato starch, maize starch, starch <NUM>, sodium starch glycolate and starch derivatives), cellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, alginates, ion-exchange resin, and superdisintegrants, such as crosslinked cellulose (such as sodium carboxy methyl cellulose), crosslinked polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP), crosslinked starch, crosslinked alginic acid, natural superdisintegrants, and calcium silicate. Disintegrants may often be considered as measure promoting the break-up of the module into smaller fragments upon administration to facilitate nicotine release and eventual absorption. According to the invention, the second module comprises disintegrant, where the disintegrant comprises super disintegrant, and where the super disintegrant includes crosslinked polymers.

As used herein, the term "nicotine" refers to nicotine in any form, including free base nicotine, nicotine salts, nicotine bound to ion exchange resins, such as nicotine polacrilex, nicotine bound to zeolites; nicotine bound to cellulose, such as fibers of microcrystalline cellulose, such as of microbial origin, or starch microspheres, nicotine bound to CaCO3, and mixtures thereof. Thus, when referring to nicotine amounts also to be understood as the nicotine dose, the amounts refers to the amount of pure nicotine. Thus, when measuring the concentration of nicotine added as nicotine salt, it is the mass of the equivalent amount of pure nicotine, not the mass of the salt, that is relevant. Nicotine also covers nicotine not obtained from tobacco, often referred to as synthetic nicotine. Nicotine is included in the second layer, and in some embodiments also in the first layer. In other embodiments nicotine is included in the second layer but not in the first layer.

As used herein, the term "nicotine salt" refers to nicotine in ionized form bound to a counterion.

As used herein, the term "NBT" refers to nicotine bitartrate and hydrates thereof.

As used herein, the term "%" and "percent" refers to percent by weight, unless otherwise is stated.

As used herein, the term "release of nicotine" refers to the nicotine being made bioavailable, i.e. available for absorption over the mucous membrane in the oral cavity. While some forms of nicotine require dissolution for being bioavailable, other forms may be readily absorbed into the body without dissolution. For example, in order for the nicotine to be bioavailable, the matrix of the solid formulation should be disintegrated. Some forms of nicotine require the nicotine to further be released from e.g. a carrier, e.g. nicotine from a nicotine-ion exchange resin such as nicotine polacrilex. Other nicotine forms, such nicotine salts, hereunder nicotine bitartrate, may readily dissolve upon disintegration of the matrix of the solid formulation. Still, some nicotine forms may not require dissolving. This applies for e.g. nicotine free base, which is released upon disintegration of the solid formulation matrix.

As used herein, the term "pH regulating agent" refers to agents, which active adjust and regulates the pH value of the solution to which they have been added or are to be added. Thus, pH regulating agents may be acids and bases, including acidic buffering agents and alkaline buffering agents. On the other hand, pH regulating agents does not including substances and compositions that can only affect the pH by dilution. Furthermore, pH regulating agents does not include e.g. flavoring, fillers, etc..

As used herein, the term "buffering agent" is used interchangeably with "buffer" and refers to agents for obtaining a buffer solution. Buffering agents include acidic buffering agents, i.e. for obtaining a buffer solution with an acidic pH, and alkaline buffering agents, i.e. for obtaining a buffer solution with an alkaline pH.

When referring to amounts of an ingredient by terms such as "less than", "no more than", this generally refers to the particular ingredient being absent or present in a range from trace amounts to the specified maximum amount.

In embodiments where the lozenge comprises fillers, different fillers may be used. Microcrystalline cellulose may be used as a filler in some embodiments of the invention. Examples of usable fillers include magnesium- and calcium carbonate, sodium sulphate, ground limestone, silicate compounds such as magnesium- and aluminum silicate, kaolin and clay, aluminum oxide, silicium oxide, talc, titanium oxide, mono-, di- and tri-calcium phosphates, cellulose polymers, such as wood, starch polymers, fibers and combinations thereof.

In embodiments of the invention mannitol is used as a bulk sweetener. Other usable sweeteners include sugar sweetener and/or sugarless sweetener.

The sweeteners may often support the flavor profile of the formulation.

Sugar sweeteners generally include saccharide-containing components, such as sucrose, dextrose, maltose, saccharose, lactose, sorbose, dextrin, trehalose, D-tagatose, dried invert sugar, fructose, levulose, galactose, corn syrup solids, glucose syrup, hydrogenated glucose syrup, alone or in combination. These sugar sweeteners may also be included as a humectant.

Sugarless sweeteners generally include sugar alcohols (also sometimes referred to as polyols) such as sorbitol, erythritol, xylitol, maltitol, mannitol, lactitol, and isomalt.

Examples of usable disintegrants include starch, pregelatinated starch, modified starch (including potato starch, maize starch, starch <NUM>, sodium starch glycolate and starch derivatives), cellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, alginates, ion-exchange resin, and superdisintegrants, such as crospovidone, croscarmellose sodium, and sodium starch glycolate, crosslinked cellulose (such as sodium carboxy methyl cellulose), crosslinked polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP), crosslinked starch, crosslinked alginic acid, natural superdisintegrants, and calcium silicate, and combinations thereof. According to the invention, the second module comprises disintegrant, where the disintegrant comprises super disintegrant, and where the super disintegrant includes crosslinked polymers.

Usable high intensity sweeteners include sucralose, aspartame, salts of acesulfame, such as acesulfame potassium, alitame, saccharin and its salts, cyclamic acid and its salts, glycyrrhizin, dihydrochalcones, thaumatin, monellin, stevioside alone or in combination.

Usable flavors include almond, almond amaretto, apple, Bavarian cream, black cherry, black sesame seed, blueberry, brown sugar, bubblegum, butterscotch, cappuccino, caramel, caramel cappuccino, cheesecake (graham crust), cinnamon redhots, cotton candy, circus cotton candy, clove, coconut, coffee, clear coffee, double chocolate, energy cow, graham cracker, grape juice, green apple, Hawaiian punch, honey, Jamaican rum, Kentucky bourbon, kiwi, koolada, lemon, lemon lime, tobacco, maple syrup, maraschino cherry, marshmallow, menthol, milk chocolate, mocha, Mountain Dew, peanut butter, pecan, peppermint, raspberry, banana, ripe banana, root beer, RY <NUM>, spearmint, strawberry, sweet cream, sweet tarts, sweetener, toasted almond, tobacco, tobacco blend, vanilla bean ice cream, vanilla cupcake, vanilla swirl, vanillin, waffle, Belgian waffle, watermelon, whipped cream, white chocolate, wintergreen, amaretto, banana cream, black walnut, blackberry, butter, butter rum, cherry, chocolate hazelnut, cinnamon roll, cola, creme de menthe, eggnog, English toffee, guava, lemonade, licorice, maple, mint chocolate chip, orange cream, peach, pina colada, pineapple, plum, pomegranate, pralines and cream, red licorice, salt water taffy, strawberry banana, strawberry kiwi, tropical punch, tutti frutti, vanilla, or any combination thereof.

According to an embodiment of the invention, flavor may be used as taste masking for the nicotine.

In some embodiments of the invention, the first and/or second module comprises pH regulating agent.

In some embodiments of the invention, the pH regulating agent comprises buffer.

Usable buffering agents include carbonate, including monocarbonate, bicarbonate and sesquicarbonate, glycerinate, phosphate, glycerophosphate, acetate, glyconate or citrate of an alkali metal, ammonium, tris buffer, amino acids and mixtures thereof. Encapsulated buffer such as Effersoda may also be used.

The buffering agent may be added to the formulation of the first and/or second module together with the water-soluble ingredients. Buffering agent in the lozenge may be used to obtain the desired pH-values in the saliva of a lozenge user.

In some embodiments, the buffering agent comprises sodium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate, e.g. in a weight-ratio between <NUM>:<NUM> and <NUM>:<NUM>, preferably in a weight-ratio between <NUM>:<NUM> and <NUM>:<NUM>.

Silicon dioxide may be used as a glidant. Other glidants usable for the formulation may also be used within the scope of the invention.

Magnesium stearate and/or sodium stearyl fumerate may be used as a lubricant. Other lubricants usable for the formulation may also be used within the scope of the invention.

Ready to use systems may be used within the scope of the invention. Typically, such ready-to-use systems may e.g. replace filler, disintegrant, glidant or similar with a single powder mix. Suitable ready-to-use systems for the purpose include Pearlitol Flash (Roquette), Pharmaburst <NUM> (SPI Pharma), Ludiflash (BASF), ProSolv (JRS Pharma), ProSolv EasyTab (JRS Pharma), F-Melt (Fuji Chemical), SmartEx50 or SmartEx100 (Shin Etsu / Harke Pharma). Using a ready to use systems comprising a disintegrant may be especially advantageous.

In order to obtain an FDT-module being designed for disintegrating within a period of <NUM> second upon oral administration, a range of parameters can be adjusted.

First, by varying the composition, the disintegration time can be altered. Using ingredients with a high water-solubility may facilitate a lowered disintegration time.

Particularly, including a disintegrant may significantly influence the disintegration time, subject to the total composition of the second module. Also, by varying the amount and type of the disintegrant, the disintegration time may be further adjusted. For example, if the second layer having a lower disintegration time is desired, the percentage content of disintegrant may be increased and/or the type of disintegrant may be at least partly exchanged for a more effective disintegrant.

Also, decreasing the particle size of the disintegrant tends to lower the disintegration time, likely due to an increased surface area to volume ratio.

Furthermore, the compression force used to press the second module correlate significantly with the obtained hardness of the second module, such that a high compression force typically increases the hardness of the obtained second module. By adjusting the hardness of a second module, the disintegration time may also be influenced, such that a lowered hardness typically gives a shorter disintegration time. Here it has been observed for a number of compositions that by applying the correct compression force a disintegration time below <NUM> seconds upon oral administration can be achieved, whereas a too high compression force may result in a longer disintegration time above <NUM> seconds. In this regard it is noted that the threshold compression force may vary significantly, depending on other parameters, such as overall composition, content and type of disintegrant, etc. When, for example, a certain setup results in a too slow disintegration, a further way of adjusting may be to replace a regular disintegrant with a superdisintegrant, i.e. which facilitates disintegration in a more efficient way.

Increasing the water-solubility may also be facilitated by exchanging ingredients with low water-solubility with ingredients having higher water-solubility. For example, using sugar alcohols as fillers may be very advantageous insofar that the sugar alcohols have a higher water solubility than alternative fillers.

Moreover, using sugar alcohols with a lower compactibility leads to lower disintegration time. Too low compactibility may compromise the mechanical strength of the second module and the lozenge and lead to undesirably high friability and risk of cracks etc..

Further examples of parameters that may be adjusted in order to obtain a second module being designed for disintegrating within a period of <NUM> second upon oral administration include size and shape of the second module and the lozenge. The larger volume of the second module, the longer the disintegration time and thus release time of the nicotine and pH regulating agent.

For example, increasing the flatness (e.g. quantified by a diameter to height ratio) for e.g. a disc-shaped lozenges typically decreases disintegration time by increasing the surface-to-volume. As long as the lozenge has a satisfactory mechanical strength, flatness may be increased.

Also, modifying the cross-sectional profile from a convex type lozenge to a concave shaped lozenge lowers the disintegration time. It is noted that this may to some degree lower the mechanical strength of the lozenge, however, as long as it is satisfactory, pursuing the concave cross-section may help to increase disintegration and thus lower the disintegration time.

Also, when using binders, e.g. to obtain a higher cohesiveness and mechanical strength of the lozenge, the amount of such binders may be decreased as much as possible to obtain a higher disintegration rate and thus a shorter disintegration time. Some disintegrants may also function as binders, e.g. PVP.

Furthermore, by adding a salivation agent to the nicotine lozenge, an increased amount of saliva in the vicinity of the lozenge may be facilitated, which again supports the dissolving and disintegration of the second module to reduce the disintegration time.

Further, the type and amount of lubricant, if any, may be adjusted to optimize disintegration time. For example, using Sodium stearyl fumarate (SSF) typically leads to a lower disintegration time compared to when using magnesium stearate MgSt.

Thus, a wide range of parameters may be adjusted when designing the second module with a disintegration time of <NUM> second upon oral administration.

Typically, the formulation of the second module may comprise ingredients selected from the group consisting of bulk sweeteners, fillers, ready to use systems, flavors, dry-binders, disintegrant, hereunder superdisintegrants, tabletting aids, anti-caking agents, emulsifiers, antioxidants, enhancers, absorption enhancers, buffering agents, high intensity sweeteners, colors, glidants, lubricants, or any combination thereof. Absorption enhancers may include e.g. pH regulating agents, such as buffering agents, and mucoadhesive.

According to an embodiment of the invention, at least a part of the nicotine is adhered to dry-binder particles.

According to an embodiment of the invention, an amount of dry-binder is used to adhere nicotine to bulk sweetener.

<NUM> nicotine lozenges were made each with <NUM> first module and <NUM> second module.

The composition of layer <NUM> is prepared by pouring about half of the sugar alcohol into a mixing bowl, followed by the remaining ingredients except lubricant, and finally the remaining sugar alcohol. The ingredients are tumbled/mixed with a mixer (Turbula or Duma) for <NUM>-<NUM> at <NUM> rpm.

A premade MgSt-Sugar alcohol mixture, made by mixing MgSt with about <NUM>% of the sugar alcohol in a mixer (Turbula or Duma) for <NUM> at <NUM> rpm, is added and the ingredients are further mixed for <NUM>-<NUM> at <NUM> rpm.

The composition of layer <NUM> is prepared by pouring all the ingredients except lubricant, into a mixing bowl. The ingredients are tumbled/mixed with a mixer (Turbula or Duma) for <NUM>-<NUM> at <NUM> rpm.

The lubricated powder blends are sequentially transferred to the hopper of a tableting machine.

Layer <NUM> is then compressed at a compression force of about <NUM> kN, after which layer <NUM> is fused by compression to layer <NUM> at a compression force of about <NUM>-<NUM> kN. Punch used: <NUM>, circular, shallow concave, D tooling.

The fast disintegrating tablets are manufactured on a lab scale machine, for example RIVA Piccola bi-layer tablet press. The tablet machine is commissioned by adjusting the fill depth and compression force so the weight and hardness of lozenges match the acceptance criteria. A pre-compression force could be included to avoid capping.

Examples <NUM>-<NUM> do not fall under the scope of the claims.

Mannitol may be used as the sugar alcohol in layer <NUM> and layer <NUM>. Other usable sugar alcohols for use in layer <NUM> may include sorbitol, erythritol, xylitol, maltitol, lactitol, and isomalt. Of these isomalt, erythritol, and sorbitol are particularly preferred. Other usable sugar alcohols for use in layer <NUM> may include sorbitol, erythritol, xylitol, maltitol, lactitol, and isomalt. The disintegrant in layer <NUM> may e.g. be a starch based disintegrant. In embodiments of the invention, the disintegrant may be supplied as part of a ready to use system, e.g. Pearlitol Flash from Roquette, a mannitol-based product comprising approximately <NUM>% by weight of disintegrant. Examples of other usable ready to use system include e.g. Pharmaburst <NUM> (SPI Pharma), Ludiflash (BASF), ProSolv (JRS Pharma), ProSolv EasyTab (JRS Pharma), F-Melt (Fuji Chemical), SmartEx50 or SmartEx100 (Shin Etsu / Harke Pharma).

Preferred high intensity sweeteners (HIS) may e.g. be sucralose, acesulfame potassium, and mixtures thereof. Other high intensity sweeteners, such as aspartame, salts of acesulfame, such as acesulfame potassium, alitame, saccharin and its salts, cyclamic acid and its salts, glycyrrhizin, dihydrochalcones, thaumatin, monellin, stevioside, alone or in combination, are also usable within the scope of the invention.

Menthol, peppermint, and mixtures thereof may be used in the above formulations as flavors. Other flavors may also be used within the scope of the invention.

Sodium carbonate may be used as the buffer. Further usable buffers include other carbonates, including monocarbonates, bicarbonates and sesquicarbonates, glycerinate, phosphate, glycerophosphate, acetate, glyconate or citrate of an alkali metal, ammonium, tris buffer, amino acids and mixtures thereof.

In the above MgSt (Magnesium stearate) is used as lubricant. Other lubricants, such as sodium stearyl fumerate may also be usable within the scope of the invention.

In examples <NUM>-<NUM>, starch is used as a disintegrant. Examples of other usable disintegrates include e.g. pregelatinated starch, modified starch (including potato starch, maize starch, starch <NUM>, sodium starch glycolate and starch derivatives), cellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, alginates, and ion-exchange resin.

The lozenges were prepared as described for example <NUM>-<NUM>.

Examples <NUM> and <NUM> do not fall under the scope of the claims.

In Ex <NUM>-<NUM> Crospovidone is used as a superdisintegrant. Alternative superdisintegrants may e.g. include crosslinked cellulose (such as sodium carboxy methyl cellulose), crosslinked starch, crosslinked alginic acid, natural superdisintegrants, low-substituted hydroxypropylcellulose (L-HPC) and calcium silicate.

Alternative ingredients as described in relation to examples <NUM>-<NUM> may also be applied for examples <NUM>-<NUM>.

The indicated content of starch disintegrant is included as part of the Pearlitol Flash, a commercially available ready to use system from Roquette.

Pearlitol Flash is used comprising approximately <NUM>% by weight of starch disintegrant. Examples of other usable ready to use system include e.g. Pharmaburst <NUM> (SPI Pharma), Ludiflash (BASF), ProSolv (JRS Pharma), ProSolv EasyTab (JRS Pharma), F-Melt (Fuji Chemical), SmartEx50 or SmartEx100 (Shin Etsu / Harke Pharma).

Alternative ingredients as described in relation to examples <NUM>-<NUM> may also be applied for examples 25A-32A.

Examples <NUM>-<NUM> are <NUM> nicotine lozenges each made with <NUM> first module and <NUM> second module.

Subject to the above, the lozenges were prepared as described for example <NUM>-<NUM>.

Examples <NUM>-<NUM> show the use of MCC (microcrystalline cellulose) as a binder in layer <NUM> and sodium stearyl fumerate as a glidant in layer <NUM>.

Examples 41A-48A are <NUM> nicotine lozenges each made with <NUM> first module and <NUM> second module.

Alternative ingredients as described in relation to examples <NUM>-<NUM> may also be applied for examples 41A-48A.

Mannitol DC <NUM>, Mannitol <NUM> SD, and Mannitol <NUM> SD are commercially available from Roquette and have different average particle sizes.

Examples <NUM> and <NUM> were each manufactured in three versions, where the applied pressure used to press the first layer was <NUM> kN, <NUM> kN, and <NUM> kN (single punch device with a punch diameter of <NUM>), respectively. Five nicotine lozenges were made for each of these versions.

For each version of the lozenges <NUM> and <NUM>, a breaking point test, a fragility test and a dissolution time measurement were performed on the first layer.

For measuring breaking point, a PTB <NUM> from Pharma Test was used.

The fragility test involved evaluating the number of crushed layers produced. When all five were intact, a "pass" grade was assigned, whereas one or more crushed layers is indicated by the number of crushed layers. Alternatively, friability could be used as a measure of the fragility.

To test dissolution time, the following method was used. <NUM> of <NUM> potassium dihydrogen phosphate-buffer (pH adjusted to <NUM>) is added to <NUM> of water in a measuring tube with a screw cap. The lozenge is inserted in the measuring tube and the screw cap is fastened. The measuring tube is fixated horizontally. The measuring tube is vibrated at about <NUM> RPM such that the lozenge can move back and forth in the measuring tube. The measuring tube is vibrated until the lozenge or module thereof in question is completely dissolved and the time of vibration is noted as the dissolution time.

As can be seen from table <NUM>, the breaking points test reveals that example <NUM> having a first layer based on sorbitol as the sugar alcohol gives a higher breaking point that example <NUM> having a first layer based on isomalt as the sugar alcohol. Example <NUM> showed that the version pressed with <NUM> kN actually had a lower breaking point than that pressed with <NUM> kN, indicating that <NUM> kN pressing force would be too high and that the direct compressibility of the sugar alcohol (isomalt) is compromised.

Also, it is observed that all tested layers scored a pass in the fragility test, meaning that none of the five of each version was evaluated to be fragile or crushed during manufacturing.

Further, dissolution time test showed that sorbitol-based example <NUM> generally dissolved faster than isomalt-based example <NUM>. Further, a higher pressing forces resulted in longer dissolution time.

Finally, example <NUM> is compared with example <NUM>. Example <NUM> is somewhat similar to example <NUM>, but additionally comprising xanthan gum. As seen from table <NUM>, addition of xanthan gum did not noticeably affect breaking point test or fragility test, however, the dissolution time was significantly increased from around <NUM>-<NUM> minutes for example <NUM> to about <NUM>-<NUM> minutes for example <NUM>, demonstrating effect of xanthan gum to delay dissolution and hence release of its constituents, such as sugar alcohol, flavor, nicotine (if any) etc. While obtaining the above, no compromising of the masking effect of the first layer was observed.

Examples <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> were each manufactured in three versions, where the applied pressure used to press the first layer was <NUM> kN, <NUM> kN, and <NUM> kN, respectively. Five nicotine lozenges were made for each of these versions.

For each version of the lozenges <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, a breaking point test, a fragility test and a dissolution time measurement were performed on the second layer.

First, looking at examples <NUM>-<NUM>, table <NUM> shows that the breaking point of the second layers of the produced lozenged generally increases with increasing compressing force from <NUM> kN to <NUM> kN.

Nevertheless, table <NUM> also shows that fragility may be a concern. It is noted that example <NUM> performed reasonably well with only <NUM> lozenge breaking during testing.

Table <NUM> also shows that a trade off may exist between applying a sufficient compression force to obtain a non-fragile second layer, but that increasing the compression force also impacts the dissolution time.

Further, it is noted that using disintegrant in the second layer (examples <NUM>-<NUM>) resulted in decreased dissolution time over no disintegrant in the second layer (example <NUM>), and further that increasing the amount of disintegrant as in example <NUM> over example <NUM> lead to a further decrease in dissolution time.

Taking also example <NUM> into account, it is noted that while very fragile second modules were produced, a rather short dissolution time was measured. It is noted that when evaluating the particle size distribution of the mannitol used in examples <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>, the Pearlitol Flash used in example <NUM>-<NUM>, and the erythritol used in example <NUM>, the Pearlitol Flash showed the smallest particles sized, followed by the mannitol, whereas the erythritol applied (a non-DC grade of erythritol) had significantly larger particles. Using the non-DC grade erythritol with larger particles resulted in relatively fast dissolution times.

Example <NUM> lozenges were made with the compression forces indicated in table <NUM>.

Table <NUM> shows that it is possible to compress layer <NUM> with a compression force that is higher than the compression force applied to layer <NUM>, while still obtaining nicotine lozenges that are not too fragile. It is noted, however, that decapping of layer <NUM> from layer <NUM> may be avoided if the compression force applied to layer <NUM> is not too high. Furthermore, the measured dissolution times were fully acceptable, particularly since the second layers dissolved within <NUM> minute, whereas the first layers all took more than <NUM> minutes to dissolve.

The lozenges of example <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM> were evaluated by a panel of <NUM> trained assessors.

The evaluated lozenges generally were evaluated to give an improved release over conventional nicotine lozenges, e.g. with respect to nicotine release and prolonged masking.

A sample tablet was tested in a test panel of <NUM> test persons. Test subjects abstain from eating and drinking at least <NUM> minutes before initiation of any test. The test person was a healthy person appointed on an objective basis according to specified requirements.

For testing the tablet was weighted and placed in the mouth, between the tongue and the palate. The tablet was sucked and turned every <NUM> minute. After <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> minutes, the content of nicotine was measured in the remaining tablet residue, if still present. Once the desired test time was achieved (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>. ), the tablet was taken out and weighed directly into a measuring glass to be used for analysis of nicotine content. The nicotine content was analyzed by means of standard HPLC technique after extraction into relevant buffer.

The tablet was subject to repeat measurements for each of the <NUM> test persons, giving a total of <NUM> measurements for each sample. An average of the <NUM> measurements was calculated and the weight % release was calculated based on the original content of nicotine in the sample.

Applying the method outlined above, an in vivo dissolution profile was obtained for selected samples.

The lozenge of example 41A was evaluated with respect to how the nicotine craving (urge to smoke) is affected over time after intake.

The evaluations were conducted by a panel of <NUM> assessors. Each assessor noted the urge to smoke rated from <NUM> to <NUM> at predefined time intervals. Results are shown in table <NUM>, where the listed values are average values of results from the assessors.

Also, a commercially available conventional lozenge (NiQuitin Lozenge <NUM>, GlaxoSmithKline), a nicotine FDT (<NUM>), and a cigarette was tested by the same method. For the conventional lozenge and the cigarette, the time intervals are slightly different than for the FDT and the lozenge of example 41A.

The results of table <NUM> can also be seen in <FIG>. These results show that the lozenge of example 41A provide quite remarkable results in that it provides a fast lowering of the desire to smoke, clearly outperforming the conventional lozenge, while even providing slightly better results than the nicotine FDT.

It is further noted that the lozenge of example 41A provides a sustained craving relief, even when the effect of the nicotine FDT fades of.

Claim 1:
A water-dissolvable compressed oral nicotine lozenge comprising a first module and a second module,
the first and the second modules being fused by compression,
the first and second modules being formed by a plurality of compressed particles,
the first module being a lozenge module comprising at least one sugar alcohol in an amount of at least <NUM>% by weight of the first module, and
the second module being a fast disintegrating tablet (FDT)-module comprising at least one sugar alcohol in an amount of at least <NUM>% by weight of the second module and nicotine,
wherein the second module comprises disintegrant,
wherein the second module comprises nicotine in an amount of less than <NUM>% by weight of the second module,
wherein the disintegrant comprises super disintegrant,
wherein the super disintegrants includes crosslinked polymers, and
wherein the amount of super disintegrant is between <NUM> and <NUM> % by weight of the second module.