MICRONIZED TANAPROGET, COMPOSITIONS, AND
METHODS OF PREPARING THE SAME
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Intracellular receptors (IR) form a class of structurally related gene regulators
known as "ligand dependent transcription factors". The steroid receptor family is a
subset of the IR family, including the progesterone receptor (PR), estrogen receptor
(ER), androgen receptor (AR), glucocorticoid receptor (GR), and mineralocorticoid
receptor (MR).
The natural hormone, or ligand, for the PR is the steroid progesterone, but
synthetic compounds, such as medroxyprogesterone acetate or levonorgestrel, have
been made which also serve as ligands. Once a ligand is present in the fluid
surrounding a cell, it passes through the cell membrane via passive diffusion, and
binds to the IR to create a receptor/ligand complex. This complex binds to specific
gene promoters present in the cell's DNA. Once bound to the DNA, the complex
modulates the production of mRNA and protein encoded by that gene.
A compound that binds to an IR and mimics the action of the natural hormone
is termed an agonist, whilst a compound which inhibits the effect of the hormone is an
antagonist.
PR agonists (natural and synthetic) are known to play an important role in the
health of women. PR agonists are used in birth control compositions, typically in the
presence of an ER agonist, alternatively they may be used in conjunction with a PR
antagonist. ER agonists are used to treat the symptoms of menopause, but have been
associated with a proliferative effect on the uterus which can lead to an increased risk
of uterine cancers. Co-administration of a PR agonist reduces/ablates that risk.
Tanaproget, 5-(4,4-dimethyl-2-oxo-l,4-dihydro-2H-3,l-benzoxazin-6-yl)-lH-
pyrrole-2-carbonitrile, is a progesterone receptor modulator and is effective in
contraception, hormone replacement therapy, and treating carcinomas and
adenocarcinomas, dysfunctional bleeding, uterine leiomyomata, endometriosis, and
polycystic ovary syndrome.
1

What is needed in the art are compositions containing tanaproget for
administration to a mammalian subject.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In one aspect, the present invention provides compositions containing
micronized tanaproget or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, microcrystalline
cellulose, croscarmellose sodium, anhydrous lactose, magnesium stearate, micronized
edetate calcium disodium hydrous, and micronized sodium thiosulfate pentahydrate.
In still a further aspect, the present invention provides processes for preparing
compositions containing micronized tanaproget.
Other aspects and advantages of the present invention are described further in
the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments thereof.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides effective pharmaceutical compositions
containing micronized tanaproget. The micronized tanaproget can be readily
formulated into oral dosage unit, and is particularly well suited for a directly
compressible unit. The inventors have found that tablets or caplets prepared by direct
compression of or capsules containing the micronized tanaproget compositions of the
invention exhibited rapid and complete drug release, as compared to non-micronized
tanaproget. Thus, the compositions of the invention provide for fast drug release.
Briefly, tanaproget is micronized under nitrogen and conventional micronizing
techniques, for example with a Trost or jet mill, applied to non-micronized tanaproget.
One method of preparation of non-micronized tanaproget is described in US Patent
No. 6,436,929, and generally in US Patent Application Publication No.
2005/0272702, published December 8,2005. However, the invention is not limited to
the method by which the non-micronized tanaproget is produced.
In another embodiment, non-micronized tanaproget is purified by
recrystallization. In one embodiment, non-micronized tanaproget is recrystallized
from acetone and water. In a further embodiment, the tanaproget is dissolved in
acetone, the acetone solution heated, water added to the heated acetone solution, and
2

the acetone/water solution cooled to provide purified tanaproget. This purification
specifically includes dissolving crude tanaproget in acetone and heating the solution to
about 45 to about 51°C. After circulating the heated solution through a carbon filter
for at least about 4 hours, the filtered solution was concentrated using procedures
known to those of skill in the art. After adding water to the concentrated solution, in
one embodiment at a rate which does not cool the refiuxing acetone solution, the
acetone/water .solution was cooled to about -6 to about 0°C. In one embodiment, the
acetone/water solution was cooled at a rate of less than about 0.5°C/minute. After
holding the batch at the reduced temperature for at least about 3 hours, the
precipitated, purified tanaproget is collected using filtration. The collected solid is
washed with a water/acetone mixture, in one embodiment washed twice with a 1:1
water/acetone mixture. The washed purified tanaproget is then dried at less than 35°C
for about 4 hours. Further drying at less than about 50°C was performed to remove
residual acetone/water as measured by spectroscopic methods.
In one embodiment, micronized tanaproget prepared according to the present
invention has a particle size of less than about 20 μm, less than about 15 μm, or less
then about 10 μm. In a further embodiment, 90% of the particles are less then or
equal to about 20 /an and 50% are less than or equal to about 15 /xm as determined by
the Malvern method, which is readily understood by one of skill in the art.
The micronized tanaproget encompasses tautomeric forms of tanaproget and
salts derived from pharmaceutically or physiologically acceptable acids, bases, alkali
metals and alkaline earth metals. The present invention also includes derivatives of
tanaproget, including, but not limited to, esters, carbamates, sulfates, ethers, oximes,
carbonates, and the like.
Physiologically acceptable acids include those derived from inorganic and
organic acids. A number of inorganic acids are known in the art and include
hydrochloric, hydrobromic, hydroiodic, sulfuric, nitric, and phosphoric acids, among
others. Similarly, a variety of organic acids are known in the art and include, without
limitation, lactic, formic, acetic, fumaric, citric, propionic, oxalic, succinic, glycolic,
glucuronic, maleic, furoic, glutamic, benzoic, anthranilic, salicylic, tartaric, malonic,
mallic, phenylacetic, mandelic, embonic, methanesulfonic, ethanesulfonic,
3

panthenoic, benzenesulfonic, toluenesulfonic, stearic, sulfanilic, alginic, and
galacturonic acids, among others.
Physiologically acceptable bases include those derived from inorganic and
organic bases. A number of inorganic bases are known in the art and include
aluminum, calcium, lithium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, and zinc sulfate or
phosphate compounds, among others. A number of organic bases are known in the art
and include, without limitation, N,N,-dibenzylethylenediamine, chloroprocaine,
choline, oMetiianolamine, ethylenediamine, meglumine, and procaine, among others.
Physiologically acceptable alkali salts and alkaline earth metal salts can
include, without Umitation, sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium salts in the
form of esters, and carbamates.
These salts, as well as the nonmicronized and micronized tanaproget can be in
the form of esters, carbamates and other conventional "pro-drug" forms, which, when
acrministered in such form, convert to the active moiety in vivo. In one embodiment,
the prodrugs are esters. See, e.g., B. Testa and J. Caldwell, "Prodrugs Revisited: The
"Ad Hoc" Approach as a Complement to Ligand Design", Medicinal Research
Reviews, 16(3):233-241, ed., John Wiley & Sons (1996).
Micronized tanaproget discussed herein also encompasses "metabolites"
which are unique products formed by processing tanaproget by the cell or patient. In
one embodiment, metabolites are formed in vivo.
In one embodiment, the compositions of the invention are prepared by dry
mixing micronized tanaproget, based upon the total weight of the unit dose, with the
other components of the composition. In another embodiment, the compositions of
the invention are prepared by wet mixing micronized tanaproget, based upon the total
weight of the unit dose, with the other components of the composition.
As referred to herein below, the term "wt/wt" refers to the weight of one
component based on the total weight of the components utilized in the composition.
In one embodiment, wt/wt refers to the weight of one component based on the total
weight of the composition. In another embodiment, wt/wt refers to the weight of one
component based on the total weight of the final tablet or caplet. In one embodiment,
4

this ratio does not include the weight of the capsule, the weight of any filler utilized in
the capsule, and seal coating, if so utilized.
A. The Composition of the Invention
The compositions of the present invention are formulated to provide rapid
release of tanaproget, while simultaneously being stable under conditions of storage.
In one embodiment, the composition contains micronized tanaproget, or a
pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, microcrystalline cellulose (MCC),
croscarmellose sodium, anhydrous lactose, magnesium stearate, micronized edetate
calcium disodium hydrous (EDTA), and micronized sodium thiosulfate pentahydrate.
In a further embodiment, the tanaproget is intragranular. In still a further
embodiment, the tanaproget, MCC, anhydrous lactose, EDTA, and sodium thiosulfate
pentahydrate are intragranular.
In one embodiment, micronized tanaproget is present in the composition of the
invention in an amount from 0.15% to about 0.50% wt/wt of the composition. This
amount may be varied, depending upon the amount of micronized tanaproget to be
delivered to a patient. The depending upon the amount of micronized tanaproget to be
consideration when formulating the composition of the invention. In another
embodiment, an overage of tanaproget is utilized, e.g., a 5% overage. For example,
micronized tanaproget is present in the formulation at about 0.15% wt/wt based upon
the total weight of the unit dose. In another example, micronized tanaproget is
present in the composition at about 0.23% wt/wt based upon the total weight of the
unit dose. In a further example, micronized tanaproget is present in the composition
at about 0.31% wt/wt based upon the total weight of the unit dose. In yet another
example, micronized tanaproget is present in the composition at about 0.5% wt/wt
based upon the total weight of the unit dose.
The composition also includes microcrystalline cellulose (MCC), in one
embodiment at about 30 to about 50% wt/wt of the composition. In one example,
MCC is present in the composition at about 30% wt/wt. In another example, MCC is
present in the composition at about 40% wt/wt. In a further example, MCC is present
in the composition at about 50% wt/wt.
5

The composition also includes croscarmellose sodium, in one embodiment at
about 2 to about 6% wt/wt of the composition, in extragranular and/or intragranular
forms. In one example, croscarmellose sodium is present at about 2% wt/wt of the
composition. In another example, croscarmellose sodium is present at about 4%
wt/wt of the composition. In a further example, croscarmellose sodium is present at
about 6% wt/wt of the composition.
The composition further includes one or more of an "antioxidant". By the
term "antioxidant" is meant a compound that is capable or inhibiting or retarding the
degradation of the composition of the present invention. In one embodiment, the
antioxidant inhibits or retards the degradation of the tanaproget in the composition.
Examples of antioxidants that are useful in the present invention include sodium
thiosulfate, sodium metabisulfite, cysteine, methionine, vitamin E, and edetate
calcium disodiurn hydrous (EDTA). In a further embodiment, the antioxidant is
micronized prior to use in the present invention.
In one embodiment, the compositions of the invention include EDTA, which is
present at about 0.05 to 0.15% wt/wt of the composition, or about 0.05,0.10, or 0.15%
wt/wt of the composition. In one embodiment, the EDTA is micronized and 90% of
the particles are less than or equal to about 35 μm, 50% are less than or equal to about
11 μm, and 10% are less than or equal to 3 μm as determined by the Malvern method,
which is readily understood by one of skill in the art.
In one embodiment, sodium thiosulfate pentahydrate is present in the
composition at about 0.25 to about 0.75% wt/wt, or about 0.25, 0.50 (or 0.5), or
0.75% wt/wt. In one embodiment, the sodium thiosulfate pentahydrate is micronized
and 90% of the particles are less than or equal to about 31 μm, 50% are less than or
equal to about 13 μm, and 10% are less than or equal to 4 μm as determined by the
Malvern method, which is readily understood by one of skill in the art.
In one example, the composition includes EDTA at about 0.25% wt/wt and
sodium thiosulfate at about 0.25% wt/wt. In another example, the composition
includes EDTA at about 0.10% wt/wt and sodium thiosulfate at about 0.50% wt/wt.
In a further example, the composition includes EDTA at about 0.15% wt/wt and
sodium thiosulfate at about 0.75% wt/wt.
6

The composition of the invention also includes anhydrous lactose, typically at
about 54 to about 55% wt/wt of the composition. In one example, anhydrous lactose
is present at about 54% wt/wt of the composition. In a further example, anhydrous
lactose is present at about 55% wt/wt of the composition. In another example,
anhydrous lactose is present at about 54.8% wt/wt of the composition. In a further
example, anhydrous lactose is present at about 54.79% wt/wt of the composition, hi
still another example, anhydrous lactose is present at about 54.71% wt/wt of the
composition. In yet a further example, anhydrous lactose is present at about 54.56%
wt/wt of the composition.
The composition of the invention further includes magnesium stearate, in one
embodiment at about 0.25 to about 0.5 % wt/wt. In a further embodiment, the
composition contains about 0.25% wt/wt of magnesium stearate. In another
embodiment, the composition contains about 0.375% wt/wt of magnesium stearate.
In another embodiment, the composition contains about 0.5% wt/wt of magnesium
stearate. In still another embodiment, the composition contains about 0.37% wt/wt of
magnesium stearate. The magnesium stearate can be present in intragranular and/or
extragranular forms.
In one embodiment, a composition of the invention includes microcrystalline
cellulose at about 40% wt/wt of the composition; croscarmellose sodium at about 4%
wt/wt of the composition; intragranular magnesium stearate at about 0.37% wt/wt of
the composition; intragranular anhydrous lactose at about 54 to about 55% wt/wt of
the composition; intragranular micronized edetate calcium disodium hydrous at about
0.10% wt/wt of the composition; and intragranular micronized sodium thiosulfate
pentahydrate at about 0.5% wt/wt of the composition.
In another embodiment, the composition can further contain intragranular
microcrystalline cellulose at about 40% wt/wt of the composition; intragranular
croscarmellose sodium at about 2% wt/wt of the composition; intragranular
magnesium stearate at about 0.19% wt/wt of the composition; intragranular anhydrous
lactose at about 54 to about 55% wt/wt of the composition; intragranular micronized
edetate calcium disodium hydrous at about 0.10% wt/wt of the composition; and
intragranular micronized sodium thiosulfate pentahydrate at about 0.5% wt/wt of the
7

composition. The composition can further contain extragranular croscarmellose
sodium at about 2% wt/wt of the composition and extragranular magnesium stearate
at about 0.19% wt/wt of the composition.
In a further embodiment, the composition of the present invention provides
about 0.15% wt/wt micronized tanaproget, about 40% wt/wt microcrystalline
cellulose, about 54.87% wt/wt anhydrous lactose, about 4% wt/wt croscarmellose
sodium, about 0.38% wt/wt magnesium stearate, about 0.1% wt/wt micronized
EDTA, and about 0.5% wt/wt micronized sodium thiosulfate pentahydrate.
In still another embodiment, the composition of the present invention provides
about 0.23% wt/wt micronized tanaproget, about 40% wt/wt microcrystalline
cellulose, about 54.79% wt/wt anhydrous lactose, about 4% wt/wt croscarmellose
sodium, about 0.38% wt/wt magnesium stearate, about 0.1% wt/wt micronized
EDTA, and about 0.5% wt/wt micronized sodium thiosulfate pentahydrate.
In a further embodiment, the composition of the present invention provides
about 0.31% wt/wt micronized tanaproget, about 40% wt/wt microcrystalline
cellulose, about 54.71% wt/wt anhydrous lactose, about 4% wt/wt croscarmellose
sodium, about 0.38% wt/wt magnesium stearate, about 0.1% wt/wt micronized
EDTA, and about 0.5% wt/wt micronized sodium thiosulfate pentahydrate.
In still another embodiment, the composition of the present invention provides
about 0.46% wt/wt micronized tanaproget, about 40% wt/wt microcrystalline
cellulose, about 54.56% wt/wt anhydrous lactose, about 4% wt/wt croscarmellose
sodium, about 0.38% wt/wt magnesium stearate, about 0.1% wt/wt micronized
EDTA, and about 0.5% wt/wt of micronized sodium thiosulfate pentahydrate.
Without limitation as to the method of preparation of a composition of the
invention, an example of a suitable micronized tanaproget composition is provided in
Table 1.
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Table 1

Component % wt/wt
Intragranular micronized tanaproget 0.1546
MCC 40.00
anhydrous lactose 54.8706
EDTA 0.10
micronized sodium thiosulfate
pentahydrate 0.5
micronized croscarmellose sodium 2.00
magnesium stearate 0.1875
Extragranular croscarmellose sodium 2.00
magnesium stearate 0.1875
Still a further example of a suitable micronized tanaproget composition is
provided in Table 2.
Table 2

Component % wt/wt
Intragranular micronized tanaproget 0.2316 |
MCC 4U.UU 1
anhydrous lactose 54.7935
EDTA 0.10
micronized sodium
thiosulfate pentahydrate 0.5
micronized croscarmellose
sodium 2.00
magnesium stearate 0.1875
Extragranular croscarmellose sodium 2.00
magnesium stearate 0.1875
Another example of a suitable micronized tanaproget composition is provided
in Table 3.
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Table 3

Component % wt/wt
Intragranular micronized tanaproget 0.3088
MCC 40.00
anhydrous lactose 54.7163
EDTA 0.10
micronized sodium
thiosulfate pentahydrate 0.5
micronized croscarmellose
sodium 2.00
magnesium stearate 0.1875
Extragranular croscarmellose sodium 2.00
magnesium stearate 0.1875
Yet a further example of a suitable micronized tanaproget composition is
provided in Table 4.
Table 4

Component % wt/wt 1
1 Intragranular micronized tanaproget 0.4632
MCC 40.00
anhydrous lactose 54.5619
EDTA 0.10
micronized sodium
thiosulfate pentahydrate 0.5
micronized croscarmellose
sodium 2.00
magnesium stearate 0.1875
Extragranular croscarmellose sodium 2.00
magnesium stearate 0.1875 1
The composition of the invention is prepared by mixing micronized
tanaproget, microcrystalline cellulose, croscarmellose sodium, micronized sodium
thiosulfate pentahydrate, anhydrous lactose, micronized edetate calcium disodium
hydrous, and magnesium stearate. hi one embodiment, the composition is prepared
by wet mixing the components therein with water. The components of the
composition can also be in extragranular or intragranular forms, as determined by one
of skill in the art and the requirements of the process.
10

A variety of apparatuses can be utilized to perform the process of the
invention and includes bags of small, medium, and large sizes, screens of varying
sizes, and blenders, among others.
The process can also include compacting and/or milling the composition,
typically using compactors and mills selected by one of skill in the art. The milling
step is typically performed on particles of varying sizes, i.e., large particles, powders,
and fine powders to obtain a preferred and more uniform particle size. The milling
can include several separating, recycling, and screening steps to obtain the desired
particle sizes. Drying is generally performed using suitable drying instrument
selected by one of skill in the art such as a fluid bed dryer.
In a further embodiment, the compositions of the present invention can be
prepared by diluting the compositions with excipients. Useful excipients for dilution
include those set forth below and can include MCC, croscarmellose sodium, and
magnesium stearate.
Compositions containing lesser amounts of tanaproget can prepared according
to the present invention by diluting compositions containing greater amounts of
tanaproget. In one embodiment, a composition containing 0.01 mg of tanaproget is
prepared by diluting a composition containing 0.1, 0.15,0.2, or 0.3 mg of tanaproget,
and desirably by diluting a composition containing 0.10 mg. hi another embodiment,
a composition containing 0.1 mg of tanaproget is prepared by diluting a composition
containing 0.15,0.2, or 0.3 mg of tanaproget. In yet a further embodiment, a
composition containing 0.15 mg tanaproget is prepared by diluting a composition
containing 0.2 or 0.3 mg of tanaproget. m still another embodiment, a composition
containing 0.2 mg of tanaproget is prepared by diluting a composition containing 0.3
mg of tanaproget. In another embodiment, the compositions of the invention prepared
by diluting compositions containing higher amounts of tanaproget are diluted with
MCC, croscarmellose sodium, magnesium stearate, and lactose.
In one embodiment, the compositions of the present invention contain
particles of an optimal size to permit dissolution of the composition, e.g., the particles
are less than or equal to about 100 μm. The sizes of the particles of the composition
are typically measured by passing the solid composition through screens of varying
11

sizes. In one embodiment, about 36% of the particles are greater than or equal to
about 180 μm. In another embodiment, about 46% of the particles are greater than or
equal to about 125 pirn. In a further embodiment, about 75% of the particles are
greater than or equal to about 45 μm. In still another embodiment, about 25% of the
particles are less than about 45 μm.
If the particles of the compositions are larger than the optimal size and if the
same have not yet been encapsulated in a capsule, the same can be subject to further
milling and screening steps, among others, to reduce the particle size.
The process typically includes compressing the composition into a form
suitable for oral administration and is typically a tablet or caplet. When compressed
into a tablet or caplet, one of skill in the art would readily be able to select a suitable
tablet or caplet press for use in the present invention. One example of such a press
includes the Stokes® B2 Tablet Press, among others.
The tablet prepared according to the present invention can be optionally
encapsulated in a capsule. In one embodiment, the capsule is a hydroxypropyl
methylcellulose (hypromellose) capsule. The capsule can be optionally sealed with
the tablet therein or a filler can be added to the capsule containing tablet. In one
embodiment, the filler includes extragranular croscarmellose sodium and magnesium
stearate. In a further embodiment, the tablet is placed in the capsule prior to adding
the filler.
Optionally, the tablets or caplets are film-coated. Suitable film-coatings are
known to those of skill in the art. For example, the film-coating can be selected from
among suitable polymers such as hydroxpropylmethylcellulose, ethyl cellulose,
polyvinyl alcohol, and combinations thereof. Other suitable film-coatings can be
readily selected by one of skill in the art. In one embodiment, the tablet or caplet is
coated with an Opadry™ seal coat. In a further embodiment, the tablet or caplet is
coated with an Opadry™ Blue seal coat. Where applied, the weight percent of the
film coat is generally in the range of 2 % wt/wt to 6 % wt/wt of the tablet or caplet. In
one embodiment, the weight percent of the film coat is about 3.5% wt/wt of the tablet
or caplet. Drying of the coating is accomplished by conventional means, e.g., with a
fluid bed dryer.
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When prepared according to the present invention, the tablets, caplets,
capsules, or tablets-in-capsules containing the composition release about 86 to about
99% of tanaproget after about 90 minutes. In a further embodiment, 85% of the
tanaproget, or about 90%, is released in about 15 minutes.
B. Stability of the Compositions of the Invention
The compositions of the present invention are stable over a period of about 1
month for samples stored at varying temperatures and humidities. The term stable as
used herein refers to the compositions of the invention which degrade less than about
3%. Typically, it is the tanaproget that degrades in the composition. In one
embodiment, the compositions are stable at about 20°C/50% relative humidity to
about 45°C/75% relative humidity. In another embodiment, the compositions of the
invention degrade less than about 3% over a period of greater than 1 month at
temperatures at or greater than about 25°C and a relative humidity at or greater than
about 60%.
The compositions of the invention can be stored at reduced temperatures, and
in one embodiment, at temperatures of about 5°C. The compositions can also be
stored in the absence of water, air, and moisture. However, storage at room
temperature, among other atmospheric conditions, does not affect the overall stability
of the compositions.
C. Additional Components of the Compositions of the Invention
Other suitable components can be added to the compositions of the present
invention, provided that the same is not already present, and will be readily apparent
to one of skill in the art. Typically, the additional components are inert and do not
interfere with the function of the required components of the compositions. The
compositions of the present invention can thereby further include other adjuvants,
syrups, elixirs, diluents, binders, lubricants, surfactants, granulating agents,
disintegrating agents, emollients, metal chelators, pH adjustors, surfactants, fillers,
disintegrants, and combinations thereof, among others.
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Adjuvants can include, without limitation, flavoring agents, coloring agents,
preservatives, and supplemental antioxidants, which can include ascorbic acid,
butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) and butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA).
Binders can include, without limitation, cellulose, methylcellulose,
hydroxymethylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose calcium, carboxymethylcellulose
sodium, hydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxypropyhnethylceliulose phthalate,
noncrystalline cellulose, polypropylpyrrolidone, polyvinylpyrrolidone (povidone,
PVP), gelatin, gum arabic and acacia, polyethylene glycols, starch, sugars such as
sucrose, kaolin, dextrose, and lactose, cholesterol, tragacanth, stearic acid, gelatin,
casein, lecithin (phosphatides), cetostearyl alcohol, cetyl alcohol, cetyl esters wax,
dextrates, dextrin, glyceryl monooleate, glyceryl monostearate, glyceryl
palmitostearate, polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers, polyoxyethylene castor oil derivatives,
polyoxyethylene stearates, polyvinyl alcohol, and gelatin, among others. In one
embodiment, the binder is povidone.
Lubricants can include light anhydrous silicic acid, talc, stearic acid, sodium
lauryl sulfate, magnesium stearate and sodium stearyl furamate, among others. In one
embodiment, the lubricant is magnesium stearate.
Granulating agents can include, without limitation, silicon dioxide, starch,
calcium carbonate, pectin, crospovidone, and polyplasdone, among others.
Disintegrating agents or disintegrants can include starch,
carboxymethylcellulose, substituted hydroxypropylcellulose, sodium bicarbonate,
calcium phosphate, calcium citrate, sodium starch glycolate, pregelatinized starch or
crospovidone, among others.
Emollients can include, without limitation, stearyl alcohol, mink oil, cetyl
alcohol, oleyl alcohol, isopropyl laurate, polyethylene glycol, olive oil, petroleum
jelly, palmitic acid, oleic acid, and myristyl myristate.
Surfactants can include polysorbates, sorbitan esters, poloxamer, or sodium
lauryl sulfate. In one embodiment, the surfactant is sodium lauryl sulfate.
Metal chelators can include physiologically acceptable chelating agents
including edetic acid, malic acid, or fumaric acid. In one embodiment, the metal
chelator is edetic acid.
14

pH adjusters can also be utilized to adjust the pH of a solution containing
tanaproget to about 4 to about 6. In one embodiment, the pH of a solution containing
tanaproget is adjusted to a pH of about 4.6. pH adjustors can include physiologically
acceptable agents including citric acid, ascorbic acid, fumaric acid, or malic acid, and
salts thereof. In one embodiment, the pH adjuster is citric acid.
Additional fillers that can be used in the composition of the present invention
include mannitol, calcium phosphate, pregelatinized starch, or sucrose.
D. Methods of Using the Compositions
The invention further provides a method of delivering tanaproget to a patient,
where the method includes administering a micronized tanaproget dosing unit
according to the invention.
The dosage requirements of tanaproget may vary based on the severity of the
symptoms presented and the particular subject being treated. Treatment can be
initiated with small dosages less than the optimum dose of tanaproget. Thereafter the
dosage is increased until the optimum effect under the circumstances is reached.
Precise dosages will be determined by the administering physician based on
experience with the individual subject treated. In general, the compositions of this
invention are most desirably administered at a concentration that will generally afford
effective results without causing any unacceptable harmful or deleterious side effects.
For example, an effective amount of micronized tanaproget is generally, e.g., about 1
mg, about 0.15 mg, about 0.2 tng, or about 0.3 mg.
These compositions containing micronized tanaproget are therefore useful in
contraception and hormone replacement therapy. The compositions are also useful in
contraception and the treatment and/or prevention of uterine myometrial fibroids,
benign prostatic hypertrophy, benign and malignant neoplastic disease, dysfunctional
bleeding, uterine leiomyomata, endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome, and
carcinomas and adenocarcinomas of the pituitary, endometrium, kidney, ovary, breast,
colon, and prostate and other hormone-dependent tumors, and in the preparation of
medicaments useful therefor. Additional uses of the compositions include stimulation
of food intake.
15

The compositions of the invention are formed into a suitable dosing unit for
delivery to a patient. Suitable dosing units include oral dosing units, such as a directly
compressible tablets, caplets, capsules, powders, suspensions, microcapsules,
dispersible powders, granules, suspensions, syrups, elixirs, and aerosols, hi one
embodiment, the compositions of the present invention are compressed into a tablet or
caplet, which is optionally added to a capsule, or the compositions are added directly
to a capsule. The compositions of the invention can also be formulated for delivery
by other suitable routes. These dosing units are readily prepared using the methods
described herein and those known to those of skill in the art.
Solid forms, including tablets, caplets, and capsules containing micronized
tanaproget can be formed by dry blending tanaproget with the components described
above. In one embodiment, the capsules utilized in the present invention include
hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (hypromellose) capsule, or a hard shell gelatin
capsule. In another embodiment the tablets or caplets of the present invention that
contain tanaproget are film-coated. Suitable film-coatings are known to those of skill
in the art. For. example, the film-coating can be selected from among polymers such
as hydroxypropyimethyicellulose, ethyl cellulose, polyvinyl alcohol, and
combinations thereof. More desirable tablet or caplet weights include tablets or
caplets of about 100 mg, about 150 mg, about 200 mg, or about 300 mg. However,
tablets or caplets of lesser or greater weights can be utilized as determined by one of
skill in the art.
A pharmaceutically effective amount of tanaproget can vary depending on the
components of the composition, mode of delivery, severity of the condition being
treated, the patient's age and weight, and any other active ingredients used in the
composition. The dosing regimen can also be adjusted to provide the optimal
therapeutic response.- Several divided doses can be delivered daily, e.g., in divided
doses 2 to 4 times a day, or a single dose can be delivered. The dose can however be
proportionally reduced or increased as indicated by the exigencies of the therapeutic
situation. In one embodiment, the delivery is on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis. In
another embodiment, the delivery is on a daily delivery. Daily dosages can also be
lowered or raised based on the periodic delivery.
16

It is contemplated that when the compositions of this invention are used for
contraception or hormone replacement therapy, they can be administered in
conjunction with one or more other progesterone receptor agonists, estrogen receptor
agonists, progesterone receptor antagonists, and selective estrogen receptor
modulators, among others.
When utilized for treating neoplastic disease, carcinomas, and
adenocarcinomas, they can be administered in conjunction with one or more
chemotherapeutic agents, which can readily be selected by one of skill in the art.
E. Kits of the Invention
The present invention also provides kits or packages containing micronized
tanaproget. Kits of the present invention can include tanaproget and a carrier suitable
for admirristration to a mammalian subject as discussed above. In one embodiment,
the tablets, caplets, or capsules are packaged in blister packs, and in a further
embodiment, Ultrx™ 2000 blister packs.
The kits or packages containing the compositions of the present invention are
designed for use in the regimens described herein. In one embodiment, these kits are
designed for daily oral delivery over 21-day, 28-day, 30-day, or 31-day cycles, among
others, or for one oral delivery per day. When the compositions are to be delivered
continuously, a package or kit can include the composition in each tablet or caplet.
When the compositions of the present invention are to be delivered with periodic
discontinuation, a package or kit can include placebos on those days when the
composition is not delivered.
Additional components maybe co-adtainistered with the composition of the
invention and include progestational agents, estrogens, and selective estrogen receptor
modulators.
In one embodiment, the kits are organized to indicate a single oral formulation
or combination of oral formulations to be taken on each day of the cycle, in a further
embodiment including oral tablets or caplets to be taken on each of the days specified,
and in still a further embodiment one oral tablet or caplet will contain each of the
combined daily dosages indicated.
17

In one embodiment, a kit can include a single phase of a daily dosage of the
composition of the invention over a 21-day, 28-day, 30-day, or 31-day cycle.
Alternatively, a kit can include a single phase of a daily dosage of the composition of
the invention over the first 21 days of a 28-day, 30-day, or 31-day cycle. A kit can
also include a single phase of a daily dosage of the composition of the invention over
the first 28 days of a 30-day or 31-day cycle.
In a further embodiment, a kit can include a single combined phase of a daily
dosage of the composition of the invention and a progestational agent over a 21-day,
28-day, 30-day, or 31-day cycle. Alternatively, a kit can include a single combined
phase of a daily dosage of the composition of the invention and a progestational agent
over the first 21 days of a 28-day, 30-day, or 31-day cycle. A kit can also include a
single combined phase of a daily dosage of the composition of the invention and a
progestational agent over the first 28 days of a 30-day or 31-day cycle.
In another embodiment, a 28-day kit can include a first phase of from 14 to 28
daily dosage units of the composition of the invention; a second phase of from 1 to 11
daily dosage units of a progestational agent; and, optionally, a third phase of an orally
andpharmaceuticaiiy acceptable placebo for the remaining days of the cycle.
In yet a further embodiment, a 28-day kit can include a first phase of from 14
to 21 daily dosage units of the composition of the invention; a second phase of from 1
to 11 daily dosage units of a progestational agent; and, optionally, a third phase of an
orally and pharmaceutically acceptable placebo for the remaining days of the cycle.
In another embodiment, a 28-day kit can include a first phase of from 18 to 21
daily dosage units of the composition of the invention; a second phase of from 1 to 7
daily dose units of a progestational agent; and, optionally, an orally and
pharmaceutically acceptable placebo for each of the remaining 0 to 9 days in the 28-
day cycle.
In yet a further embodiment, a 28-day kit can include a first phase of 21 daily
dosage units of the composition of the invention; a second phase of 3 daily dosage
units for days 22 to 24 of a progestational agent; and, optionally, a third phase of 4
daily units of an orally and pharmaceutically acceptable placebo for each of days 25
to 28.
18

In another embodiment, a 28-day kit can include a first phase of from 14 to 21
daily dosage units of a progestational agent equal in progestational activity to about
35 to about 150 ug levonorgestrel, a second phase of from 1 to 11 daily dosage units
of the composition of the invention; and optionally, a third phase of an orally and
pharmaceutically acceptable placebo for the remaining days of the cycle in which no
antiprogestin, progestin or estrogen is administered.
In a further embodiment, a 28-day kit can include a first phase of from 14 to
21 daily dosage units of a progestational agent equal in progestational activity to
about 35 to about 100 ug levonorgestrel; a second phase of from 1 to 11 daily dosage
units of the composition of the invention; and optionally, a third phase of an orally
and pharmaceutically acceptable placebo for the remaining days of the cycle in which
no antiprogestin, progestin or estrogen is administered.
In one embodiment, the daily dosage of tanaproget remains fixed in each
particular phase in which it is delivered. In a further embodiment, the daily dose units
described are to be delivered in the order described, with the first phase followed in
order by the second and third phases. To help facilitate compliance with each
regimen, in a further embodiment the kits contain the placebo described for the final
days of the cycle.
A number of packages or kits are known in the art for the use in dispensing
pharmaceutical agents for oral use. In one embodiment, the package has indicators
for each day of the 28-day cycle, and in a further embodiment is a labeled blister
package, dial dispenser package, or bottle.
The kit can further contain instructions for administering the tanaproget
compositions of the present invention.
The following examples are provided to illustrate the invention and do not
limit the scope thereof. One skilled in the art will appreciate that although specific
reagents and conditions are outlined in the following examples, modifications can be
made which are meant to be encompassed by the spirit and scope of the invention.
19

EXAMPLES
Example 1 - Preparation of Micronized Tanaproget
Tanaproget was prepared according to US Patent Application Publication No.
2005/0272702, published December 8,2005, was milled using a U-10 Comil mill and
thereby micronized using a MC50 Jetpharma Micronizer with a EZFH-1.4 Feeder.
Particle size was tested periodically for a particle size of less than about 15 /xm, and
desirably less than about 10 /mi, being distributed throughout 50% of the sample. The
micronized tanaproget was packed in triple poly-bagged fiber drums. A desiccant
was inserted between the outermost bags and the atmosphere in the bags replaced
with nitrogen gas.
Example 2 - Preparation of Compositions and Tablets Containing Micronized
Tanaproget
This example provides the preparation of tablets containing micronized
tanaproget using the components of Table 5.
Table 5

Component Function Specification
Micronized tanaproget Active ingredient In-house
Microcrystalline Cellulose Filler, Granulation
aid, Disintegrant NF
Anhydrous Lactose Filler NF
Sodium thiosulfate pentahydrate Antioxidant USP
Edetate Calcium Disodium Hydrous Antioxidant USP
Croscarmellose Sodium Disintegrant NF
Magnesium Stearate Lubricant NF/EP
Opadry™nBlue Coating material In-house |
Tablets containing micronized tanaproget were prepared according to the
following granulation. See, Table 6. If the total wt/wt% of the components exceeded
100%, the amount of anhydrous lactose was adjusted by reducing or increasing the
amount of anhydrous lactose in the composition.

Table 6

Tablet Strength (mg)
100 150 200 300
Component Amount
(mg) %wt/wt Amount
(mgl %-wt/wt Amount
(mg) % wt/wt Amount
(mg) % wtA
Intragranular
Micronized tanaproget 0.1051 0.1546 0.1575 0.2316 0.210 0.3088 0.315 0.463
MCC 27.20 40.00 27.20 40.00 27.20 40.00 27.20 40.0(
.Anhydrous lactose- 37.312 54.8706 37.260 54.7935 37.207 54.7163 37.102 54.56:
EDTA 0.068 0.10 0.068 0.10 0.068 0.10 0.068 0.10
sronized sodium thiosulfate
pentahydrate 0.34 0.5 0.34 0.5 0.34 0.5 0.34 0.5
nicronized croscarmellose
sodium 1.36 2.00 1.36 2.00 1.36 2.00 1.36 2.00
magnesium stearate 0.1275 0.1875 0.1275 0.1875 0.1275 0.1875 0.1275 _, 0.187
Extragranular
Croscarmellose sodium 1.36 2.00 1.36 2.00 1.36 2.00 1.36 2.00
Magnesium stearate 0.1275 0.1875 0.1275 0.1875 0.1275 0.1875 0.1275 0.187
al (Core Tablet Weight) 68.00 100.00 68.00 100.00 68.00 100.00 68.00 100.0
ardyllBhie 2.38 3.5 2.38 3.5 2.38 3.5 2.38 3.5
ified Water* - qs - qs - - V - - as.
Jot present in final dosage form.
Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC) and anhydrous lactose were mixed in a
suitable size PK-Blender equipped with intensifier bar for 1 minute without activating
the intensifier bar. A second portion of anhydrous lactose was added to a canister and
the canister was rotated for 1 minute to dust the walls of the canister with the
anhydrous lactose. Micronized tanaproget, sodium thiosulfate and EDTA were added
to the canister and mixed for 1 minute. The content of the canister was then emptied
into the PK-blender. A portion of anhydrous lactose was used to rinse the emptied
canister for 1 minute and was then transferred to the PK-blender. Croscarmellose
sodium was added to the PK-blender. The remaining MCC and anhydrous lactose
were added to the PK-blender. The blender was mixed, for a certain amount of time
at an appropriate mixing speed, depending on the size of the blender, with and without
the intensifier bar [e.g., 20 revolutions per minute (rpm) for 13 minutes with
intensifier bar inactivated, followed by 4 minutes with the intensifier bar activated,
and followed by 1 minute with the intensifier bar inactivated]. Intragranular
magnesium stearate was added to the PK-Blender and mixed for 2 minutes without
the intensifier bar activated. The blend from step 8 was discharged from the PK
Blender into a double poly-lined container. The blend was then compacted and milled
21

using an Alexanderwerk roller compactor. The milled material was transferred to a
suitable size PK-Blender and mixed for 1 minute. Extragranular croscarmellose
sodium was added to the PK-blender and mixed for 10 minutes without the intensifier
bar activated. Extragranular magnesium stearate was added to the blender and mixed
for 2 minutes without the intensifier bar activated. The blend was discharged from
the PK-blender into a tarred double poly-lined container. The tablets were thereby
prepared by compressing the final blend into 68 mg tablets using a rotary tablet press
equipped with 7/32" (0.2187") round modified concave tooling.
The tablets were coated, using a film coat suspension by first preparing an
Opadry™ II Blue suspension by slowly adding the Opadry™ II Blue to water with
continuous agitation. The tablets were loaded into an appropriate size pan of a
coating machine and a sufficient film-coat suspension was applied to provide around
3.5% average dry-coat weight per tablet.
Example 3 - Variation of MCC, Croscarmellose Sodium, and Magnesium
Stearate Concentrations in Tanaproget Compositions
Li mis Example, ten V.J-0J compositions containing tanaproget, EDTA, sodium
thiosulfate, anhydrous lactose and varying amounts of MCC, croscarmellose sodium,
and magnesium stearate were prepared according to the procedure set forth in
Example 2 and using the components set forth in Tables 7 and 8. The remaining
portion of the composition was adjusted using anhydrous lactose to obtain a total %
wt/wt of 100 as noted in Table 8.
Table 7

1 Component % wt/wt I
Micronized tanaproget 0.1546
EDTA 0.10
micronized sodium
thiosulfate pentahydrate 0.5
Purified Water* qs 1
*Not present in final dosage form.
22

Table 8

Run % wt/wt

MCC Croscarmellose
Sodium Magnesium
Stearate Anhydrous
Lactose
1 40 4 0.375 54.87
2 30 6 0.5 62.745
3 50 2 0.5 46.745
4 . 50 6 0.5 42.745
5 30 2 0.5 66.745
1 6 30 6 0.25 63.0
7 50 6 0.25 43.0
8 40 4 0.375 54.87
9 50 2 0.25 47.0
10 30 2 0.25 77.0
Example 4 - Variation of Excipient Concentration in Tanaproget Compositions
In this Example, twelve (12) compositions containing fixed amounts of
tanaproget and EDTA and varying amounts of MCC, croscarmellose sodium,
magnesium stearate, sodium thiosulfate, anhydrous lactose, and cysteine were
prepared using the components set forth in Table 9 and the procedure set forth below.
50% of the MCC and 40% of the anhydrous lactose were passed through a #40
mess screen, transferred to a PK-Blender, and mixed for 1 minute. 10% of the lactose
was added to a bag and mixed with sodium thiosulfate, cysteine, and EDTA, passed
through a #40 mesh screen and added to the PK blender containing the MCC.
Tanaproget was added to another bag, mixed, passed through a #40 mesh screen, and
added to the PK blender. 10% of the lactose was passed through a #40 screen, used to
rinse the bag that contained the tanaproget, and added to the PK-blender. The
croscarmellose sodium was passed through a #40 screen and added to the blender.
The remaining MCC and lactose were also passed through a #40 screen and added to
the blender.
The material in the blender was blended for 12 minutes without the intensifier
bar, followed by 3 minutes with the intensifier bar, and then an additional 1 minute
without the intensifier bar. Magnesium stearate was passed through a #40 screen,
added to the blender, and mixed. The blend from the PK-blender was then roller
compacted and milled using an Alexanderwerk roller compactor and mill running.
23

The compacted and milled granulation was transferred to a PK-blender and
mixed. Extragranular croscarmellose sodium was passed through a #40 mesh screen,
added to the PK blender, and mixed. Extragranular magnesium stearate was passed
through a #40 mesh screen, added to the PK-blender, and mixed to form the final
blend.
The blend was compressed into 68 mg tablets using an instrumented Korsh
XL100 tablet press with 7/32" modified concave B tooling. The tablets were also
coated with a 20% Opadry II blue dispersion.
Table 9

Example 5 - Variation of Antioxidant Concentrations in Tanaproget
Compositions
In this Example, three (3) compositions containing micronized tanaproget,
MCC, croscarmellose sodium, and magnesium stearate and varying amounts of
sodium thiosulfate and EDTA were prepared according to the procedure set forth in
Example 2 and using the components set forth in Tables 10 and 11. The remaining
24

portion of the composition was adjusted using anhydrous lactose to obtain a total %
wt/wt of 100 as noted in Table 11.
Table 10

1 Component % wt/wt
Micronized tanaproget 0.1546
MCC 40
| magnesium stearate 0.375
1 croscarmellose sodium 4
| Purified Water* qs
*Not present in final dosage form.
Table 11

Run % wt/wt

Sodium
Thiosulfate EDTA Anhydrous
Lactose
1 0.25 0.05 55.17
2 0.5 0.1 54.87
3 0.75 0.15 54.57
All documents listed in this specification are incorporated herein by reference.
While the invention has been described with reference to a particularly preferred
embodiment, it will be appreciated that modifications can be made without departing
from the spirit of the invention. Such modifications are intended to fall within the
scope of the appended claims.
25

CLAIMS:
1. A pharmaceutical composition comprising an intragranulation
comprising micronized tanaproget or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof,
microcrystalline cellulose, croscarmellose sodium, anhydrous lactose, magnesium
stearate, micronized edetate calcium disodium hydrous, and micronized sodium
thiosulfate pentahydrate.
2. The composition according to claim 1, further comprising
extragranular croscarmellose sodium and extragranular magnesium stearate.
3. The composition according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the particles
of said micronized tanaproget are less than about 10 /ttn.
4. The composition according to any of claims 1-3, wherein the particles
of said micronized sodium thiosulfate pentahydrate are less than about 31 μm.
5. The composition according to any of claims 1 -4, wherein the particles
of said micronized sodium edetate calcium disodium hydrous are less than about 35
μm.
6. The composition according to any of claims 1-5, which degrades less
than about 3% over a period of greater than 1 month at temperatures at or greater than
about 25° C and a relative humidity at or greater than about 60%.
7. The composition according to any of claims 1-6, wherein said
tanaproget comprises about 0.15% to about 0.50% wt/wt of said composition.
8. The composition according to any of claims 1-7, wherein said
tanaproget comprises about 0.15% wt/wt of said composition.
26

9. The composition according to any of claims 1-7, wherein said
tanaproget comprises about 0.23% wt/wt of said composition.
10. The composition according to any of claims 1-7, wherein said
tanaproget comprises about 0.31% wt/wt of said composition.
11. The composition according to any of claims 1 -1, wherein said
tanaproget comprises about 0.5% wt/wt of said composition.
12. The composition according to any of claims 1-11, wherein said
intragranular microcrystalline cellulose comprises about 40% wt/wt of said
composition.
13. The composition according to any of claims 1-12, wherein said
intragranular croscarmellose sodium comprises about 2% wt/wt of said composition.
14. The composition according to any of claims 1-13, wherein said
intragranular magnesium stearate comprises about 0.19% wt/wt of said composition.
15. The composition according to any of claims 1-14, wherein said
intragranular anhydrous lactose comprises about 54% to about 55% wt/wt of said
composition.
16." The composition according to any of claims 1-15, wherein said
intragranular micronized edetate calcium disodium hydrous comprises about 0.10%
wt/wt of said composition.
17. The composition according to any of claims 1-16, wherein said
intragranular micronized sodium thiosulfate pentahydrate comprises about 0.5%
wt/wt of said composition.
27

18. The composition according to any of claims 2-17, wherein said
extragranular croscarmellose sodium comprises about 2% wt/wt of said composition.
19. The composition according to any of claims 2-18, wherein said
extragranular magnesium stearate comprises about 0.19% of said composition.
20. The composition according to claim 1, wherein the particles of said
composition are less than about 100 μm.
21. A pharmaceutical composition comprising about 0.15% wt/wt
micronized tanaproget or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, about 40% wt/wt
microcrystalline cellulose, about 4% wt/wt croscarmellose sodium, about 54.87%
wt/wt anhydrous lactose, about 0.38% wt/wt magnesium stearate, about 0.1% wt/wt
micronized edetate calcium disodium hydrous, and about 0.5% wt/wt micronized
sodium thiosulfate pentahydrate.
22. A pharmaceutical composition comprising about 0.23% wt/wt
micronized tanaproget or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, about 40% wt/wt
microcrystalline cellulose, about 4% wt/wt croscarmellose sodium, about 54.79%
wt/wt anhydrous lactose, about 0.38% wt/wt magnesium stearate, about 0.1% wt/wt
micronized edetate calcium disodium hydrous, and about 0.5% wt/wt micronized
sodium thiosulfate pentahydrate.
23. A pharmaceutical composition comprising about 0.31% wt/wt
micronized tanaproget or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, about 40% wt/wt
microcrystalline cellulose, about 4% wt/wt croscarmellose sodium, about 54.71%
wt/wt anhydrous lactose, about 0.38% wt/wt magnesium stearate, about 0.1% wt/wt
micronized edetate calcium disodium hydrous, and about 0.5% wt/wt micronized
sodium thiosulfate pentahydrate.
28

24. A pharmaceutical composition comprising about 0.46% wt/wt
micronized tanaproget or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, about 40% wt/wt
microcrystalline cellulose, about 4% wt/wt croscarmellose sodium, about 54.56%
wt/wt anhydrous lactose, about 0.38% wt/wt magnesium stearate, about 0.1% wt/wt
micronized edetate calcium disodium hydrous, and about 0.5% wt/wt micronized
sodium thiosulfate pentahydrate.
25. A tablet comprising the composition of any of claims 1 to 24.
26. A pharmaceutical pack comprising a daily dosage unit comprising a
tablet of claim 25.
27. A process for preparing a pharmaceutical composition comprising
micronized tanaproget or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, comprising
mixing micronized tanaproget, microcrystalline cellulose, croscarmellose sodium,
micronized sodium thiosulfate pentahydrate, anhydrous lactose, micronized edetate
calcium disodium. hydrous, and magnesium stearate.
28. The process according to claim 27, further comprising compacting and
milling the composition.
29. The process according to claim 27 or claim 28, wherein said
composition is compressed into a tablet.
3 0. The process according to claim 29, wherein about 90% of said
tanaproget is released from said tablet.
31. The process according to any of claims 27-30, wherein said tablet is a
100 mg, 150 mg, 200 mg, or 300 mg tablet.
29

32. The process according to any of claims 27-31, further comprising
coating said tablet.
33. The process according to claim 32, wherein said coating comprises the
Opadry™ II Blue coating and water.
34. The process according to claim 32 or claim 33, further comprising
drying said coating.
35. The process according to any of claims 27-34, further comprising
adding said composition to a capsule.
36. The process according to claim 35, wherein about 90% of said
tanaproget is released from said capsule.
30

The present invention provides compositions, desirably pharmaceutical compositions, containing micronized
tanaproget. The compositions can also contain microcrystalline cellulose, croscarmellose sodium, anhydrous lactose, magnesium
stearate, micronized edetate calcium disodium hydrous, and micronized sodium thiosulfate pentahydrate. The compositions are
useful in contraception and hormone replacement therapy and in the treatment and/or prevention of uterine myometrial fibroids,
benign prostatic hypertrophy, benign and malignant neoplastic disease, dysfunctional bleeding, uterine Ieiomyoraata, endometriosis,
polycystic ovary syndrome, and carcinomas and adenocarcinomas of the pituitary, endometrium, kidney, ovary, breast, colon, and
prostate and other hormone-dependent tumors, and in the preparation of medicaments useful therefor. Additional uses include
stimulation of food intake.