SOLID COMPOSITIONS
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. provisional patent application Ser.
No. 61/339,964, filed March 10, 2010, the contents of which are incorporated herein in its
entirety by reference.
JOINT RESEARCH AGREEMENT
[0002] Inventions described in this application were made by or on behalf of Abbott
Laboratories and Enanta Pharmaceuticals, Inc. whom are parties to a joint research
agreement, that was in effect on or before the date such inventions were made and such
inventions were made as a result of activities undertaken within the scope of the joint
research agreement.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The present invention relates to solid compositions comprising anti-HCV
compounds and methods of using the same to treat HCV infection.
BACKGROUND
[0004] The hepatitis C virus (HCV) is an RNA virus belonging to the Hepacivirus
genus in the Flaviviridae family. The enveloped HCV virion contains a positive stranded
RNA genome encoding all known virus-specific proteins in a single, uninterrupted, open
reading frame. The open reading frame comprises approximately 9500 nucleotides and
encodes a single large polyprotein of about 3000 amino acids. The polyprotein comprises a
core protein, envelope proteins El and E2, a membrane bound protein p7, and the non
structural proteins NS2, NS3, NS4A, NS4B, NS5A and NS5B.
[0005] HCV infection is associated with progressive liver pathology, including
cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Chronic hepatitis C may be treated with
peginterferon- alpha in combination with ribavirin. Substantial limitations to efficacy and
tolerability remain as many users suffer from side effects, and viral elimination from the body
is often inadequate. Therefore, there is a need for new drugs to treat HCV infection.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The present invention features solid compositions comprising
(2R,6S,13aS,14aR,16aS,Z)-N-(cyclopropylsulfonyl)-6-(5-methylpyrazine-2-carboxamido)-
5,16-dioxo-2-(phenanthridin-6-yloxy)-l,2,3,5,6,7,8,9,10,ll,13a,14,14a,15,16,16ahexadecahydrocyclopropa[
e]pyrrolo[l,2-a][l,4]diazacyclopentadecine-14a-carboxamide
(hereinafter Compound I) or a pharmaceutical acceptable salt thereof. Compound I is a
potent HCV inhibitor. The solid compositions of the invention comprise (1) Compound I (or
a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof) in an amorphous form, (2) a pharmaceutically
acceptable hydrophilic polymer, and (3) a pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant.
[0007] In one aspect, the present invention features a solid composition comprising a
solid dispersion, wherein the solid dispersion comprises Compound I (or a pharmaceutically
acceptable salt thereof) in an amorphous form and a pharmaceutically acceptable hydrophilic
polymer, and the solid composition further comprises a pharmaceutically acceptable
surfactant. The surfactant can be, without limitation, either formulated in the solid dispersion
or separately combined or mixed with the solid dispersion. Preferably, the hydrophilic
polymer has a Tg of at least 50 °C. More preferably, the hydrophilic polymer has a Tg of at
least 80 °C. Highly preferably, the hydrophilic polymer has a Tg of at least 100 °C. Also
preferably, the surfactant has a HLB value of at least 10. Hydrophilic polymers with Tg of at
least 25 °C can also be used.
[0008] In one embodiment of this aspect of the invention, the hydrophilic polymer is
selected from homopolymer of N-vinyl lactam, copolymer of N-vinyl lactam, cellulose ester,
cellulose ether, polyalkylene oxide, polyacrylate, polymethacrylate, polyacrylamide,
polyvinyl alcohol, vinyl acetate polymer, oligosaccharide, or polysaccharide. Non-limiting
examples of suitable hydrophilic polymers include homopolymer of N-vinyl pyrrolidone,
copolymer of N-vinyl pyrrolidone, copolymer of N-vinyl pyrrolidone and vinyl acetate,
copolymer of N-vinyl pyrrolidone and vinyl propionate, polyvinylpyrrolidone,
methylcellulose, ethylcellulose, hydroxyalkylcelluloses, hydroxypropylcellulose,
hydroxyalkylalkylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, cellulose phthalate, cellulose
succinate, cellulose acetate phthalate, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose phthalate,
hydroxypropylmethylcellulose succinate, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose acetate succinate,
polyethylene oxide, polypropylene oxide, copolymer of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide,
methacrylic acid/ethyl acrylate copolymer, methacrylic acid/methyl methacrylate copolymer,
butyl methacrylate/2-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate copolymer, poly(hydroxyalkyl
acrylate), poly(hydroxyalkyl methacrylate), copolymer of vinyl acetate and crotonic acid,
partially hydrolyzed polyvinyl acetate, carrageenan, galactomannan, or xanthan gum.
[0009] In another embodiment of this aspect of the invention, the surfactant is
selected from polyoxyethylene castor oil derivates, mono fatty acid ester of polyoxyethylene
sorbitan, polyoxyethylene alkyl ether, polyoxyethylene alkylaryl ether, polyethylene glycol
fatty acid ester, alkylene glycol fatty acid mono ester, sucrose fatty acid ester, or sorbitan
fatty acid mono ester. Non-limiting examples of suitable surfactants include
polyoxyethyleneglycerol triricinoleate or polyoxyl 35 castor oil (Cremophor® EL; BASF
Corp.) or polyoxyethyleneglycerol oxystearate such as polyethylenglycol 40 hydrogenated
castor oil (Cremophor® RH 40, also known as polyoxyl 40 hydrogenated castor oil or
macrogolglycerol hydroxystearate) or polyethylenglycol 60 hydrogenated castor oil
(Cremophor® RH 60), mono fatty acid ester of polyoxyethylene sorbitan, such as mono fatty
acid ester of polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan, e.g. polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monooleate
(Tween® 80), polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monostearate (Tween® 60), polyoxyethylene
(20) sorbitan monopalmitate (Tween® 40) or polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate
(Tween® 20), polyoxyethylene (3) lauryl ether, polyoxyethylene (5) cetyl ether,
polyoxyethylene (2) stearyl ether, polyoxyethylene (5) stearyl ether, polyoxyethylene (2)
nonylphenyl ether, polyoxyethylene (3) nonylphenyl ether, polyoxyethylene (4) nonylphenyl
ether, polyoxyethylene (3) octylphenyl ether, PEG-200 monolaurate, PEG-200 dilaurate,
PEG-300 dilaurate, PEG-400 dilaurate, PEG-300 distearate, PEG-300 dioleate, propylene
glycol monolaurate, sucrose monostearate, sucrose distearate, sucrose monolaurate, sucrose
dilaurate, sorbitan mono laurate, sorbitan monooleate, sorbitan monopalnitate, or sorbitan
stearate.
[0010] In yet another embodiment, the solid dispersion is an amorphous solid
dispersion. In still another embodiment, the solid dispersion is an amorphous solid dispersion
which comprises Compound I (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof), the hydrophilic
polymer, and the surfactant. In a further embodiment, the solid dispersion is a solid solution
comprising Compound I (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof) and the hydrophilic
polymer. In yet another embodiment, the solid dispersion is a solid solution comprising
Compound I (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof), the hydrophilic polymer and the
surfactant.
[0011] In yet another embodiment of this aspect of the invention, the hydrophilic
polymer is a homopolymer or copolymer of N-vinyl pyrrolidone. Preferably, the hydrophilic
polymer is copovidone.
[0012] In still another embodiment, the surfactant is propylene glycol laurate (e.g.,
lauroglycol FCC from Gattefosse). The solid composition may further comprise another
pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant such as D-alpha-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 1000
succinate (vitamin E TPGS).
[0013] In still yet another embodiment, the surfactant is a polysorbate. Preferably,
the surfactant is polysorbate 80 (Tween 80).
[0014] In yet another embodiment, a solid composition of the invention comprises an
amorphous solid dispersion or a solid solution which comprises Compound I (or a
pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof), copovidone, and a surfactant selected from
polysorbate (preferably polysorbate 80), vitamin E TPGS or a combination of vitamin E
TPGS and propylene glycol laurate (e.g., lauroglycol FCC).
[0015] A solid composition of the present invention may further include ritonavir,
preferably a solid dispersion of ritonavir. Ritonavir and Compound I (or a pharmaceutically
acceptable salt thereof) may be formulated in the same solid dispersion or solid solution; they
may be also formulated in different solid dispersions or solid solutions.
[0016] In another aspect, the present invention features processes of making a solid
composition of the present invention. In one embodiment, the process comprises drying a
solvent in a liquid solution, wherein said solution comprises: (1) Compound I or a
pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; (2) a pharmaceutically acceptable hydrophilic
polymer; and optionally (3) a pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant. The drying process can
be carried out using any suitable solvent evaporation techniques including but not limited to
spray-drying techniques.
[0017] In another embodiment, the process comprises solidifying a melt which
comprises: (1) Compound I or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; (2) a
pharmaceutically acceptable hydrophilic polymer; and optionally (3) a pharmaceutically
acceptable surfactant.
[0018] A solid composition of the invention may also contain other additives or
ingredients, such as coloring agents, flavoring agents, lubricants or preservatives. A solid
composition of the invention can be prepared into any suitable dosage forms, such as capsule,
dragee, granule, powder, or tablet.
[0019] A solid composition of the invention may further comprise another anti-HCV
agent, for example, an agent selected from HCV helicase inhibitors, HCV polymerase
inhibitors, HCV protease inhibitors, HCV NS5A inhibitors, CD81 inhibitors, cyclophilin
inhibitors, or internal ribosome entry site (IRES) inhibitors.
[0020] The present invention further features methods of using a solid composition
of the present invention to treat HCV infection. The methods comprise administering a solid
composition of the present invention to a patient in need thereof, thereby reducing the blood
or tissue level of HCV virus in the patient.
[0021] Other features, objects, and advantages of the present invention are apparent in
the detailed description that follows. It should be understood, however, that the detailed
description, while indicating preferred embodiments of the invention, are given by way of
illustration only, not limitation. Various changes and modifications within the scope of the
invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the detailed description.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0022] The present invention features solid compositions comprising amorphous
Compound I (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof), a pharmaceutically acceptable
hydrophilic polymer, and a pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant. Compound I has low
aqueous solubility, and its in vivo absorption is expected to be dissolution-rate limited.
Formulating Compound I in an amorphous form can increase the inherent drug solubility and
dissolution rate, thereby enhancing the bioavailability of the compound. A solid composition
of the invention can also include ritonavir. Ritonavir is a potent inhibitor of cytochrome
P450 3A4 enzyme (CYP3A4), and CYP3A4 is believed to be involved in the metabolism of
Compound I . Therefore, co-administering Compound I with ritonavir can reduce the
metabolism of Compound I, thereby improving the bioavailability of Compound I .
[0023] A non-limiting way to form an amorphous form of Compound I or a
combination of Compound I and ritonavir is through the formation of solid dispersions with a
polymeric carrier. The presence of hydrophilic polymer(s) and surfactant(s), as well as the
dispersion of Compound I in an amorphous form in a matrix containing the polymer(s), can
significantly enhance the dissolution rate of the poorly soluble Compound I . In many cases, a
solid dispersion formulation can also effectively maintain Compound I in its supersaturation
state to allow for better absorption.
[0024] As used herein, the term "solid dispersion" defines a system in a solid state (as
opposed to a liquid or gaseous state) comprising at least two components, wherein one
component is dispersed throughout the other component or components. For example, an
active ingredient or a combination of active ingredients can be dispersed in a matrix
comprised of a pharmaceutically acceptable hydrophilic polymer(s) and a pharmaceutically
acceptable surfactant(s). The term "solid dispersion" encompasses systems having small
particles of one phase dispersed in another phase. These particles are often of less than 400
mhi in size, such as less than 100, 10, or 1 mhi in size. When a solid dispersion of the
components is such that the system is chemically and physically uniform or homogenous
throughout or consists of one phase (as defined in thermodynamics), such a solid dispersion
is called a "solid solution." A glassy solution is a solid solution in which a solute is dissolved
in a glassy solvent.
[0025] The term "AUC¥" refers to the area under the plasma concentration time curve
(AUC) extrapolated to infinity.
[0026] The terms "weight percent" or "percent by weight" or "% by weight" or "wt
%" denote the weight of an individual component in a composition or mixture as a
percentage of the weight of the composition or mixture.
[0027] In one aspect, the present invention features a solid composition comprising
Compound I (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof) in an amorphous form, a
pharmaceutically acceptable hydrophilic polymer, and a pharmaceutically acceptable
surfactant. The Compound I (or the salt thereof) and the polymer are formulated in a solid
dispersion. The surfactant may also be formulated in the same solid dispersion; or the
surfactant can be separately combined or mixed with the solid dispersion.
[0028] In one embodiment, a solid composition of the invention comprises an
amorphous solid dispersion which comprises Compound I (or a pharmaceutically acceptable
salt thereof), a pharmaceutically acceptable hydrophilic polymer and a pharmaceutically
acceptable surfactant. In another embodiment, a solid composition of the invention
comprises a solid solution which comprises Compound I (or a pharmaceutically acceptable
salt thereof) and a pharmaceutically acceptable hydrophilic polymer. In still another
embodiment, a solid composition of the invention comprises a solid solution which comprises
Compound I (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof), a pharmaceutically acceptable
hydrophilic polymer and a pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant. In yet another
embodiment, a solid composition of the invention comprises a glassy solution which includes
Compound I (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof) and a pharmaceutically
acceptable hydrophilic polymer. In a further embodiment, a solid composition of the
invention comprises a glassy solution which includes Compound I (or a pharmaceutically
acceptable salt thereof), a pharmaceutically acceptable hydrophilic polymer and a
pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant.
[0029] A solid composition of the invention can further comprise a solid dispersion of
ritonavir. Preferably, the solid composition comprises a solid solution of ritonavir. More
preferably, the solid composition comprises a glassy solution of ritonavir. Compound I (or a
pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof) and ritonavir can be formulated in the same solid
dispersion or solid solution. They may also be formulated in separate solid dispersions or
solid solutions, which can then be combined or mixed to form a solid composition of the
present invention.
[0030] In yet another embodiment, a solid composition of the invention comprises an
amorphous solid dispersion which includes Compound I (or a pharmaceutically acceptable
salt thereof), ritonavir and a pharmaceutically acceptable hydrophilic polymer. In another
embodiment, a solid composition of the invention comprises an amorphous solid dispersion
which includes Compound I (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof), ritonavir, a
pharmaceutically acceptable hydrophilic polymer and a pharmaceutically acceptable
surfactant. In still another embodiment, a solid composition of the invention comprises a
solid solution which includes Compound I (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof),
ritonavir and a pharmaceutically acceptable hydrophilic polymer. In still yet another
embodiment, a solid composition of the invention comprises a solid solution which includes
Compound I (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof), ritonavir, a pharmaceutically
acceptable hydrophilic polymer and a pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant.
[0031] In yet another embodiment, a solid composition of the invention comprises a
first amorphous solid dispersion which includes Compound I (or a pharmaceutically
acceptable salt thereof) and a pharmaceutically acceptable hydrophilic polymer, and a second
amorphous solid dispersion comprising ritonavir. In another embodiment, a solid
composition of the invention comprises a first amorphous solid dispersion which includes
Compound I (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof), a pharmaceutically acceptable
hydrophilic polymer and a pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant, and a second amorphous
solid dispersion comprising ritonavir. In still another embodiment, a solid composition of the
invention comprises a first solid solution which includes Compound I (or a pharmaceutically
acceptable salt thereof) and a pharmaceutically acceptable hydrophilic polymer, and a second
solid solution comprising ritonavir. In another embodiment, a solid composition of the
invention comprises a first solid solution which includes Compound I (or a pharmaceutically
acceptable salt thereof), a pharmaceutically acceptable hydrophilic polymer and a
pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant, and a second solid solution comprising ritonavir.
[0032] Preferably, a solid dispersion or solid solution that contains ritonavir also
includes a pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant to improve the dissolution and/or
bioavailability of ritonavir.
[0033] The weight ratio of Compound I over ritonavir in a solid composition of the
invention may range, without limitation, from 1:1 to 5: 1. Preferably, the weight ratio of
Compound I over ritonavir is 2:1, 3:1, or 4:1.
[0034] A solid composition of the invention can contain, for example, from 1 to 50%
by weight of Compound I . For instance, a solid composition of the invention can contain
from 5 to 30% by weight of Compound I . Preferably, a solid composition of the invention
contains from 10 to 25% by weight of Compound I .
[0035] A solid dispersion of the invention may contain at least 30% by weight of a
pharmaceutically acceptable hydrophilic polymer or a combination of such hydrophilic
polymers. Preferably, the solid dispersion contains at least 40% by weight of a
pharmaceutically acceptable hydrophilic polymer or a combination of such hydrophilic
polymers. More preferably, the solid dispersion contains at least 50% (including, e.g., at least
60%, 70% or 80%) by weight of a pharmaceutically acceptable hydrophilic polymer or a
combination of such polymers. A solid dispersion of the invention may also contain at least
1% by weight of a pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant or a combination of such
surfactants. Preferably, the solid dispersion contains at least 2% by weight of a
pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant or a combination of such surfactants. More
preferably, the solid dispersion contains from 4% to 20% by weight of the surfactant(s), such
as from 5% to 10% by weight of the surfactant(s).
[0036] In one embodiment, a solid dispersion of the invention comprises at least 30%
by weight of a pharmaceutically acceptable hydrophilic polymer or a combination of such
polymers, and at least 1% by weight of a pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant or a
combination of such surfactants. In another embodiment, a solid dispersion of the invention
comprises at least 50% by weight of a pharmaceutically acceptable hydrophilic polymer or a
combination of such polymers, and from 2% to 20% by weight of a pharmaceutically
acceptable surfactant or a combination of such surfactants. In yet another embodiment, a
solid dispersion of the invention comprises from 50% to 90% by weight of a
pharmaceutically acceptable hydrophilic polymer or a combination of such polymers, and
from 3% to 15% by weight of a pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant or a combination of
such surfactants. In yet another embodiment, a solid dispersion of the invention comprises
from 60% to 80% by weight of a pharmaceutically acceptable hydrophilic polymer or a
combination of such polymers, and from 5% to 10% by weight of a pharmaceutically
acceptable surfactant or a combination of such surfactants.
[0037] Preferably, a hydrophilic polymer employed in the present invention has a Tg
of at least 50 °C, more preferably at least 60 °C, and highly preferably at least 80 °C
including, but not limited to from, 80 °C to 180 °C, or from 100 °C to 150 °C. Methods for
determining Tg values of organic polymers are described in INTRODUCTION TO PHYSICAL
POLYMER SCIENCE (2nd Edition by L.H. Sperling, published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.,
1992). The Tg value can be calculated as the weighted sum of the Tg values for
homopolymers derived from each of the individual monomers, i.e., the polymer Tg = å
where Wi is the weight percent of monomer i in the organic polymer, and X is the Tg value
for the homopolymer derived from monomer i . Tg values for the homopolymers may be
taken from POLYMER HANDBOOK (2nd Edition by J . Brandrup and E.H. Immergut, Editors,
published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 1975). Hydrophilic polymers with a Tg as described
above may allow for the preparation of solid dispersions that are mechanically stable and,
within ordinary temperature ranges, sufficiently temperature stable so that the solid
dispersions may be used as dosage forms without further processing or be compacted to
tablets with only a small amount of tabletting aids. Hydrophilic polymers having a Tg of
below 50°C may also be used.
[0038] Preferably, a hydrophilic polymer employed in the present invention is watersoluble.
A solid composition of the present invention can also comprise poorly water-soluble
or water-insoluble polymer or polymers, such as cross-linked polymers. A hydrophilic
polymer comprised in a solid composition of the present invention preferably has an apparent
viscosity, when dissolved at 20 °C in an aqueous solution at 2 % (w/v), of 1 to 5000 mPa-s.,
and more preferably of 1 to 700 mPa-s, and most preferably of 5 to 100 mPa-s.
[0039] Hydrophilic polymers suitable for use in a solid composition of the invention
include, but are not limited to, homopolymers or copolymers of N-vinyl lactams, such as
homopolymers or copolymers of N-vinyl pyrrolidone (e.g., polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), or
copolymers of N-vinyl pyrrolidone and vinyl acetate or vinyl propionate); cellulose esters or
cellulose ethers, such as alkylcelluloses (e.g., methylcellulose or ethylcellulose),
hydroxyalkylcelluloses (e.g., hydroxypropylcellulose), hydroxyalkylalkylcelluloses (e.g.,
hydroxypropylmethylcellulose), and cellulose phthalates or succinates (e.g., cellulose acetate
phthalate and hydroxypropylmethylcellulose phthalate, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose
succinate, or hydroxypropylmethylcellulose acetate succinate); high molecular polyalkylene
oxides, such as polyethylene oxide, polypropylene oxide, and copolymers of ethylene oxide
and propylene oxide; polyacrylates or polymethacrylates, such as methacrylic acid/ethyl
acrylate copolymers, methacrylic acid/methyl methacrylate copolymers, butyl
methacrylate/2-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate copolymers, poly(hydroxyalkyl acrylates),
and poly(hydroxyalkyl methacrylates); polyacrylamides; vinyl acetate polymers, such as
copolymers of vinyl acetate and crotonic acid, and partially hydrolyzed polyvinyl acetate
(also referred to as partially saponified "polyvinyl alcohol"); polyvinyl alcohol; oligo- or
polysaccharides, such as carrageenans, galactomannans, and xanthan gum;
polyhydroxyalkylacrylates; polyhydroxyalkyl-methacrylates; copolymers of methyl
methacrylate and acrylic acid; polyethylene glycols (PEGs); or any mixture thereof.
[0040] Non-limiting examples of preferred hydrophilic polymers for the invention
include polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) K17, PVP K25, PVP K30, PVP K90, hydroxypropyl
methylcellulose (HPMC) E3, HPMC E5, HPMC E6, HPMC E15, HPMC K3, HPMC A4,
HPMC A15, HPMC acetate succinate (AS) LF, HPMC AS MF, HPMC AS HF, HPMC AS
LG, HPMC AS MG, HPMC AS HG, HPMC phthalate (P) 50, HPMC P 55, Ethocel 4,
Ethocel 7, Ethocel 10, Ethocel 14, Ethocel 20, copovidone (vinylpyrrolidone- vinyl acetate
copolymer 60/40), polyvinyl acetate, methacrylate/methacrylic acid copolymer (Eudragit)
L100-55, Eudragit L100, Eudragit S100, polyethylene glycol (PEG) 400, PEG 600, PEG
1450, PEG 3350, PEG 4000, PEG 6000, PEG 8000, poloxamer 124, poloxamer 188,
poloxamer 237, poloxamer 338, and poloxamer 407.
[0041] Of these, homopolymers or copolymers of N-vinyl pyrrolidone, such as
copolymers of N-vinyl pyrrolidone and vinyl acetate, are preferred. A non-limiting example
of a preferred polymer is a copolymer of 60 % by weight of N-vinyl pyrrolidone and 40 % by
weight of vinyl acetate. Other preferred polymers include, without limitation, hydroxypropyl
methylcellulose (HPMC, also known as hypromellose in USP), such as hydroxypropyl
methylcellulose grade E5 (HPMC-E5); and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose acetate succinate
(HPMC-AS).
[0042] A pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant employed in the present invention is
preferably a non-ionic surfactant. More preferably, a solid composition of the present
invention comprises a pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant having an HLB value of at least
10. A solid composition of the present invention can also include a mixture of
pharmaceutically acceptable surfactants, with at least one surfactant having an HLB value of
no less than 10 and at least another surfactant having an HLB value of below 10. In one
example, each surfactant comprised in a solid composition of the invention has an HLB value
of at least 10. In another example, each surfactant comprised in a solid composition of the
invention has an HLB value of below 10. In yet another example, a solid composition of the
present invention includes at least two pharmaceutically acceptable surfactants, one having an
HLB value of at least 10 and the other having an HLB value of below 10. The HLB system
(Fiedler, H.B., ENCYLOPEDIA OF EXCIPIENTS, 5th ed., Aulendorf: ECV-Editio-Cantor-Verlag
(2002)) attributes numeric values to surfactants, with lipophilic substances receiving lower
HLB values and hydrophilic substances receiving higher HLB values.
[0043] Non-limiting examples of pharmaceutically acceptable surfactants that are
suitable for the present invention include polyoxyethylene castor oil derivates, e.g.
polyoxyethyleneglycerol triricinoleate or polyoxyl 35 castor oil (Cremophor® EL; BASF
Corp.) or polyoxyethyleneglycerol oxystearate such as polyethylenglycol 40 hydrogenated
castor oil (Cremophor® RH 40, also known as polyoxyl 40 hydrogenated castor oil or
macrogolglycerol hydroxystearate) or polyethylenglycol 60 hydrogenated castor oil
(Cremophor® RH 60); or a mono fatty acid ester of polyoxyethylene sorbitan, such as a
mono fatty acid ester of polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan, e.g. polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan
monooleate (Tween® 80), polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monostearate (Tween® 60),
polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monopalmitate (Tween® 40), or polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan
monolaurate (Tween® 20). Other non-limiting examples of suitable surfactants include
polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers, e.g. polyoxyethylene (3) lauryl ether, polyoxyethylene (5) cetyl
ether, polyoxyethylene (2) stearyl ether, polyoxyethylene (5) stearyl ether; polyoxyethylene
alkylaryl ethers, e.g. polyoxyethylene (2) nonylphenyl ether, polyoxyethylene (3)
nonylphenyl ether, polyoxyethylene (4) nonylphenyl ether, polyoxyethylene (3) octylphenyl
ether; polyethylene glycol fatty acid esters, e.g. PEG-200 monolaurate, PEG-200 dilaurate,
PEG-300 dilaurate, PEG-400 dilaurate, PEG-300 distearate, PEG-300 dioleate; alkylene
glycol fatty acid mono esters, e.g. propylene glycol monolaurate (Lauroglycol®); sucrose
fatty acid esters, e.g. sucrose monostearate, sucrose distearate, sucrose monolaurate, sucrose
dilaurate; sorbitan fatty acid mono esters such as sorbitan mono laurate (Span® 20), sorbitan
monooleate, sorbitan monopalnitate (Span® 40), or sorbitan stearate. Other suitable
surfactants include, but are not limited to, block copolymers of ethylene oxide and propylene
oxide, also known as polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene block copolymers or
polyoxyethylene polypropyleneglycol, such as Poloxamer® 124, Poloxamer® 188,
Poloxamer® 237, Poloxamer® 388, or Poloxamer® 407 (BASF Wyandotte Corp.). As
described above, a mixture of surfactants can be used in a solid composition of the present
invention.
[0044] Non-limiting examples of preferred surfactants for the invention include to
polysorbate 20, polysorbate 40, polysorbate 60, polysorbate 80, Cremophor RH 40,
Cremophor EL, Gelucire 44/14, Gelucire 50/13, D-alpha-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol
1000 succinate (vitamin E TPGS), propylene glycol laurate, sodium lauryl sulfate, and
sorbitan monolaurate.
[0045] In one embodiment, a solid composition of the present invention comprises an
amorphous solid dispersion or a solid solution which includes Compound I (or a
pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof) and a pharmaceutically acceptable hydrophilic
polymer. The solid composition also includes a pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant
which preferably is formulated in the amorphous solid dispersion or solid solution. The
hydrophilic polymer can be selected, for example, from the group consisting of homopolymer
of N-vinyl lactam, copolymer of N-vinyl lactam, cellulose ester, cellulose ether, polyalkylene
oxide, polyacrylate, polymethacrylate, polyacrylamide, polyvinyl alcohol, vinyl acetate
polymer, oligosaccharide, and polysaccharide. As a non-limiting example, the hydrophilic
polymer is selected from the group consisting of homopolymer of N-vinyl pyrrolidone,
copolymer of N-vinyl pyrrolidone, copolymer of N-vinyl pyrrolidone and vinyl acetate,
copolymer of N-vinyl pyrrolidone and vinyl propionate, polyvinylpyrrolidone,
methylcellulose, ethylcellulose, hydroxyalkylcelluloses, hydroxypropylcellulose,
hydroxyalkylalkylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, cellulose phthalate, cellulose
succinate, cellulose acetate phthalate, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose phthalate,
hydroxypropylmethylcellulose succinate, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose acetate succinate,
polyethylene oxide, polypropylene oxide, copolymer of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide,
methacrylic acid/ethyl acrylate copolymer, methacrylic acid/methyl methacrylate copolymer,
butyl methacrylate/2-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate copolymer, poly(hydroxyalkyl
acrylate), poly(hydroxyalkyl methacrylate), copolymer of vinyl acetate and crotonic acid,
partially hydrolyzed polyvinyl acetate, carrageenan, galactomannan, and xanthan gum.
Preferably, the hydrophilic polymer is selected from polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) K17, PVP
K25, PVP K30, PVP K90, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) E3, HPMC E5, HPMC
E6, HPMC E15, HPMC K3, HPMC A4, HPMC A15, HPMC acetate succinate (AS) LF,
HPMC AS MF, HPMC AS HF, HPMC AS LG, HPMC AS MG, HPMC AS HG, HPMC
phthalate (P) 50, HPMC P 55, Ethocel 4, Ethocel 7, Ethocel 10, Ethocel 14, Ethocel 20,
copovidone (vinylpyrrolidone-vinyl acetate copolymer 60/40), polyvinyl acetate,
methacrylate/methacrylic acid copolymer (Eudragit) L100-55, Eudragit L100, Eudragit S100,
polyethylene glycol (PEG) 400, PEG 600, PEG 1450, PEG 3350, PEG 4000, PEG 6000, PEG
8000, poloxamer 124, poloxamer 188, poloxamer 237, poloxamer 338, or poloxamer 407.
More preferably, the hydrophilic polymer is selected from homopolymers of vinylpyrrolidone
(e.g., PVP with Fikentscher K values of from 12 to 100, or PVP with Fikentscher K values of
from 17 to 30), or copolymers of 30 to 70% by weight of N-vinylpyrrolidone (VP) and 70 to
30% by weight of vinyl acetate (VA) (e.g., a copolymer of 60% by weight VP and 40% by
weight VA). The surfactant can be selected, for example, from the group consisting of
polyoxyethyleneglycerol triricinoleate or polyoxyl 35 castor oil (Cremophor® EL; BASF
Corp.) or polyoxyethyleneglycerol oxystearate, mono fatty acid ester of polyoxyethylene
sorbitan, polyoxyethylene alkyl ether, polyoxyethylene alkylaryl ether, polyethylene glycol
fatty acid ester, alkylene glycol fatty acid mono ester, sucrose fatty acid ester, and sorbitan
fatty acid mono ester. As a non-limited example, the surfactant is selected from the group
consisting of polyethylenglycol 40 hydrogenated castor oil (Cremophor® RH 40, also known
as polyoxyl 40 hydrogenated castor oil or macrogolglycerol hydroxy stearate),
polyethylenglycol 60 hydrogenated castor oil (Cremophor® RH 60), a mono fatty acid ester
of polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan (e.g. polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monooleate (Tween®
80), polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monostearate (Tween® 60), polyoxyethylene (20)
sorbitan monopalmitate (Tween® 40), or polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate
(Tween® 20)), polyoxyethylene (3) lauryl ether, polyoxyethylene (5) cetyl ether,
polyoxyethylene (2) stearyl ether, polyoxyethylene (5) stearyl ether, polyoxyethylene (2)
nonylphenyl ether, polyoxyethylene (3) nonylphenyl ether, polyoxyethylene (4) nonylphenyl
ether, polyoxyethylene (3) octylphenyl ether, PEG-200 monolaurate, PEG-200 dilaurate,
PEG-300 dilaurate, PEG-400 dilaurate, PEG-300 distearate, PEG-300 dioleate, propylene
glycol monolaurate, sucrose monostearate, sucrose distearate, sucrose monolaurate, sucrose
dilaurate, sorbitan mono laurate, sorbitan monooleate, sorbitan monopalnitate, and sorbitan
stearate. Preferably, the surfactant is selected from polysorbate 20, polysorbate 40,
polysorbate 60, polysorbate 80, Cremophor RH 40, Cremophor EL, Gelucire 44/14, Gelucire
50/13, D-alpha-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate (vitamin E TPGS), propylene
glycol laurate, sodium lauryl sulfate, or sorbitan monolaurate. More preferably, the
surfactant is selected from Tween (e.g., Tween 80, 60, 40 or 20) or D-alpha-tocopheryl
polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate. The solid composition may also comprise an amorphous
solid dispersion or solid solution of ritonavir, and preferably, ritonavir and Compound I (or a
pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof) are formulated in the same amorphous solid
dispersion or solid solution.
[0046] In another embodiment, a solid composition of the present invention
comprises an amorphous solid dispersion or solid solution which includes Compound I (or a
pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof) and a homopolymer or copolymer of N-vinyl
pyrrolidone (e.g., copovidone). The solid composition also comprises a pharmaceutically
acceptable surfactant (e.g., vitamin E TPGS, or polysorbate such as polysorbate 80), wherein
the surfactant preferably is formulated in the amorphous solid dispersion or solid solution.
The solid composition may also comprise an amorphous solid dispersion or solid solution of
ritonavir, and preferably, ritonavir and Compound I (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt
thereof) are formulated in the same amorphous solid dispersion or solid solution.
[0047] In yet another embodiment, a solid composition of the present invention
comprises an amorphous solid dispersion or solid solution which includes Compound I (or a
pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof), copovidone, and a pharmaceutically acceptable
surfactant selected from vitamin E TPGS or polysorbate (e.g., polysorbate 80). The
amorphous solid dispersion or solid solution may also include another pharmaceutically
acceptable surfactant such as propylene glycol laurate (e.g., lauroglycol FCC). The solid
composition may comprise an amorphous solid dispersion or solid solution of ritonavir, and
preferably, ritonavir and Compound I (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof) are
formulated in the same amorphous solid dispersion or solid solution.
[0048] A solid dispersion employed in the present invention preferably comprises or
consists of a single-phase (defined in thermodynamics) in which the therapeutic agent (e.g.,
Compound I and/or ritonavir) and the pharmaceutically acceptable hydrophilic polymer are
molecularly dispersed. In such cases, thermal analysis of the solid dispersion using
differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) typically shows only one single Tg, and the solid
dispersion does not contain any detectable crystalline Compound I or ritonavir as measured
by X-ray powder diffraction spectroscopy.
[0049] Compound I can be prepared according to the procedures described in U.S.
Patent Application No. 12/584,716, filed September 10, 2009. Boc-2(S)-amino-non-8-eoic
acid dicyclohexylamine salt can be suspended in isopropyl acetate, washed several times with
an aqueous citric acid solution and then once with water. The washed product, concentrated
and then re-diluted in isopropyl acetate, can be reacted with HC1 to produce 2(S)-amino-non-
8-eoic acid HC1 salt. 5-Methyl-2-pyrazinecarboxylic acid, N,N'-disuccinimidyl carbonate,
and N,N-dimethylaminopyridine can be dissolved in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) and
stirred. 2(S)-Amino-non-8-eoic acid HC1 salt is subsequently added, followed by
triethylamine, and stirred to produce (S)-2-(5-methylpyrazine-2-carboxamido)non-8-enoic
acid, which can be crystallized out by adding HC1 followed by water. (2S,4R)-N-Boc-4-
hydroxyproline can be reacted with 6-chlorophenanthridine in NMP, in the presence of
sodium t-butoxide, to produce (2S,4R)-l-(tert-butoxycarbonyl)-4-(phenanthridin-6-
yloxy)pyrrolidine-2-carboxylic acid. Methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) and water can then
be added. The aqueous layer is separated, washed, and then HCl is added, followed by
extraction with MTBE. The extracted product can be mixed with diisopropylethylamine
(DIPEA) and HATU (CAS # 148893-10-1), and then reacted with (lR,2S)-ethyl-l-amino-2-
vinylcyclopropanecarboxylate tosylate salt in dimethylformide (DMF) and toluene. The
reaction produces (2S,4R)-tert-butyl 2-((lR,2S)-l-(ethoxycarbonyl)-2-
vinylcyclopropylcarbamoyl)-4-(phenanthridin-6-yloxy)pyrrolidine- 1-carboxylate, which can
be extracted with MTBE and washed with HCl, further extracted, washed, dried, and
dissolved in 2-propanol.
[0050] HCl can be added to the 2-propanol solution to produce (lR,2S)-ethyl 1-
((2S,4R)-4-(phenanthridin-6-yloxy)pyrrolidine-2-carboxamido)-2-
vinylcyclopropanecarboxylate, which can be crystallized out by neutralizing with NaOH.
(lR,2S)-ethyl l-((2S,4R)-4-(phenanthridin-6-yloxy)pyrrolidine-2-carboxamido)-2-
vinylcyclopropanecarboxylate, (S)-2-(5-methylpyrazine-2-carboxamido)non-8-enoic acid, Nhydroxy-
5-norbornene-2,3-dicarboximide, and N-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-N'-
ethylcarbodiimide hydrochloride can be mixed and stirred in DMF, followed by addition of
N,N-dimethylethylene diamine. The reaction produces (lR,2S)-ethyl l-((2S,4R)-l-((S)-2-(5-
methylpyrazine-2-carboxamido)non-8-enoyl)-4-(phenanthridin-6-yloxy)pyrrolidine-2-
carboxamido)-2-vinylcyclopropanecarboxylate, which can be dissolved in isopropyl acetate
and extracted with aqueous H3PO4, and then extracted with aqueous K2HPO 4 . The product
can be reacted with di-tert-butyldicarbonate in the presence of dimethylaminopyridine,
followed by extraction with a mixture of a citric acid solution and a sodium chloride solution,
to produce (lR,2S)-ethyl-l-((2S,4R)-N-(tert-butoxycarbonyl)-l-((S)-2-(5-methylpyrazine-2-
carboxamido)non-8-enoyl)-4-(phenanthridin-6-yloxy)pyrrolidine-2-carboxamido)-2-
vinylcyclopropanecarboxylate, which can be subject to ring-closing metathesis in the
presence of Zhan Catalyst- IB (Zannan Pharma Ltd., Shanghai, China) in toluene to produce
(2R,6S,13aS,14aR,16aS,Z)-15-tert-butyl 14a-ethyl 6-(5-methylpyrazine-2-carboxamido)-
5,16-dioxo-2-(phenanthridin-6-yloxy)-2,3,5,6,7, 8,9,10,11, 13a,14,14a,16,16atetradecahydrocyclopropa[
e]pyrrolo[l,2-a][l,4]diazacyclopentadecine-14a,15(lH)-
dicarboxylate. The catalyst can be quenched with imidazole after the reaction.
[0051] The ring-closed product in toluene can be solvent switched to acetonitrile,
followed by addition of hydrogen chloride in dioxane and heated to produce
(2R,6S,13aS,14aR,16aS,Z)-ethyl-6-(5-methylpyrazine-2-carboxamido)-5,16-dioxo-2-
(phenanthridin-6-yloxy)-l,2,3,5,6,7,8,9,10,ll,13a,14,14a,15,16,16ahexadecahydrocyclopropa[
e]pyrrolo[l,2-a][l,4]diazacyclopentadecine-14a-carboxylate
hydrochloride, which can then be isolated, mixed with tetrahydrofuran, water and LiOH H20 ,
and then heated and stirred. The reaction mixture can be later cooled, added with aqueous
H3PO4, aqueous NaCl and 2-methyl tetrahydrofuran, and the organic layer is separated,
washed and filtered. MeCN is added to the concentrated organic layer, heated and cooled,
and then diethylamine is added. The slurry is heated and cooled to form
(2R,6S,13aS,14aR,16aS,Z)-6-(5-Methylpyrazine-2-carboxamido)-5,16-dioxo-2-
(phenanthridin-6-yloxy)-l,2,3,5,6,7,8,9,10,ll,13a,14,14a,15,16,16ahexadecahydrocyclopropa[
e]pyrrolo[l,2-a][l,4]diazacyclopentadecine-14a-carboxylate
diethylamine salt, which can be further washed and dried.
[0052] The diethylamine salt can be mixed with tetrahydrofuran, 2-methyl
tetrahydrofuran and aqueous H3PO4 . The organic layer is separated, washed with aqueous
NaCl, and then concentrated and/or purified. The product can be subsequently mixed with
NMP, followed by addition of carbonyldiimidazole (CDI) and then 1,8-
diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-ene (DBU). Cyclopropylsulfonamide can be subsequently added.
The reaction mixture is stirred for hours. Isopropyl acetate can then be added, followed by
aqueous KH2P0 4 and then aqueous H3PO4 . The organic layer can be isolated, washed, and
purified to produce Compound I, which can be further dissolved in isopropyl acetate and then
the solution is diluted with ethanol. Water can be added to the resulting solution in portionwise
manner with adequate hold-times after each addition to ensure de-super-saturation.
Water addition is terminated just as the ternary solvent system becomes bi-phasic due to the
partial immiscibility of isopropyl acetate, ethanol, water solvent system. The slurry can be
stirred for hours and then the solid is isolated via filtration and drying to produce the
crystalline hydrate of Compound I .
[0053] A solid composition of the present invention can further include one or more
other anti-HCV agents. These other anti-HCV agents can be, for example, HCV polymerase
inhibitors (including nucleoside or non-nucleoside type of polymerase inhibitors), HCV
protease inhibitors, HCV helicase inhibitors, CD81 inhibitors, cyclophilin inhibitors, internal
ribosome entry site inhibitors, or HCV NS5A inhibitors. Specific examples of these other
anti-HCV agents include, but are not limited to, ribavirin, oc-interferon, b-interferon,
pegylated interferon- , pegylated interferon-lambda, telaprevir, boceprevir, GGMN-191, BI-
201335, TMC-435, MK-7009, VBY-376, VX-500 (Vertex), PHX-B, ACH-1625, IDX136,
IDX316, VX-813 (Vertex), SCH 900518 (Schering-Plough), TMC-435 (Tibotec), ITMN-191
(Intermune, Roche), MK-7009 (Merck), IDX-PI (Novartis), BI-201335 (Boehringer
Ingelheim), R7128 (Roche), PSI-7851 (Pharmasset), MK-3281 (Merck), PF-868554 (Pfizer),
IDX-184 (Novartis), IDX-375 (Pharmasset), BILB-1941 (Boehringer Ingelheim), GS-9190
(Gilead), BMS-790052 (BMS), and Albuferon (Novartis).
[0054] A solid composition of the present invention preferably is a solid oral dosage
form. Common solid oral dosage forms suitable for the present invention include, but are not
limited to, capsules, dragees, granules, pills, powders and tablets, with capsules and tablets
being preferred. A solid oral dosage form of the present invention can also include other
excipients or inset diluents, such as sucrose, lactose or starch. Lubricants, coloring agents,
releasing agents, coating agents, sweetening or flavoring agents, buffering agents,
preservatives, or antioxidants can also be included in a solid oral dosage form of the present
invention.
[0055] A solid composition of the present invention can be prepared by a variety of
techniques such as, without limitation, melt-extrusion, spray-drying, co-precipitation, freeze
drying, or other solvent evaporation techniques, with melt-extrusion and spray-drying being
preferred. The melt-extrusion process typically comprises the steps of preparing a melt
which includes the active ingredient(s), the hydrophilic polymer(s) and preferably the
surfactant(s), and then cooling the melt until it solidifies. "Melting" means a transition into a
liquid or rubbery state in which it is possible for one component to get embedded, preferably
homogeneously embedded, in the other component or components. In many cases, the
polymer component(s) will melt and the other components including the active ingredient(s)
and surfactant(s) will dissolve in the melt thereby forming a solution. Melting usually
involves heating above the softening point of the polymer(s). The preparation of the melt can
take place in a variety of ways. The mixing of the components can take place before, during
or after the formation of the melt. For example, the components can be mixed first and then
melted or be simultaneously mixed and melted. The melt can also be homogenized in order
to disperse the active ingredient(s) efficiently. In addition, it may be convenient first to melt
the polymer(s) and then to mix in and homogenize the active ingredient(s). In one example,
all materials except surfactant(s) are blended and fed into an extruder, while the surfactant(s)
is molten externally and pumped in during extrusion.
[0056] In another example, the melt comprises Compound I and one or more
hydrophilic polymers described above, and the melt temperature is in the range of from 100
to 170 °C, preferably from 120 to 150 °C, and highly preferably from 135 to 140 °C.
[0057] In yet another example, the melt comprises Compound I, ritonavir and one or
more hydrophilic polymers described above. The melt can also include a pharmaceutically
acceptable surfactant described above.
[0058] In still another example, the melt comprises Compound I, ritonavir, at least
another HCV agent described above, and one or more hydrophilic polymers described above.
The melt can also include a pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant described above.
[0059] To start a melt-extrusion process, the active ingredient(s) (e.g., Compound I,
or a combination of Compound I and ritonavir, or a combination of Compound I, ritonavir
and at least another anti-HCV agent) can be employed in their solid forms, such as their
respective crystalline forms. The active ingredient(s) can also be employed as a solution or
dispersion in a suitable liquid solvent such as alcohols, aliphatic hydrocarbons, esters or, in
some cases, liquid carbon dioxide. The solvent can be removed, e.g. evaporated, upon
preparation of the melt.
[0060] Various additives can also be included in the melt, for example, flow
regulators (e.g., colloidal silica), binders, lubricants, fillers, disintegrants, plasticizers,
colorants, or stabilizers (e.g., antioxidants, light stabilizers, radical scavengers, and stabilizers
against microbial attack).
[0061] The melting and/or mixing can take place in an apparatus customary for this
purpose. Particularly suitable ones are extruders or kneaders. Suitable extruders include
single screw extruders, intermeshing screw extruders or multiscrew extruders, preferably twin
screw extruders, which can be corotating or counterrotating and, optionally, be equipped with
kneading disks. It will be appreciated that the working temperatures will be determined by
the kind of extruder or the kind of configuration within the extruder that is used. Part of the
energy needed to melt, mix and dissolve the components in the extruder can be provided by
heating elements. However, the friction and shearing of the material in the extruder may also
provide a substantial amount of energy to the mixture and aid in the formation of a
homogeneous melt of the components.
[0062] The melt can range from thin to pasty to viscous. Shaping of the extrudate can
be conveniently carried out by a calender with two counter-rotating rollers with mutually
matching depressions on their surface. The extrudate can be cooled and allow to solidify.
The extrudate can also be cut into pieces, either before (hot-cut) or after solidification (coldcut).
[0063] The solidified extrusion product can be further milled, ground or otherwise
reduced to granules. The solidified extrudate, as well as each granule produced, comprises a
solid dispersion, preferably a solid solution, of the active ingredient(s) in a matrix comprised
of the hydrophilic polymer(s) and optionally the pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant(s).
Where the granules do not contain any surfactant, a pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant
described above can be added to and blended with the granules. The extrusion product can
also be blended with other active ingredient(s) and/or additive(s) before being milled or
ground to granules. The granules can be further processed into suitable solid oral dosage
forms.
[0064] In one example, copovidone and one or more surfactants are mixed and
granulated, followed by the addition of aerosil, Compound I and ritonavir. The mixture is
then milled. The weight ratio of Compound I over ritonavir can range, for example, from 1:1
to 5:1, such as 1:1, 2:1 or 4:1. For instance, the mixture can contain 10% Compound I and
5% ritonavir by weight. For another instance, the mixture can contain 15% Compound I and
7.5% ritonavir by weight. The mixture is then subject to extrusion, and the extrudate thus
produced can be milled and sieved for further processing to make capsules or tablets.
Surfactant(s) employed in this example can also be added through liquid dosing during
extrusion.
[0065] In another example, copovidone and one or more surfactants are mixed and
granulated, following by the addition of aerosil and Compound I . The mixture, which may
contain for example 15% by weight of Compound I, is then milled and extruded. The
extrudate thus produced can be further milled and sieved. Ritonavir extrudate can be
similarly prepared. Compound I extrudate can be blended with ritonavir extrudate and then
co-compressed to make tablets. Preferably, the weight ratio of Compound I over ritonavir in
the blend can range, without limitation, from 1:1 to 1:5, such as 1:1, 2:1 or 4:1.
[0066] The approach of solvent evaporation, via spray-drying, provides the advantage
of allowing for processability at lower temperatures, if needed, and allows for other
modifications to the process in order to further improve powder properties. The spray-dried
powder can then be formulated further, if needed, and final drug product is flexible with
regards to whether capsule, tablet and/or co-formulation with ritonavir is desired.
[0067] Exemplary spray-drying processes and spray-drying equipment are described
in K. Masters, SPRAY DRYING HANDBOOK (Halstead Press, New York, 4th ed., 1985). Nonlimiting
examples of spray-drying devices that are suitable for the present invention include
spray dryers manufactured by Niro Inc. or GEA Process Engineering Inc., Buchi
Labortechnik AG, and Spray Drying Systems, Inc. A spray-drying process generally
involves breaking up a liquid mixture into small droplets and rapidly removing solvent from
the droplets in a container (spray drying apparatus) where there is a strong driving force for
evaporation of solvent from the droplets. Atomization techniques include, for example, twofluid
or pressure nozzles, or rotary atomizers. The strong driving force for solvent
evaporation can be provided, for example, by maintaining the partial pressure of solvent in
the spray drying apparatus well below the vapor pressure of the solvent at the temperatures of
the drying droplets. This may be accomplished by either (1) maintaining the pressure in the
spray drying apparatus at a partial vacuum; (2) mixing the liquid droplets with a warm drying
gas (e.g., heated nitrogen); or (3) both.
[0068] The temperature and flow rate of the drying gas, as well as the spray dryer
design, can be selected so that the droplets are dry enough by the time they reach the wall of
the apparatus. This help to ensure that the dried droplets are essentially solid and can form a
fine powder and do not stick to the apparatus wall. The spray-dried product can be collected
by removing the material manually, pneumatically, mechanically or by other suitable means.
The actual length of time to achieve the preferred level of dryness depends on the size of the
droplets, the formulation, and spray dryer operation. Following the solidification, the solid
powder may stay in the spray drying chamber for additional time (e.g., 5-60 seconds) to
further evaporate solvent from the solid powder. The final solvent content in the solid
dispersion as it exits the dryer is preferably at a sufficiently low level so as to improve the
stability of the final product. For instance, the residual solvent content of the spray-dried
powder can be less than 2% by weight. Highly preferably, the residual solvent content is
within the limits set forth in the International Conference on Harmonization (ICH)
Guidelines. In addition, it may be useful to subject the spray-dried composition to further
drying to lower the residual solvent to even lower levels. Methods to further lower solvent
levels include, but are not limited to, fluid bed drying, infra-red drying, tumble drying,
vacuum drying, and combinations of these and other processes.
[0069] Like the solid extrudate described above, the spray dried product contains a
solid dispersion, preferably a solid solution, of the active ingredient(s) in a matrix comprised
of the hydrophilic polymer(s) and optionally the pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant(s).
Where the spray dried product does not contain any surfactant, a pharmaceutically acceptable
surfactant described above can be added to and blended with the spray-dried product before
further processing.
[0070] Before feeding into a spray dryer, the active ingredient(s) (e.g., Compound I,
or a combination of Compound I and ritonavir, or a combination of Compound I, ritonavir
and at least another anti-HCV agent), the hydrophilic polymer(s), as well as other optional
active ingredients or excipients such as the pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant(s), can be
dissolved in a solvent. Suitable solvents include, but are not limited to, alkanols (e.g.,
methanol, ethanol, 1-propanol, 2-propanol or mixtures thereof), acetone, acetone/water,
alkanol/water mixtures (e.g., ethanol/water mixtures), or combinations thereof. The solution
can also be preheated before being fed into the spray dryer.
[0071] The solid dispersion produced by melt-extrusion, spray-drying or other
techniques can be prepared into any suitable solid oral dosage forms. In one embodiment, the
solid dispersion prepared by melt-extrusion, spray-drying or other techniques (e.g., the
extrudate or the spray-dried powder) can be compressed into tablets. The solid dispersion
can be either directly compressed, or milled or ground to granules or powders before
compression. Compression can be done in a tablet press, such as in a steel die between two
moving punches. When a solid composition of the present invention comprises Compound I
and ritonavir, or Compound I and another anti-HCV agent, it is possible to separately prepare
solid dispersions of each individual active ingredient and then blend the optionally milled or
ground solid dispersions before compacting. Compound I and other active ingredient(s) can
also be prepared in the same solid dispersion, optionally milled and/or blended with other
additives, and then compressed into tablets.
[0072] At least one additive selected from flow regulators, disintegrants, bulking
agents (fillers) and lubricants may be used in compressing the solid dispersion. These
additives can be mixed with ground or milled solid dispersion before compacting.
Disintegrants promote a rapid disintegration of the compact in the stomach and keeps the
liberated granules separate from one another. Non-limiting examples of suitable disintegrants
are cross-linked polymers such as cross-linked polyvinyl pyrrolidone and cross-linked
sodium carboxymethylcellulose. Non-limiting examples of suitable bulking agents (also
referred to as "fillers") are lactose, calcium hydrogenphosphate, microcrystalline cellulose
(e.g., Avicell), silicates, in particular silicium dioxide, magnesium oxide, talc, potato or corn
starch, isomalt, or polyvinyl alcohol. Non-limiting examples of suitable flow regulators
include highly dispersed silica (e.g., Aerosil), and animal or vegetable fats or waxes. Nonlimiting
examples of suitable lubricants include polyethylene glycol (e.g., having a molecular
weight of from 1000 to 6000), magnesium and calcium stearates, sodium stearyl fumarate,
and the like.
[0073] Various other additives may also be used in preparing a solid composition of
the present invention, for example dyes such as azo dyes, organic or inorganic pigments such
as aluminium oxide or titanium dioxide, or dyes of natural origin; stabilizers such as
antioxidants, light stabilizers, radical scavengers, stabilizers against microbial attack.
[0074] Solid compositions according to certain embodiments of the present invention
may contain several layers, for example laminated or multilayer tablets. They can be in open
or closed form. "Closed dosage forms" are those in which one layer is completely
surrounded by at least one other layer.
[0075] In order to facilitate the intake of a solid dosage form, it is advantageous to
give the dosage form an appropriate shape. Large tablets that can be swallowed comfortably
are therefore preferably elongated rather than round in shape.
[0076] A film coat on the tablet further contributes to the ease with which it can be
swallowed. A film coat also improves taste and provides an elegant appearance. The filmcoat
usually includes a polymeric film-forming material such as hydroxypropyl
methylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, and acrylate or methacrylate copolymers. Besides
a film-forming polymer, the film-coat may further comprise a plasticizer, e.g. polyethylene
glycol, a surfactant, e.g. polysorbates, and optionally a pigment, e.g. titanium dioxide or iron
oxides. The film-coating may also comprise talc as anti-adhesive. Preferably, the film coat
accounts for less than 5 % by weight of a pharmaceutical composition of the present
invention.
[0077] In another aspect, the present invention feature methods of using solid
compositions of the present invention to treat HIV infection. The methods comprise
administering a solid composition of the present invention to a patient in need thereof. A
solid composition of the present invention can be administered either alone, or in
combination with one or more other anti-HCV agents, such as those described hereinabove.
The specific inhibitory dose for any particular patient will depend upon a variety of factors
including the severity of the HCV infection; the activity of Compound I in the particular
patient; the specific solid composition employed; the age, body weight, general health, sex
and diet of the patient; the time of administration and rate of excretion; the duration of the
treatment; drugs used in combination or coincidental with Compound I; and like factors well
known in the medical arts.
[0078] In one embodiment, a method of the present invention comprises
administering to a patient in need thereof a solid composition of the present invention and at
least another anti-HCV agent, wherein said another anti-HCV agent is selected from HCV
polymerase inhibitors (e.g., nucleoside or non-nucleoside HCV polymerase inhibitors), HCV
protease inhibitors, HCV helicase inhibitors, CD81 inhibitors, cyclophilin inhibitors, internal
ribosome entry site inhibitors, or HCV NS5A inhibitors. Preferably, said another anti-HCV
agent is an HCV polymerase inhibitor (e.g., nucleoside or non-nucleoside HCV polymerase
inhibitor) or an HCV NS5A inhibitor. The administration of a solid composition of the
present invention and another anti-HCV agent(s) can be concurrent or sequential.
[0079] The present invention also features use of a solid composition of the present
invention for the manufacture of medicaments for the treatment of HCV infection.
[0080] It should be understood that the above-described embodiments and the
following examples are given by way of illustration, not limitation. Various changes and
modifications within the scope of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled
in the art from the present description.
Example 1
[0081] Pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters of Compound I and ritonavir were estimated
using WinNonlin 5.2 (Pharsight, Mountain View, CA), using non-compartmental analysis.
Values below limit of quantification were replaced by zero. Missing values were treated as if
they were never drawn. Nominal blood sampling times and doses as specified in the protocol
were used for PK analysis.
[0082] The following primary pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters were determined for
Compound I and ritonavir:
AUG Area under the concentration versus time curve from time 0 to
infinity calculated as AUC = AUCiast + (Ciast/Kei), where Gast is the
last quantifiable concentration
Dose-normalized Dose-normalized area under the concentration versus time curve
AUC from time 0 to infinity (AUC ¥ or AU O- ):)
normalizeddose
AUC = AUC
actual dose
C„ Maximum observed plasma concentration
Dose-normalized Dose-normalized maximum observed plasma concentration:
normalized dose
Cmax norm C *
actual dose
Time of maximum plasma concentration
Example 2
[0083] Compound I in crystalline monohydrate and dihydrate forms was mixed with
hydrophilic polymers and pharmaceutically acceptable surfactants at various ratios, and
dissolved in an organic solvent (acetone or ethanol/water mixtures). The solvent was then
removed from the system under heat (75°C) and vacuum, using a Genevac rotary evaporatory
or Buchi Rotavap. Solid dispersions of Compound I at various drug loading levels and using
different surfactants or polymers were sieved through a 30 mesh screen to reduce particle
size. The resultant solid dispersion samples were used for amorphous characterization by Xray
powder diffraction (PXRD), chemical stability, in-vitro dissolution test and dog
bioavailability studies.
[0084] For dog bioavailability studies, the solid dispersion powder was filled into
hard gelatin capsules to achieve target dose of 50 mg. The capsule was co-dosed with a 50
mg of ritonavir. For in-vitro dissolution studies, the release of Compound I was evaluated.
[0085] The hydrophilic polymers tested included copovidone, hydroxypropyl
methylcellulose acetate succinate (HPMC-AS), and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose grade E5
(HPMC-E5). The surfactants tested included Vitamin E TPGS, polysorbate 20, polysorbate
80, poloxamer, propylene glycol laurate, and span 20. The amount of the surfactant(s) in
each solid dispersion tested was no more than 10% by weight, and the amount of Compound
I in each solid dispersion ranged from 10 to 40% by weight.
[0086] All solid dispersions tested showed that Compound I was in an amorphous
form, as indicated by their PXRD patterns. Solid dispersions containing copovidone or
HPMC-AS were tested for stability and showed chemical stability after 4 weeks at 40 °C and
75% relative humidity in open dish studies. These solid dispersions also exhibited rapid
dissolution rate.
Example 3
[0087] Two tablet formulations were prepared using spray-drying to produce a solid
dispersion powder of amorphous Compound I within a polymer matrix. For the 1st tablet
formulation, the spray dried powder contained 17.5% by weight of Compound I, 72.5% by
weight of copovidone, and 10% by weight of polysorbate 80. For the 2nd tablet formulation,
the spray dried powder contained 17.5% by weight of Compound I, 72.5% by weight of
copovidone, 7% by weight of propylene glycol monoloaurate, and 3% by weight of Vitamin
E TPGS. For both formulations, acetone was used as a solvent for spray-drying.
[0088] The spray dried powder was further dried under vacuum to remove residual
solvent. The vacuum dried powder was blended with microcrystalline cellulose, anhydrous
dibasic calcium phosphate, pregelatinized starch, croscarmellose sodium, colloidal silicon
dioxide, and sodium stearyl fumarate. This blend was optionally dry granulated via roller
compaction and then milled to produce granules. The resulting granules were then blended
with additional sodium stearyl fumarate prior to being compressed into the final tablet dosage
form.
Example 4
[0089] Compound I and ritonavir were co-extruded using melt-extrusion. Four
extrudates were prepared, and then milled and filled into capsules. The 1ST extrudate
contained Compound I, ritonavir, copovidone, lauroglycol FCC, and Vitamin E TPGS in a
weight ration of 10:5:77:5:3 (hereinafter Formulation 1). The 2ND extrudate contained
Compound I, ritonavir, copovidone, and polysorbate 80 in a weight ration of 15:7.5:67.5: 10
(hereinafter Formulation 2). The 3 extrudate contained Compound I, ritonavir, copovidone,
lauroglycol FCC, and Vitamin E TPGS in a weight ration of 10:5:79:4:2 (hereinafter
Formulation 3). The 4TH extrudate contained Compound I, ritonavir, copovidone, lauroglycol
FCC, and Vitamin E TPGS in a weight ration of 15:7.5:69.5:5:3 (hereinafter Formulation 4).
Each of these extrudate capsules contained 50 mg Compound I and 25 mg ritonavir.
[0090] Compound I and ritonavir were also separately extruded using melt-extrusion.
The Compound I extrudate contained Compound I, copovidone, Lauroglycol FCC, Vitamin E
TPGS and aerosol in a weight ratio of 15:76: 5:3 :1. The ritonavir extrudate contained
ritonavir, copovidone, span 20 and aerosol in a weight ratio of 15:74: 10: 1. Both extrudates
were milled, mixed together, and then co-compressed into tablets. Each tablet contained 100
mg Compound I and 50 mg ritonavir (hereinafter Formulation 5).
[0091] The bioavailability of the extrudate capsules and the co-compressed tablet was
assessed in Beagle dogs after single oral administration. The administered doses were 100
mg Compound I and 50 mg ritonavir per animal. Four dogs (two male and two female dogs)
were used in the study. Thirty minutes prior to dosing, each dog received a subcutaneous
dose of histamine (100 mg/kg 0.05 ml/kg in water). See Kahlson et al. J PHYSIOL 174:400-
416 (1964); and Akimoto et al. EUR J PHARM BIOPHARM 49:99-102 (2000). Each dogs was
subjected to single oral doses of Formulations 1-5 in different weeks, each week with one
single dose administration. Plasma samples were collected at 0.33, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12 and 24
hours post-dose administration, and were analyzed for Compound I and ritonavir by LCMS/
MS.
[0092] The mean dose-normalized AUC¥ values of Compound I for Formulations 1-5
were 183.6, 131.6, 188.9, 190.3, and 299.1 m · 1, respectively, at a 10 mg/kg dose. The
mean dose-normalized Cmax values of Compound I for Formulations 1-5 were 28.5, 24.5,
23.6, 26.8, and 43.3 mg/ml, respectively, at a 10 mg/kg dose.
[0093] The mean dose-normalized AUC¥ values of ritonavir for Formulations 1-5
were 3.9, 2.8, 2.4, 1.3, and 3.4 mg·h/ml, respectively, at a 5 mg/kg dose. The mean dosenormalized
Cmax values of ritonavir for Formulations 1-5 were 1.1, 0.8, 0.7, 0.5, and 1.1
mg/ml, respectively, at a 5 mg/kg dose.
[0094] The foregoing description of the present invention provides illustration and
description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise one
disclosed. Modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings or may be
acquired from practice of the invention. Thus, it is noted that the scope of the invention is
defined by the claims and their equivalents.
What is claimed is:
1. A solid composition comprising
(1) (2R,6S ,13aS ,14aR,16aS ,Z)-N-(cyclopropylsulfonyl)-6-(5-methylpyrazine-2-
carboxamido)-5,16-dioxo-2-(phenanthridin-6-yloxy)-
1,2,3,5,6,7,8,9, 10, 11, 13a, 14, 14a, 15,16, 16a-hexadecahydrocyclopropa[e]pyrrolo[l, 2-
a][l,4]diazacyclopentadecine-14a-carboxamide, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof,
in an amorphous form;
(2) a pharmaceutically acceptable hydrophilic polymer; and
(3) a pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant.
2. The composition of claim 1, comprising a solid dispersion which includes:
(1) said (2R,6S,13aS,14aR,16aS,Z)-N-(cyclopropylsulfonyl)-6-(5-methylpyrazine-2-
carboxamido)-5,16-dioxo-2-(phenanthridin-6-yloxy)-
l,2,3,5,6,7,8,9,10,ll,13a,14,14a,15,16,16a-hexadecahydrocyclopropa[e]pyrrolo[l,2-
a][l,4]diazacyclopentadecine-14a-carboxamide, or said pharmaceutically acceptable salt
thereof, and
(2) said polymer.
3. The composition of claim 2, wherein said polymer has a Tg of at least 50 °C.
4. The composition of claim 3, wherein said surfactant has a HLB value of at least 10.
5. The composition of claim 4, further comprising another surfactant having a HLB
value of below 10.
6. The composition of claim 3, wherein said solid dispersion is an amorphous solid
dispersion which further comprises said surfactant.
7. The composition of claim 3, wherein said polymer is a homopolymer or copolymer of
N-vinyl pyrrolidone.
8. The composition of claim 2, wherein said polymer is copovidone.
The composition of claim 8, wherein said surfactant is propylene glycol laurate.
10. The composition of claim 9, further comprising D-alpha-tocopheryl polyethylene
glycol 1000 succinate.
11. The composition of claim 8, wherein said surfactant is polysorbate.
12. The composition of claim 8, wherein said surfactant is polysorbate 80.
13. The composition of claim 8, wherein said solid dispersion is an amorphous solid
dispersion.
14. The composition of claim 8, where said solid dispersion is a solid solution which
comprises said surfactant.
15. The composition of claim 1, further comprising ritonavir.
16. The composition of claim 2, wherein said solid dispersion further comprises ritonavir.
17. The composition of claim 6, wherein said solid dispersion further comprises ritonavir.
18. The composition of claim 14, wherein said solid solution further comprises ritonavir.
19. A process of making the composition of claim 1, comprising drying a solvent in a
liquid solution, wherein said solution comprises:
(1) (2R,6S,13aS,14aR,16aS,Z)-N-(cyclopropylsulfonyl)-6-(5-methylpyrazine-2-
carboxamido)-5,16-dioxo-2-(phenanthridin-6-yloxy)-
l,2,3,5,6,7,8,9,10,ll,13a,14,14a,15,16,16a-hexadecahydrocyclopropa[e]pyrrolo[l,2-
a][l,4]diazacyclopentadecine-14a-carboxamide, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt
thereof;
(2) said polymer; and
(3) said surfactant.
20. A process of making the composition of claim 1, comprising solidifying a melt,
wherein said melt comprises:
(1) (2R,6S,13aS,14aR,16aS,Z)-N-(cyclopropylsulfonyl)-6-(5-methylpyrazine-2-
carboxamido)-5,16-dioxo-2-(phenanthridin-6-yloxy)-
l,2,3,5,6,7,8,9,10,ll,13a,14,14a,15,16,16a-hexadecahydrocyclopropa[e]pyrrolo[l,2-
a][l,4]diazacyclopentadecine-14a-carboxamide, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt
thereof;
(2) said polymer; and
(3) said surfactant.