Before formulation development, pre-formulation research is typically necessary to determine the optimal combination and ratio of raw materials and excipients to meet specific product requirements. As a pharmaceutical expert in therapeutic proteins and peptides, CD Formulation can design and explore the most suitable pre-preparation formulas for various protein and peptide drugs. Additionally, we conduct comprehensive evaluations of physical and chemical properties, identifying any potential issues or challenges that may arise during formulation development.
Pre-formulation studies represent a crucial stage in the development of any drug molecule, including proteins and peptides. These studies delve into the physical and chemical characteristics of drug molecules, encompassing solubility, stability, dissolution kinetics, morphology, crystal structure, surface properties, intermolecular interactions, etc. These properties not only influence therapeutic efficacy but also dictate the specifics of formulation development.
Pre-formulation studies for peptides and proteins are inherently complex compared to small molecule drugs. This complexity arises from the multiple sites within the structure of a peptide or protein that are susceptible to various physical instabilities (e.g., denaturation, precipitation) and chemical instabilities (e.g., oxidation, deamidation, beta-elimination). However, pre-formulation studies provide a comprehensive approach to understanding and optimizing the properties of protein and peptide molecules, ensuring their effectiveness and stability throughout dosage form development and pharmacological studies. Through pre-formulation research, potential issues can be identified and addressed, while improved designs can be proposed to enhance the performance and stability of drug molecules.
At CD Formulation, for protein and peptide active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), our pre-formulation research includes screening to find optimal conditions supporting upstream and downstream processing and production, ensuring the quality and stability of the final product. Leveraging advanced technologies and methodologies, our team meticulously analyzes and evaluates protein and peptide APIs, considering factors such as stability, solubility and other characteristics. Through carefully designed experiments and testing, we deliver high-quality, reliable protein and peptide preparation products to our clients.
At this stage, we also offer the development of stability-indicating assays and the identification of some key excipients using systematic approaches such as Design of Experiments (DOE) or Empirical Phase Diagrams (EPD). We meticulously screen excipients and their ratios by detecting the impact of different stress conditions such as pH, temperature, freeze-thaw, drying, and purity on the preparation, thereby determining the most suitable conditions and processes for formulation.
We will continue to develop your lyophilized product if initial stability studies indicate that traditional liquid formulations don’t meet the desired target product characteristics established early in your project.
Furthermore, throughout pre-formulation studies, our dedicated team offers support in developing and optimizing relevant analytical methods for subsequent formulation development stages. Our pre-formulation research services include, but are not limited to:
Published Data
Technology: Pre-Formulation Studies of Insulin from Selected Hydrogels
Journal: Pharmaceutics
IF: 5.4
Published: 2021
Results:
The aim of the study was to develop a formulation of insulin that could be applied to the skin. The authors chose hydrogels commonly used for pharmaceutical compounding. Carbopol® UltrezTM 10, Carbopol® UltrezTM 30, methyl cellulose, and glycerin ointment were used prepared different gel formulations, and the influence of model hydrogels on the pharmaceutical availability of insulin in vitro were assessed. Based on spectroscopic methods, the influence of model hydrogels on secondary and tertiary structures of insulin were evaluated. The analysis of rheograms showed that hydrogels are typical of shear-thinning non-Newtonian thixotropic fluids. Insulin release from the formulations occurs in a prolonged manner, providing a longer duration of action of the hormone. The stability of insulin in hydrogels was confirmed. The obtained results indicate that the effective treatment of diabetic foot ulcers can be achieved with a methyl cellulose-based insulin preparation.
Fig. 2 Graphical comparison of profiles of insulin release from the tested hydrogels. (Ostróżka-Cieślik A, et al., 2021)
Pre-formulation research involves characterizing the physical and chemical properties of therapeutic proteins and peptides, both in isolation and when combined with excipients. This process provides crucial data to support subsequent formulation development stages. CD Formulation is dedicated to aiding you in conducting pre-formulation research to bolster yourdrug development endeavors. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you are interested in our services.
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