Three Months Extended-Release Microspheres Prepared by Multi-Microchannel Microfluidics in Beagle Dog Models
August 2021
in “
International Journal of Pharmaceutics
”
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Studysummary This study demonstrated that finasteride-loaded PLGA microspheres created using a novel microfluidic device exhibit extended drug release in beagle dogs, with modifications allowing for release up to 3 months. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.
The study developed a novel platform, IVL-PPF Microsphere®, to deliver finasteride, a drug used to treat androgenic alopecia, in a controlled manner for up to 3 months after a single subcutaneous injection. This method was designed to improve patient convenience and market competitiveness. Extensive formulation studies were performed on drug-loaded PLGA (poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)) microspheres in beagle dogs, based on their properties and in vivo pharmacokinetic profiles. The IVL-PPF Microsphere® device successfully prepared drug-loaded microspheres for injection on a commercial scale. This approach could potentially replace the need for daily oral administration of finasteride, which is currently necessary to maintain the therapeutic effect.
