Drospirenone Formulation for Contraceptive Reliability and Tolerance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current progestogen-only contraceptives (POCs) have low reliability, alter bleeding patterns, and are not well-tolerated due to high plasma concentration peaks of drospirenone, leading to side effects and poor compliance.
Innovation Solution
Development of pharmaceutical compositions and kits allowing for novel dosing regimens with drospirenone, featuring a pharmacokinetic profile with reduced Cmax and delayed Tmax, enabling up to 4 skipped doses within a 28-day period without compromising contraceptive efficacy, and formulated to improve tolerance in patients with conditions like hyperkalemia.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional progestogen-only contraceptives are used, then contraceptive function is provided, but reliability is low and bleeding patterns are altered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the dissolution rate of drospirenone through controlled micronization and formulation techniques. This transforms the rapid dissolution characteristic of conventional drospirenone into a controlled, sustained release profile, thereby improving contraceptive reliability while reducing harmful bleeding pattern alterations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite materials by combining drospirenone with specific excipients and using micronized forms in controlled-release formulations. This composite approach allows optimization of both contraceptive efficacy and bleeding pattern stability by controlling the release kinetics of the active ingredient.
2Reliability
If high plasma concentration peaks of drospirenone are achieved, then contraceptive effect is ensured, but side effects increase and tolerance decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by designing formulations that provide sustained, controlled release of drospirenone throughout the dosing interval. This creates a more stable plasma concentration profile with reduced peaks and troughs, maintaining contraceptive efficacy while minimizing side effects associated with high Cmax values.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the pharmacokinetic parameters of drospirenone by controlling its dissolution rate and release profile. This transforms the rapid absorption pattern into a sustained release pattern, reducing peak plasma concentrations and associated side effects while maintaining adequate contraceptive levels.
3Productivity
If drospirenone is micronized to improve dissolution, then oral bioavailability increases, but plasma concentration peak increases causing poor tolerance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by precisely controlling the degree and extent of micronization rather than simply increasing it. By optimizing particle size distribution and using controlled-release formulations, the patent achieves adequate dissolution and bioavailability while preventing excessive plasma concentration peaks that cause poor tolerance.
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein are synthetic progestogens, such as 6β,7β:15β,16β-Dimethylene-3-oxo-17α-pregn-4-ene-21,17-carbolactone, as well as pharmaceutical compositions comprising the same. Also described are methods of use.


