Nicotine Pharmaceutical Composition Using Glassy Sugar Matrix

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for alternative nicotine-containing compositions that can effectively deliver nicotine via the oral route for therapeutic purposes, as existing methods may not provide optimal pharmacological effects or convenience.

Innovation Solution

A nicotine-containing pharmaceutical composition comprising a nicotinic compound, at least 80% by weight of a non-hygroscopic sugar substitute capable of forming a glassy matrix, and a sugar alcohol syrup, adapted for oral delivery, which can include nicotine polacrilex sorbed onto a porous particulate carrier like microcrystalline cellulose, with optional additives such as flavorants and NaCl, formulated into lozenge or tablet form.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If nicotine is administered via traditional methods (transdermal patch, conventional oral products), then nicotine delivery is achieved, but therapeutic effectiveness for CNS conditions and user convenience are suboptimal

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetherapeutic effectivenessVSAvoidconvenience of administration
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the physical and chemical parameters of the nicotine delivery system by using a sugar glass matrix with specific glass transition temperature properties, controlling nicotine release through molecular-level interactions rather than traditional diffusion or dissolution mechanisms, thereby improving both therapeutic effectiveness and convenience

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The invention creates a composite material system combining nicotine with sugar substitutes (isomalt, maltitol, xylitol) to form a glassy matrix, where the unique properties of each component synergize to provide controlled release and enhanced bioavailability, resolving the contradiction between reliability and ease of operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Stability of the object's composition

If a sugar substitute matrix is used to formulate nicotine composition, then stability and controlled release are improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomposition stabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent exploits the glass transition phase change of sugar substitutes to create a stable matrix that prevents nicotine degradation and controls release. The glassy state provides molecular rigidity and stability, while the transition properties enable simplified processing during manufacturing, balancing stability requirements with manufacturing ease

Inventive Principle:
Principle #36Phase transitions

Solution Approach 2:

The use of porous particulate carriers within the sugar glass matrix provides high surface area for nicotine loading while maintaining structural stability. The porous structure allows for efficient incorporation of nicotine during manufacturing and controlled release during use, reducing manufacturing complexity while enhancing composition stability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #31Porous materials

3Productivity

If nicotine is delivered orally for therapeutic purposes, then pharmacological effects are achieved, but delivery efficiency and bioavailability are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedelivery efficiencyVSAvoidnicotine bioavailability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The sugar glass matrix acts as an intermediary between nicotine and the biological system, protecting nicotine from degradation, enhancing its solubility and stability, and facilitating controlled release at the site of absorption. This intermediary function improves both delivery efficiency and bioavailability by optimizing the nicotine's interaction with biological membranes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the physical state and chemical environment of nicotine through the sugar glass matrix, transforming it from a volatile, unstable compound into a stable, controlled-release formulation. This parameter change enhances nicotine's solubility, stability, and release characteristics, thereby improving delivery efficiency and bioavailability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The composition provides effective oral delivery of nicotine, potentially enhancing therapeutic outcomes for CNS-related conditions and serving as a smoking cessation aid, with improved stability and convenience due to its translucent or transparent form and controlled release characteristics.

Implementation Method 1

a non-hygroscopic sugar substitute capable of forming a glassy matrix

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGlassy matrix formation: Vitrification

Implementation Method 2

nicotine polacrilex sorbed onto a porous particulate carrier like microcrystalline cellulose

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdsorption: Adsorption

Data Source

PatentUS11129898B2Nicotine-containing pharmaceutical composition
Publication Date: 2021.09.28 MODORAL BRANDS INC

AI summary

A composition intended to be employed for therapeutic purposes incorporates a nicotinic compound, a sugar substitute, and a sugar alcohol syrup. Representative forms of nicotine include free base (e.g., as a mixture of nicotine and microcrystalline cellulose), a nicotine salt (e.g., as nicotine bitartrate) or nicotine polacrilex. The composition is useful for treatment of central nervous system conditions, diseases, and disorders, and as a nicotine replacement therapy.