Scientists discuss in 'Design of pH-independent extended release matrix tablets of minocycline hydrochloride for the treatment of dementia' new findings in dementia. "The aim of this study was to develop a pH-independent extended release matrix tablet of minocycline HCl for the treatment of dementia. The matrix tablets were prepared by wet granulation technique using Eudragit L and S as release modifiers at different w/w ratios (1:0, 1:1 and 0:1) and PEO as a matrix former," scientists in Korea report (see also Dementia Therapy).

"In the case of the matrix tablet without any release modifiers, the drug release rate at pH 1.2 was much higher than that of pH 7.4. By adding the release modifier, the drug release rate at pH 7.4 increased close to that of pH 1.2 and the pH-independent release was obtained. In addition, it was shown that lubricants containing a divalent cation such as Mg stearate inhibited minocycline release in basic medium," wrote K.H. Cha and colleagues, ChungNam National University, Center for Nanotechnology.

The researchers concluded: "Therefore, the incorporation of Eudragit L and S (1:1 ratio) as release modifiers and Na stearyl fumarate as a lubricant into PEO-based matrix tablets effectively produced pH-independent minocycline release profiles."

Cha and colleagues published their study in Archives of Pharmacal Research (Design of pH-independent extended release matrix tablets of minocycline hydrochloride for the treatment of dementia. Archives of Pharmacal Research, 2009;32(11):1593-8).

For additional information, contact K.H. Cha, Chungnam National University, Center for Nanotechnology-based New Drug Dosage Form, College of Pharmacy, Daejeon 305-764, Korea.

The publisher's contact information for the journal Archives of Pharmacal Research is: Springer, 233 Spring Street, New York, NY 10013, USA.