Use of the film could allow biologics currently delivered by injection to be administered buccally or sublingually. Eliminating the need for regular injections would make treatments more convenient for patients.
Furthermore, the film could improve delivery of certain molecules that are administered orally. Administration using the film would allow therapeutics to enter the bloodstream without exposure to the gastrointestinal tract, avoiding side-effects which can be associated with this interaction.
Tom Rademacher, chairman of Midatech, said: “The system has the potential to solve many of the problems associated with the effective delivery of biologics, and we are very pleased to be continuing our collaboration with Monosol Rx.”
Midatech and MonoSol Rx began collaborating in 2008. This collaboration has combined the nanoparticle expertise at Midatech with the PharmFilm technology developed by MonoSol Rx.
Mark Schobel, president and CEO of MonoSol Rx, said: “Our film technology delivering nanoparticles provides new ways for the effective delivery of drug treatments that are attractive to patients and caregivers alike.”
To protect the technology the companies have submitted applications relating to therapeutic uses of nanoparticle-based proteins and peptides delivered in pharma films to the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
More specifically, the patent is focused on compositions, delivery systems, products and methods of making and administering such treatments to patients. The patent application includes methods and systems for the treatment of disorders of blood glucose in diabetic conditions.