Camurus have developed Fluidcrystal, a drug delivery technology to extend the release of injectable drug formulations. The technology comprises a lipid-based liquid containing a dissolved active pharmaceutical ingredient (API). When the formulation is injected into subcutaneous tissue, water from the tissue transforms the lipid liquid into a viscus gel depot, encapsulating the API.
Fluidcrystal takes advantage of the fact that lipids self-assemble into structures in aqueous media. Lipids in water form micelles which then organise into hexagonal structures before continuing to assemble in lamellar sheets. Fluidcrystal uses reversed phase lipids which form reversed phase hexagonal structures and have a favourable long-release profile.
Fluidcrystal uses a mixture of two types of lipids. The structure that the lipids form depends on the ratio of these lipids in the formulation. Certain structures can absorb less water than others and therefore becomes a gel which stays solid at the injection site. This helps the drug stay in place and release slowly over time.
This also effects the speed at which the API is released. For example, using more of lipid #1, the drug releases quickly. But if they increase lipid #2, the release becomes slower. By adjusting the ratio between the two lipids, they can control how fast the drug comes out once it's injected.
Camurus has developed a buprenorphine depot product for treating opioid dependence. This product offers weekly or monthly dosing, which improves patient compliance, reduces misuse, and supports individuals struggling with opioid dependence. The company is also working on a long-acting octreotide formulation for treating acromegaly. This formulation allows for once-monthly self-injection at home, providing improved pharmacokinetics and efficacy compared to existing treatments.
The injectable depots are easy to administer, reduce injection frequency, and are generally well tolerated with mild injection site reactions. The platform uses standard manufacturing processes and is protected by strong intellectual property rights, supporting further development of new drug entities.
