The spray drying of unfractionated heparin: optimization of the operating parameters

Drug Dev Ind Pharm. 2008 Jun;34(6):559-68. doi: 10.1080/03639040701657552.

Abstract

Unfractionated heparin is an anti-inflammatory mucoactive agent, with the potential to treat the inflamed and mucus-obstructed airways in patients with cystic fibrosis. In this study, unfractionated heparin has been spray-dried to produce spherical micronized particles in the size range 1-5 microm, which is suitable for delivery by dry-powder inhalation. Spray drying parameters have been optimized using a 2(4) factorial experimental design. The feed concentration and atomization spray flow rate have the greatest effects on recovery (typically 60%) and particle size.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Inhalation
  • Aerosols*
  • Calorimetry, Differential Scanning
  • Cystic Fibrosis / metabolism
  • Cystic Fibrosis / pathology
  • Heparin / administration & dosage*
  • Microscopy, Electron, Scanning
  • Particle Size
  • Powders

Substances

  • Aerosols
  • Powders
  • Heparin