Levonorgestrel loaded biodegradable microparticles for injectable contraception: Preparation, characterization and modelling of drug release.

The integration of mechanistic modeling and machine learning facilitates the understanding and engineering of drug release from controlled release systems. Here, we present hybrid models to predict the effect of drug loading on levonorgestrel release from spray-dried poly(L-lactic acid) microparticles. We developed three Monte Carlo methods that differ in the consideration of polymer's degradability and crystallinity, to simulate drug release from the matrices using the Python programming language.

Advances in controlled release hormonal technologies for contraception: A review of existing devices, underlying mechanisms, and future directions.

This article presents a comprehensive review on controlled release hormonal contraceptive systems that include transdermal patches, intravaginal rings (IVRs), intrauterine devices (IUDs), injectables and subdermal implants. These systems represent a substantial advance from traditional oral contraceptive pills, to improve upon safety, efficiency, and compliance among women. The widespread use of controlled release systems is hindered by limitations, which are discussed in this review.

Pharmacological and non-pharmacological efforts at prevention, mitigation, and treatment for COVID-19.

A global outbreak of the SARS-CoV-2 virus has infected millions of people over a short period of time. The communicability and increased mortality from the SARS-CoV-2 infection mandated the WHO to declare COVID-19 a worldwide pandemic. The virus outbreak has spread when there are no approved vaccines, treatments, or prophylactic therapies available.

Determinants of zero-order release kinetics from acetaminophen-layered Suglet® pellets, Wurster-coated with plasticized Aquacoat® ECD (ethyl cellulose dispersion).

The potential for zero-order drug-release was evaluated for ethyl cellulose (EC) coated, acetaminophen-layered sugar pellets (Suglets®) of mesh size 18/20 (850-1000 μm). To determine optimal plasticizer/pore-former concentrations for EC films, solvent-cast Aquacoat® ECD (ethyl cellulose dispersion) films were prepared with 0-50% w/w ratios of two triethyl citrate (TEC) or triacetin (TA). Characterization studies showed that films with excipient concentrations ≥20% were homogenous, mechanically strong at room temperature (Young's modulus of 25-35 MPa), and have a glass transition (T) in the range of 20-45 °C.