Evaluation of the bioavailability of a Tamiflu taste-masking pediatric formulation using a juvenile pig model and LC-MS/MS.

To improve the palatability and increase compliance in pediatric patients, different taste-masking technologies have been evaluated to support the NIH Pediatric Formulation Initiative. This bioavailability approach combined a juvenile porcine model which represented the pediatric population, and an advanced UHPLCMS/MS method. Juvenile pigs were administered with either commercial Tamiflu or its taste-masking formulation and plasma samples were obtained from 0 to 48 h. The mass spectrometer was operated in positive mode with electrospray ionization. The bioavailability profiles were not significantly different between the two formulations which demonstrated that taste-masking by forming an ionic complex was a promising approach for formulation modification. The pre-clinical study revealed a promising model platform for developing and screening taste-masking formulations.