Emőke Margit Rédai

Fixed-combination pharmaceutical forms offer the advantage of simple, reliable admin-istration of two different active substances. This study aimed to develop atorvastatin- and amlodipine-containing polymer-based fibrous sheets at a 1:4 dose ratio for fast disintegra-tion, enhancing elderly patient compliance. Polyvinyl pyrrolidone-based polymer disper-sion was embedded with two active ingredients via solubilization with polysorbate 80. The dispersions were described by pH, conductivity, and texture analysis. The fibrous sheets were characterized by morphology, disintegration, and dissolution. The single-jet electrospun fibers had an average diameter of 588 ± 190 nm. Differential Scanning Calo-rimetry (DSC) and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) results suggest the amorphization of the active substances. Disintegration was very fast, with a measured time under 3 seconds. The API release occurs in a burst, with complete dissolution achieved within the first 5 minutes. The fixed-dose combination fibrous sheets offer a possible fast-delivery system for buccal administration in elderly patients.

Background/Objectives: The development of multifaceted excipients is a requirement of the pharmaceutical industry. This study aimed to develop a granular co-processed excipient for tablets and to evaluate it using the SeDeM expert system. Methods: Four granule formulations were developed via the powder layering technique, varying binder concentrations (15% and 20%) and filler types (microcrystalline cellulose and lactose), using sugar as the core. The granules obtained were evaluated utilising the SeDeM expert system. The unloaded granules were compressed to yield uncoated compacted granules, which were verified for dimensional parameters, mechanical properties, and disintegration ability. Results: Varying binder concentrations (15% and 20%) together with differences in filler/disintegrant composition were associated with changes in particle-size distribution. During the SeDeM evaluation, E3 formulation exhibited good results in terms of parameter index (PI = 0.83), parameter profile index (PPI = 7.64), and Good Compressibility Index (GCI = 7.28). The recorded disintegration times were below 15 min for all compacted granules and complied with the Ph. Eur. 12 requirements for uncoated tablets. Conclusions: For granule development, variations in formulation composition, including binder concentration, were associated with differences in particle size and lubricity. The SeDeM expert system can be used in the preformulation studies to characterize powders or granule formulations from which uncoated tablets can be obtained, but there are several pharmacotechnical properties not included in the list of parameters that need to be analysed to comply with the industrial requirements.

Background/Objectives: Although pharmaceutical formulations on the market are more varied than in previous decades, developing tablets remains a continuing interest due to increased patient compliance. Simultaneously, the development of multifaceted excipients has remained a requirement of the pharmaceutical industry. This study aimed to develop a granular co-processed excipient for tablets and to evaluate it using the SeDeM expert system. Methods: Six granule formulations (obtained via wet layering granulation) were developed using different binder concentrations, fillers, and core types. The binders’ concentration (AquaPolish® STA) varied on three levels: 10%, 15%, and 20%. Three formulations used microcrystalline cellulose as the filler, while the remaining three replaced it with lactose (six formulations coded E1-E6). The granules obtained were evaluated using the SeDeM expert system for all 12 characteristic parameters, encompassing six incidence factors. The unloaded granules were compressed to yield uncoated tablets, which were verified for dimensional parameters, mechanical properties, and disintegration ability in accordance with the in-force European Pharmacopoeia requirements. Results: The binder concentration influenced particle size, with a 20% AquaPolish® STA concentration yielding large granules. It has been observed that the type of core used to prepare the granules played an important role in establishing mechanical strength; thus, the formulation in which Cellets® was used exhibited lower resistance than those in which sugar was used. During the SeDeM evaluation, it was observed that two formulations (E4 and E5) exhibited good results in terms of the parameter index (PI), parameter profile index (PPI), and Good Compressibility Index (GCI). The recorded disintegration times were less than 15 minutes for all the tablets obtained from the formulated granules. Conclusions: For granule development, binder concentration had the greatest influence on particle size, mechanical strength, and lubricity; also, the type of core used played an important role in tablet mechanical strength. With the help of the SeDeM expert system, the excipients most suitable for developing uncoated tab-lets were highlighted.

Objective: This study aimed to design and clinically evaluate a bespoke cosmetic formulation tailored to individual skin characteristics and user preferences, focusing on hydration and barrier recovery in mature, therapy-affected skin. In addition, this study aimed to explore the feasibility and short-term outcomes of a structured, biometry-driven personalization approach applied within a single-subject case study design. Materials and Methods: A personalized dermato-cosmetic formulation incorporating melatonin, astaxanthin, low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid, allantoin, yarrow oil (Achillea millefolium), lecithin, cholesterol, and arginine was developed based on objective biophysical assessment of the skin. A clinical case evaluation was conducted in a male subject over 55 years of age (Fitzpatrick phototype III) presenting persistent xerosis and dehydration following completed oncologic therapy. Quantitative skin biometry was performed at baseline and after 28 days of daily application, assessing hydration at six anatomical sites, sebum secretion, pigmentation and erythema indices, elasticity, and stratum corneum turnover and scaling. Results: After 28 days, sebum secretion increased by more than 100%, indicating partial restoration of the lipid barrier. Hyperpigmented areas decreased from 7.2% to 2.3%, while skin elasticity improved from 25% to 44%. A reduction of 8% in the erythema index suggested decreased vascular reactivity. Hydration levels improved consistently across all evaluated sites, and epidermal renewal was enhanced, as evidenced by reduced scaling and smoother skin surface. The melanin index remained stable throughout the study period. Conclusions: This pilot evaluation shows that bespoke cosmetic formulations, customized to individual skin biometry and preferences, can yield measurable improvements in hydration, barrier repair, elasticity, pigmentation uniformity, and epidermal renewal within 28 days, even in skin compromised by previous oncologic therapy. Given the single-subject nature of this pilot evaluation, these findings cannot be generalized to broader populations but rather highlight the importance of personalization and objective skin assessment in guiding individualized dermato-cosmetic formulation strategies. Personalized dermato-cosmetology using objective biophysical assessment may be a promising future strategy for effective, consumer-centered skincare.

Background/Objectives: Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychoactive compound found in the Cannabis sativa plant. Due to its broad therapeutic potential, CBD is often incorporated into various pharmaceutical formulations. This study aimed to evaluate homogenous (oil-based) and heterogeneous (emulsion-based) liquid preparations of CBD using different fatty oils and provide a comprehensive comparative framework for the development of stable liquid dosage forms of cannabidiol (CBD), with direct applications in pharmaceutical formulations. Methods: The oils and emulsions were qualitatively analysed to assess their stability and suitability as CBD carriers. Ultraviolet (UV) spectrophotometry and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) were employed for quantifying CBD in the formulations and also characterising them in terms of product quality. Results: The results indicated that sunflower oil is the most stable and analytically compatible matrix, with CBD recovery close to 100% and minimal degradation over time. Conversely, linseed and pumpkin seed oils exhibited significant analytical interference and oxidative instability. Oil-in-water emulsions prepared with a 4% Tween 80/Span 80 mixture demonstrated optimal physical stability and droplet size distribution. Conclusions: Overall, both formulations can be regarded as suitable pharmaceutical carriers for CBD delivery.

Background/Objectives: Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychoactive compound found in the Cannabis sativa plant. Due to its broad therapeutic potential, CBD is often incorporated into various pharmaceutical formulations. This study aimed to evaluate homogenous (oil-based) and heterogeneous (emulsion-based) liquid preparations of CBD using different fatty oils and to provide a comprehensive comparative framework for the development of stable liquid dosage forms of cannabidiol (CBD), with direct applications in pharmaceutical formulations. Methods: The oils and emulsions were qualitatively analysed to assess their stability and suitability as CBD carriers. Ultra-Violet (UV) spectrophotometry and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) were employed for quantifying CBD in the formulations and also characterising them in terms of product quality. Results: The results indicated that sunflower oil is the most stable and analytically compatible matrix, with CBD recovery exceeding 97% and minimal degradation over time. Conversely, linseed and pumpkin seed oils exhibited significant analytical interference and oxidative instability. Oil-in-water emulsions prepared with a 4% Tween 80/Span 80 mixture demonstrated optimal physical stability and droplet size distribution. Conclusions: Overall, both formulations can be regarded as suitable pharmaceutical carriers for CBD delivery.

Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (Hypromellose, HPMC) is a well-known excipient used in the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical fields due to its versatile physicochemical properties. HPMC (derived from cellulose and obtained through etherification) varies in polymerization degree and viscosity, factors that both influence its functional applications. Usually, an increased polymerization degree implies a higher viscosity, depending also on the amount of polymer used. Hypromellose plays a crucial role in solid dosage forms, serving as a binder in the case of controlled-release tablets, a film-forming agent in the case of orodispersible films and mucoadhesive films, and a release modifier due to its presence in different polymerization degrees in the case of extended or modified release tablets. However, its compatibility with other excipients and the active ingredient must be carefully evaluated to prevent formulation challenges via several analytical methods such as differential scanned calorimetry (DSC), Fourier Transformed Infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-Ray Particle Diffraction (XRPD), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). This review explores the physicochemical characteristics, and diverse applications of HPMC, emphasizing its significance in modern drug delivery systems.

Itraconazole (ITZ) is a broad-spectrum triazole antifungal agent suitable for the treatment of superficial and systemic mycoses. This study aimed to formulate, characterize, and evaluate the in vitro antifungal performance of single-jet electrospun itraconazole-loaded polyvinylpyrrolidone-based fibers. Fibrous mats were prepared under the following experimental conditions: 10, 12.5, and 15 cm needle–collector distance, 20 kV tension, and 1, 1.5, and 2 mL/hour flow rate. The fibers were characterized by SEM, DSC, FTIR, assays, disintegration tests, dissolution tests, and in vitro antifungal activity. Using a 2² factorial design, the effects of preparation variables on the characteristics of the fibrous sheets were described. The electrospinning process led to smooth-surfaced, randomly oriented, and bead-free fibers. The average fiber diameter ranged from 887 nm to 1175 nm. The scanning calorimetry of pure ITZ revealed a sharp endothermic melting point at a temperature of 170 °C, not present in the curves of the fibers. After 60 min, between 70 and 100% of ITZ was released. The antifungal assay revealed that the fibers inhibited the growth of Candida albicans and Candida parapyilosis. The obtained fiber mats prepared from the hydrophilic polymer presented almost instantaneous disintegration, with potential applications for rapid antifungal delivery in oral or topical pharmaceutical form.

One class of cosmetic compounds that have raised interest of many experts is peptides. The search for ingredients with good biocompatibility and bioactivity has led to the use of peptides in cosmetic products. Peptides are novel active ingredients that improve collagen synthesis, enhance skin cell proliferation, or decrease inflammation. Based on their mechanism of action, they can be classified into signal peptides, carrier peptides, neurotransmitter inhibitor peptides, and enzyme inhibitor peptides. This review focuses on the main types of peptides and their application in the cosmetic field, underlining their main limitations. One of the most significant drawbacks of cosmetic peptides is their poor permeability through membranes, which limits their delivery and effectiveness. As a result, this review follows the methods used for improving permeability through the stratum corneum. Increasing peptide bioavailability and stability for enhanced delivery to the desired site of action and visible effects have become central points for the latest research due to their promising features. For this purpose, several methods have been identified and described. Physical techniques include thermal ablation (radiofrequency and laser), electrical methods (electroporation, iontophoresis), mechanical approach (microneedles), and ultrasounds. As an alternative, innovative formulations have been developed in nano-systems such as liposomes, niosomes, ethosomes, nanoemulsions, and other nanomaterials to reduce skin irritation and improve product effectiveness. The purpose of this review is to provide the latest information regarding these noteworthy molecules and the reasoning behind their use in cosmetic formulations.

Nanomedicine and nanotechnology rely on precision and autonomy. They are constructed from biocompatible and biodegradable materials. Nanorobots can be engineered via the layer-by-layer method, yielding spherical robots, or by the coating method, which produces asymmetrical forms. Autonomous fabrication techniques such as nanolithography or 3D printing can also be employed. Nanorobots typically consist of a protective shell, an internal drug payload, a propulsion mechanism, sensors for pH and temperature, and a wireless communication system. Drugs are embedded in nanovehicles. Nanocrystals are used when stability is required for oral administration. Liposomes allow the incorporation of multiple drugs into a single nanorobot. Solid lipid nanoparticles enable intravenous administration, while polymers can provide a sustained-release effect. The protective capsule can be made of carbon or silicone, shielding the system from environmental influences. Sensors detect fluctuations in pH or temperature. Propulsion is achieved via bloodstream flow and molecular motors powered by substrates such as glucose or hydrogen. There are five main types of nanorobots. Pharmacytes are widely applied in medicine due to their drug-transporting capacity. Clottocytes demonstrate a coagulation efficiency up to eighty times greater than natural mechanisms. Chromallocytes represent a potential breakthrough in chromosome repair, opening novel avenues for treating genetic diseases. The earliest developments were nanotransporters, such as those based on iron oxide–chlorophyll conjugates and later rapamycin analogues. More advanced systems include DNA-origami nanorobots and biohybrids, the latter incorporating living cells such as macrophages. With the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence, the combination of AI with nanotechnology promises transformative progress in the future of cancer therapy.