Sustained release of insulin from sodium hyaluronate based dry powder formulations after pulmonary delivery to beagle dogs.

Hyaluronic acid (HA) and recombinant human insulin were co-spray dried to form a dry powder suitable for inhalation (Mass Median Aerodynamic Diameter, MMAD=1 to 4 microm). Insulin systemic levels and corresponding glucose levels were monitored following administration of the microparticles to the lungs of male Beagle dogs. Release kinetics were modified by addition of excess zinc ions (Zn2+) or hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC). HA formulations containing insulin (10%w/w) were found to extend the mean residence time (MRT) and terminal half-life (t(1/2)) when compared to spray dried pure insulin. Addition of Zn2+ also improved MRT (>9 fold), AUC/dose (2.5 fold) and Tmax (by a factor of 3) when compared to spray dried pure insulin. Addition of HPC improved MRT (>7 fold), AUC/dose (5 fold) and Tmax (by a factor of 3) when compared to spray dried pure insulin. Our results demonstrate the potential of HA-based dry powder drug delivery systems in the pulmonary controlled release of insulin.