Development of a bio-relevant dissolution test device simulating mechanical aspects present in the fed stomach.

A novel bio-relevant in vitro dissolution device was designed to mimic intragastric conditions after food intake paying particular consideration to mechanical aspects: the Fed Stomach Model (FSM). The FSM represents a fully computer-controlled dynamic flow-through system, in which dosage forms are hosted in so-called gastric vessels. Dosage form movement profiles as well as pressures can be simulated in a physiologically relevant manner. This proof-of-concept study aimed at the investigation of the effects of individual parameters and complex test programs on the drug delivery behavior of diclofenac sodium bilayer extended release tablets. Magnetic marker monitoring experiments demonstrated the applicability of the FSM to simulate intragastric movement velocities of solid oral dosage forms equivalent to in vivo data. Dissolution experiments revealed the relevance of all simulated parameters (i.e. pressure, dosage form movement and pump rate). Moreover, three different test scenarios with test programs specific for fundus, antrum and gastric emptying considered the variability of intragastric transit of solid oral dosage forms after food intake and were confirmed to be reasonable. Dissolution rates were low under conditions specific for fundus owing to low shear stresses. In contrast, higher amounts of the drug were released under high stress conditions simulating antral transit and gastric emptying. Concluding, the FSM can be a valuable tool for bio-relevant dissolution testing due to its potential of precise and reproducible simulation of mechanical parameters characteristic for the fed stomach.