Rifampicin nanocrystals for pyodermite treatment: pilot scale preparation and proof of concept

• Grant number: 23/00122-0
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Innovative Research in Small Business - PIPE
• Start date: July 01, 2023
• End date: September 30, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Pharmacy - Pharmaceutical Technology
• Principal Investigator: Eduardo José Barbosa
• Grantee: Eduardo José Barbosa
• Company: A3Vet Indústria, Comércio e Representações Ltda
• CNAE: Comércio atacadista de produtos farmacêuticos para uso humano e veterinário
• City: Descalvado
• Pesquisadores principais: Gabriel Lima Barros de Araujo
• Associated researchers: Jéssica Fagionato Masiero ; Luiza de Oliveira Macedo
• Associated scholarship(s): 23/11762-0 - Rifampicin nanocrystals for Pyodermite treatment: pilot scale preparation and proof of concept, BP.PIPE

Abstract

Pyoderma is a disease that causes lesions on the skin of dogs, due to the proliferation of Gram-positive bacteria of the genus Staphylococcus sp., Staphylococcus pseudintermedius being the main agent of the disease. This is one of the most common pathologies in the skin of dogs. The treatment consists of antimicrobials administration such as beta-lactams, fluoroquinolones, macrolides, among others. The recurrent and indiscriminate use of these classes of drugs, combined with the lack of development of new molecules by the private sector, are associated with the emergence of resistant strains of Staphylococcus sp., which demands the development of products with greater efficacy and safety. Rifampicin, a drug used for the human treatment of tuberculosis, is effective against bacteria of the genus Staphylococcus sp., especially against Staphylococcus pseudintermedius. However, due to its low water solubility and high variability of its oral absorption, its bioavailability is limited. In addition, this antibiotic has adverse effects such as hepatotoxicity and gastrointestinal disorders, as well as a high risk of adverse effects due to drug-drug interaction. A previous study by our research group showed that obtaining rifampicin nanocrystals has the potential to overcome such limitations. The results showed better in vitro performance of the nanocrystal when compared to the conventional product. In this sense, the objectives of the present study are: obtaining RFP nanocrystals on a pilot scale; evaluation of physicochemical characteristics and stability; study of pharmacokinetics after oral administration in dogs; recommendation of dose/treatment regimen of rifampicin nanocrystals for dogs with pyoderma. With reference to the socioeconomic impact, the high demand of the veterinary market for the treatment of pyoderma in dogs can be exploited, generating jobs and income. Additionally, with the future commercialization of the rifampicin nanocrystal, it will be possible to offer a therapeutic alternative for dogs that no longer respond to treatment with conventional products. (AU)