Bioequivalence evaluation of two desvenlafaxine succinate monohydrate formulations 50-mg extended-release coated tablet administered in fasted and fed conditions in healthy male and female volunteers

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this work was to evaluate the bioequivalence between two desvenlafaxine succinate monohydrate formulations 50-mg extended-release tablet, the test product manufactured by Medley Farmacêutica Ltd. and reference product (Pristiq™) commercialized by Wyeth Indústria Farmacêutica Ltda. Methods: The studies were performed in healthy volunteers and the formulations were administered in single-dose under fasted and fed conditions. Each study was conducted independently and performed of type open, two periods, using a 2x2 crossover design, involving 48 volunteers, with seven days of minimum interval between periods (washout). Results: In the fasted administration, the ratio between the geometrical mean of test formulation and reference (T/R) of Cmax was 107.49%, with confidence interval 90% (CI 90%) of 100.81 to 114.60%. For AUC0-t, the ratio T/R was of 104.90%, with CI 90% from 97.53% to 112.82%. In the fed administration, the ratio T/R of Cmax was 103.17% with CI 90% of 95.08 to 111.94%. For AUC0-t, the ratio T/R was 103.40%, with CI 90% of 94.97 to 112.58%. Conclusions: The test and reference formulations were considered statistically bioequivalent in the two administration conditions, fasted and fed, according to the requirements of Brazilian National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa). The test formulation was the first similar medicine (Zodel®, 50 e 100 mg) to be registered by Anvisa in this category and available to commercialization, thus contributing to increase the availability of treatment for major depressive disorder and the reduction of costs to the patient.