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D9-THC for Marijuana Addiction

Award Information

Agency:
Department of Health and Human Services 		Branch:
N/A 		Award ID:
89020 		Program Year/Program:
2008 / SBIR
Agency Tracking Number:
DA024552 		Solicitation Year:
N/A 		Solicitation Topic Code:
N/A 		Solicitation Number:
N/A
Small Business Information
APHIOS CORPORATION
3 E GILL ST WOBURN, MA 01801-1720
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Woman-Owned: No
Minority-Owned: No
HUBZone-Owned: No
 
Phase 1
Fiscal Year: 2008
Title: D9-THC for Marijuana Addiction
Agency: HHS
Contract: 1R43DA024552-01
Award Amount: $109,761.00
 

Abstract:

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): ?9-tetrahydrocannabinol (?9-THC) has been shown to alleviate marijuana withdrawal symptoms and thus has potential for treating cannabinoid dependence. However, the bioavailability of ?9-THC administered orally is poor a nd variable. In addition, it also requires drug administration several times a day. Formulations to improve bioavailability and/or to reduce dosing frequency would be expected to improve the therapeutic effectiveness of ?9-THC. In Phase I, our tech nical objectives are to develop improved oral and/or depot formulations of ?9-THC based on biopharmaceutical rationale, and select a formulation that is stable with acceptable in vitro controlled release characteristics. ?9-THC is very hydrophobic and oxyg en-sensitive, both factors that are challenges in making formulations that are orally bioavailable and stable. Utilizing proprietary SuperFluids(tm) technologies, we propose to encapsulate ?9-THC in biodegradable polymer nanospheres that will allow transpo rt to the stomach, improve its stability and enhance bioavailability. In Phase II, we will carry out pharmacological, toxicological and pharmacokinetic evaluations of the developed formulation(s). We will also provide a GMP scale-up of a stable dos age form with acceptable in vitro and in vivo bioavailability in animal models and/or in humans. Narrative: The developed controlled release, oral formulation of ?9-THC will be commercialized for treating marijuana dependence and withdrawal symptom s, cancer pain, nausea associated with cancer chemotherapy and AIDS cachexia or wasting.

Principal Investigator:

Trevor P. Castor
7819326933
APHIOS@AOL.COM

Business Contact:

Small Business Information at Submission:

APHIOS CORPORATION
APHIOS CORPORATION 3-E GILL ST WOBURN, MA 01801

EIN/Tax ID: 043205324
DUNS: N/A
Number of Employees: N/A
Woman-Owned: No
Minority-Owned: No
HUBZone-Owned: No