Pharmacokinetics and bioavailability study of two ondansetron oral soluble film formulations in fasting healthy male Chinese volunteers

Background: Ondansetron oral soluble film is designed to be applied on top of the tongue without requiring water to aid dissolution or swallowing, which is especially fitting for nausea and vomiting patients. Purpose: This study was conducted to compare the bioavailability of two 8 mg ondansetron oral soluble film formulations. Patients and methods: This randomized, open-label, two-period crossover study was performed under fasting conditions. A total of ten eligible subjects were randomly assigned at a 1: 1 ratio to receive a single 8 mg dose of the test and reference ondansetron oral soluble film formulations, followed by a 1-week washout period and administration of the alternate formulation. The concentrations of ondansetron were assayed using an liquid chromatographmass spectrometer/mass spectrometer (LC-MS/MS) method. For analysis of pharmacokinetic properties, including the peak concentration of T-max (C-max), AUC from time 0 (baseline) to t hours (AUC(0-t)), and AUC from baseline to infinity (AUC(0-infinity)), blood samples were obtained at intervals over the 24-hour period after studying drug administration. Tolerability was assessed by monitoring vital signs and laboratory tests (hematology, blood biochemistry, hepatic function, and urinalysis) and by questioning subjects about adverse events. Results: The mean (standard derivation [SD]) relative bioavailability was 96.5 (23.7%). The 90% confidence intervals (CIs) for the log-transformed ratios of C-max and AUC(0-t) were 84.71%-103.28% and 91.38%-108.60%, respectively (P>0.05). Similar results were found for the data without log-transformation. No statistically significant differences were found based on analysis of variance. No significant adverse events occurred or were reported during the study. Conclusion: As the 90% CIs based on the differences between the test and reference formulation were within the 80%-125% range for both the C-max and AUC(0-t), we concluded that the two formulations were bioequivalent with respect to the rate or the extent of absorption. Both formulations are well tolerated.