Design and stability of pediatric oral formulation of imatinib

Background: Imatinib is a protein-tyrosine kinase inhibitor which is currently only commercially available as a tablet dosage form in the strength of 100mg and 400mg. The elaboration of new oral liquid formulations is suitable in pediatrics and for patients who have difficulties to swallow, notably in the absence of commercial forms. This enables the adaptation of dosage and secure the administration. Objectives: The formulation of an oral pediatric solution of imatinib at a concentration of 30 mg/mL and the evaluation of its stability for the treatment of pediatric patients with Philadelphia chromosome positive chronic myeloid leukemia. Methods: The physicochemical stability parameters: appearance, pH, osmolality, and drug content of formulation were evaluated for 30 days when stored at 2–8°C. Concentration of solution was measured with a validated method using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) coupled with an absorbance UV detector. Equally, microbiological stability was performed. Results: The remaining imatinib concentration was at least 95% of the initial concentration after 30 days stored in fridge temperature. No changes were observed regarding the physical properties of the formulation during the study period. Conclusions: The stability study showed that the imatinib oral solution at a concentration of 30 mg/mL provides an alternative option at the commercial tablet dosage forms for pediatric patients and patients who have difficulties to swallow.