EP1663101B1 - Administration form and kit for the oral administration of active substances, vitamins and/or nutrients and use thereof - Google Patents

Administration form and kit for the oral administration of active substances, vitamins and/or nutrients and use thereof Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1663101B1
EP1663101B1 EP04765071A EP04765071A EP1663101B1 EP 1663101 B1 EP1663101 B1 EP 1663101B1 EP 04765071 A EP04765071 A EP 04765071A EP 04765071 A EP04765071 A EP 04765071A EP 1663101 B1 EP1663101 B1 EP 1663101B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
dosage form
form according
drinking straw
barrier device
hydrophobic
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP04765071A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1663101A1 (en
Inventor
Elke Sternberger
Rasoul Sedaghat Kerdar
Johannes Bartholomäus
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Gruenenthal GmbH
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Gruenenthal GmbH
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Publication date
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Priority to PL04765071T priority Critical patent/PL1663101T3/en
Publication of EP1663101A1 publication Critical patent/EP1663101A1/en
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Publication of EP1663101B1 publication Critical patent/EP1663101B1/en
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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61J—CONTAINERS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR MEDICAL OR PHARMACEUTICAL PURPOSES; DEVICES OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR BRINGING PHARMACEUTICAL PRODUCTS INTO PARTICULAR PHYSICAL OR ADMINISTERING FORMS; DEVICES FOR ADMINISTERING FOOD OR MEDICINES ORALLY; BABY COMFORTERS; DEVICES FOR RECEIVING SPITTLE
    • A61J7/00—Devices for administering medicines orally, e.g. spoons; Pill counting devices; Arrangements for time indication or reminder for taking medicine
    • A61J7/0015—Devices specially adapted for taking medicines
    • A61J7/0038—Straws
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
    • A47G21/00—Table-ware
    • A47G21/18—Drinking straws or the like
    • A47G21/183—Drinking straws or the like with means for changing the flavour of the liquid

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a dosage form for oral administration of active ingredients, vitamins and / or nutrients comprising a drinking straw and an impermeable to an active ingredient, vitamin and / or nutrient formulation, for air and a transport liquid permeable barrier device, wherein the locking device is a uniform Has density and a hydrophobic finish (see US-B-6,224,908).
  • the drinking straws for oral administration of active ingredients, vitamins and / or nutrients described in the prior art contain plugs or blocking devices which are both complicated and expensive. Furthermore, the known locking devices on properties that are not or only poorly reproducible, so that there is a variable and therefore intolerable behavior in routine investigations or repeated use in standard situations.
  • the object is achieved by providing a dosage form according to claim 1.
  • a uniform density is understood to mean a density of the blocking device which varies by a maximum of 10%. This is advantageous both in the event that the transport liquid moves through the locking device during a suction process of the user of the drinking straw, as well as in the event that the transport liquid past the locking device, i. So between the locking device and the inner wall of the straw, moves.
  • the hydrophobic equipment causes as little as possible of the transport liquid to remain in the barrier device, thereby increasing the reproducibility of the characteristics of the drinking straw. Furthermore, it is thereby achieved that in a one-time (incomplete) sucking the locking device is not so difficult because less transport fluid remains in the locking device.
  • the locking device over the entire cross section of the drinking straw is uniformly permeable to the transport liquid, whereby their transport is facilitated.
  • the hydrophobic equipment of the locking device and their uniform density act together according to the invention to ensure an advantageous and in particular better reproducible behavior of the locking device.
  • the active ingredient, vitamin and / or nutrient formulation is preferably solid or pasty, more preferably solid and is hereinafter referred to as "formulation" according to the invention.
  • formulation Preference is given to a multiparticulate formulation, wherein the particles of the multiparticulate formulation preferably have a diameter of 50 ⁇ m to 1500 ⁇ m and in particular are spherical.
  • the formulation is in the form of tablets, microtablets, granules, crystals or pellets.
  • the formulation can also be immobilized in the drinking straw with the aid of a binding, physiologically acceptable material which is soluble in the transport liquid.
  • the active ingredients and / or vitamins and / or nutrients per se or the formulation as a whole can be insoluble or else soluble in the transport fluid or be at least partially soluble. If the active ingredients, vitamins or nutrients or their formulations are soluble in the transport liquid, they are dissolved by the transport fluid passing by and taken in dissolved form. On the other hand, if the active ingredients, vitamins or nutrients or their formulations are insoluble in the transport fluid, they are suspended in the transport fluid flowing past and taken in suspended form with the transport fluid. Preferably, multiparticulate formulations are used for this purpose. Such particles should be so small and light that they can be transported by the transport liquid. The adhesion of the particles to each other or to the drinking straw walls should be as low as possible, which can optionally be achieved by a suitable surface treatment of the particles.
  • active ingredients preferably therapeutic agents, vitamins and nutrients, all orally administrable substances can be used in the form of a suitable formulation.
  • the drinking straw preferably contains a precisely defined dose of these substances, in particular a single dose for a single administration.
  • the locking device is designed such that it does not affect the movement of the transport liquid (and also the movement of air) within the drinking straw substantially, but at most slows down a bit, as they walk through the transport liquid (and air) through the locking device or on the blocking device only by a certain resistance opposes. It is different, however, for the formulation or its constituents.
  • the locking device first holds the formulation in a specific position of the drinking straw, so that it remains in the drinking straw.
  • the blocking device however, the flow of the transport liquid must not be reduced so far that a solid and insoluble active ingredient, vitamin and / or nutrient formulation would not be taken.
  • the formulation is preferably arranged in the drinking straw between the blocking device and the mouth opening of the drinking straw, to which the formulation can pass unhindered.
  • the blocking device is preferably designed as a type of plug whose cross section is preferably adapted to the cross section of the drinking straw.
  • the outer diameter of the (loose, ie not in the drinking straw) locking device in the preferred embodiment is at least as large as the inner diameter of the drinking straw.
  • a locking device can therefore - if it is loose - have a larger cross section than the cross section of the drinking straw. In this case, the locking device must be compressible and at least partially compressed before it can be inserted into the drinking straw.
  • the locking device is constructed of fibers which are thermally connected to each other.
  • the fibers have in particular a thickness of 1.3 dtex to 8 dtex.
  • the fibers are based on cellulose or cellulose derivatives and more preferably on cellulose acetate.
  • the fibers may be pressed into filter material to preferably produce the barrier as a plug.
  • This plug can also consist of appropriate nonwoven material.
  • the locking device corresponds to a cigarette filter.
  • a cost-effective production of the locking device is possible with particularly simple means. It is important to ensure that the cigarette filter is preferably hydrophobic before use as a blocking device, if the material of the cigarette filter does not already have intrinsic hydrophobic properties. Particularly preferred is the use of a cigarette filter as a blocking device, wherein the cigarette filter comprises cellulose acetate, in particular compacted cellulose acetate fibers.
  • the locking device may also be constructed of a foam, preferably of an open-cell foam and permeable to the air and transport fluid and permeable.
  • the locking device is particularly simple and can be produced with particularly advantageous properties.
  • the locking device is made of a foam made of a plastic, which is approved under food law.
  • the plastics such as polyesters, preferably polyethylene terephthalate, polystyrenes, or polyolefins, preferably polyethylene, can preferably be used for the production of the blocking device.
  • the fibers or the foam are at least partially hydrophobic.
  • the blocking device which is constructed from such fibers, is also hydrophobic.
  • the blocking device when the individual fibers are intrinsically hydrophobic, the blocking device will be referred to as an "inside" hydrophobic barrier device, so that it is hydrophobic overall (inside and outside).
  • the foam may also be hydrophobic as a whole, either because the foam plastic is already intrinsically hydrophobic or because the foam has been rendered hydrophobic.
  • the locking device is at least partially outwardly hydrophobic equips. or the blocking device has a peripheral area which is more hydrophobic in relation to an interior.
  • Such an embodiment has the advantage that not all fibers have to be individually rendered hydrophobic, but that only the fibers present in the outer region of the blocking device are either intrinsically hydrophobic or hydrophobic.
  • a built-up of foam barrier device can be hydrophobic in its outer region. By such a hydrophobic equipment only in the outer region of the locking device, the manufacturing cost of the locking device can be reduced.
  • this embodiment of the locking device will be referred to as an "outside" hydrophobic locking device.
  • the hydrophobic finish of the barrier device is based on Teflon, a silicone or silicone derivative, a hydrophobic acrylic or other hydrophobic material, preferably a food approved material.
  • the locking device for at least 15 minutes in contact with the transport liquid (for example, at the lower end of the locking device) without so much transport liquid penetrates into or through the locking device that above wetting the barrier device is wetted.
  • the transport liquid for example, at the lower end of the locking device
  • no suction takes place at the mouth of the drinking straw and / or that during this time the transport liquid is not pressed from below through the locking device.
  • Preferred acrylic resins for the hydrophobic finish are water-insoluble acrylic resins, such as poly (meth) acrylates, more preferably poly (C 1-4 ) alkyl (meth) acrylates, poly (C 1-4 ) trialkylamino (C 1-4 ) alkyl ( Meth) acrylates and / or their copolymers, most preferably copolymers of ethyl acrylate and methyl methacrylate with a monomeric molar ratio of 2: 1 (Eudragit NE30D®), copolymers of ethyl acrylate, methyl methacrylate and trimethylammonium-ethyl methacrylate chloride with a monomeric molar ratio of 1: 2 : 0.1 (Eudragit RS®), copolymers of ethyl acrylate, methyl methacrylate and trimethyl ammonium ethyl methacrylate chloride with a monomeric molar ratio of 1: 2: 0.2 (
  • polyvinyl acetates preferably Kollicoat SR 30 D®
  • cellulose derivatives preferably alkyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose or cellulose esters, for example cellulose acetate.
  • the said polymers or copolymers can be further equipped to increase their hydrophobic property with other hydrophobic groups, so that their hydrophobic property is increased.
  • silicone or silicone derivatives or Teflon can be used for hydrophobing.
  • the material used for the hydrophobization is applied according to the invention to the blocking device preferably by means of a spraying process or a dipping process or generally an impregnation process.
  • a spraying process or a dipping process or generally an impregnation process it is either possible that the hydrophobic effect of the hydrophobic material is achieved only by the application, ie directly (or after a certain reaction time) after contact with the fibers or the foam of the blocking device, or that the hydrophobizing effect only after activation takes place, for example after an electromagnetic activation by means of UV radiation or other radiation or after a thermal activation or after a chemical activation.
  • the hydrophobic material preferably penetrates from the outside to the inside in the blocking device during application, so that the amount of hydrophobic material applied or the choice of the hydrophobic material (which in turn determines the reaction time) or, if appropriate, the type of activation of the hydrophobic material hydrophobizing effect the penetration depth into the locking device can be influenced.
  • an intrinsically hydrophobic material is used on the surface of the blocking device and an intrinsically non-hydrophobic material is used in the interior of the blocking device.
  • the blocking device preferably comprises only food law harmless, ie approved, material. For a cost-effective production of the locking device is possible.
  • the locking device is arranged movably in the drinking straw.
  • the position of the locking device can also serve as a measure of the amount of formulation supplied to the user.
  • at least the portion of the drinking straw containing the formulation or the portion of the drinking straw in which the blocking device can move is at least partially transparent and / or colored, in particular colored such that the position of the blocking device is visible from the outside.
  • an embodiment is also possible in which the drinking straw is opaque at the beginning of the region of movement of the blocking device and is made transparent at the end of this movement region.
  • the administered administration of the formulation is indicated by the fact that the locking device reaches the transparent area, which is visible from the outside.
  • the transparent and opaque areas can also be reversed.
  • the movable locking device is preferably movable in the drinking straw only in a certain range.
  • the locking device is fixed in the drinking straw.
  • the barrier effect of the locking device ie its blocking effect on the formulation and its constituents and their permeability to the transport liquid (as well as for air), easier and safer to implement.
  • the hydrophobically equipped locking device is movable.
  • the drinking straw has a first opening and a second, the active ingredient, vitamin and / or nutrient formulation facing opening, wherein the drinking straw is narrowed at least at one of the openings to a smaller compared to the cross section of the locking device cross-section.
  • the drinking straw is at least partially maintained upright, so that the first opening at its lower end and the second opening results at its upper end.
  • the drinking straw may have a curvature area or be designed to be bendable or curvable in order, on the one hand, to open the lower end, i. the first opening, easier to dive into the transport liquid and on the other hand at the upper end, i. at the second opening to allow easier suction.
  • the drinking straw in the region of its first opening preferably extends largely vertically and in the region of its second opening preferably at an angle of approximately 10 ° to 90 ° relative to the vertical, preferably at an angle of approximately 30 ° to 70 °. This results in a total of a curvature angle for the position of use of about 0 ° to a maximum of 90 °, preferably from about 20 ° to about 60 °, most preferably from about 30 ° to about 45 °.
  • the locking device is arranged above the curvature in one and the same leg of the drinking straw as the formulation.
  • the straw can be rigid or flexible, straight or angled - preferably reversible angled.
  • the drinking straw is preferably made of a synthetic material.
  • At least the optionally existing curvature region in which the drinking straw is reversibly bendable is preferably constructed of an elastic, synthetic material or of a synthetic material plastically deformable at a temperature below its softening point.
  • the area in which the drinking straw is reversibly angled, is preferably designed accordion-like.
  • the drinking straw inner diameter should preferably be at least 3 mm, so that a sufficient amount of transport liquid can be sucked through the drinking straw in order to transport the formulation.
  • Preferred is an inner diameter of 4-15 mm, most preferably 5-10 mm.
  • the drinking straw preferably has a round, oval, rectangular or square cross-section and preferably has a smooth inner side. A round cross section is preferred.
  • the second opening is provided with a removable and formulation impermeable closure device.
  • the closure device is reversible to close and open.
  • the formulation can also be supplied to a user in a plurality of time-sequential sub-steps, the formulation being reliably enclosed by the reversibly closable closure device in between.
  • this closure device is a plug, a plug, a foil, a grid or a cap, so that a closure of the drinking straw can be effected with very simple means.
  • the closure device is preferably made of an insoluble in the transport liquid or at least only partially soluble, air-impermeable or at least only partially permeable to air and preferably physiologically harmless material.
  • the inner diameter of the closure device is adapted to the outer diameter of the drinking straw, so that the closure device can be placed on the drinking straw.
  • the closure device may preferably also be embodied in the form of a part of the drinking straw which is reversibly angled between the first opening and the second opening and which is preferably reversibly fixable in the angled position with the aid of a clamp, a collar or a cap.
  • the straw is closed, ie the curvature set in such a way causes a closure of the drinking straw at least at its second opening. This results in a curvature angle for the closed position of preferably approximately 180 °.
  • the second opening of the drinking straw is designed as a mouthpiece and has in particular a corrugation.
  • the formulation can be safely and easily supplied to those drinking straw users who, due to their age or due to an infirmity, have difficulty in swallowing or coordination difficulties (for example with regard to movements of their mouths).
  • the first opening is formed as a connecting piece to a reservoir of the transport liquid. This makes it possible with particularly simple means to produce a secure connection of the drinking straw with a reservoir of the transport liquid and thus to prevent spillage of the transport liquid.
  • the drinking straw further comprises a mark for identifying the mouth part and / or for indicating the suction direction of the transport liquid.
  • a use and handling of the drinking straw is greatly simplified, because such use is intuitively possible. It is particularly advantageous if the marking is represented by a symbol, for example an arrow or the like. In this case, a user must recognize any characters, making the use of the dosage form according to the invention is simpler and thus safer.
  • Another object of the invention is also a kit of the dosage form according to the invention and a physiologically acceptable, optionally active substance, nutrient and / or vitamin-containing transport liquid, which is preferably present in a container.
  • As transport liquid is preferably an aqueous liquid, wherein water, lemonade, fruit juice without pulp, tea, coffee, milk and / or a milk constituents having liquid are particularly preferred.
  • Another object relates to the use of a cigarette filter as a blocking device for a dosage form according to the invention.
  • FIG. 1 shows a dosage form according to the invention which comprises a drinking straw 1 with a blocking device 3 and a formulation 2 located therein.
  • the drinking straw 1 has a drinking straw wall 10 or a drinking straw wall 10, a first opening 5 and a second opening 6, wherein the second opening 6 is closed by way of example by means of a closure device 4.
  • the first opening 5 is also referred to below as the inlet opening 5 and the second opening 6 is also referred to below as the mouth opening 6.
  • a section line II is further drawn transversely to the longitudinal extent of the drinking straw 1 at the height of the locking device 3.
  • the formulation 2 is arranged on the second opening 6 facing side of the locking device 3 and also remains there, which is caused by the blocking effect of the locking device 3 for the formulation 2.
  • the serving as a blocking device 3 plug 3 is exemplified by hydrophobic filter material, in particular in the form of a cigarette filter, and is permeable to air and a transport liquid in particular during suction, for the Formulation 2, however, impermeable.
  • the plug 3 is exemplified as a compact, cylindrical body and has a round cross-section.
  • the plug 3 is permanently fixed in the straw 1 or arranged to be movable within limits.
  • the locking device 3 or the plug 3 is arranged to be movable, then its mobility is limited in any case, for example already in that the straw 1 according to the invention preferably at both its mouth opening 6 and at its inlet opening 5 has a cross-sectional reduction, ie a reduction of at least the inner diameter or in general the inner cross-section of the drinking straw 1, wherein it is preferably provided that the reduction in cross-section is accompanied by a reduction of the outer diameter of the drinking straw 1, ie that the "wall thickness" of the drinking straw 1 is substantially constant in the area of the cross-sectional reduction.
  • a first such cross-sectional reduction 11 is arranged by way of example in FIG.
  • the cross-sectional reductions 11, 14 cause the (movably provided) locking device 3 in any case can not escape from the drinking straw 1 (through one or the other opening 5, 6).
  • the area between the cross-sectional reductions 11, 14 could therefore be referred to as the "maximum range of movement" of the locking device 3. According to the invention, however, it can be provided that the range of movement is further limited by other cross-sectional constrictions, such as a bendable area.
  • FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional view of the drinking straw 1 along the section line II from FIG. 1 , a section also being drawn through the blocking device 3.
  • the outer diameter of the locking device 3 is adapted to the inner diameter of the drinking straw 1, that the formulation 2 can not get from the second opening 6 facing side of the locking device 3 to the other side.
  • This is accomplished in particular by a sufficiently small distance between the wall 10 of the drinking straw 1 and the locking device 3.
  • This distance is chosen such that - if the locking device 3 is movable - between the locking device 3 and the wall 10 of the drinking straw is a sufficiently large friction, which causes the locking device 3 is not more or only difficult of a once taken position in the direction of the second opening 6 out back to their starting position.
  • the hydrophobic equipment of the locking device assists in fixing the locking device in any position.
  • the round cross section of both the drinking straw 1 and the blocking device 3 shown in FIG. 2 is chosen merely by way of example and can also be replaced by another cross-sectional configuration - for example square, rectangular, triangular, pentagonal, hexagonal or octagonal is.
  • FIG. 3 shows a side view of a blocking device 3 constructed from fibers 31.
  • the blocking device 3 shown in FIG . 3 furthermore has a hydrophobic edge region 32.
  • the edge region 32 causes the transport liquid 7 to pass substantially inside 34 from the blocking device 3 or laterally past the blocking device 3 , ie between the blocking device 3 and the wall 10 of the drinking straw 1, flows past.
  • the edge region 32 is dispensable, in particular, if the fibers 31 of the blocking device 3 themselves are rendered hydrophobic, be they constructed from an intrinsically hydrophobic material or indeed constructed from an intrinsically less hydrophobic material, but subsequently hydrophobicized overall ,
  • the locking device 3 is, however, according to the invention quite well designed so that it is hydrophobic both inside 34 and outside - ie in the edge region 32.
  • the blocking device 3 can alternatively also be designed as a hydrophobicized and / or optionally hydrophobically "coated" cigarette filter.
  • FIG. 4 shows a side view of a blocking device 3 made of foam 33, in particular of open-cell foam 33.
  • the foam 33 is in particular partially permeable and according to the invention can of course - as indicated in Figure 3 for the case of a fiber comprising blocking device - also in a (preferably "hydrophobic") edge region 32 and a (preferably less hydrophobic) interior 34 be structured.
  • the pore size of the foam is inventively chosen such that the Transport liquid in contact with the locking device 3 does not penetrate too fast, but in particular by the hydrophobic equipment of the locking device. 3
  • FIG. 5 shows an illustration of a kit according to the invention or a situation of use of the dosage form according to the invention.
  • the (only schematically shown in Figure 5 ) drinking straw 1 dives with its first opening 5 in the transport liquid 7, which is located in a reservoir 50.
  • transport liquid 7 is sucked through the drinking straw 1 and conveys the formulation 2 or its components to the opening 6 and thus into the mouth of the user.
  • the drinking straw 1 can be provided bendable or bendable in a curvature region 15 by a curvature angle 16.
  • the curving portion 15 divides the straw 1 into a first (lower) part 17 and a second (upper) part 18.
  • the first part 17 is also referred to as the area 17 of the first opening 5, and the second part 18 is also called the area 18 of the second opening 6 denotes.
  • the region 17 of the first opening 5 extends largely vertically and the region 18 of the second opening 6 is angled by the angle of curvature 16.
  • the second part 18 should be at most horizontal, because otherwise the liquid from the second opening 6 may leak uncontrollably.
  • the blocking device 3 In the presence of a curvature region 15, the blocking device 3 according to the invention is provided in the upper part 18 of the drinking straw 1 as the formulation.
  • FIG. 5 also shows diagrammatically a connecting piece 52 between the drinking straw and the reservoir 50, which prevents spillage of the transporting fluid 7 either from the reservoir 50 or from the drinking straw 1, for example due to a decrease in the suction effect of the user of the drinking straw 1.
  • a marker 22 as a mouth representing a sign on the drinking straw 1 is shown schematically in Figure 5 , which is clearly closer to the second opening 6 than at the first opening 5 to indicate that for proper operation of the dosage form at the second opening 6 has to be sucked.
  • FIG 5 a corrugation 24 of the second opening 6 adjacent mouthpiece of the drinking straw 1 is shown.
  • the corrugation 24 serves that the user of the straw 1 can hold this better.

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  • Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
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Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Darreichungsform zur oralen Verabreichung von Wirkstoffen, Vitaminen und/oder Nährstoffen umfassend einen Trinkhalm und eine für eine Wirkstoff-, Vitamin- und/oder Nährstoff-Formulierung undurchlässige, für Luft und eine Transportflüssigkeit jedoch durchlässige Sperrvorrichtung, wobei die Sperrvorrichtung eine einheitliche Dichte und eine hydrophobe Ausrüstung aufweist (siehe US-B-6 224 908).The invention relates to a dosage form for oral administration of active ingredients, vitamins and / or nutrients comprising a drinking straw and an impermeable to an active ingredient, vitamin and / or nutrient formulation, for air and a transport liquid permeable barrier device, wherein the locking device is a uniform Has density and a hydrophobic finish (see US-B-6,224,908).

Die Verabreichung von Wirkstoffen, Vitaminen und/oder Nährstoffen mit Hilfe eines Trinkhalms, der eine durch eine Flüssigkeit transportierbare Wirkstoff-, Vitamin- und/oder Nährstoff-Formulierung enthält, ist bekannt. Patienten, die Schwierigkeiten haben oder eine Abneigung empfinden, Kapseln oder Tabletten einzunehmen, wird dadurch eine weitere Darreichungsform von Wirkstoffen, Vitaminen oder Nährstoffen angeboten.The administration of active ingredients, vitamins and / or nutrients by means of a drinking straw containing a fluid-transportable active ingredient, vitamin and / or nutrient formulation is known. Patients who have difficulty or a disinclination to take capsules or tablets, this is another form of active ingredients, vitamins or nutrients offered.

Die im Stand der Technik beschriebenen Trinkhalme zur oralen Verabreichung von Wirkstoffen, Vitaminen und/oder Nährstoffen enthalten Stopfen bzw. Sperrvorrichtungen, die sowohl aufwändig als auch teuer sind. Weiterhin weisen die bekannten Sperrvorrichtungen Eigenschaften auf, die nicht oder nur schlecht reproduzierbar sind, so dass sich bei Routineuntersuchungen bzw. bei wiederholter Anwendung in Standardsituationen ein veränderliches und daher nicht tolerierbares Verhalten ergibt.The drinking straws for oral administration of active ingredients, vitamins and / or nutrients described in the prior art contain plugs or blocking devices which are both complicated and expensive. Furthermore, the known locking devices on properties that are not or only poorly reproducible, so that there is a variable and therefore intolerable behavior in routine investigations or repeated use in standard situations.

Es stellte sich daher die Aufgabe, eine Darreichungsform zur oralen Verabreichung von Wirkstoffen, Vitaminen und/oder Nährstoffen umfassend einen Trinkhalm mit einer Wirkstoff-, Vitamin- und/oder Nährstoff-Formulierung zur Verfügung zu stellen, die möglichst einfach und damit kostengünstig herzustellen ist und die die Nachteile der im Stand der Technik beschriebenen Darreichungsformen nicht aufweist, da sie leichter handhabbar und kontrollierbar ist.It was therefore an object to provide a dosage form for oral administration of active ingredients, vitamins and / or nutrients comprising a drinking straw with an active ingredient, vitamin and / or nutrient formulation available, which is as simple and therefore inexpensive to produce and which does not have the disadvantages of the administration forms described in the prior art, since it is easier to handle and to control.

Die Aufgabe wird erfindungsgemäß durch die Bereitstellung einer Darreichungsform gemäß Anspruch 1 gelöst.The object is achieved by providing a dosage form according to claim 1.

Im Folgenden wird unter einer einheitlichen Dichte eine Dichte der Sperrvorrichtung verstanden, die maximal um 10% schwankt. Dies ist vorteilhaft sowohl für den Fall, dass sich die Transportflüssigkeit bei einem Saugvorgang des Benutzers des Trinkhalms durch die Sperrvorrichtung hindurch bewegt, als auch für den Fall, dass sich die Transportflüssigkeit an der Sperrvorrichtung vorbei, d.h. also zwischen der Sperrvorrichtung und der Innenwand des Trinkhalms, bewegt. Durch die hydrophobe Ausrüstung wird bewirkt, dass möglichst wenig von der Transportflüssigkeit in der Sperrvorrichtung verbleibt, wodurch die Reproduzierbarkeit der Eigenschaften des Trinkhalms erhöht wird. Weiterhin wird hierdurch erreicht, dass bei einem einmaligen (unvollständigem) Saugen die Sperrvorrichtung nicht so schwer wird, weil weniger Transportflüssigkeit in der Sperrvorrichtung verbleibt. Durch die einheitliche Dichte ergibt sich der Vorteil, dass die Sperrvorrichtung über den gesamten Querschnitt des Trinkhalms gleichmäßig für die Transportflüssigkeit durchlässig ist, wodurch deren Transport erleichtert wird. Die hydrophobe Ausrüstung der Sperrvorrichtung und deren einheitliche Dichte wirken erfindungsgemäß zusammen, um ein vorteilhaftes und insbesondere besser reproduzierbares Verhalten der Sperrvorrichtung zu gewährleisten.In the following, a uniform density is understood to mean a density of the blocking device which varies by a maximum of 10%. This is advantageous both in the event that the transport liquid moves through the locking device during a suction process of the user of the drinking straw, as well as in the event that the transport liquid past the locking device, i. So between the locking device and the inner wall of the straw, moves. The hydrophobic equipment causes as little as possible of the transport liquid to remain in the barrier device, thereby increasing the reproducibility of the characteristics of the drinking straw. Furthermore, it is thereby achieved that in a one-time (incomplete) sucking the locking device is not so difficult because less transport fluid remains in the locking device. Due to the uniform density, there is the advantage that the locking device over the entire cross section of the drinking straw is uniformly permeable to the transport liquid, whereby their transport is facilitated. The hydrophobic equipment of the locking device and their uniform density act together according to the invention to ensure an advantageous and in particular better reproducible behavior of the locking device.

Die Wirkstoff-, Vitamin- und/oder Nährstoff-Formulierung ist vorzugsweise fest oder pastös, besonders bevorzugt fest und wird im Folgenden erfindungsgemäß als "Formulierung" bezeichnet. Bevorzugt ist eine multipartikuläre Formulierung, wobei die Partikel der multipartikulären Formulierung vorzugsweise einen Durchmesser von 50 µm bis 1500 µm haben und insbesondere kugelförmig sind. Vorzugsweise liegt die Formulierung in Form von Tabletten, Mikrotabletten, Granulaten, Kristallen oder Pellets vor. Die Formulierung kann auch mit Hilfe eines bindenden, in der Transportflüssigkeit löslichen, physiologisch unbedenklichen Materials immobilisiert im Trinkhalm vorliegen.The active ingredient, vitamin and / or nutrient formulation is preferably solid or pasty, more preferably solid and is hereinafter referred to as "formulation" according to the invention. Preference is given to a multiparticulate formulation, wherein the particles of the multiparticulate formulation preferably have a diameter of 50 μm to 1500 μm and in particular are spherical. Preferably, the formulation is in the form of tablets, microtablets, granules, crystals or pellets. The formulation can also be immobilized in the drinking straw with the aid of a binding, physiologically acceptable material which is soluble in the transport liquid.

Die Wirkstoffe und/oder Vitamine und/oder Nährstoffe an sich oder die Formulierung insgesamt können in der Transportflüssigkeit unlöslich oder auch löslich bzw. wenigstens teilweise löslich sein. Sind die Wirkstoffe, Vitamine oder Nährstoffe oder deren Formulierungen in der Transportflüssigkeit löslich, werden sie durch die vorbeiströmende Transportflüssigkeit mit gelöst und in gelöster Form mitgenommen. Sind die Wirkstoffe, Vitamine oder Nährstoffe oder deren Formulierungen in der Transportflüssigkeit hingegen unlöslich, werden sie in der vorbeiströmenden Transportflüssigkeit suspendiert und in suspendierter Form mit der Transportflüssigkeit mitgenommen. Vorzugsweise werden dafür multipartikuläre Formulierungen verwendet. Solche Partikel sollten so klein und leicht sein, dass sie von der Transportflüssigkeit transportiert werden können. Die Haftung der Partikel aneinander oder an den Trinkhalmwänden sollte möglichst gering sein, was gegebenenfalls durch eine geeignete Oberflächenbehandlung der Partikel erreicht werden kann.The active ingredients and / or vitamins and / or nutrients per se or the formulation as a whole can be insoluble or else soluble in the transport fluid or be at least partially soluble. If the active ingredients, vitamins or nutrients or their formulations are soluble in the transport liquid, they are dissolved by the transport fluid passing by and taken in dissolved form. On the other hand, if the active ingredients, vitamins or nutrients or their formulations are insoluble in the transport fluid, they are suspended in the transport fluid flowing past and taken in suspended form with the transport fluid. Preferably, multiparticulate formulations are used for this purpose. Such particles should be so small and light that they can be transported by the transport liquid. The adhesion of the particles to each other or to the drinking straw walls should be as low as possible, which can optionally be achieved by a suitable surface treatment of the particles.

Als Wirkstoffe, vorzugsweise therapeutische Wirkstoffe, Vitamine und Nährstoffe können alle oral verabreichbaren Stoffe in Form einer geeigneten Formulierung eingesetzt werden. Der Trinkhalm enthält vorzugsweise eine genau bestimmte Dosis dieser Stoffe, insbesondere eine Einzeldosis für eine einmalige Einnahme.As active ingredients, preferably therapeutic agents, vitamins and nutrients, all orally administrable substances can be used in the form of a suitable formulation. The drinking straw preferably contains a precisely defined dose of these substances, in particular a single dose for a single administration.

Die Sperrvorrichtung ist erfindungsgemäß derart ausgebildet, dass sie die Bewegung der Transportflüssigkeit (und auch die Bewegung von Luft) innerhalb des Trinkhalms nicht wesentlich beeinträchtigt, sondern allerhöchstens etwas verlangsamt, da sie einem Durchwandern der Transportflüssigkeit (und von Luft) durch die Sperrvorrichtung bzw. an der Sperrvorrichtung vorbei lediglich einen gewissen Widerstand entgegensetzt. Anders ist es hingegen für die Formulierung bzw. deren Bestandteile. Die Sperrvorrichtung hält zunächst die Formulierung in einer bestimmten Position des Trinkhalms, damit diese im Trinkhalm verbleibt. Durch die Sperrvorrichtung darf jedoch der Strom der Transportflüssigkeit nicht soweit reduziert werden, dass eine feste und unlösliche Wirkstoff-, Vitamin- und/oder Nährstoff-Formulierung nicht mehr mitgenommen werden würde. Vorzugsweise ist die Formulierung im Trinkhalm zwischen Sperrvorrichtung und der Mundöffnung des Trinkhalms angeordnet, zu der die Formulierung ungehindert gelangen kann.The locking device according to the invention is designed such that it does not affect the movement of the transport liquid (and also the movement of air) within the drinking straw substantially, but at most slows down a bit, as they walk through the transport liquid (and air) through the locking device or on the blocking device only by a certain resistance opposes. It is different, however, for the formulation or its constituents. The locking device first holds the formulation in a specific position of the drinking straw, so that it remains in the drinking straw. By the blocking device, however, the flow of the transport liquid must not be reduced so far that a solid and insoluble active ingredient, vitamin and / or nutrient formulation would not be taken. The formulation is preferably arranged in the drinking straw between the blocking device and the mouth opening of the drinking straw, to which the formulation can pass unhindered.

Die Sperrvorrichtung ist vorzugsweise als eine Art Pfropfen ausgebildet, dessen Querschnitt vorzugsweise dem Querschnitt des Trinkhalms angepasst ist. Das bedeutet, dass der Querschnitt der Sperrvorrichtung etwa dem Querschnitt des Trinkhalms entspricht, gegebenenfalls geringfügig größer ist. Für den Fall eines jeweils kreisrunden Querschnitts ist daher der Außendurchmesser der (losen, d.h. nicht im Trinkhalm befindlichen) Sperrvorrichtung in der bevorzugten Ausführungsform mindestens so groß wie der Innendurchmesser des Trinkhalms. Eine Sperrvorrichtung kann daher - wenn sie lose vorliegt - einen größeren Querschnitt aufweisen als der Querschnitt des Trinkhalms. In diesem Fall muss die Sperrvorrichtung zusammendrückbar sein und zumindest teilweise zusammengedrückt werden, bevor sie in den Trinkhalm eingeführt werden kann. Zum Einführen der Sperrvorrichtung in den Trinkhalm ist daher ggf. ein (leichtes) Zusammendrücken der Sperrvorrichtung erforderlich, was bewirkt, dass die Dichte der Sperrvorrichtung bei diesem Einführvorgang nicht wesentlich geändert wird oder aber zumindest keine bleibenden wesentlichen Dichteschwankungen über den Querschnitt der Sperrvorrichtung hervorgerufen werden. Insbesondere liegt damit eine über den gesamten Querschnitt der Sperrvorrichtung im wesentlichen konstante Dichte vor, d.h. eine Dichteschwankung von bis zu maximal 10%.The blocking device is preferably designed as a type of plug whose cross section is preferably adapted to the cross section of the drinking straw. The means that the cross-section of the locking device corresponds approximately to the cross section of the drinking straw, possibly slightly larger. In the case of a circular cross-section, therefore, the outer diameter of the (loose, ie not in the drinking straw) locking device in the preferred embodiment is at least as large as the inner diameter of the drinking straw. A locking device can therefore - if it is loose - have a larger cross section than the cross section of the drinking straw. In this case, the locking device must be compressible and at least partially compressed before it can be inserted into the drinking straw. For the insertion of the locking device in the drinking straw, therefore, a (slight) compression of the locking device is required, which causes the density of the locking device is not changed significantly in this insertion or at least no significant variations in density over the cross section of the locking device are caused. In particular, this results in a substantially constant over the entire cross section of the locking device density, ie, a density variation of up to a maximum of 10%.

Vorzugsweise ist die Sperrvorrichtung aus Fasern aufgebaut, die thermisch miteinander verbunden sind. Hierdurch ist mit besonders einfacher Art und Weise und damit kostengünstig die Herstellung einer Sperrvorrichtung möglich. Die Fasern weisen dabei insbesondere ein Dicke von 1,3 dtex bis 8 dtex auf.Preferably, the locking device is constructed of fibers which are thermally connected to each other. As a result, the production of a locking device is possible with a particularly simple manner and thus cost. The fibers have in particular a thickness of 1.3 dtex to 8 dtex.

Vorzugsweise basieren die Fasern auf Cellulose bzw. Cellulosederivaten und besonders bevorzugt auf Celluloseacetat. Die Fasern können zu Filtermaterial verpresst werden, um die Sperrvorrichtung vorzugsweise als Pfropfen zu erzeugen. Dieser Pfropfen kann auch aus entsprechendem Vliesmaterial bestehen.Preferably, the fibers are based on cellulose or cellulose derivatives and more preferably on cellulose acetate. The fibers may be pressed into filter material to preferably produce the barrier as a plug. This plug can also consist of appropriate nonwoven material.

Vorzugsweise entspricht die Sperrvorrichtung einem Zigarettenfilter. Hierdurch ist mit besonders einfachen Mitteln eine kostengünstige Herstellung der Sperrvorrichtung möglich. Hierbei ist darauf zu achten, dass der Zigarettenfilter vor einer Verwendung als Sperrvorrichtung vorzugsweise hydrophobiert wird, falls das Material des Zigarettenfilters nicht bereits intrinsisch hydrophobe Eigenschaften aufweist. Besonders bevorzugt ist die Verwendung eines Zigarettenfilters als Sperrvorrichtung, wobei der Zigarettenfilter Celluloseacetat umfasst, insbesondere verdichtete Celluloseacetat-Fasem.Preferably, the locking device corresponds to a cigarette filter. As a result, a cost-effective production of the locking device is possible with particularly simple means. It is important to ensure that the cigarette filter is preferably hydrophobic before use as a blocking device, if the material of the cigarette filter does not already have intrinsic hydrophobic properties. Particularly preferred is the use of a cigarette filter as a blocking device, wherein the cigarette filter comprises cellulose acetate, in particular compacted cellulose acetate fibers.

Vorzugsweise kann die Sperrvorrichtung auch aus einem Schaumstoff, bevorzugt aus einem offenzelligen und für die Luft und Transportflüssigkeit und durchlässigen Schaumstoff aufgebaut sein. Hierdurch ist die Sperrvorrichtung besonders einfach und mit besonders vorteilhaften Eigenschaften herstellbar. Besonders bevorzugt ist die Sperrvorrichtung aus einem Schaumstoff aus einem Kunststoff hergestellt, der lebensmittelrechtlich zugelassen ist. Bevorzugt können die Kunststoffe, wie Polyester, vorzugsweise Polyethylenterephthalat, Polystyrole, oder Polyolefine, vorzugsweise Polyethylen zur Herstellung der Sperrvorrichtung eingesetzt werden.Preferably, the locking device may also be constructed of a foam, preferably of an open-cell foam and permeable to the air and transport fluid and permeable. As a result, the locking device is particularly simple and can be produced with particularly advantageous properties. Particularly preferably, the locking device is made of a foam made of a plastic, which is approved under food law. The plastics, such as polyesters, preferably polyethylene terephthalate, polystyrenes, or polyolefins, preferably polyethylene, can preferably be used for the production of the blocking device.

Vorzugsweise sind die Fasern oder ist der Schaumstoff zumindest teilweise hydrophob ausgerüstet. Sofern die einzelnen Fasern bereits ein hydrophobes Verhalten aufweisen, ist auch die Sperrvorrichtung, die aus solchen Fasern aufgebaut ist, hydrophob. Wenn die einzelnen Fasern intrinsisch hydrophob sind, wird im Folgenden die Sperrvorrichtung als eine auch "innen" hydrophobe Sperrvorrichtung bezeichnet, so dass sie insgesamt (innen und außen) hydrophob ist. In gleicher Weise kann der Schaumstoff auch im Ganzen hydrophob sein, sei es dadurch, dass der Schaumstoffkunststoff bereits intrinsisch hydrophob ist oder dadurch, dass der Schaumstoff hydrophob ausgerüstet wurde.Preferably, the fibers or the foam are at least partially hydrophobic. If the individual fibers already have a hydrophobic behavior, the blocking device, which is constructed from such fibers, is also hydrophobic. In the following, when the individual fibers are intrinsically hydrophobic, the blocking device will be referred to as an "inside" hydrophobic barrier device, so that it is hydrophobic overall (inside and outside). In the same way, the foam may also be hydrophobic as a whole, either because the foam plastic is already intrinsically hydrophobic or because the foam has been rendered hydrophobic.

Vorzugsweise ist die Sperrvorrichtung zumindest teilweise außen hydrophob ausrüstet. bzw. weist die Sperrvorrichtung einen gegenüber einem Inneren hydrophoberen Randbereich auf. Eine solche Ausführungsform hat den Vorteil, dass nicht alle Fasern einzeln hydrophob ausgerüstet werden müssen, sondern dass lediglich die im Außenbereich der Sperrvorrichtung vorliegenden Fasern entweder intrinsisch hydrophob oder hydrophob ausgerüstet sind. Ebenso kann eine aus Schaumstoff aufgebaute Sperrvorrichtung in ihrem Außenbereich hydrophobiert werden. Durch eine solche hydrophobe Ausrüstung nur im Außenbereich der Sperrvorrichtung können die Herstellkosten der Sperrvorrichtung reduziert werden. Im Folgenden wird diese Ausführungsform der Sperrvorrichtung als eine "außen" hydrophobe Sperrvorrichtung bezeichnet.Preferably, the locking device is at least partially outwardly hydrophobic equips. or the blocking device has a peripheral area which is more hydrophobic in relation to an interior. Such an embodiment has the advantage that not all fibers have to be individually rendered hydrophobic, but that only the fibers present in the outer region of the blocking device are either intrinsically hydrophobic or hydrophobic. Likewise, a built-up of foam barrier device can be hydrophobic in its outer region. By such a hydrophobic equipment only in the outer region of the locking device, the manufacturing cost of the locking device can be reduced. Hereinafter, this embodiment of the locking device will be referred to as an "outside" hydrophobic locking device.

Vorzugsweise basiert die hydrophobe Ausrüstung der Sperrvorrichtung auf Teflon, einem Silikon oder Silikonderivat, einem hydrophoben Acrylharz oder einem anderen hydrophoben Material, wobei vorzugsweise ein lebensmittelrechtlich zugelassenes Material vorgesehen ist.Preferably, the hydrophobic finish of the barrier device is based on Teflon, a silicone or silicone derivative, a hydrophobic acrylic or other hydrophobic material, preferably a food approved material.

Unter einer hydrophoben Ausrüstung im Sinne dieser Erfindung ist dabei zu verstehen, dass die Sperrvorrichtung wenigstens 15 Minuten im Kontakt mit der Transportflüssigkeit (beispielsweise am unteren Ende der Sperrvorrichtung) steht, ohne dass soviel Transportflüssigkeit in bzw. durch die Sperrvorrichtung hindurchdringt, dass die sich oberhalb der Sperrvorrichtung befindende Formulierung benetzt wird. Bei dieser Bedingung ist zu beachten, dass während der genannten Zeitspanne von mindestens 15 Minuten kein Ansaugen an der Mundöffnung des Trinkhalms erfolgt und/oder dass während der genannten Zeitspanne die Transportflüssigkeit nicht von unten durch die Sperrvorrichtung gedrückt wird. Zur Erzielung dieses erfindungsgemäßen Effekts - nämlich dass die Formulierung (oberhalb der Sperrvorrichtung) wenigstens während 15 Minuten nicht benetzt wird, obwohl die Sperrvorrichtung mit ihrem unteren Teil in Kontakt zur Transportflüssigkeit steht - ist bei einer erfindungsgemäßen Sperrvorrichtung aus Schaumstoff vorgesehen, dass der Schaum nur so feine bzw. kleine Poren aufweist, dass die Transportflüssigkeit möglichst nicht eindringt oder höchstens entsprechend langsam eindringt.Under a hydrophobic equipment in the context of this invention is to be understood that the locking device for at least 15 minutes in contact with the transport liquid (for example, at the lower end of the locking device) without so much transport liquid penetrates into or through the locking device that above wetting the barrier device is wetted. In this condition, it should be noted that during the said period of at least 15 minutes, no suction takes place at the mouth of the drinking straw and / or that during this time the transport liquid is not pressed from below through the locking device. To achieve this effect according to the invention - namely that the formulation (above the locking device) is not wetted for at least 15 minutes, although the locking device is in contact with the transport liquid with its lower part - is provided in a locking device according to the invention of foam that the foam only so has fine or small pores, that the transport liquid does not penetrate as possible or at most slowly penetrates accordingly.

Als Acrylharze für die hydrophobe Ausrüstung eignen sich bevorzugt wasserunlösliche Acrylharze, wie Poly(meth)acrylate, besonders bevorzugt Poly(C1-4) alkyl(meth)acrylate, Poly(C1-4)trialkylamino(C1-4)alkyl(meth)acrylate und/oder deren Copolymere, ganz besonders bevorzugt Copolymere aus Ethylacrylat und Methylmethacrylat mit einem monomeren molaren Verhältnis von 2:1 (Eudragit NE30D®), Copolymere aus Ethylacrylat, Methylmethacrylat und Trimethylammonium-Ethylmethacrylatchlorid mit einem monomeren molaren Verhältnis von 1:2:0,1 (Eudragit RS®), Copolymere aus Ethylacrylat, Methylmethacrylat und Trimethylammonium-Ethylmethacrylatchlorid mit einem monomeren molaren Verhältnis von 1:2:0,2 (Eudragit RL®) oder eine Mischung von wenigstens zwei der genannten Copolymere. Weiterhin ist es möglich, als Polymere für die hydrophobe Ausrüstung Polyvinylacetate (bevorzugt Kollicoat SR 30 D ®) oder Cellulosederivate, vorzugsweise Alkylcellulose, Ethylcellulose oder Celluloseester, beispielsweise Celluloseacetat zu verwenden. Die genannten Polymere oder Copolymere können zur Erhöhung ihrer hydrophoben Eigenschaft weiterhin auch mit anderen hydrophoben Gruppen ausgestattet werden, so dass ihre hydrophobe Eigenschaft erhöht wird.Preferred acrylic resins for the hydrophobic finish are water-insoluble acrylic resins, such as poly (meth) acrylates, more preferably poly (C 1-4 ) alkyl (meth) acrylates, poly (C 1-4 ) trialkylamino (C 1-4 ) alkyl ( Meth) acrylates and / or their copolymers, most preferably copolymers of ethyl acrylate and methyl methacrylate with a monomeric molar ratio of 2: 1 (Eudragit NE30D®), copolymers of ethyl acrylate, methyl methacrylate and trimethylammonium-ethyl methacrylate chloride with a monomeric molar ratio of 1: 2 : 0.1 (Eudragit RS®), copolymers of ethyl acrylate, methyl methacrylate and trimethyl ammonium ethyl methacrylate chloride with a monomeric molar ratio of 1: 2: 0.2 (Eudragit RL®) or a mixture of at least two of said copolymers. It is furthermore possible to use polyvinyl acetates (preferably Kollicoat SR 30 D®) as polymers for the hydrophobic finish. or cellulose derivatives, preferably alkyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose or cellulose esters, for example cellulose acetate. The said polymers or copolymers can be further equipped to increase their hydrophobic property with other hydrophobic groups, so that their hydrophobic property is increased.

Weiterhin können zur Hydrophobierung Silikon bzw. Silikonderivate oder Teflon verwendet werden.Furthermore, silicone or silicone derivatives or Teflon can be used for hydrophobing.

Das zur Hydrophobierung verwendete Material wird erfindungsgemäß auf die Sperrvorrichtung bevorzugt mittels eines Sprühverfahrens oder eines Tauchverfahrens oder allgemein eines Imprägnierungsverfahrens aufgebracht. Hierbei ist es entweder möglich, dass die hydrophierende Wirkung des hydrophoben Materials nur durch das Aufbringen erzielt wird, d. h. direkt (oder nach einer gewissen Reaktionszeit) nach einem Kontakt mit den Fasern oder dem Schaum der Sperrvorrichtung, oder dass die hydrophobierende Wirkung erst nach einer Aktivierung erfolgt, beispielsweise nach einer elektromagnetischen Aktivierung mittels UV-Strahlung oder sonstiger Strahlung oder nach einer thermischen Aktivierung oder auch nach einer chemischen Aktivierung.
Das hydrophobe Material dringt beim Aufbringen bevorzugt von außen nach innen in der Sperrvorrichtung vor, so dass durch die Menge des aufgebrachten hydrophoben Materials bzw. durch die Auswahl des hydrophoben Materials (was wiederum die Reaktionszeit bestimmt) bzw. ggf. durch die Art der Aktivierung der hydrophobierenden Wirkung die Eindringtiefe in die Sperrvorrichtung beeinflusst werden kann. Auf dieses Weise ist es möglich, das hydrophobierende Material entweder nur zur Ausrüstung des äußeren Bereichs der Sperrvorrichtung zu benutzen oder aber die Sperrvorrichtung vollständig (innen und außen) zu hydrophobieren.
Es ist auch möglich, nur die Oberfläche der Sperrvorrichtung mittels eines Coextrusionsverfahrens zu hydrophobieren und den Kern nicht. Hierbei wird vorzugsweise an der Oberfläche der Sperrvorrichtung ein beispielsweise intrinsisch hydrophobes Material und im Innenbereich der Sperrvorrichtung ein intrinsisch nicht hydrophobes Material verwendet. In jedem Fall umfasst die Sperrvorrichtung vorzugsweise ausschließlich lebensmittelrechtlich unbedenkliches, d.h. zugelassenes, Material. Damit ist auch eine kostengünstige Herstellung der Sperrvorrichtung möglich.The material used for the hydrophobization is applied according to the invention to the blocking device preferably by means of a spraying process or a dipping process or generally an impregnation process. In this case, it is either possible that the hydrophobic effect of the hydrophobic material is achieved only by the application, ie directly (or after a certain reaction time) after contact with the fibers or the foam of the blocking device, or that the hydrophobizing effect only after activation takes place, for example after an electromagnetic activation by means of UV radiation or other radiation or after a thermal activation or after a chemical activation.
The hydrophobic material preferably penetrates from the outside to the inside in the blocking device during application, so that the amount of hydrophobic material applied or the choice of the hydrophobic material (which in turn determines the reaction time) or, if appropriate, the type of activation of the hydrophobic material hydrophobizing effect the penetration depth into the locking device can be influenced. In this way, it is possible to either use the hydrophobing material only to equip the outer portion of the barrier or to completely hydrophobicize the barrier completely (inside and outside).
It is also possible to hydrophobize only the surface of the blocking device by means of a coextrusion process and not the core. In this case, preferably an intrinsically hydrophobic material is used on the surface of the blocking device and an intrinsically non-hydrophobic material is used in the interior of the blocking device. In any case, the blocking device preferably comprises only food law harmless, ie approved, material. For a cost-effective production of the locking device is possible.

Vorzugsweise ist die Sperrvorrichtung im Trinkhalm bewegbar angeordnet. Hierdurch ist es möglich, dass durch einen Saugvorgang eines Benutzers sowohl die Sperrvorrichtung als auch die Transportflüssigkeit und die Formulierung in dieselbe Richtung innerhalb des Trinkhalms bewegt wird. Daher kann die Position der Sperrvorrichtung auch als ein Maß für die Menge der dem Benutzer zugeführten Formulierung dienen. Aus diesem Grund ist daher bevorzugt, dass zumindest der die Formulierung enthaltende Teil des Trinkhalms bzw. der Abschnitt des Trinkhalms, in dem sich die Sperrvorrichtung bewegen kann, zumindest teilweise transparent und/oder gefärbt ist, insbesondere derart gefärbt ist, dass die Position der Sperrvorrichtung von außen sichtbar ist. Bei Verwendung eines transparenten Trinkhalms kann die Aufnahme der Formulierung beobachtet werden, während die Verwendung eines opak gefärbten Trinkhalms die Möglichkeit bietet, die Verabreichung der Formulierung zu verdecken. Erfindungsgemäß ist auch eine Ausführungsform möglich, bei der der Trinkhalm am Anfang des Bereichs der Bewegung der Sperrvorrichtung opak ist und am Ende dieses Bewegungsbereichs transparent ausgebildet ist. Dadurch ist es möglich, dass die erfolgte Verabreichung der Formulierung dadurch angezeigt wird, dass die Sperrvorrichtung den transparenten Bereich erreicht, was von außen sichtbar ist. Die transparenten und opaken Bereiche können natürlich auch vertauscht sein.Preferably, the locking device is arranged movably in the drinking straw. This makes it possible that by a suction of a user both the locking device and the transport liquid and the formulation is moved in the same direction within the drinking straw. Therefore, the position of the locking device can also serve as a measure of the amount of formulation supplied to the user. For this reason, it is therefore preferred that at least the portion of the drinking straw containing the formulation or the portion of the drinking straw in which the blocking device can move is at least partially transparent and / or colored, in particular colored such that the position of the blocking device is visible from the outside. When using a transparent drinking straw, the incorporation of the formulation can be observed, while the use of an opaque colored drinking straw offers the opportunity to obscure the administration of the formulation. According to the invention, an embodiment is also possible in which the drinking straw is opaque at the beginning of the region of movement of the blocking device and is made transparent at the end of this movement region. As a result, it is possible that the administered administration of the formulation is indicated by the fact that the locking device reaches the transparent area, which is visible from the outside. Of course, the transparent and opaque areas can also be reversed.

Die bewegbare Sperrvorrichtung ist im Trinkhalm bevorzugt lediglich in einem bestimmten Bereich bewegbar.The movable locking device is preferably movable in the drinking straw only in a certain range.

Bei einer alternativen Ausführungsform der Erfindung ist es aber auch möglich, dass die Sperrvorrichtung im Trinkhalm fixiert ist. Hierdurch ist die Sperrwirkung der Sperrvorrichtung, d.h. ihre Sperrwirkung für die Formulierung und ihre Bestandteile und ihre Durchlässigkeit für die Transportflüssigkeit (sowie für Luft), einfacher und sicherer zu realisieren. Vorzugsweise ist die hydrophob ausgerüstete Sperrvorrichtung bewegbar.In an alternative embodiment of the invention, it is also possible that the locking device is fixed in the drinking straw. As a result, the barrier effect of the locking device, ie its blocking effect on the formulation and its constituents and their permeability to the transport liquid (as well as for air), easier and safer to implement. Preferably, the hydrophobically equipped locking device is movable.

Vorzugsweise weist der Trinkhalm eine erste Öffnung und eine zweite, der Wirkstoff-, Vitamin- und/oder Nährstoff-Formulierung zugewandte Öffnung auf, wobei der Trinkhalm wenigstens an einer der Öffnungen auf einen im Vergleich zum Querschnitt der Sperrvorrichtung kleineren Querschnitt verengt ist. Hierdurch ist es auf sehr einfache und damit kostengünstige Weise möglich, ein Lösen bzw. Herausfallen der Sperrvorrichtung aus dem Trinkhalm zu vermeiden. Erfindungsgemäß wird der Trinkhalm zumindest abschnittsweise aufrecht gehalten, so dass sich die erste Öffnung an seinem unteren Ende und die zweite Öffnung an seinem oberen Ende ergibt.Preferably, the drinking straw has a first opening and a second, the active ingredient, vitamin and / or nutrient formulation facing opening, wherein the drinking straw is narrowed at least at one of the openings to a smaller compared to the cross section of the locking device cross-section. This makes it possible in a very simple and thus cost-effective way to avoid loosening or falling out of the locking device from the drinking straw. According to the drinking straw is at least partially maintained upright, so that the first opening at its lower end and the second opening results at its upper end.

Der Trinkhalm kann einen Krümmungsbereich aufweisen bzw. knick- bzw. krümmbar ausgebildet sein, um einerseits das untere Ende, d.h. die erste Öffnung, leichter in die Transportflüssigkeit tauchen zu können und um andererseits am oberen Ende, d.h. an der zweiten Öffnung, ein leichteres Saugen zu ermöglichen. Hierzu verläuft der Trinkhalm im Bereich seiner ersten Öffnung vorzugsweise weitgehend vertikal und im Bereich seiner zweiten Öffnung vorzugsweise in einem Winkel von etwa 10° bis 90° gegenüber der Senkrechten, bevorzugt in einem Winkel von etwa 30° bis 70°. Damit ergibt sich insgesamt ein Krümmungswinkel für die Gebrauchsstellung von etwa 0° bis maximal 90°, vorzugsweise von etwa 20° bis etwa 60°, ganz besonders bevorzugt von etwa 30° bis etwa 45°.The drinking straw may have a curvature area or be designed to be bendable or curvable in order, on the one hand, to open the lower end, i. the first opening, easier to dive into the transport liquid and on the other hand at the upper end, i. at the second opening to allow easier suction. For this purpose, the drinking straw in the region of its first opening preferably extends largely vertically and in the region of its second opening preferably at an angle of approximately 10 ° to 90 ° relative to the vertical, preferably at an angle of approximately 30 ° to 70 °. This results in a total of a curvature angle for the position of use of about 0 ° to a maximum of 90 °, preferably from about 20 ° to about 60 °, most preferably from about 30 ° to about 45 °.

Sofern der Trinkhalm krümmbar ist, ist die Sperrvorrichtung oberhalb der Krümmung in ein- und demselben Schenkel des Trinkhalms wie die Formulierung angeordnet.If the drinking straw is bendable, the locking device is arranged above the curvature in one and the same leg of the drinking straw as the formulation.

Der Trinkhalm kann starr oder flexibel, gerade oder gewinkelt - vorzugsweise reversibel abwinkelbar - sein. Der Trinkhalm besteht vorzugsweise aus einem synthetischen Material. Zumindest der ggf. vorhandene Krümmungsbereich, in dem der Trinkhalm reversibel abwinkelbar ist, ist vorzugsweise aus einem elastischen, synthetischen Material oder aus einem bei einer Temperatur unterhalb seines Erweichungspunktes plastisch verformbaren, synthetischen Material aufgebaut. Der Bereich, in dem der Trinkhalm reversibel abwinkelbar ist, ist vorzugsweise ziehharmonika-artig gestaltet.The straw can be rigid or flexible, straight or angled - preferably reversible angled. The drinking straw is preferably made of a synthetic material. At least the optionally existing curvature region in which the drinking straw is reversibly bendable, is preferably constructed of an elastic, synthetic material or of a synthetic material plastically deformable at a temperature below its softening point. The area in which the drinking straw is reversibly angled, is preferably designed accordion-like.

Der Trinkhalminnendurchmesser sollte vorzugsweise mindestens 3 mm betragen, so dass eine ausreichende Transportflüssigkeitsmenge durch den Trinkhalm gesaugt werden kann, um die Formulierung zu transportieren. Bevorzugt ist ein Innendurchmesser von 4-15 mm, ganz besonders bevorzugt von 5-10 mm. Der Trinkhalm hat vorzugsweise einen runden, ovalen, rechteckigen oder quadratischen Querschnitt und weist vorzugsweise eine glatte Innenseite auf. Ein runder Querschnitt ist bevorzugt.The drinking straw inner diameter should preferably be at least 3 mm, so that a sufficient amount of transport liquid can be sucked through the drinking straw in order to transport the formulation. Preferred is an inner diameter of 4-15 mm, most preferably 5-10 mm. The drinking straw preferably has a round, oval, rectangular or square cross-section and preferably has a smooth inner side. A round cross section is preferred.

Vorzugsweise ist die zweite Öffnung mit einer entfembaren und für die Formulierung undurchlässigen Verschlussvorrichtung versehen. Hierdurch ist es auf einfache Weise möglich, ein Herausfallen der Formulierung aus dem Trinkhalm zu vermeiden. Vorzugsweise ist die Verschlussvorrichtung reversibel zu verschließen und zu öffnen. Hierdurch kann die Formulierung einem Benutzer auch in mehreren, zeitlich aufeinanderfolgenden Teilschritten zugeführt werden, wobei dazwischen die Formulierung durch die reversibel verschließbare Verschlussvorrichtung sicher eingeschlossen bleibt.Preferably, the second opening is provided with a removable and formulation impermeable closure device. This makes it possible in a simple manner to avoid falling out of the formulation of the straw. Preferably, the closure device is reversible to close and open. As a result, the formulation can also be supplied to a user in a plurality of time-sequential sub-steps, the formulation being reliably enclosed by the reversibly closable closure device in between.

Vorzugsweise ist diese Verschlussvorrichtung ein Stopfen, ein Pfropfen, eine Folie, ein Gitter oder eine Kappe, so dass mit sehr einfachen Mitteln ein Verschluss des Trinkhalms bewirkt werden kann. Die Verschlussvorrichtung ist vorzugsweise aus einem in der Transportflüssigkeit unlöslichen oder zumindest nur teilweise löslichen, luftundurchlässigen oder zumindest nur teilweise luftdurchlässigen sowie vorzugsweise physiologisch unbedenklichen Material. Der Innendurchmesser der Verschlussvorrichtung ist dem Außendurchmesser des Trinkhalms angepasst, so dass die Verschlussvorrichtung auf den Trinkhalm gesetzt werden kann.Preferably, this closure device is a plug, a plug, a foil, a grid or a cap, so that a closure of the drinking straw can be effected with very simple means. The closure device is preferably made of an insoluble in the transport liquid or at least only partially soluble, air-impermeable or at least only partially permeable to air and preferably physiologically harmless material. The inner diameter of the closure device is adapted to the outer diameter of the drinking straw, so that the closure device can be placed on the drinking straw.

Bei einer alternativen Ausführungsform der Erfindung kann die Verschlussvorrichtung bevorzugt auch in Form eines zwischen der ersten Öffnung und der zweiten Öffnung reversibel abgewinkelten Teils des Trinkhalms ausgeführt sein, der vorzugsweise mit Hilfe einer Schelle, einer Manschette oder einer Kappe in der abgewinkelten Stellung reversibel fixierbar ist. Hierbei ist der Trinkhalm verschlossen, d.h. die solchermaßen eingestellte Krümmung bewirkt einen Verschluss des Trinkhalms zumindest an seiner zweiten Öffnung. Hierbei ergibt sich ein Krümmungswinkel für die Schließstellung von vorzugsweise annähernd 180°.In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the closure device may preferably also be embodied in the form of a part of the drinking straw which is reversibly angled between the first opening and the second opening and which is preferably reversibly fixable in the angled position with the aid of a clamp, a collar or a cap. Here, the straw is closed, ie the curvature set in such a way causes a closure of the drinking straw at least at its second opening. This results in a curvature angle for the closed position of preferably approximately 180 °.

Vorzugsweise ist die zweite Öffnung des Trinkhalms als Mundstück ausgebildet und weist insbesondere eine Riffelung auf. Hierdurch ist es erfindungsgemäß möglich, dass die Formulierung sicher und auf einfache Weise auch solchen Benutzern des Trinkhalms zugeführt werden kann, die aufgrund ihres Alters bzw. aufgrund eines Gebrechens Schwierigkeiten beim Schlucken oder auch Koordinationsschwierigkeiten (beispielsweise hinsichtlich Bewegungen ihres Mundes) haben.Preferably, the second opening of the drinking straw is designed as a mouthpiece and has in particular a corrugation. This makes it possible according to the invention that the formulation can be safely and easily supplied to those drinking straw users who, due to their age or due to an infirmity, have difficulty in swallowing or coordination difficulties (for example with regard to movements of their mouths).

Vorzugsweise ist die erste Öffnung als Verbindungsstück zu einem Reservoir der Transportflüssigkeit ausgebildet. Hierdurch ist es mit besonders einfachen Mitteln möglich, eine sichere Verbindung des Trinkhalms mit einem Reservoir der Transportflüssigkeit herzustellen und damit insbesondere ein Verschütten der Transportflüssigkeit zu verhindern.Preferably, the first opening is formed as a connecting piece to a reservoir of the transport liquid. This makes it possible with particularly simple means to produce a secure connection of the drinking straw with a reservoir of the transport liquid and thus to prevent spillage of the transport liquid.

Vorzugsweise weist der Trinkhalm weiterhin eine Markierung zur Kennzeichnung des Mundteils und/oder zur Angabe der Saugrichtung der Transportflüssigkeit auf. Hierdurch wird eine Benutzung und Handhabung des Trinkhalms erheblich vereinfacht, weil eine solche Benutzung intuitiv möglich wird. Besonders vorteilhaft ist, wenn die Markierung durch ein Symbol, beispielsweise einen Pfeil oder dergleichen, dargestellt ist. In diesem Fall muss ein Benutzer keine Schriftzeichen erkennen, wodurch die Benutzung der erfindungsgemäßen Darreichungsform insgesamt einfacher und damit sicher wird.Preferably, the drinking straw further comprises a mark for identifying the mouth part and / or for indicating the suction direction of the transport liquid. As a result, a use and handling of the drinking straw is greatly simplified, because such use is intuitively possible. It is particularly advantageous if the marking is represented by a symbol, for example an arrow or the like. In this case, a user must recognize any characters, making the use of the dosage form according to the invention is simpler and thus safer.

Ein weiterer Gegenstand der Erfindung ist auch ein Kit aus der erfindungsgemäßen Darreichungsform und einer physiologisch unbedenklichen, gegebenenfalls wirkstoff-, nährstoff- und/oder vitaminhaltigen Transportflüssigkeit, die vorzugsweise in einem Behälter vorliegt.Another object of the invention is also a kit of the dosage form according to the invention and a physiologically acceptable, optionally active substance, nutrient and / or vitamin-containing transport liquid, which is preferably present in a container.

Als Transportflüssigkeit eignet sich vorzugsweise eine wässrige Flüssigkeit, wobei Wasser, Limonade, Fruchtsaft ohne Fruchtfleisch, Tee, Kaffee, Milch und/oder eine Milchbestandteile aufweisende Flüssigkeit besonders bevorzugt sind.As transport liquid is preferably an aqueous liquid, wherein water, lemonade, fruit juice without pulp, tea, coffee, milk and / or a milk constituents having liquid are particularly preferred.

Ein weiterer Gegenstand betrifft die Verwendung eines Zigarettenfilters als Sperrvorrichtung für eine erfindungsgemäße Darreichungsform.Another object relates to the use of a cigarette filter as a blocking device for a dosage form according to the invention.

Die folgenden Figuren zeigen beispielhafte Ausführungsformen der erfindungsgemäßen Darreichungsformen. Dadurch wird der Erfindungsgedanken in keiner Weise eingeschränkt.

Figur 1
zeigt eine erfindungsgemäße Darreichungsform mit einer aufgesetzten Kappe und einer Sperrvorrichtung in der Seitenansicht und mit einer Schnittlinie I-I.
Figur 2
zeigt eine Querschnittsdarstellung der dargestellten Darreichungsform mit der Sperrvorrichtung entlang der in Figur 1 dargestellten Schnittlinie I-I.
Figuren 3 und 4
zeigen eine Darstellung zweier Ausführungsformen der Sperrvorrichtung in Seitenansicht.
Figur 5
zeigt eine Darstellung eines erfindungsgemäßen Kits bzw. einer Benutzungssituation der erfindungsgemäßen Darreichungsform.
The following figures show exemplary embodiments of the dosage forms according to the invention. As a result, the idea of the invention is in no way limited.
FIG. 1
shows a dosage form according to the invention with an attached cap and a locking device in the side view and with a section line II.
FIG. 2
shows a cross-sectional view of the illustrated dosage form with the locking device along the section line II shown in Figure 1.
FIGS. 3 and 4
show a representation of two embodiments of the locking device in side view.
FIG. 5
shows a representation of a kit according to the invention or a use situation of the dosage form according to the invention.

In Figur 1 ist eine erfindungsgemäße Darreichungsform dargestellt, die einen Trinkhalm 1 mit einer darin befindlichen Sperrvorrichtung 3 und einer Formulierung 2 umfasst. Der Trinkhalm 1 weist eine Trinkhalmwandung 10 bzw. eine Trinkhalmwand 10, eine erste Öffnung 5 und eine zweite Öffnung 6 auf, wobei die zweite Öffnung 6 beispielhaft mittels einer Verschlussvorrichtung 4 verschlossen ist. Die erste Öffnung 5 wird im folgenden auch als Eintrittsöffnung 5 bezeichnet und die zweite Öffnung 6 wird im folgenden auch als Mundöffnung 6 bezeichnet. In Figur 1 ist weiterhin eine Schnittlinie I-I quer zur Längserstreckung des Trinkhalms 1 auf der Höhe der Sperrvorrichtung 3 eingezeichnet. Die Formulierung 2 ist auf der der zweiten Öffnung 6 zugewandten Seite der Sperrvorrichtung 3 angeordnet und verbleibt auch dort, was durch die sperrende Wirkung der Sperrvorrichtung 3 für die Formulierung 2 hervorgerufen wird.FIG. 1 shows a dosage form according to the invention which comprises a drinking straw 1 with a blocking device 3 and a formulation 2 located therein. The drinking straw 1 has a drinking straw wall 10 or a drinking straw wall 10, a first opening 5 and a second opening 6, wherein the second opening 6 is closed by way of example by means of a closure device 4. The first opening 5 is also referred to below as the inlet opening 5 and the second opening 6 is also referred to below as the mouth opening 6. In Figure 1 , a section line II is further drawn transversely to the longitudinal extent of the drinking straw 1 at the height of the locking device 3. The formulation 2 is arranged on the second opening 6 facing side of the locking device 3 and also remains there, which is caused by the blocking effect of the locking device 3 for the formulation 2.

Der als Sperrvorrichtung 3 dienende Pfropfen 3 besteht beispielhaft aus hydrophobem Filtermaterial, insbesondere in Form eines Zigarettenfilters, und ist für Luft und eine Transportflüssigkeit insbesondere beim Ansaugen durchlässig, für die Formulierung 2 jedoch undurchlässig. Der Pfropfen 3 ist beispielhaft als ein kompakter, zylindrischer Körper ausgebildet und hat einen runden Querschnitt. Der Pfropfen 3 ist in dem Trinkhalm 1 permanent fixiert oder aber in Grenzen beweglich angeordnet. Wenn die Sperrvorrichtung 3 oder der Pfropfen 3 beweglich angeordnet ist, dann ist ihre Beweglichkeit jedenfalls begrenzt, beispielsweise bereits dadurch, dass der erfindungsgemäße Trinkhalm 1 bevorzugt sowohl an seiner Mundöffnung 6 als auch an seiner Eintrittsöffnung 5 eine Querschnittsverkleinerung aufweist, d.h. eine Verkleinerung zumindest des Innendurchmessers bzw. allgemein des Innenquerschnitts des Trinkhalms 1, wobei es bevorzugt vorgesehen ist, dass die Querschnittsverkleinerung auch mit einer Verringerung des Außendurchmessers des Trinkhalms 1 einhergeht, d.h. dass die "Wandstärke" des Trinkhalms 1 im Bereich der Querschnittsverkleinerung im wesentlichen gleichbleibend ist. Eine erste solche Querschnittsverkleinerung 11 ist in Figur 1 an der Eintrittsöffnung 5 beispielhaft angeordnet und eine zweite solche Querschnittsverkleinerung 14 ist in Figur 1 an der Mundöffnung 6 beispielhaft angeordnet. Die Querschnittsverkleinerungen 11, 14 bewirken, dass die (beweglich vorgesehene) Sperrvorrichtung 3 jedenfalls nicht aus dem Trinkhalm 1 (durch die eine oder andere Öffnung 5, 6) austreten kann. Der Bereich zwischen den Querschnittsverkleinerungen 11, 14 könnte daher als "maximaler Bewegungsbereich" der Sperrvorrichtung 3 bezeichnet werden. Erfindungsgemäß kann jedoch vorgesehen sein, dass durch andere Querschnittsverengungen, wie einen krümmbaren Bereich, der Bewegungsbereich weiter eingeschränkt wird.The serving as a blocking device 3 plug 3 is exemplified by hydrophobic filter material, in particular in the form of a cigarette filter, and is permeable to air and a transport liquid in particular during suction, for the Formulation 2, however, impermeable. The plug 3 is exemplified as a compact, cylindrical body and has a round cross-section. The plug 3 is permanently fixed in the straw 1 or arranged to be movable within limits. If the locking device 3 or the plug 3 is arranged to be movable, then its mobility is limited in any case, for example already in that the straw 1 according to the invention preferably at both its mouth opening 6 and at its inlet opening 5 has a cross-sectional reduction, ie a reduction of at least the inner diameter or in general the inner cross-section of the drinking straw 1, wherein it is preferably provided that the reduction in cross-section is accompanied by a reduction of the outer diameter of the drinking straw 1, ie that the "wall thickness" of the drinking straw 1 is substantially constant in the area of the cross-sectional reduction. A first such cross-sectional reduction 11 is arranged by way of example in FIG. 1 at the inlet opening 5, and a second such cross-sectional reduction 14 is exemplarily arranged at the mouth opening 6 in FIG. The cross-sectional reductions 11, 14 cause the (movably provided) locking device 3 in any case can not escape from the drinking straw 1 (through one or the other opening 5, 6). The area between the cross-sectional reductions 11, 14 could therefore be referred to as the "maximum range of movement" of the locking device 3. According to the invention, however, it can be provided that the range of movement is further limited by other cross-sectional constrictions, such as a bendable area.

In Figur 2 ist eine Querschnittsdarstellung des Trinkhalms 1 entlang der Schnittlinie I-I aus Figur 1 dargestellt, wobei ebenfalls ein Schnitt durch die Sperrvorrichtung 3 gezeichnet ist. Erkennbar ist hier, dass der Außendurchmesser der Sperrvorrichtung 3 derart an den Innendurchmesser des Trinkhalms 1 angepasst ist, dass die Formulierung 2 nicht von der der zweiten Öffnung 6 zugewandten Seite der Sperrvorrichtung 3 zur anderen Seite gelangen kann. Dies wird insbesondere durch einen genügend kleinen Abstand zwischen der Wandung 10 des Trinkhalms 1 und der Sperrvorrichtung 3 bewerkstelligt. Dieser Abstand ist derart gewählt, dass - falls die Sperrvorrichtung 3 bewegbar ist - zwischen der Sperrvorrichtung 3 und der Wandung 10 des Trinkhalms eine genügend große Reibung besteht, die bewirkt, dass die Sperrvorrichtung 3 vorzugsweise nicht mehr oder nur noch schwer von einer einmal eingenommen Position in Richtung auf die zweite Öffnung 6 hin wieder zurück in ihre Startposition gelangt. Die hydrophobe Ausrüstung der Sperrvorrichtung unterstützt die Fixierung der Sperrvorrichtung in jeder Position. FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional view of the drinking straw 1 along the section line II from FIG. 1 , a section also being drawn through the blocking device 3. It can be seen here that the outer diameter of the locking device 3 is adapted to the inner diameter of the drinking straw 1, that the formulation 2 can not get from the second opening 6 facing side of the locking device 3 to the other side. This is accomplished in particular by a sufficiently small distance between the wall 10 of the drinking straw 1 and the locking device 3. This distance is chosen such that - if the locking device 3 is movable - between the locking device 3 and the wall 10 of the drinking straw is a sufficiently large friction, which causes the locking device 3 is not more or only difficult of a once taken position in the direction of the second opening 6 out back to their starting position. The hydrophobic equipment of the locking device assists in fixing the locking device in any position.

Der Fachmann erkennt, dass der in Figur 2 dargestellte runde Querschnitt sowohl des Trinkhalms 1 als auch der Sperrvorrichtung 3 lediglich beispielhaft gewählt ist und ebenso auch durch eine andere Querschnittsgestaltung - beispielsweise quadratisch, rechteckig, drei-, fünf-, sechs- oder achteckig - ersetzbar ist.The person skilled in the art recognizes that the round cross section of both the drinking straw 1 and the blocking device 3 shown in FIG. 2 is chosen merely by way of example and can also be replaced by another cross-sectional configuration - for example square, rectangular, triangular, pentagonal, hexagonal or octagonal is.

In Figur 3 ist eine aus Fasern 31 aufgebaute Sperrvorrichtung 3 in Seitenansicht dargestellt. Die in Figur 3 dargestellte Sperrvorrichtung 3 weist darüber hinaus noch einen hydrophoben Randbereich 32 auf. Der Randbereich 32 bewirkt durch sein im wesentlichen undurchlässiges Verhalten gegenüber der Transportflüssigkeit 7 bzw. durch sein im Vergleich zum Inneren 34 der Sperrvorrichtung 3 undurchlässiges Verhalten, dass die Transportflüssigkeit 7 im wesentlichen im Inneren 34 von der Sperrvorrichtung 3 oder aber seitlich an der Sperrvorrichtung 3 vorbei, d.h. zwischen der Sperrvorrichtung 3 und der Wandung 10 des Trinkhalms 1, vorbeiströmt. Der Randbereich 32 ist insbesondere dann entbehrlich, wenn die Fasern 31 der Sperrvorrichtung 3 selbst hydrophobiert vorliegen, sei es dass sie entweder aus einem intrinsisch hydrophoben Material aufgebaut sind oder aber dass sie zwar aus einem intrinsisch wenig hydrophoben Material aufgebaut sind, nachfolgend jedoch insgesamt hydrophobiert wurden. Die Sperrvorrichtung 3 ist jedoch erfindungsgemäß durchaus derart ausgebildet, dass sie sowohl im Inneren 34 als auch außen - d.h. im Randbereich 32 - hydrophobiert ist. Die Sperrvorrichtung 3 kann erfindungsgemäß alternativ auch als hydrophobierter und/oder gegebenenfalls hydrophob "ummantelter" Zigarettenfilter ausgebildet sein. FIG. 3 shows a side view of a blocking device 3 constructed from fibers 31. The blocking device 3 shown in FIG . 3 furthermore has a hydrophobic edge region 32. By virtue of its essentially impermeable behavior with respect to the transport liquid 7 or by its behavior impermeable to the interior 34 of the blocking device 3, the edge region 32 causes the transport liquid 7 to pass substantially inside 34 from the blocking device 3 or laterally past the blocking device 3 , ie between the blocking device 3 and the wall 10 of the drinking straw 1, flows past. The edge region 32 is dispensable, in particular, if the fibers 31 of the blocking device 3 themselves are rendered hydrophobic, be they constructed from an intrinsically hydrophobic material or indeed constructed from an intrinsically less hydrophobic material, but subsequently hydrophobicized overall , The locking device 3 is, however, according to the invention quite well designed so that it is hydrophobic both inside 34 and outside - ie in the edge region 32. According to the invention, the blocking device 3 can alternatively also be designed as a hydrophobicized and / or optionally hydrophobically "coated" cigarette filter.

In Figur 4 ist eine aus Schaumstoff 33, insbesondere aus offenzelligem Schaumstoff 33, aufgebaute Sperrvorrichtung 3 in Seitenansicht dargestellt. Der Schaumstoff 33 ist insbesondere teilweise durchlässig ausgebildet und kann erfindungsgemäß selbstverständlich - wie in Figur 3 für den Fall einer Fasern umfassenden Sperrvorrichtung angedeutet - ebenfalls in einen (vorzugsweise "hydrophoberen") Randbereich 32 und ein (vorzugsweise weniger hydrophoben) Inneres 34 gegliedert sein. Die Porengröße des Schaums ist erfindungsgemäß derart gewählt, dass die Transportflüssigkeit bei einem Kontakt mit der Sperrvorrichtung 3 nicht zu schnell eindringt, insbesondere aber durch die hydrophobe Ausrüstung der Sperrvorrichtung 3. FIG. 4 shows a side view of a blocking device 3 made of foam 33, in particular of open-cell foam 33. The foam 33 is in particular partially permeable and according to the invention can of course - as indicated in Figure 3 for the case of a fiber comprising blocking device - also in a (preferably "hydrophobic") edge region 32 and a (preferably less hydrophobic) interior 34 be structured. The pore size of the foam is inventively chosen such that the Transport liquid in contact with the locking device 3 does not penetrate too fast, but in particular by the hydrophobic equipment of the locking device. 3

In Figur 5 ist eine Darstellung eines erfindungsgemäßen Kits bzw. einer Benutzungssituation der erfindungsgemäßen Darreichungsform dargestellt. Der (in Figur 5 lediglich schematisch dargestellte) Trinkhalm 1 taucht mit seiner ersten Öffnung 5 in die Transportflüssigkeit 7, die sich in einem Reservoir 50 befindet. Mittels einer Saugbewegung durch einen nicht dargestellten Benutzer des Trinkhalms 1 an der zweiten Öffnung 6 wird Transportflüssigkeit 7 durch den Trinkhalm 1 angesaugt und befördert die Formulierung 2 bzw. deren Bestandteile zur Öffnung 6 und damit in den Mund des Benutzers. Hierbei kann der Trinkhalm 1 in einem Krümmungsbereich 15 um einen Krümmungswinkel 16 knickbar bzw. krümmbar vorgesehen sein. Der Krümmungsbereich 15 teilt den Trinkhalm 1 in einen ersten (unteren) Teil 17 und in einen zweiten (oberen) Teil 18. Der erste Teil 17 wird auch als der Bereich 17 der ersten Öffnung 5 bezeichnet und der zweite Teil 18 wird auch als der Bereich 18 der zweiten Öffnung 6 bezeichnet. Hierbei verläuft der Bereich 17 der ersten Öffnung 5 weitgehend vertikal und der Bereich 18 der zweiten Öffnung 6 um den Krümmungswinkel 16 abgewinkelt. Hierbei sollte der zweite Teil 18 höchstens waagerecht verlaufen, weil ansonsten die Flüssigkeit aus der zweiten Öffnung 6 unkontrolliert auslaufen kann. FIG. 5 shows an illustration of a kit according to the invention or a situation of use of the dosage form according to the invention. The (only schematically shown in Figure 5 ) drinking straw 1 dives with its first opening 5 in the transport liquid 7, which is located in a reservoir 50. By means of a suction movement through a user, not shown, of the drinking straw 1 at the second opening 6, transport liquid 7 is sucked through the drinking straw 1 and conveys the formulation 2 or its components to the opening 6 and thus into the mouth of the user. Here, the drinking straw 1 can be provided bendable or bendable in a curvature region 15 by a curvature angle 16. The curving portion 15 divides the straw 1 into a first (lower) part 17 and a second (upper) part 18. The first part 17 is also referred to as the area 17 of the first opening 5, and the second part 18 is also called the area 18 of the second opening 6 denotes. In this case, the region 17 of the first opening 5 extends largely vertically and the region 18 of the second opening 6 is angled by the angle of curvature 16. In this case, the second part 18 should be at most horizontal, because otherwise the liquid from the second opening 6 may leak uncontrollably.

Beim Vorhandensein eines Krümmungsbereichs 15 ist die Sperrvorrichtung 3 erfindungsgemäß im oberen Teil 18 des Trinkhalms 1 wie die Formulierung vorgesehen.In the presence of a curvature region 15, the blocking device 3 according to the invention is provided in the upper part 18 of the drinking straw 1 as the formulation.

In Figur 5 ist weiterhin schematisch ein Verbindungsstück 52 zwischen dem Trinkhalm und dem Reservoir 50 dargestellt, das ein Verschütten der Transportflüssigkeit 7 entweder aus dem Reservoir 50 oder aber- beispielsweise aufgrund eines Nachlassens der Saugwirkung des Benutzers des Trinkhalms 1 - aus dem Trinkhalm 1 verhindert.. FIG. 5 also shows diagrammatically a connecting piece 52 between the drinking straw and the reservoir 50, which prevents spillage of the transporting fluid 7 either from the reservoir 50 or from the drinking straw 1, for example due to a decrease in the suction effect of the user of the drinking straw 1. ,

Weiterhin ist in Figur 5 schematisch eine Markierung 22 als ein einen Mund darstellendes Zeichen auf dem Trinkhalm 1 dargestellt, das sich eindeutig näher an der zweiten Öffnung 6 als an der ersten Öffnung 5 befindet, um anzuzeigen, dass für eine ordnungsgemäße Funktion der Darreichungsform an der zweiten Öffnung 6 gesaugt werden muss.Furthermore, a marker 22 as a mouth representing a sign on the drinking straw 1 is shown schematically in Figure 5 , which is clearly closer to the second opening 6 than at the first opening 5 to indicate that for proper operation of the dosage form at the second opening 6 has to be sucked.

Weiterhin ist in Figur 5 eine Riffelung 24 des der zweiten Öffnung 6 benachbarten Mundstücks des Trinkhalms 1 dargestellt. Die Riffelung 24 dient dazu, dass der Benutzer des Trinkhalms 1 diesen besser halten kann.Furthermore, in Figure 5, a corrugation 24 of the second opening 6 adjacent mouthpiece of the drinking straw 1 is shown. The corrugation 24 serves that the user of the straw 1 can hold this better.

BezugszeichenlisteLIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

11
Trinkhalmdrinking straw
22
Formulierungformulation
33
Sperrvorrichtunglocking device
44
Verschlussvorrichtungclosure device
55
erste Öffnungfirst opening
66
zweite Öffnungsecond opening
77
Transportflüssigkeittransport liquid
1010
TrinkhalmwandungTrinkhalmwandung
1111
erste Querschnittsverkleinerungfirst cross section reduction
1414
zweite Querschnittsverkleinerungsecond cross-sectional reduction
1515
Krümmungsbereichcurvature region
1616
Krümmungswinkelangle of curvature
1717
erster (unterer) Teilfirst (lower) part
1818
zweiter (oberer) Teilsecond (upper) part
2222
Markierungmark
2424
Riffelungknurl
3131
Fasernfibers
3232
Randbereichborder area
3333
Schaumstofffoam
3434
InneresInterior
5050
Reservoirreservoir
5252
Verbindungsstückjoint

Claims (20)

  1. A dosage form for the oral administration of active ingredients, vitamins and/or nutrients comprising a drinking straw (1) and a barrier device (3) which is impermeable to an active ingredient, vitamin and/or nutrient formulation (2), but permeable to air and a conveying liquid (7), the barrier device (3) having a uniform density and a hydrophobic finish, characterised in that the hydrophobic finish is such that the barrier device can be in contact at the lower end of the barrier device with the conveying liquid for at least 15 minutes without the conveying liquid penetrating into or through the barrier device in a quantity such that the formulation located above the barrier device is wetted, whereby through the mouth orifice (6) of the drinking straw no sucking is carried out and no the conveying liquid is pressed from below through the barrier device during the stated period of at least 15 minutes.
  2. A dosage form according to claim 1, characterised in that the barrier device (3) is composed of fibres (31).
  3. A dosage form according to claim 2, characterised in that the fibres (31) are based on cellulose, preferably cellulose derivatives, particularly preferably cellulose acetate.
  4. A dosage form according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the barrier device (3) corresponds to a cigarette filter.
  5. A dosage form according to claim 1, characterised in that the barrier device (3) is composed of a foam (33), in particular an open-cell and permeable foam (33).
  6. A dosage form according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the fibres (31) or the foam (33) are/is at least partially hydrophobic and/or are/is provided with a hydrophobic finish.
  7. A dosage form according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the barrier device (3) comprises a peripheral zone (32) which is more hydrophobic in comparison with an internal core (34).
  8. A dosage form according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the hydrophobic finish is based on Teflon, a silicone or silicone derivative or another hydrophobic material, wherein a material which is approved for food use is preferably present.
  9. A dosage form according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the barrier device (3) is arranged movably in the drinking straw (1).
  10. A dosage form according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that at least the part of the drinking straw (1) containing the formulation is transparent and/or coloured.
  11. A dosage form according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the drinking straw (1) comprises a first orifice (5) and a second orifice (6) facing towards the active ingredient, vitamin and/or nutrient formulation (2), wherein the drinking straw (1) is narrowed at least at one of the orifices (5, 6) to a cross-section which is smaller in comparison with the cross-section of the barrier device (3).
  12. A dosage form according to claim 11, characterised in that the second orifice (6) is provided with a closing device (4).
  13. A dosage form according to claim 12, characterised in that the closing device (4) is a bung, a plug, a film, a mesh or a cap.
  14. A dosage form according to any one of the preceding claims 11 to 13, characterised in that the second orifice (6) is constructed as a mouthpiece and in particular comprises ribbing (24).
  15. A dosage form according to any one of the preceding claims 11 to 14, characterised in that the first orifice (5) is constructed as a connection piece (52) to a reservoir (50) of the conveying liquid (7).
  16. A dosage form according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the drinking straw (1) comprises a marking (22) to label the mouth part and/or to indicate the direction of sucking of the conveying liquid (7).
  17. Use of a cigarette filter as a barrier device (3) for a dosage form according to any one of the preceding claims, the cigarette filter being impermeable to an active ingredient, vitamin and/or nutrient formulation (2), but permeable to air and a conveying liquid (7), the cigarette filter exhibiting a uniform density and a hydrophobic finish, the hydrophobic finish being such that the cigarette filter may be in contact with the conveying liquid for at least 15 minutes at the lower end of the cigarette filter without the conveying liquid penetrating into or through the cigarette filter in a quantity such that the formulation located above the cigarette filter is wetted, whereby through the mouth orifice of the drinking straw no sucking is carried out and no conveying liquid is pressed from below through the cigarette filter during the stated period of at least 15 minutes.
  18. A kit comprising the dosage form according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 16 and a physiologically unproblematic conveying liquid (7), which optionally contains active ingredient, preferably in a container.
  19. A kit according to claim 18, characterised in that the conveying liquid (7) is an aqueous liquid.
  20. A kit according to claim 18 or claim 19, characterised in that the conveying liquid (7) is water, lemonade, fruit juice without fruit pulp, tea, coffee, milk and/or a liquid comprising milk constituents.
EP04765071A 2003-09-12 2004-09-10 Administration form and kit for the oral administration of active substances, vitamins and/or nutrients and use thereof Active EP1663101B1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PL04765071T PL1663101T3 (en) 2003-09-12 2004-09-10 Administration form and kit for the oral administration of active substances, vitamins and/or nutrients and use thereof

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE10342513A DE10342513A1 (en) 2003-09-12 2003-09-12 Dosage form for oral administration of active ingredients, vitamins and / or nutrients, kit and use
PCT/EP2004/010145 WO2005025485A1 (en) 2003-09-12 2004-09-10 Administration form and kit for the oral administration of active substances, vitamins and/or nutrients and use thereof

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1663101A1 EP1663101A1 (en) 2006-06-07
EP1663101B1 true EP1663101B1 (en) 2007-01-17

Family

ID=34305756

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP04765071A Active EP1663101B1 (en) 2003-09-12 2004-09-10 Administration form and kit for the oral administration of active substances, vitamins and/or nutrients and use thereof

Country Status (6)

Country Link
US (1) US20060147497A1 (en)
EP (1) EP1663101B1 (en)
DE (2) DE10342513A1 (en)
ES (1) ES2280048T3 (en)
PL (1) PL1663101T3 (en)
WO (1) WO2005025485A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20060034886A1 (en) * 2004-07-23 2006-02-16 Ward Bennett C Bonded fiber structures for use in controlling fluid flow
US20080312587A1 (en) * 2005-06-10 2008-12-18 Gruenethal Gmbh System for the Oral Administration of Solids to Persons Suffering from Dementia
DE102006059510A1 (en) * 2006-12-14 2008-06-19 Grünenthal GmbH Coated pellets
US9375108B2 (en) 2007-04-10 2016-06-28 Sandoz Ag Device for the oral application of a substance
FR2920308B1 (en) * 2007-09-05 2011-02-25 Unither Dev PHARMACEUTICAL FORM FOR ORAL ADMINISTRATION OF ACTIVE INGREDIENTS.

Family Cites Families (14)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4792333A (en) * 1986-11-04 1988-12-20 Strawdose, Inc. Unit dose drug package and administering device
US4981468A (en) * 1989-02-17 1991-01-01 Eli Lilly And Company Delivery device for orally administered therapeutic agents
US5780058A (en) * 1995-07-21 1998-07-14 Alza Corporation Oral delivery of discrete units
CA2226267C (en) * 1995-07-21 2008-01-22 Alza Corporation Device and method for oral delivery of an active agent formulation in the form of discrete units
US5718681A (en) * 1996-01-11 1998-02-17 Christopher E. Manning Medication delivery straw
US6482451B1 (en) * 1996-10-10 2002-11-19 Peter Baron Apparatus for producing a flavored beverage
DK0984762T3 (en) * 1997-05-16 2002-12-02 Alza Corp Flow controller configurations for an active agent delivery device
AUPP412898A0 (en) * 1998-06-17 1998-07-09 Raponi, Anthony Pasquale Flavoured drinking straw
US6217545B1 (en) * 1999-02-08 2001-04-17 Porex Technologies Corp. Filter with varying density which is responsive to fluid flow
US20020092919A1 (en) * 2001-01-16 2002-07-18 Campagna Jason Patrick Filtered drinking straw
US20030042324A1 (en) * 2001-09-04 2003-03-06 Party Products Manufacturing Limited Drinking straw
US6718681B2 (en) * 2001-12-03 2004-04-13 Tarseam S. Bhullar Pest deterrent
DE10228173A1 (en) * 2002-03-27 2003-10-09 Gruenenthal Gmbh System for the oral administration of active ingredients, vitamins and / or nutrients
DE10228175A1 (en) * 2002-03-27 2003-10-09 Gruenenthal Gmbh Dosage form for oral administration of active ingredients, vitamins and / or nutrients

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US20060147497A1 (en) 2006-07-06
ES2280048T3 (en) 2007-09-01
WO2005025485A1 (en) 2005-03-24
EP1663101A1 (en) 2006-06-07
DE10342513A1 (en) 2005-05-12
DE502004002706D1 (en) 2007-03-08
PL1663101T3 (en) 2007-06-29

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