JPWO2015064479A1 - Novel crystal mixture of levonorgestrel and process for producing the same - Google Patents

Abstract

In the powder X-ray diffraction spectrum, the levonorgestrel crystal mixture has a crystal polymorphism α of levonorgestrel having a diffraction peak at the diffraction angle (α) represented by 2θ below, and a diffraction angle (β ) And a crystal polymorph β of levonorgestrel having a diffraction peak. The ratio (weight ratio) between the crystalline polymorph α and the crystalline polymorph β may be the former / the latter = 5/95 to 90/10. (Α): 17.2 ° ± 0.2 °, 18.6 ° ± 0.2 °, 22.7 ° ± 0.2 °, 31.1 ° ± 0.2 ° and 35.5 ° ± 0 .2 ° (β): 13.9 ° ± 0.2 °, 14.5 ° ± 0.2 °, 21.3 ° ± 0.2 °, 24.9 ° ± 0.2 ° and 28.2 ° ± 0.2 ° This levonorgestrel crystal mixture is useful as an emergency contraceptive.

Description

  The present invention relates to a novel crystal mixture of levonorgestrel useful as an emergency contraceptive or the like and a method for producing the same.

  Levonorgestrel (18a-homo-19-nor-17β-hydroxy-17α-pregn-4-en-20-in-3-one) is known as a steroid compound that exhibits a contraceptive effect mainly by ovulation-inhibiting action. It is sold as an emergency contraceptive in countries around the world, including Japan, the United States and Europe.

  As a crystal of levonorgestrel, WO2009 / 035527 (patent document 1) discloses a levonorgestrel crystal based on a powder X-ray diffraction chart. This document discloses a method for producing levonorgestrel crystals by slowly adding water to a solution of levonorgestrel dissolved in methanol at reflux temperature and then cooling. Moreover, manufacturing the crystal | crystallization of levonorgestrel by the method of adding n-heptane to the ethyl acetate solution of levonorgestrel and cooling and the method of cooling the methanol solution of levonorgestrel is also disclosed.

  As a pharmaceutical containing the same levonorgestrel crystal as the above crystal, “Norrevo Tablet (registered trademark) 0.75 mg” is sold. This pharmaceutical interview form (Non-patent Document 1) discloses that the crystal has a melting point of 232 to 239 ° C., and no crystal polymorphism is observed in the crystal.

WO2009 / 035527 (Claims, Examples, FIG. 4)

Pharmaceutical interview form "Norrevo Tablets (registered trademark) 0.75mg" (III. Items related to active ingredients)

  Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a novel form of levonorgestrel useful as an emergency contraceptive or the like and a method for producing the same.

  Another object of the present invention is to provide a novel form of levonorgestrel having excellent stability and a method for producing the same.

  In order to achieve the above-mentioned problems, the present inventors have intensively studied the crystallization conditions of levonorgestrel. It is possible to prepare two kinds of new levonorgestrel crystals having different crystal structures from crystals, and the two kinds of new levonorgestrel crystals have low stability by themselves, but the stability is improved by mixing both. As a result, the present invention has been completed.

  That is, the crystal mixture (or mixed crystal) of levonorgestrel of the present invention has a crystal polymorphism α of levonorgestrel having a diffraction peak at a diffraction angle (α) represented by the following 2θ in a powder X-ray diffraction spectrum, And a crystal polymorph β of levonorgestrel having a diffraction peak at a diffraction angle (β) represented by 2θ below. The ratio (weight ratio) between the crystalline polymorph α and the crystalline polymorph β may be about the former / the latter = 5/95 to 90/10 (for example, 15/85 to 60/40), and 20 It may be about / 80-50 / 50.

(Α): 17.2 ° ± 0.2 °, 18.6 ° ± 0.2 °, 22.7 ° ± 0.2 °, 31.1 ° ± 0.2 ° and 35.5 ° ± 0 .2 °
(Β): 13.9 ° ± 0.2 °, 14.5 ° ± 0.2 °, 21.3 ° ± 0.2 °, 24.9 ° ± 0.2 ° and 28.2 ° ± 0 .2 °
The present invention relates to a method for producing a levonorgestrel crystal mixture (or mixed crystal) comprising a step of mixing the crystal polymorph α of the levonorgestrel and the crystal polymorph β of the levonorgestrel, and the levonorgestrel crystal mixture (or the mixture). Also included are pharmaceutical compositions (such as tablets) that contain crystals).

  The crystal mixture (or mixed crystal) of levonorgestrel of the present invention is a mixture of two specific novel levonorgestrel crystals and is excellent in stability. Moreover, since the crystal mixture of levonorgestrel of the present invention has high stability against friction or crushing, it is suitable for preparing a pharmaceutical preparation by a method in which friction or compression force acts, for example, grinding and tableting.

1 is a graph showing a powder X-ray diffraction spectrum of crystal polymorph α of levonorgestrel of Example 1. FIG. FIG. 2 is a graph showing a differential scanning calorimetry spectrum of the crystalline polymorph α of levonorgestrel of Example 1. FIG. 3 is a graph showing a powder X-ray diffraction spectrum of crystalline polymorph β of levonorgestrel of Example 1. 4 is a graph showing a differential scanning calorimetry spectrum of the crystalline polymorph β of levonorgestrel of Example 1. FIG.

  The levonogestrel crystal mixture (or mixed crystal) of the present invention contains the crystal polymorph α and crystal polymorph β of levonorgestrel. Crystal polymorph α and crystal polymorph β are characterized by diffraction peaks in the powder X-ray diffraction spectrum. In addition, a powder X-ray-diffraction spectrum can be measured on the conditions of the usual method, for example, the below-mentioned Example. The diffraction angle 2θ indicating the diffraction peak may vary by about ± 0.2 ° (for example, ± 0.1 °) depending on the measurement conditions, sample preparation, and the like.

[Crystal polymorph α]
The crystal polymorph α of levonorgestrel has diffraction angles 2θ of 2θ = 17.2 ° ± 0.2 °, 18.6 ° ± 0.2 °, 22.7 ° ± 0.2 °, 31.1 °. It has diffraction peaks at angles of ± 0.2 ° and 35.5 ° ± 0.2 °. Of these diffraction peaks, the crystalline polymorph α is characterized by a diffraction peak at 2θ = 18.6 ° ± 0.2 °, which is not necessarily stronger than the other diffraction peaks (higher diffraction peaks). ) It does not always appear. In the crystal polymorph α, the diffraction peak at the diffraction angle 2θ = 24.9 ° ± 0.2 ° characteristic of the crystal polymorph β hardly appears, and even if it appears, a small diffraction peak appears.

When the intensity (height) of the diffraction peak at each diffraction angle 2θ is X _{1 to} X ₅ as follows,
X ₁ : 2θ = 17.2 ° ± 0.2 °
X ₂ : 2θ = 18.6 ° ± 0.2 °
X ₃ : 2θ = 22.7 ° ± 0.2 °
X ₄ : 2θ = 31.1 ° ± 0.2 °
X ₅ : 2θ = 35.5 ° ± 0.2 °
The order of the diffraction peak intensities (diffraction peak heights) of the crystal polymorph α may have the following relationship. In the crystalline polymorph α, X ₁ usually appears the strongest (the highest diffraction peak) compared to X _{2 to} X ₅ . X ₂ and X ₄ may have approximately the same strength (height), and X ₃ and X ₅ may have approximately the same strength (height). X ₂ and X ₄ may be stronger (higher) than X ₃ and X ₅ . That _is, the order of X 1 to X _{5 are, X 1> X 2 ≒ X} 4> X 3 may indicate a relationship ≒ _{X 5.}

Note that the order of X _{1 to} X ₅ is not necessarily limited to this order. For example, X ₃ may be stronger (higher) than X ₂ .

The intensity ratios (height ratios) of X _{1 to} X ₅ may be as follows on the basis of the intensity X ₂ of the characteristic diffraction peak of the crystalline polymorph α. For _{example, X 1 / X 2 = 200} / 100~2000 / 100, preferably 250 / 100-1000 / 100 (e.g., 300 / 100-600 / 100) may be about. Further, X ₃ / X ₂ or X ₅ / X ₂ = 10/100 to 200/100, preferably about 20/100 to 150/100 (for example, 25/100 to 100/100) may be used. Further, X ₄ / X ₂ = 25/100 to 400/100, preferably about 30/100 to 300/100 (for example, 50/100 to 200/100) may be used.

  In addition to the above-mentioned diffraction peak, the crystalline polymorph α is 2θ = 21.3 ° ± 0.2 °, 21.9 ° ± 0.2 °, 23.0 ° ± 0.2 °, 23 Have diffraction peaks at diffraction angles of 4 ° ± 0.2 °, 29.1 ° ± 0.2 °, 29.5 ° ± 0.2 ° and / or 41.8 ° ± 0.2 °. May be.

  The crystalline polymorph α has an endothermic peak at 238 to 245 ° C., preferably 240 to 243 ° C., more preferably about 241 to 242 ° C. in the differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) spectrum, and the extrapolated onset temperature of DSC ( The melting point represented by the circumscribing point on the DSC chart is 237.5 to 240.0 ° C., for example, about 238.7 ° C. ± 1 ° C. (especially 238.7 ° C. ± 0.5 ° C.). The differential scanning calorimetry spectrum can be measured by a conventional method, for example, the conditions of Examples described later.

[Crystalline polymorph β]
The crystal polymorph β of levonorgestrel has a diffraction angle 2θ of 2θ = 13.9 ° ± 0.2 °, 14.5 ° ± 0.2 °, 21.3 ° ± 0.2 °, 24.9 °. It has diffraction peaks at angles of ± 0.2 ° and 28.2 ° ± 0.2 °. Among these diffraction peaks, the crystalline polymorph β is characterized by a diffraction peak at 2θ = 24.9 ° ± 0.2 °, which is not necessarily stronger than the other diffraction peaks (higher diffraction peaks). ) It does not always appear. Further, in the crystal polymorph β, the diffraction peak at 2θ = 18.6 ° ± 0.2 ° characteristic of the crystal polymorph α hardly appears, and even if it appears, a small diffraction peak appears.

When the intensity (height) of the diffraction peak at each diffraction angle 2θ is Y ₁ to Y ₅ as follows,
Y ₁ : 2θ = 13.9 ° ± 0.2 °
Y ₂ : 2θ = 14.5 ° ± 0.2 °
Y ₃ : 2θ = 21.3 ° ± 0.2 °
Y ₄ : 2θ = 24.9 ° ± 0.2 °
Y ₅ : 2θ = 28.2 ° ± 0.2 °
The order of the diffraction peak intensity (diffraction peak height) of the crystalline polymorph β may have the following relationship. In the crystal polymorph β, Y ₁ and Y ₂ usually appear stronger than Y ₃ to Y ₅ (the highest diffraction peak). Y ₁ may be stronger (higher), weaker (lower), or equivalent strength (height) than Y ₂ . Y ₃ is stronger than _{Y 4} and _{Y 5} (high) at best, may be substantially equivalent in strength (height) and _{Y 4} and _{Y 5.} That _is, the order of Y 1 to Y _{5 is, Y 1, Y 2> Y} 3> Y 4 may indicate a relationship ≒ _{Y 5.} Note that the order of Y _{1 to} Y ₅ is not necessarily limited to this order. For example, Y ₄ may be stronger (higher) than Y ₃ .

The intensity ratio (height ratio) of each of Y _{1 to} Y ₅ may be as follows based on the intensity Y ₄ of the characteristic diffraction peak of the crystalline polymorph β. For _example, Y 1 / _{Y 4} or _{Y 2 / Y 4 = 200 /} 100~40000 / 100, preferably 250/100 to 30,000 / 100 (e.g., 300 / 100-15000 / 100) may be about. _{Further, Y 3 / Y 4 = 100} / 100~2000 / 100, preferably 200 / 100-1500 / 100 (e.g., 400 / 100-1000 / 100) may be about. _{Further, Y 5 / Y 4 = 10} / 100~1000 / 100, preferably 20 / 100-500 / 100 (e.g., 40 / 100-250 / 100) may be about. The intensity ratio between Y ₁ and Y ₂ is, for example, Y ₁ / Y ₂ = 5/100 to 2000/100, preferably about 20/100 to 1500/100 (for example, 80/100 to 1000/100). It may be.

  In addition to the above-mentioned diffraction peak, the crystalline polymorph β has 2θ = 19.9 ° ± 0.2 °, 22.6 ° ± 0.2 °, 31.4 ° ± 0.2 °, 35 It may have a diffraction peak at a diffraction angle of .3 ° ± 0.2 ° and / or 43.3 ° ± 0.2 °.

  The crystalline polymorph β has an endothermic peak at 238 to 245 ° C., preferably 240 to 243 ° C., more preferably about 241 to 242 ° C. in the differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) spectrum, and the extrapolated onset temperature of DSC ( The melting point represented by a circumscribing point in the DSC chart is 238.5 to 240.5 ° C., for example, about 239.4 ° C. ± 1 ° C. (especially 239.4 ° C. ± 0.5 ° C.).

  The particle size of the crystalline polymorphs α and β is not particularly limited, and for example, the average particle diameter measured based on the laser diffraction method is 0.01 to 500 μm, preferably 0.1 to 300 μm (for example, 1 to 250 μm), usually about 0.1 to 50 μm (for example, 0.5 to 10 μm), and often about 0.1 to 5 μm (for example, 0.2 to 2 μm).

[Crystal mixture]
The crystal polymorph α and the crystal polymorph β are each weak against friction or pressure (mechanical stress) and have low stability. In particular, the crystalline polymorph α is weak against heat and easily discolored by heat. In the present invention, the crystalline polymorph α and the crystalline polymorph β are mixed to prepare a highly stable levonogestrel crystal mixture as compared to the crystalline polymorph α or the crystalline polymorph β alone. it can.

  The ratio between the crystal polymorph α and the crystal polymorph β may be in a range in which the stability against mechanical stress and pressure is enhanced, and even if the crystal polymorph α is less than the crystal polymorph β. Good. The crystal mixture is obtained by combining crystal polymorph α and crystal polymorph β into the former / the latter = 5/95 to 95/5 (for example, 5/95 to 90/10, preferably 10/90 to 80/20 (for example, 15/80 to 60/40), more preferably 17/83 to 55/45 (for example, 20/80 to 50/50). For example, crystalline polymorph α / crystalline polymorph β = 5/95 to 60/40 (eg 10/90 to 55/45), preferably 15/85 to 50/50, more preferably 20/80 to 45 / 55 (for example, about 25/75 to 45/55), for example, about 30/70 to 50/50 (for example, 33/67 to 47/53) may be used.

  The crystal polymorph α and the crystal polymorph β are, for example, the former / the latter = 5/95 to 70/30 (for example, 10/90 to 60/40), preferably 15/85 to 55/45 (for example, 20/80 to 50/50), more preferably 25/75 to 45/55 (for example, 30/70 to 45/55). It appears that the change in the ratio to the polymorph β is relatively small.

  The weight ratio of the crystalline polymorph α and the crystalline polymorph β is not limited to the crystal mixture provided for the production of the pharmaceutical composition, but in the pharmaceutical composition compressed by tableting or the like. It may be a range.

  In addition, the said ratio can be measured by the intensity ratio (peak height ratio) of the characteristic diffraction peak of the said crystal polymorphism alpha and the said crystal polymorphism beta in a powder X-ray diffraction spectrum. Since the crystal mixture of levonorgestrel of the present invention has structural characteristics derived from the crystal polymorph α and the crystal polymorph β, the intensity ratio of the diffraction peaks of the crystal polymorph α and the crystal polymorph β is It corresponds to the blending ratio of crystal polymorphs.

  The crystal mixture (or mixed crystal) of levonorgestrel of the present invention is a simple mixture (physical mixture) of crystal polymorph α and crystal polymorph β or a mixture in which crystal polymorph α and crystal polymorph β are in intimate contact. It may be a mixed crystal in which crystal polymorph α and crystal polymorph β are integrated. In the mixed crystal, the crystal polymorph α and the crystal polymorph β may be attached, deposited, or deposited around one crystal polymorph, and the mixed crystal is the crystal polymorph α. The phase and the phase of the crystalline polymorph β may be mixed or sequentially stacked. The crystal mixture is often a mixture in a form in which the crystalline polymorph α and the crystalline polymorph β are in intimate contact, for example, a pulverized mixture.

  The average particle diameter of the crystal mixture is not particularly limited, and is, for example, about 0.01 to 5 μm, preferably about 0.05 to 3 μm (for example, 0.1 to 2 μm) in a measurement method based on a laser diffraction method. Usually, it is often about 0.01 to 1 μm.

[Production method]
The crystal mixture (or mixed crystal) of levonorgestrel of the present invention can be obtained by mixing the crystal polymorph α and the crystal polymorph β. The mixing method is not particularly limited, for example, a method capable of uniformly mixing, for example, a blender (for example, a rotating container type mixer such as a V-type mixer, an S-type mixer, a double cone type mixer, a swirl screw type mixing) Or a fixed container type mixer such as a ribbon type mixer) or a pulverizer (for example, a hammer mill, a jet mill, a ball mill, etc.). In the case of using a pulverizer, usually, a mixture of crystal polymorph α and crystal polymorph β can be pulverized within a short time, and crystal polymorph α and crystal polymorph β are in close contact with or mixed. Can be obtained. In addition, if it is a small amount of mixture, it can be obtained by mixing a mixture with a mortar within a short time. The obtained crystal mixture may be classified into particles of a predetermined size using a sieve or the like, if necessary.

  In addition, when friction is applied to the crystal polymorph α and the crystal polymorph β by grinding or the like during the mixing, the crystal polymorph α or the crystal polymorph β may change. Therefore, it is desirable to prepare the crystal mixture by appropriately adjusting the ratio of the crystal polymorph α and the crystal polymorph β in consideration of the change of the crystal polymorph.

(Method for producing crystalline polymorph α)
The crystal polymorph α of levonorgestrel is, for example, a levonorgestrel solution prepared by dissolving levonorgestrel in a good solvent composed of a saturated 5- or 6-membered ring compound containing two oxygen atoms as heteroatoms, a precipitation solvent, Can be prepared by precipitating crystal polymorph α of levonorgestrel. As the good solvent (the 5- or 6-membered ring compound), for example, dioxane, dioxolane and the like are used, and one kind or two or more kinds may be used. Of the good solvents, dioxane is preferred.

  The levonorgestrel can be produced by a conventional method such as the method described in Synthetic Communications, 26, 1461 (2010).

  The concentration of levonorgestrel in the levonorgestrel solution is, for example, 0.1 to 20% by weight (for example, 0.5 to 10% by weight), preferably 0.5 to 7% by weight, more preferably 1 to 5% by weight. % (For example, 2 to 4% by weight). The levonorgestrel solution preferably has a high concentration in order to efficiently precipitate the crystalline polymorph α, and the levonorgestrel may be supersaturated at the temperature of the precipitation system (for example, under cooling). The high-concentration levonorgestrel solution may be prepared by heating at, for example, 30 to 70 ° C, preferably 35 to 60 ° C, more preferably about 35 to 50 ° C.

  The precipitation solvent may be water alone or a mixed solvent of water and a good solvent. As the good solvent in the mixed solvent, a saturated 5- or 6-membered ring compound (for example, dioxane or dioxolane) containing two oxygen atoms as a hetero atom is used, as described above, either alone or in combination of two or more. May be. Moreover, although the kind of good solvent in a mixed solvent may differ from the said good solvent of levonorgestrel, it is preferable that it is the same.

  The precipitation solvent is preferably a mixed solvent of water and a good solvent (for example, dioxane). The weight ratio of water in the mixed solvent to the good solvent (for example, dioxane) is, for example, water / good solvent = 50/50 to 95/5, preferably 60/40 to 90/10, more preferably 65. It may be about / 35 to 85/15 (for example, 70/30 to 80/20).

  The weight ratio of the poor solvent to the good solvent in the precipitation system (in the state where the levonorgestrel solution and the precipitation solvent are mixed) is, for example, poor solvent / good solvent = 50/50 to 99/1, preferably 60. / 40 to 97/3 (for example, 60/40 to 90/10), more preferably about 65/35 to 85/15 (for example, 67/33 to 80/20). If the amount of the poor solvent such as water is too small, the crystal polymorph α of levonorgestrel cannot be effectively precipitated. If the amount is too large, a large amount of poor solvent (such as water) is required, resulting in a reduction in economic efficiency.

  The levonorgestrel solution and the precipitation solvent are preferably mixed within a short time. As a mixing method, for example, the precipitation solvent may be added to the levonorgestrel solution. However, since the operation is easy, it is more preferable to add the levonorgestrel solution to the precipitation solvent. In addition, although the said precipitation solvent and the said levonorgestrel solution may be divided and mixed in multiple times (for example, 2-5 times), you may mix at once, Usually, the said levonorgestrel solution is said precipitation solvent It is preferable to add them all at once, and more preferably within a short time. Moreover, you may mix the said levonorgestrel solution which may be the high concentration heated with the said precipitation solvent.

  Furthermore, the precipitation system may be agitated to precipitate the crystalline polymorph α from the precipitation system. The stirring time is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, about 1 minute to 1 day (for example, 5 minutes to 8 hours), and preferably about 10 minutes to 3 hours (for example, 10 minutes to 1 hour).

  Precipitation in the above precipitation system can usually be carried out under cooling, for example, −10 to 25 ° C., preferably −10 to 15 ° C., particularly about −5 to 10 ° C. (for example, ice-cooling). Below) If the temperature is too high, the crystalline polymorph α of levonorgestrel may not be effectively precipitated.

  The crystalline polymorph α is weak against friction, and when friction is applied by pulverization or the like to reduce the particle size, the property may change due to friction. Therefore, it is desirable not to grow crystals excessively.

  The crystalline polymorph α precipitated in the mixture can be isolated from the mixture by a method such as filtration. Furthermore, the crystalline polymorph α may be washed and dried.

  The separation method may be, for example, natural filtration, vacuum filtration, or the like, but a method in which friction does not act on the crystal polymorph α, for example, natural filtration (a mixture containing precipitates is naturally dropped from the filter cloth, The method is preferably performed by a method of separating a solid on a filter cloth. The separated crystal polymorph α may be washed with a poor solvent such as water and then dried by, for example, natural drying, vacuum drying, heat drying, etc., but by natural drying so as not to cause friction on the crystal polymorph α. It is preferable to dry.

(Method for producing crystalline polymorph β)
The crystalline polymorph β of levonorgestrel is a C _4-10 alkane (pentane, hexane, heptane, octane, etc.) or C _4-10 cycloalkane (cyclopentane, instead of the precipitation solvent for producing the crystalline polymorph α. Except that a poor solvent composed of cyclohexane or the like or a mixed solvent thereof is used as a precipitation solvent. Of the poor solvents (the alkane or the cycloalkane), hexane is preferred. Further, the precipitation solvent may be a mixed solvent of a poor solvent and a good solvent.

  The weight ratio of the poor solvent to the good solvent in the precipitation system is, for example, poor solvent / good solvent = 50/50 to 97/3, preferably 60/40 to 95/5, and more preferably 70/30 to It may be about 93/7 (for example, 75/25 to 90/10). If the amount of the poor solvent is too small, the crystalline polymorph β of levonorgestrel cannot be effectively precipitated. If the amount is too large, a large amount of the poor solvent is required and the economic efficiency is lowered.

  The levonorgestrel solution and the precipitation solvent are preferably mixed gradually over time. As a mixing method, for example, the precipitation solvent may be added to the levonorgestrel solution. However, since the operation is easy, it is more preferable to add the levonorgestrel solution to the precipitation solvent. As the addition method, for example, the above-mentioned poor solvent or mixed solvent may be added dropwise to the levonorgestrel solution. Further, the levonogestrel solution may have a heated high concentration, and the levonogestrel solution may be mixed with the precipitation solvent.

  The mixing speed is selected depending on the concentration of the levonorgestrel solution. For example, when the total weight of the levonorgestrel solution is 100 parts by weight, the levonorgestrel solution is 0.01 to 50 parts by weight / minute, preferably 0.8. You may mix with a precipitation solvent at 1-10 weight part / min, especially about 0.5-5 weight part / min.

  Furthermore, the precipitation system may be stirred to precipitate the crystalline polymorph β. Stirring time is not specifically limited, For example, about 1 minute-1 day (for example, 3 minutes-8 hours) may be sufficient, and about 10 minutes-3 hours (for example, 10 minutes-1 hour) are preferable.

  The above precipitation system can usually be carried out under cooling, for example, under a temperature condition of about −10 to 25 ° C., preferably −10 to 15 ° C., particularly about −5 to 10 ° C. (eg under ice cooling). You may go. If the temperature is too high, the crystalline polymorph β of levonorgestrel may not be effectively precipitated.

  Note that it is desirable that the crystal polymorph β is not susceptible to excessive crystal growth because it is susceptible to friction.

  Crystalline polymorph β precipitated in the mixture can be isolated by the same isolation method as crystal polymorph α.

(Mixed crystal)
In a precipitation system in which one of the polymorphs α and β is present, the other crystal polymorph may be precipitated or crystallized to form a mixed crystal. For example, in the method for producing the crystalline polymorph α, the crystalline polymorph β is added to the precipitation system to precipitate the crystalline polymorph α around the crystalline polymorph β, and the crystalline polymorph α and the crystalline polymorph β Mixed crystals can be precipitated. Similarly, in the method for producing the crystalline polymorph β, the crystalline polymorph α can be added to the precipitation system to precipitate the crystalline polymorph β around the crystalline polymorph α, thereby precipitating a mixed crystal.

  The mixed crystal thus precipitated can be isolated by the same isolation method as that for crystal polymorph α.

[Use and pharmaceutical composition]
The crystal mixture (or mixed crystal) of levonorgestrel of the present invention is preferably used as an emergency contraceptive, and may be used alone as a medicine, in combination with a carrier (such as a pharmacologically or physiologically acceptable carrier). And may be used as a pharmaceutical composition (or preparation).

  In the pharmaceutical composition of the present invention, the carrier is appropriately selected according to the form (ie, dosage form), dosage form, use, etc. of the pharmaceutical composition (or formulation). The dosage form is not particularly limited, and is a solid preparation [powder, powder, granule (granule, fine granule, etc.), pill, pill, tablet, capsule (soft capsule, hard capsule, etc.), dry syrup, Suppositories, film-form preparations, sheet-form preparations, etc.], semi-solid preparations (creams, ointments, gels, gummies, etc.).

  Also included are sprays such as the powders, aerosols and the like. The capsule may be a liquid-filled capsule or a capsule filled with a solid agent such as a granule. The preparation may be a lyophilized preparation. Furthermore, the preparation of the present invention may be a preparation with controlled drug release rate (sustained release preparation, immediate release preparation). In addition, the preparation may be an oral administration preparation (granule, powder, tablet (sublingual tablet, orally disintegrating tablet, etc.), capsule, film preparation, etc.), or parenteral administration preparation (inhalation, transdermal administration). Preparation, nasal administration preparation, etc.). Further, the preparation may be a topical preparation (ointment, patch, cataplasm, etc.).

  Examples of the carrier include Japanese Pharmacopoeia (Pharmacopoeia), (1) Pharmaceutical Additive Handbook, Maruzen Co., Ltd., (1989), (2) “Pharmaceutical Additives Encyclopedia 2007” (Pharmaceutical Daily Inc., 2007) Issued in July), (3) Pharmacy, revised 5th edition, Nanedo Co., Ltd. (1997), and (4) Pharmaceutical Additives Standard 2003 (Pharmaceutical Daily Inc., August 2003) (For example, an excipient, a binder, a disintegrant, a lubricant, a coating agent, etc.) can be selected according to the administration route and the formulation application. For example, as a carrier for a solid preparation, at least one carrier selected from excipients, binders and disintegrants is often used. The pharmaceutical composition may contain a lipid.

  Examples of the excipient include sugars such as lactose, glucose, sucrose, mannitol, sorbitol, xylitol or sugar alcohols; starch such as corn starch; polysaccharides such as crystalline cellulose (including microcrystalline cellulose); Examples thereof include silicon oxide such as acid or silicate. As a binder, soluble starch such as pregelatinized starch and partially pregelatinized starch; polysaccharides such as gum arabic, dextrin and sodium alginate; polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), carboxyvinyl polymer, polyacrylic acid type Synthetic polymers such as polymers, polylactic acid and polyethylene glycol; methylcellulose (MC), ethylcellulose (EC), carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), sodium carboxymethylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC), hydroxypropylcellulose (HPC), hydroxypropylmethylcellulose ( Examples thereof include cellulose ethers such as HPMC). Examples of the disintegrant include carboxymethyl starch sodium, carmellose, carmellose sodium, carmellose calcium, croscarmellose sodium, crospovidone, and low-substituted hydroxypropylcellulose. These carriers can be used alone or in combination of two or more.

  Examples of the coating agent include saccharides, cellulose derivatives such as ethyl cellulose and hydroxymethyl cellulose, polyoxyethylene glycol, cellulose acetate phthalate, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose phthalate, methyl methacrylate- (meth) acrylic acid copolymer, and Eudragit (methacrylic acid). Acid / acrylic acid copolymer). The coating agent may be an enteric component such as cellulose phthalate, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose phthalate, or methyl methacrylate- (meth) acrylic acid copolymer, and a polymer containing a basic component such as dialkylaminoalkyl (meth) acrylate ( Gastric soluble components composed of Eudragit etc.). The preparation may also be a capsule containing these enteric components and gastric components in the skin.

  In the preparation, known additives can be appropriately used depending on the administration route and dosage form. Examples of such additives include lubricants, disintegration aids, antioxidants or antioxidants, stabilizers, preservatives or preservatives, bactericides or antibacterial agents, antistatic agents, flavoring agents, or masking agents. , Coloring agents, flavoring agents or fragrances, cooling agents, antifoaming agents and the like. These additives can be used alone or in combination of two or more.

  The pharmaceutical composition (or pharmaceutical preparation) of the present invention may contain other physiologically active ingredients or pharmacologically active ingredients (for example, estradiol, ethinyl estradiol, estradiol benzoate, estriol, estriol acetate or And follicular hormone preparations such as benzoic acid esters).

  The pharmaceutical composition of the present invention is prepared by a conventional formulation method, for example, a production method described in the 16th revised Japanese Pharmacopeia or this production method, using an active ingredient, a carrier component, and if necessary an additive. Can be prepared by different methods.

  The levonorgestrel crystal mixture of the present invention is highly stable against friction. Therefore, it is suitable for preparing a pharmaceutical preparation (for example, tablet) by a method in which friction acts, for example, grinding and tableting.

  The crystalline mixture of levonorgestrel of the present invention has low toxicity and excellent safety, and is a human and non-human animal, usually a mammal (eg, human, mouse, rat, rabbit, dog, cat, cow, horse, , Pigs, monkeys, etc.). The dosage can be selected depending on the species, age, weight, and condition (general condition, medical condition, presence of complications, etc.), administration time, dosage form, administration method, and the like of the administration target. For example, the dose (daily dose) for humans is, for example, about 0.01 to 50 mg / day, preferably about 0.05 to 10 mg / day (for example, 0.5 to 5 mg / day).

  The administration method may be oral administration, local administration or parenteral administration (for example, subcutaneous administration, intramuscular administration, rectal administration, vaginal administration, etc.).

  The frequency of administration is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, once a day, or may be multiple times a day (for example, 2 to 3 times) as necessary.

  Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in more detail based on examples, but the present invention is not limited to these examples.

[Powder X-ray diffraction spectrum]
The powder X-ray diffraction spectrum was measured under the conditions of radiation source: Cu K (α1), tube voltage: 40 kV, tube current: 40 mA, sampling interval: 0.1 °, and scan rate of 10 ° / min. In the powder X-ray diffraction chart, the diffraction peak was searched by the second derivative method with the peak width threshold being 0.1 °.

[Differential scanning calorimetry spectrum]
The differential scanning calorific spectrum was measured using a differential scanning calorimeter (manufactured by Rigaku Corporation, model: DSC8230L) at a temperature rising rate of 10 ° C./min.

[Purity measurement by HPLC]
A sample solution was prepared by adding and dissolving 1 mL of acetonitrile with respect to 0.5 mg of the sample. 10 μL of the sample solution was subjected to liquid chromatography under the following conditions, and the percentage% of each peak was calculated by the area percentage method.

Test conditions Detector: UV absorption photometer (measurement wavelength 240 nm)
Column: Column with an inner diameter of 4.6 mm and a length of 15 cm filled with 5 μm octadecylated silica gel for liquid chromatography Column temperature: 35 ° C.
Mobile phase A: Water Mobile phase B: Acetonitrile Mobile phase feeding: The mobile phase A / mobile phase B mixture ratio (% by volume) was changed from mobile phase A / mobile phase B = 80 / Control by changing the concentration gradient from 20 to 20/80 (flow rate 1.0 mL / min).

Example 1
(Production of crystal polymorph α)
700 mg of levonorgestrel (Industriale Chimica) 700 mg was dissolved in dioxane to obtain a 25 mL levonorgestrel solution. This solution was added at once to a mixed solvent of 500 mL of water and 200 mL of dioxane under ice-cooling, and after stirring for 20 minutes, wet crystals obtained by natural filtration were washed with water. The wet crystals were dried by ventilation at 30 ° C. for 18 hours to obtain levonorgestrel crystal polymorph α653 mg.

  The measurement result of the powder X-ray diffraction spectrum of the obtained polymorphic α of levonorgestrel is shown in FIG. 1, and the measurement result of the differential scanning calorimetry spectrum is shown in FIG. From FIG. 2, the extrapolated onset temperature (melting point) of DSC was 238.7 ° C.

(Preparation of crystal polymorph β)
700 mg of levonorgestrel (Industriale Chimica) 700 mg was dissolved in dioxane to obtain a 25 mL levonorgestrel solution. This solution was added dropwise to 1 L of hexane over 74 minutes under ice cooling, and after stirring for 20 minutes, wet crystals obtained by natural filtration were washed with hexane. The wet crystals were dried by ventilation at 30 ° C. for 18 hours to obtain levonorgestrel crystal polymorph β629 mg.

  The measurement result of the powder X-ray diffraction spectrum of the crystalline polymorph β of levonorgestrel obtained is shown in FIG. 3, and the measurement result of the differential scanning calorimetry spectrum is shown in FIG. From FIG. 4, the extrapolated onset temperature (melting point) of DSC was 239.4 ° C.

(Preparation of crystal mixture)
The obtained crystalline polymorph α (10 mg) of levonorgestrel and crystalline polymorph β (90 mg) of levonorgestrel were put in a mortar, and using an automatic mortar grinder (manufactured by Azuwan Co., agate magnetic mortar) The mixture was pulverized for 1 minute using a pestle weight of 124 g (50 revolutions / minute) to obtain a levonogestrel crystal mixture containing crystal polymorph α / crystal polymorph β = 12/88. The weight ratio was converted based on the peak intensity ratio of the powder X-ray diffraction spectrum as described below.

Example 2
The obtained crystal polymorph α of levonorgestrel (30 mg) and crystal polymorph β (70 mg) of levonorgestrel were mixed while being pulverized in a mortar for 1 minute in the same manner as in Example 1 to obtain crystal polymorph α / A levonorgestrel crystal mixture containing a polymorphic form β = 19/81 in a weight ratio was obtained.

Example 3
The obtained crystalline polymorph α of levonorgestrel α (50 mg) and crystalline polymorph β of levonorgestrel β (50 mg) were mixed while being pulverized in a mortar for 1 minute in the same manner as in Example 1 to obtain crystalline polymorph α / A levonorgestrel crystal mixture containing a polymorphic form β = 38/62 in a weight ratio was obtained.

Example 4
The obtained crystal polymorph α of levonorgestrel (70 mg) and crystal polymorph β (30 mg) of levonorgestrel were mixed while being pulverized in a mortar for 1 minute in the same manner as in Example 1 to obtain crystal polymorph α / A levonorgestrel crystal mixture containing a polymorph β = 47/53 by weight was obtained.

Example 5
The obtained crystal polymorph α of levonorgestrel (90 mg) and crystal polymorph β (10 mg) of levonorgestrel were mixed while being pulverized in a mortar for 1 minute in the same manner as in Example 1 to obtain crystal polymorph α / A levonogestrel crystal mixture containing a polymorph β = 79/21 by weight was obtained.

Comparative Example 1
The crystalline polymorph α obtained in Example 1 was used as Comparative Example 1.

Comparative Example 2
Crystalline polymorph β obtained in Example 1 was used as Comparative Example 2.

[Stability test]
(1) Thermal stability In order to investigate the stability against heat, the crystals (polymorphs α and β) obtained in Comparative Examples 1 and 2 and 10 mg of the crystal mixture obtained in Examples 1 to 5 were added to a 100 ° C. atmosphere. After being left for 1 month in the thermostat below, the change in purity was confirmed by HPLC. As a result, it was found that the crystal polymorph α of Comparative Example 1 was 0.84% and the crystal polymorph β of Comparative Example 2 was 0.43%. In addition, in the polymorph α of Comparative Example 1, yellowing was observed from the 7-day standing time.

  In contrast, in the crystal mixtures of Examples 1 to 5, there was no change in purity and no change in appearance.

(2) Stability under mortar pulverization In order to examine the stability against pulverization, the crystals of Comparative Example 1 (polymorph α), the crystals of Comparative Example 2 (polymorph β), and 100 mg of the crystal mixture of Examples 1 to 5 were added. Put into a mortar and continue grinding for 1 hour under the specified conditions (pestle weight 124 g, 50 rpm) using an automatic mortar grinder (manufactured by ASONE, agate magnetic mortar), then powder X-ray diffraction The spectrum was measured.

  The weight ratio of crystalline polymorph α and crystalline polymorph β contained in levonorgestrel is the diffraction peak height (peak intensity) at the characteristic angle 2θ = 18.6 ° ± 0.2 ° of crystalline polymorph α. And the ratio of the diffraction peak height (peak intensity) at the characteristic angle 2θ = 24.9 ° ± 0.2 ° of the crystalline polymorph β. The results are shown in Table 1.

  As is clear from Table 1, as a result of continuing grinding for 1 hour, in Comparative Example 1, only 56% of the crystalline polymorph α was confirmed, and in Comparative Example 2, the crystalline polymorph β was only 86% of the whole. It was not confirmed. As described above, in the comparative example, the stable mixing ratio is hardly reached. On the other hand, in the crystal mixtures of Examples 1 to 5, no significant change was observed in the ratio of crystal polymorph α and crystal polymorph β after grinding for 1 hour, and polymorph α / polymorph β = 20 / A stable mixing ratio of 80-45 / 55 (weight ratio) was reached. These data show that crystal polymorph α and crystal polymorph β are expressed as crystal polymorph α / crystal polymorph β = 10/90 to 90/10 (for example, 20/80 to 50/50, particularly 30/70 to When the mixture mixed at a weight ratio of about 50/50) is pulverized, after the pulverization, crystalline polymorph α / crystalline polymorph β = 20/80 to 45/55 (for example, 25/75 to 45/55, particularly 30 / 70 to 40/60 or 30/70 to 35/65), which suggests that a stabilized mixture can be obtained.

  As is clear from the stability tests (1) and (2), the levonorgestrel crystal mixtures of the examples show higher stability than the crystal polymorphs α and β of Comparative Examples 1 and 2. In particular, when a mixture containing crystal polymorph α and crystal polymorph β in a predetermined ratio is pulverized, the change in composition (weight ratio of crystal polymorph α and crystal polymorph β) is relatively small. Moreover, even if friction or crushing force is repeatedly received, it seems to converge to a predetermined ratio.

  The levonorgestrel crystal mixture of the present invention is suitably used as an emergency contraceptive.

  The levonorgestrel crystal mixture of the present invention is suitable for preparing a pharmaceutical preparation by a method such as pulverization or tableting, and can be used in the form of a tablet or the like.

Claims (7)

In the powder X-ray diffraction spectrum, a crystal polymorph α of levonorgestrel having a diffraction peak at a diffraction angle (α) represented by 2θ below,
In a powder X-ray diffraction spectrum, a levonorgestrel crystal mixture comprising a crystal polymorph β of levonorgestrel having a diffraction peak at a diffraction angle (β) represented by 2θ below.
(Α): 17.2 ° ± 0.2 °, 18.6 ° ± 0.2 °, 22.7 ° ± 0.2 °, 31.1 ° ± 0.2 ° and 35.5 ° ± 0 .2 °
(Β): 13.9 ° ± 0.2 °, 14.5 ° ± 0.2 °, 21.3 ° ± 0.2 °, 24.9 ° ± 0.2 ° and 28.2 ° ± 0 .2 °   2. The crystal mixture according to claim 1, wherein the ratio (weight ratio) of the crystal polymorph α of levonorgestrel and the crystal polymorph β of levonorgestrel is the former / the latter = 5/95 to 90/10.   3. The crystal mixture according to claim 1, wherein a ratio (weight ratio) between the crystal polymorph α of levonorgestrel and the crystal polymorph β of levonorgestrel is the former / the latter = 15 / 85-60 / 40.   The crystal mixture according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a ratio (weight ratio) between the crystal polymorph α of levonorgestrel and the crystal polymorph β of levonorgestrel is the former / the latter = 20/80 to 50/50. .   The method for producing the crystal mixture according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the crystal polymorph α of levonorgestrel according to claim 1 and the crystal polymorph β of levonorgestrel according to claim 1 are mixed.   A pharmaceutical composition comprising the crystal mixture according to claim 1.   The pharmaceutical composition according to claim 6, which is a tablet.

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