Exploratory pharmacokinetic and preliminary efficacy modelling of select orally administered antiviral compounds following DehydraTECH formulation enhancement

Researchers around the world are racing to find treatment solutions to combat COVID-19, the disease cause by infection of the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). The use of antiretroviral therapy has recently shown preliminary promise. However, a barrier relates to bioavailability challenges, i.e., poor uptake, of these drugs. Poor bioavailability limits drug utility which could be paramount in combating rapid health declines in COVID-19. DehydraTECH is a patented formulation processing technology developed by Lexaria Bioscience Corp that has been shown to enhance the body??s uptake of these drugs. In turn, the purpose of this study is to determine the plasma uptake of the lipophilic antiviral compounds darunavir and efavirenz with and without the DehydraTECH formulation. Through collaboration of Lexaria Bioscience Corp with the University of Windsor, two randomized placebo-controlled studies will be performed. Given positive results from this research, the Company will make its technology available to researchers throughout the world looking to maximize the effectiveness of their own drug investigations.

Faculty Supervisor:

Anthony Bain

Student:

Matthew Badour;Brooke Shepley

Partner:

Lexaria CanPharm ULC

Discipline:

Kinesiology

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

University of Windsor