Biowaiver Monograph for Immediate-Release Solid Oral Dosage Forms: Moxifloxacin Hydrochloride

In this monograph, literature data is reviewed to evaluate the feasibility of waiving in vivo bioequivalence testing and instead applying the Biopharmaceutics Classification System (BCS) based methods to the approval of immediate-release solid oral dosage forms containing moxifloxacin hydrochloride as the sole active pharmaceutical ingredient. To facilitate the feasibility decision, solubility and permeability and dissolution characteristics in the context of the BCS, therapeutic index, therapeutic use, pharmacokinetic parameters, bioequivalence/bioavailability issues, drug-excipient interactions and other relevant data were taken into consideration. Moxifloxacin is a BCS class I drug with a wide therapeutic index. Bioequivalence risks arising from the presence of different excipients in the formulation and due to manufacturing variables were deemed to be low. The risks can be further reduced if the choice of excipients is limited to those present in products already approved in International Conference on Harmonisation or associated countries and if the results of in vitro dissolution studies comply with the specifications stipulated in the appropriate biowaiver guidelines. Under these conditions, we conclude that a BCS-based biowaiver can be recommended for moxifloxacin immediate-release solid oral dosage forms.