Healthy Volunteer Pilot Study Using 3 Types of Modified Release Formulations of Firategrast to Investigate How Quickly Absorption From the Digestive System Takes Place.

The present study will investigate the tolerability and pharmacokinetics of single oral doses of firategrast administered as the existing immediate release tablet formulation and as three modified release tablet formulations designed to release drug over differing relase rates. The range of release rates is expected to give preliminary information on the performance of a matrix modified release formulation for use in future efficacy studies.

Subjects will receive each formulation in the fasted state in a randomised 4-part single dose crossover fashion. Based on the review of pharmacokinetic data from at least the first two study sessions, subjects may also receive a fifth dose of firategrast, administered after a high fat meal. The formulation administered with food will be chosen based upon pharmacokinetic data from previous dose sessions. Doses administered will be different with respect to gender; the doses are expected to result in similar exposures across the genders.

Inclusion criteria

• Male or female, aged 18 to 65 yrs inclusive
• Healthy, as determined by study physician
• Capable of giving informed consent

Exclusion criteria

• Positive drugs of abuse result
• Positive for HIV or Hepatitis B and/or C viruses
• History of alcohol consumption in excess of average recommended weekly intake (more than 21 units for males, more than 14 units for females)
• Participation in a clinical trial within 90 days of scheduled first dose