Dr Michael Obaro, a consultant clinical pharmacologist and malaria scientist at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Oyo State, has stated that a new innovative approach to oral drug delivery—soft gel technology, promises to revolutionise malaria treatment in the country.
Obaro, who is also a senior lecturer in the Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics at the University of Ibadan, Oyo State, made this remark during the official launch of Coatal Forte Soft Gelatin Capsules—a formulation of artemether and lumefantrine, by Geneith Pharmaceuticals Limited.
The event which took place during a presentation session at the 43rd Annual National Conference of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), was held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, Oyo State, and was attended by eminent pharmacists, nurses, doctors, and other dignitaries.
The expert noted that malaria, caused by the plasmodium parasite transmitted through mosquito bites, affects millions annually, saying despite the availability of effective treatments, challenges such as drug resistance, poor patient adherence, and limited accessibility hinder the global fight against malaria.
He revealed that over 60 per cent of Nigerians discontinue oral medications while undergoing treatment, which he said remains a significant barrier to effective malaria management.
According to him, soft gel capsules, known for their enhanced bioavailability and patient-friendly properties, are gaining attention in the pharmaceutical world, adding that unlike traditional tablets, soft gels can improve drug absorption, ensure consistent dosing, and provide a stable medium for active ingredients.
“Soft gels facilitate quicker and more efficient absorption of antimalarial drugs, ensuring rapid therapeutic effects. Their ease of swallowing can lead to better adherence, particularly among children and the elderly. Additionally, they can protect sensitive drug compounds from degradation, maintaining their potency over time,” he said.
“The development of the soft gelatin capsule formulation is credited to Robert Pauli Scherer, an American inventor and entrepreneur who developed the rotary die encapsulation process for manufacturing soft gel capsules in 1933. This innovation allowed for the mass production of soft gels, providing a reliable and efficient method to encapsulate liquid and semi-solid formulations within a gelatin shell,” he added.
Speaking on the launched product, Coatal Forte Soft Gelatin Capsules, he stressed that it is the most popular antimalarial gelatin formulation, containing artemether 80 mg and lumefantrine 480 mg, known for its high antimalarial safety and efficacy.
Furthermore, he noted that soft gel formulations can be marketed as a premium product due to positive consumer perception. “They can be taken without water, offer convenience for patients in areas where access to clean water may be limited, and include tamper-evident features, providing an additional layer of safety and trust for consumers.”
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