At the 43rd annual international conference of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), Geneith Pharmaceuticals officially launched its product – Coatal forte soft gelatin capsules. This event occurred during one of the presentations held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan.
During the launch, Pharm. Abimbola Bowoto, Assistant General Manager, Sales and Marketing, Geneith Pharmaceuticals Limited, and Pharm. Simeon Okechukwu Azubuike, Assistant General Manager, Sales, spoke about the Coatal Soft Gel. They revealed that the product is available in two formulations: Coatal Gelatin Soft Gel 80/480 and 20/120. They both explained that patients need high-quality drugs for survival and encouraged the use of the now available product as it is patient-friendly, accessible, affordable, and suitable for all ages.
Alongside these pharmacists, Dr. Micheal Obaro, a Consultant Clinical Pharmacologist and Malaria Scientist at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Oyo state, also gave good remarks concerning the newly launched product and Soft Gels in general. He stated that soft gel technology is a new, innovative approach to oral medication that would revolutionize malaria treatment in the country.
The malaria scientist, who is also a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics at the University of Ibadan, Oyo State, stated that over 60 percent of Nigerians never finish their medication while undergoing treatment, which has become a stumbling block to effective malaria management.
The expert explained that Malaria, caused by the Plasmodium parasite and transmitted through mosquito bites, has affected millions of people annually. Despite the availability of effective treatments, the issues of drug resistance, poor patient adherence, and limited accessibility have been barriers to the fight against Malaria.
He added that 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.
According to him,
“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.”
“Soft gels facilitate quicker and more efficient absorption of antimalaria 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 added.
He further noted that soft gel has a better 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.” He spoke.
During the launch, it was stressed that medications aren't enough to eradicate Malaria, especially in a country like Nigeria. Mass treatment and a change in individual mindsets are also required.
