Considerations for the Use of Polysorbates in Biopharmaceuticals

PurposePolysorbates are commonly added to protein formulations and serve an important function as stabilizers. This paper reviews recent literature detailing some of the issues seen with the use of polysorbate 80 and polysorbate 20 in protein formulations. Based on this knowledge, a development strategy is proposed that leads to a control strategy for polysorbates in protein formulations.MethodsA consortium of Biopharmaceutical scientists working in the area of protein formulations, shared experiences with polysorbates as stabilizers in their formulations.ResultsBased on the authors experiences and recent published literature, a recommendation is put forth for a development strategy which will lead into the appropriate control strategy for these excipients.ConclusionsAn appropriate control strategy may comprise one or more elements of raw material, in-process and manufacturing controls. Additionally, understanding the role, if any, polysorbates play during stability will require knowledge of the criticality of the excipient, based upon its impact on CQAs due to variations in concentration and degradation level.

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