Comparative evaluation of flow for pharmaceutical powders and granules

Impact of Powder Properties on the Rheological Behavior of Excipients

With the emergence of quality by design in the pharmaceutical industry, it becomes imperative to gain a deeper mechanistic understanding of factors impacting the flow of a formulation into tableting dies. Many flow characterization techniques are present, but so far only a few have shown to mimic the die filling process successfully. One of the challenges in mimicking the die filling process is the impact of rheological powder behavior as a result of differences in flow field in the feeding frame. In the current study, the rheological behavior was investigated for a wide range of excipients with a wide range of material properties. A new parameter for rheological behavior was introduced, which is a measure for the change in dynamic cohesive index upon changes in flow field. Particle size distribution was identified as a main contributing factor to the rheological behavior of powders. The presence of fines between larger particles turned out to reduce the rheological index, which the authors explain by improved particle separation at more dynamic flow fields. This study also revealed that obtained insights on rheological behavior can be used to optimize agitator settings in a tableting machine.

Optimization of bilayer tablet manufacturing process for fixed dose combination of sustained release high-dose drug and immediate release low-dose drug based on quality by design (QbD)

A fixed dose combination (FDC) bilayer tablet, consisting of high-dose metformin HCl in a sustained release layer and low-dose evogliptin tartrate in an immediate release layer, was developed based on a quality by design (QbD) approach. To implement QbD approach, the bilayer tableting process parameters judged as high risk through risk analysis were optimized by a central composite face-centered design as a design of experiment (DOE) methodology. Using DOE, the optimized conditions of the tableting process for drug products that satisfy the established quality target product profiles were obtained. The content uniformity of low-dose evogliptin tartrate in the optimized bilayer tablet prepared on a large scale was confirmed by at-line transmittance Raman spectroscopy as a process analytical technology. In addition, the in vitro drug release and in vivo pharmacokinetic studies showed that metformin HCl and evogliptin tartrate in the bilayer tablet is bioequivalent to those of the respective reference drugs. Furthermore, the physicochemical stability of the optimized bilayer tablet during storage under long-term and accelerated conditions was also confirmed. Therefore, it can be concluded that the QbD approach is an effective way to develop a new FDC bilayer tablet that is easy to scale up for successful commercialization.

Functional Properties of Banana Starch (Musa spp.) and Its Utilization in Cosmetics

Unripe banana fruit of Musa acuminata (Musa AAA; Hom Khieo) and Musa sapientum L. (Musa ABB; Namwa) growing in Chiang Rai (Thailand) were used for extraction. The yield of the starches was 16.88% for Hom Khieo (HK) and 22.73% for Namwa (NW) based on unripe peeled banana fruit. The amylose contents of HK and NW were 24.99% and 26.23%, respectively. The morphology of starch granules was oval shape with elongated forms for large granules and round shape for small granules. The HK and NW showed B-type crystalline structure and the crystallinities were 23.54% and 26.83%, respectively. The peak temperature of gelatinization was around 77 °C and the enthalpy change (ΔH) was 3.05 and 7.76 J/g, respectively. The HK and NW banana starches showed 1.27 ± 0.12 g/g and 1.53 ± 0.12 g/g water absorption capacity, and 1.22 ± 0.11 g/g and 1.16 ± 0.12 g/g oil absorption capacity, respectively. The swelling power of the banana starches was 17.23 ± 0.94 g/g and 15.90 ± 0.15 g/g, respectively, and the percentage of solubility in water showed 26.43 ± 2.50 g/g and 20.54 ± 0.94 g/g, respectively. The banana starches showed very poor flow character. The HK and NW starches have the potential to be used in powder base preparations with no effect on the sensory texture of the product at 15% w/w maximum.

Formulation and Evaluation of Sustained Release Matrix Tablets of Aceclofenac

This study aimed to improve the dissolution rate of aceclofenac and release the drug in a controlled manner over a period of 24 hours. Matrix tablets were prepared by direct compression method, using hydrophilic polymers (HPMC/guar gum). Matrix tablets were prepared by wet granulation method using different hydrophilic polymers (HPMC/guar gum). Tablets were evaluated for in vitro drug release profile in phosphate buffer with pH 6.8 (without enzymes). The thickness and hardness of prepared tablets were 3.23 ± 0.035 to 3.28 ± 0.008 mm and 3.26 ± 0.115 to 3.60 ± 0.200 kg/cm2, respectively. The friability was within the acceptable limits of pharmacopoeial specifications (0.31 to 0.71%), which indicates the good mechanical strength of the tablets. Drug release was retarded with an increase in polymer concentration due to the gelling property of polymers. The in vitro drug release from the proposed system was best explained by Higuchi’s model, indicating that drug release from tablets displayed a diffusion-controlled mechanism. The results clearly indicate that guar gum could be a potential hydrophilic carrier in developing oral controlled drug delivery systems. Based on the study results, formulations F8 was selected as the best formulation.

Ethyl cellulose coated sustained release aspirin spherules for treating COVID-19: DOE led rapid optimization using arbitrary interface; applicable for emergency situations

This work attempts to resolve one of the key issues related to the design and development of sustained-release spherule of aspirin for oral formulations, tailored to treat COVID-19. For that, in the Design of Experiments (DOE) an arbitrary interface, "coating efficiency" (CE) is introduced and scaled the cumulative percentage coating (CPC) to get predictable control over drug release (DR). Subsequently, the granules containing ASP are converted to spherules and then to Ethyl cellulose (EC) Coated spherules (CS) by a novel bed coating during the rolling (BCDR) process. Among spherules, one with 0.35 mm than 0.71 mm shows required properties. The CS has a low 120⁰ angle by Optical Microscopy (OM), smooth surface without cracks by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and better flow properties (Angle of repose 29.69 ± 0.78⁰, Carr's index 6.73 ± 2.24%, Hausner's Ratio 1.07 ± 0.03) than granules and spherules. Once certain structure-dependent control over release is attained (EC coated spherules shows 10% reduction in burst release (BR) than uncoated spherules showing a release of 80-91%) the predictability is achieved and Design of space (DOS) by DOE (CE-70.14%and CPC-200% and DR-61.54%) is established. The results of DOE to experimentally validated results were within 20% deviation. The aspirin is changing its crystal structure by powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) from Form-I to Form-II showing polymorphism inside the drug reservoir with respect to the process. This CE and CPC approach in DOE can be used for delivery system design of other labile drugs similar to aspirin in emergency situations.

Evaluation of the impact of abuse deterring agents on the physicochemical factors of tramadol-loaded tablet and the definition of new abuse deterrent index

In the design of abuse-deterrent formulations (ADFs), pharmaceutical strategies that do not modify the physical and chemical properties of opioid dosage forms should be investigated. Among these, four major drug abusing factors, including particle size by physical modification, swellability, dissolution rate, and solvent extraction, were mainly characterized for evaluating abuse deterrence of narcotics. Tramadol hydrochloride (TMD) was chosen as a model drug. In this study, the frequently used eight generally recognized as safe (GRAS)-listed pharmaceutical excipients, including polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC 4,000, HPMC 100,000), xanthan gum (XG), cellulose acetate (CA), polyethylene oxide (PEO), carbomer 940 NF, and Compritol® 888 ATO, were selected as abuse deterring agents and used to prepare TMD-loaded tablet. A new abuse-deterrent index (ADI) for compressed TMD-loaded tablets was originally defined and considered as an index of drug abuse deterrence, based on the assumption that it was proportional to particle size and swellability but inversely proportional to dissolution and solvent extraction rates after assigning the categorized five scale scores (one to five) to the four experimental data. The resulting ADI of the selected eight abuse deterring agents in deionized water was given in decreasing order: HPMC 4000 > carbomer 940 > Compritol® 888 ATO > XG > PVA > HPMC 100,000 > PEO, and CA while in 40% hydro-alcoholic solution in the decreasing order: carbomer 940 > HPMC 4,000 ≒ XG > PVA > HPMC 100,000 > PEO > Compritol® 888 ATO > CA. Interestingly, the HPMC 4,000 and carbomer 940 showed the highest ADI and gave drug abuse deterrent potential. This study could provide a pharmaceutical strategy that utilizes a variety of abuse-deterring agents and resist to extraction solvents in designing drug abuse-deterrent formulations and establishing their standard guidelines for regulatory authorities.

Critical Tools in Tableting Research: Using Compaction Simulator and Quality by Design (QbD) to Evaluate Lubricants' Effect in Direct Compressible Formulation

As commonly known, the product development stage is quite complex, requires intensive knowledge, and is time-consuming. The selection of the excipients with the proper functionality and their corresponding levels is critical to drug product performance. The objective of this study was to apply quality by design (QbD) principles for formulation development and to define the desired product quality profile (QTPP) and critical quality attributes (CQA) of a product. QbD is a risk- and science-based holistic approach for upgraded pharmaceutical development. In this study, Ibuprofen DC 85W was used as a model drug, Cellactose® 80 along with MicroceLac® 100 as a filler, and magnesium stearate, stearic acid, and sodium stearyl fumarate as lubricants. By applying different formulation parameters to the filler and lubricants, the QbD approach furthers the understanding of the effect of critical formulation and process parameters on CQAs and the contribution to the overall quality of the drug product. An experimental design study was conducted to determine the changes of the obtained outputs of the formulations, which were evaluated using the Modde Pro 12.1 statistical computer program that enables optimization by modeling complex relationships. The results of the optimum formulation revealed that MicroceLac® 100 was the superior filler, while magnesium stearate at 1% was the optimum lubricant. A design space that indicates the safety operation limits for the process and formulation variables was also created. This study enriches the understanding of the effect of excipients in formulation and assists in enhancing formulation design using experimental design and mathematical modeling methods in the frame of the QbD approach.

Combined Self-Nanoemulsifying and Solid Dispersion Systems Showed Enhanced Cinnarizine Release in Hypochlorhydria/Achlorhydria Dissolution Model

The study aims to design a novel combination of drug-free solid self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems (S-SNEDDS) + solid dispersion (SD) to enhance cinnarizine (CN) dissolution at high pH environment caused by hypochlorhydria/achlorhydria. Drug-loaded and drug-free liquid SNEDDS were solidified using Neusilin^® US2 at 1:1 and 1:2 ratios. Various CN-SDs were prepared using freeze drying and microwave technologies. The developed SDs were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD). In-vitro dissolution studies were conducted to evaluate CN formulations at pH 6.8. Drug-free S-SNEDDSs showed acceptable self-emulsification and powder flow properties. DSC and XRD showed that CN was successfully amorphized into SDs. The combination of drug-free S-SNEDDS + pure CN showed negligible drug dissolution due to poor CN migration into the formed nanoemulsion droplets. CN-SDs and drug-loaded S-SNEDDS showed only 4% and 23% dissolution efficiency (DE) while (drug-free S-SNEDDS + FD-SD) combination showed 880% and 160% enhancement of total drug release compared to uncombined SD and drug-loaded S-SNEDDS, respectively. (Drug-free S-SNEDDS + SD) combination offer a potential approach to overcome the negative impact of hypochlorhydria/achlorhydria on drug absorption by enhancing dissolution at elevated pH environments. In addition, the systems minimize the adverse effect of adsorbent on drug release.

Preparation of Co-Processed Excipients for Controlled-Release of Drugs Assembled with Solid Lipid Nanoparticles and Direct Compression Materials

The purpose of the study was to develop a novel, directly compressible, co-processed excipient capable of providing a controlled-release drug system for the pharmaceutical industry. A co-processed powder was formed by adsorption of solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) as a controlled-release film onto a functional excipient, in this case, dicalcium phosphate dihydrate (DPD), for direct compression (Di-Tab®). The co-processed excipient has advantages: easy to implement; solvent-free; industrial scaling-up; good rheological and compressibility properties; and the capability to form an inert platform. Six different batches of Di-Tab®:SLN weight ratios were prepared (4:0.6, 3:0.6, 2:0.6, 1:0.6, 0.5:0.6, and 0.25:0.6). BCS class III ranitidine hydrochloride was selected as a drug model to evaluate the mixture's controlled-release capabilities. The co-processed excipients were characterized in terms of powder rheology and dissolution rate. The best Di-Tab®:SLN ratio proved to be 2:0.6, as it showed high functionality with good flow and compressibility properties (Carr Index = 16 ± 1, Hausner Index = 1.19 ± 0.04). This ratio could control release for up to 8 h, so it fits the ideal profile calculated based on biopharmaceutical data. The compressed systems obtained using this powder mixture behave as a matrix platform in which Fickian diffusion governs the release. The Higuchi model can explain their behavior.

Fabrication and In-vitro Evaluation of Buccal Mucoadhesive Tablet of Meloxicam

In this study, buccal mucoadhesive tablets of meloxicam were formulated for drug delivery as an alternative route. Direct compression method was applied for the preparation of tablets. Also, different polymers, including hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC) 1000, 4000, and 10000, as well as carbopol 934p and carbopol 971p were used as the mucoadhesive polymer and retardant polymer. Thirteen formulations were investigated with various concentrations of polymers. The physicochemical characteristics, in-vitro drug release, swelling index, and taste modification of tablets were evaluated. Also, Carr’s index and Hausner ratio were studied. In addition, zero-order, first-order, and Higuchi kinetics were investigated and the results showed that the highest correlation coefficient (R²) is related to zero-order kinetic for formulations B₂ and B₃. Furthermore, the highest R² is related to Higuchi kinetic for formulation C₃. Formulation B₂ showed the maximum release of 99% in 12 h. The results demonstrated that Formulation B₂ can be considered as a proper buccal mucoadhesive tablet of meloxicam with desired property.

Development and characterization of ibuprofen co-crystals granules prepared via fluidized bed granulation in a one-step process - a design of experiment approach

OBJECTIVE

The focus of this study was to investigate the possibility of producing ibuprofen-nicotinamide (IBU-NIC) and ibuprofen-isonicotinamide (IBU-INA) cocrystal-containing granules, using a one-step fluidized bed dryer granulation manufacturing process, and evaluate their mechanical properties.

SIGNIFICANCE

Pharmaceutical cocrystals represent a suitable strategy to improve properties of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), such as solubility and processability. Ibuprofen (IBU) is a small molecule API which can form cocrystals with different coformers, including NIC and INA. An improvement in mechanical properties for IBU-NIC cocrystals relative to IBU was previously reported but, to date, the formulation of IBU cocrystals in a solid dosage form has not been investigated.

METHODS

In situ cocrystallization and granulation were achieved concurrently by processing in a lab-scale fluidized bed granulator following a design of experiment (DoE) approach using a two-level factorial design with both process and formulation variables. Solid-state, micrometric, dissolution, and mechanical (tabletability) characteristics of granules were assessed post-processing.

RESULTS

Granules containing cocrystals were successfully prepared for 11 of 16 DoE runs. Parameters with a significant effect on granule drug loading, flow function, porosity, and size could be identified from the DoE model. Process yield was increased by using a high inlet temperature at high solution feed rate. To avoid the formation of sticky particles, caking and over-wetting of the powder during the process, the utilization of high inlet temperature, low API + coformer:filler ratio, low API concentration in solution and low solution feed rate were suggested by the model.

CONCLUSION

The multivariable model developed enables accurate optimization of the granulation process for IBU cocrystals.

Bioactive Betulin and PEG Based Polyanhydrides for Use in Drug Delivery Systems

In the course of this study, a series of novel, biodegradable polyanhydrides based on betulin disuccinate and dicarboxylic derivatives of poly(ethylene glycol) were prepared by two-step polycondensation. These copolymers can be used as carriers in drug delivery systems, in the form of microspheres. Betulin and its derivatives exhibit a broad spectrum of biological activity, including cytotoxic activity, which makes them promising substances for use as therapeutic agents. Microspheres that were prepared from betulin based polyanhydrides show promising properties for use in application in drug delivery systems, including inhalation systems. The obtained copolymers release the active substance-betulin disuccinate-as a result of hydrolysis under physiological conditions. The use of a poly(ethylene glycol) derivative as a co-monomer increases the solubility and bioavailability of the obtained compounds. Microspheres with diameters in the range of 0.5-25 µm were prepared by emulsion solvent evaporation method and their physicochemical and aerodynamic properties were analyzed. The morphological characteristics of the microspheres depended on the presence of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) segment within the structure of polyanhydrides. The porosity of the particles depended on the amount and molecular weight of the PEG used and also on the speed of homogenization. The most porous particles were obtained from polyanhydrides containing 20% wt. of PEG 600 by using a homogenization speed of 18,000 rpm.

Formulation of Aceclofenac Tablets Using Nanosuspension as Granulating Agent: An Attempt to Enhance Dissolution Rate and Oral Bioavailability

PURPOSE

The aim of the studies was to fabricate aceclofenac (AC) tablets using nanosuspension as granulating fluid to boost its rate of in vitro dissolution and eventually its oral bioavailability.

METHODS

The optimized nanosuspension with particle size of 112±2.01 nm was fabricated using HPMC 1% (w/v), PVP-K30 1% (w/v) and SLS 0.12% (w/v) at 400 watts of ultrasonication energy for 15 min duration and 3 sec pause. Then, the optimized aceclofenac nanosuspension was used as granulating fluid for aceclofenac tablets formulation. The characterization was performed using Malvern zetasizer, SEM, TEM, DSC and P-XRD. The granules were evaluated for the bulk and tapped densities, Hausner's ratio, angle of repose and their resulted values were found within limit. The prepared tablets were tested for average weight, hardness, friability, disintegration, dissolution and in vivo bioavailability in rabbits.

RESULTS

The in vitro dissolution data showed the boosted rate of nanosuspension-based tablets compared to the microsuspension-based tablets. The in vivo bioavailability (in rabbits model) of aceclofenac nanosuspension-based tablets (ACN-1, ACN-2) proved an improved absorption as in comparison to the marketed formulation. The Cmax and AUC0→24 of ACN-1 and ACN-2 were 1.53-fold, 1.48-fold and 2.23-fold, 2.0-fold greater than that of the marketed drug, and were 1.74-fold, 1.68-fold and 2.3-fold, 2.21-fold greater in comparison to raw drug.

CONCLUSION

This boosted in vitro and in vivo bioavailability may be attributed to reduced particle size of aceclofenac nanoformulations used in tablets. Finally, this will result in faster absorption of these fabricated tablets.

Application of response surface methodology (RSM) in statistical optimization and pharmaceutical characterization of a patient compliance effervescent tablet formulation of an antiepileptic drug levetiracetam

Background

The main objective of the present study was to develop and optimize an effervescent tablet of levetiracetam, an antiepileptic drug, using central composite design with response surface methodology (RSM).The present investigation helps to overcome the problem associated with levetiracetam tablets and liquid dosage forms with children and elderly people like bad taste and swallowing difficulties. It also facilitates as an alternative manufacturing process for advanced patented technology like 3D printing process employed in SPRITAM® tablet.

Levetiracetam effervescent tablets were prepared by dry granulation (roll compaction) method using water-soluble excipients and optimized by central composite rotatable design (CCRD) using two variables (citric acid and effersoda) at two levels (high and low). Overall, fourteen formulation trials were generated through statistical software Minitab 17.3.0 placing 6 center points, 4 cube points, and 4 axial points. All formulations were subjected to compression using single punch machine.

Results

Quality attributes of compressed tablets were evaluated using various compendial and non-compendial tests. RSM was used to observe the responses like effervescent time, hardness, and friability of the prepared tablet batches for different levels of all the variables. Polynomial equations were developed, and model plots (contour plot and 3-dimensional model surface plots) were generated to study the impact of acid-base couple on the responses. Finally, the optimized formulation was selected on the basis of desired effervescent time, hardness, friability, percent drug release, and drug content. From the studied RSM design, it was observed that small changes in the independent variables (citric acid and effersoda) correlate with shifts in the dependent variables, i.e., the desired responses. The study reveals that all the independent variables (citric acid and effersoda) and dependent variables (effervescent time, hardness, and friability) have a good correlation as indicated by good linear regression coefficient of 0.9808, 0.9939, and 0.9892 for effervescent time, hardness, and friability respectively.

Conclusion

Levetiracetam effervescent tablets are satisfactorily prepared by dry granulation (roll compaction) approach. All desired critical quality attributes were found to be satisfactory. The applicability of RSM with desirability function in optimizing the levetiracetam formulation has made it possible to identify the impact of various independent variables and explore their effect on required responses.

Design and In Vitro Characterization of Orally Disintegrating Modified Release Tablets of Naproxen Sodium

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to prepare orally disintegrating, slow release tablets of naproxen sodium for prompt onset and sustained action required in many types of acute pain.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Tablet formulations containing varying concentrations of croscarmellose sodium (a superdisintegrant) and Soluplus^® (as release modifier) were prepared by wet granulation method using a single punch tablet machine. The prepared granules were evaluated for their bulk properties and the tablets were evaluated for hardness, disintegration time, and drug release profiles.

RESULTS

The results showed that the granules so prepared have good flow and compressional properties. A disintegration time of tablets <30 s was achieved by selecting an optimum concentration of croscarmellose sodium. The drug release from the tablets was sustained for 2 h by incorporating a suitable amount of Soluplus^®.

CONCLUSION

This study examined the use of Soluplus^® (a novel solubilizer) for the first time as a release modifier of API from tablets.

Hydrogel-based matrices for controlled drug delivery of etamsylate: Prediction of in-vivo plasma profiles

Objectives

To design oral controlled release (CR) hydrogel matrix tablets of etamsylate using various hydrophilic polymers. Additionally, to predict plasma concentration-time profiles of etamsylate released from different CR matrices.

Methods

Characterization of the in-vitro release rate was performed by various model dependent and model independent approaches. A simple numerical convolution strategy was adopted to predict the in-vivo performance of all matrices from their in-vitro percent released data. The statistical analysis was conducted utilizing a student t-test and ANOVA.

Results

The release of etamsylate from all matrices showed a deviation from Fickian transport mechanism except; F2 followed Case II release whereas, F9 and F11 obeyed Fickian diffusion. CR hydrogel based-matrices (F4 and F11) demonstrated the maximum drug retardation and satisfied the USP release limits. Concentration-time profiles of etamsylate were predicted successfully from the in-vitro release data of all prepared matrices. Pharmacokinetic parameters of etamsylate CR hydrogel matrices were significantly changed with comparison to reference product except F1.

Conclusion

The designed (F2-F11) matrices had the capability to extend the plasma level of etamsylate for an adequate time. However, F4 and F11 were considered the most ideal formulations for once daily application of etamsylate. The prediction of in-vivo pharmacokinetics of etamsylate was very useful to assess the rationality of the designed matrices for the practical application in humans.

Physicochemical, pharmacokinetic, and pharmacodynamic characterization of isradipine tablets for controlled release

Isradipine is a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker (CCB) commonly used as vasodilator with antihypertensive properties. A remote-controlled release formulation for isradipine would substantially improve the clinical outcomes of the patients requiring chronic long-term treatment. In this work, sustained release (SR) tablets of isradipine, composed of hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose (HPMC), have been produced by wet granulation and their in vitro and in vivo characterization was compared to a conventional tablet dosage form of immediate release (IR) as preliminary assessment. Tablets composed of 15.0% (wt/wt) HPMC exhibited a SR profile over a period of 24 hours. The release of isradipine followed a Fickian diffusion pattern obeying to the first order kinetics and the extent of absorption was even higher in comparison to the developed conventional tablets, which showed immediate drug release. In vivo studies were carried out in rabbits, showing that the extent of isradipine absorption from the developed tablets was higher in comparison to IR tablets due to the modified release profile obtained for the former (p < 0.05). Our results suggest that SR tablets of isradipine are an efficient solid dosage form to overcome the limitations encountered in conventional IR tablets.

Enhanced Oral Bioavailability of Etodolac by the Liquisolid Compact Technique: Optimisation, In-Vitro and In-Vivo Evaluation

BACKGROUND

Poor dissolution of Etodolac is one of the major challenges in achieving the desired therapeutic effect in oral therapy.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess the potential of the liquisolid compact technique in increasing the rate of dissolution of Etodolac and thus its bioavailability.

METHODS

Liquisolid compacts were prepared using PEG 400, Avicel PH-200 and Aerosil 200 as non-volatile liquid, carrier and coating material, respectively. The optimisation was carried out by applying a 32 full factorial design using Design expert software 11.0.3.0 to examine the effects of independent variables (load factor and carrier: coating ratio) on dependent variables (angle of repose and % cumulative drug release at 30 min [Q <sub>30 min]). Assessment of bioavailability was based on a pharmacokinetic study on rabbits and pharmacodynamics evaluation on rats, respectively.

RESULTS

The formulation M3 was identified as the optimised formulation based on the better flow (lower angle of repose) and a higher rate of dissolution (Q ₃₀ min >95%). The higher dissolution rate could be due to conversion of Etodolac into an amorphous molecularly dispersed state, availability of larger surface area, enhancement of aqueous solubility and enhanced wetting of drug particles. Studies with DSC, XRD, and SEM verified the transformation of Etodolac from crystalline to amorphous state, a key factor responsible for improving the dissolution rate. The pharmacokinetic profile of M3 was prominent, demonstrating higher absorption of Etodolac in comparison to oral suspension and immediate-release conventional tablets in rabbits. Liquisolid formulation exhibited a 27% increment in paw thickness as compared to 57% and 46% increments for oral suspension and immediate-release conventional tablets, respectively, after 7 hrs in the carrageenan-induced paw model in rats.

CONCLUSION

The results indicated the liquisolid compact technique to be a promising strategy to enhance the bioavailability of Etodolac.

Potential of Musa sapientum Linn. for digestive function promotion by supporting Lactobacillus sp

Lactobacillus is a beneficial bacteria that could inhibit pathogenic potential of other microorganisms. This is the first study to develop a potential tablet from Musa sapientum Linn. (locally known as Kluai Namwa) using the direct compression method to support Lactobacillus sp. We compared the amount of resistant starch and prebiotic properties of the dry powder from unpeeled raw fruit, peeled raw fruit, and starch from M. sapientum. These dry powders were formulated into tablets using the direct compression method and evaluated for their prebiotic index compared to their native powder. Resistant starch, which possessed the highest prebiotic index, generated a tablet that possessed remarkable in vitro prebiotic properties. All tablets met the requirement of the United States Pharmacopeia. Therefore, resistant starch tablets from M. sapientum are suggested for use as a health promotion product.

Determining the Best Poloxamer Carrier for Thiocolchicoside Solid Dispersions

Objectives

The aim of this study of this study was to discover the best poloxamer as a solid dispersion carrier for thiocolchicoside (TCS).

Materials and Methods

The compatibility of TCS with excipients was studied by differential scanning colorimetry and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Different formulations of solid dispersions (SDs) were made with poloxamer carriers, i.e. poloxamer-108, poloxamer-188, poloxamer-237, poloxamer-338, and poloxamer-407 were made by taking TCS:poloxamer in ratios of 1:1, 1:2, 1:4, and 1:6. The SDs were made by a novel microwave fusion method and compressed using an 8-station tablet compression machine. The fabricated SD tablets were characterized by physicochemical constraints and drug release rates. The release of TCS from the prepared SDs was later analyzed by kinetic models.

Results

TCS was observed to be compatible with the poloxamer carriers. The SD formulations showed satisfactory physicochemical constraints and TCS release following first-order release.

Conclusion

Among the poloxamer carriers used, poloxamer-188 was the best for increasing the solubility and release rate of TCS from the SDs.

Fabrication of Taste-Masked Donut-Shaped Tablets Via Fused Filament Fabrication 3D Printing Paired with Hot-Melt Extrusion Techniques

The objective of this work was to develop taste-masked donut-shaped tablet formulations utilizing fused filament fabrication three-dimensional printing paired with hot-melt extrusion techniques. Caffeine citrate was used as the model drug for its bitter taste, and a 3-point bend test was performed to assess the printability of filaments. The stiffness constant was calculated to represent the printability by fitting the breaking distances and stress data into Hooke's law. The formulations without Eudragit E PO (F6) and with Eudragit E PO (F7) filaments exhibited the desired hardness with a "k" value of 48.30 ± 3.52 and 45.47 ± 3.51 g/mm³ (n = 10), respectively, and were successfully printed. The donut-shaped tablets were 3D printed with 10, 50, and 100% infill densities. In vitro dissolution studies were performed in simulated salivary fluid (pH 6.8, artificial saliva) to evaluate the taste-masking efficiency of the printed donuts. In the first minute, the concentrations of caffeine citrate observed in the dissolution media from all the printed donuts were less than the bitter threshold of caffeine citrate (0.25 mg/mL). Formulation F7, which contained Eudragit E PO copolymer, demonstrated better taste-masking efficiency than formulation F6. Furthermore, both formulations F6 and F7 demonstrated immediate drug release profiles in gastric medium (10% infill, > 80% release within 1 h). Taste-masked caffeine citrate formulations were successfully developed with donut shapes, which will enhance appeal in pediatric populations and increase compliance and patient acceptance of the dosage form.

Formulation of Curcumin-β-cyclodextrin-polyvinylpyrrolidone supramolecular inclusion complex: experimental, molecular docking, and preclinical anti-inflammatory assessment

This research planned to ameliorate an aqueous solubility and dissolution of Curcumin (CUR) by the formulation of inclusion complex with β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). The phase solubility study was performed to assess the solubility of CUR. The prepared CUR complex assessed for dissolution study, physicochemical evaluation, in-vitro antioxidant activity, molecular modeling, and anti-inflammatory assessment. The pivotal findings of phase-solubility studies demonstrate apparent stability constant (Kc) and complexation efficiency (CE) values for CUR-β-CD and CUR-β-CD-PVP complex was 175.4 M ^-1, 1.15% and 833.3.2 M ^-1 and 5.21%, respectively. The characterization results revealed amorphization of crystalline state (CUR) into amorphous state. The maximum drug release found with the ternary CUR complex (F7), i.e. 45.41 ± 3.78% in 6 h study. The chemical shift in the NMR supports that the aromatic ring of CUR is completely complexed inside the β-CD cavity. The antioxidant activity of pure CUR was found to be 58.02 ± 2.21% and CUR ternary complex (F7) showed significantly higher activity to 96.02 ± 2.46%. The in-vivo effect of CUR complex (F7) was also found significantly higher than that of pure CUR. The molecular modeling study depicted that PVP increased the stability of the ternary complex by forming the link between CUR and β-CD. Thus, the ternary inclusion complex of CUR-β-CD-PVP could contribute as an innovative outcome in the enhancement of solubility and in-vivo activity.

Hot-Melt Extrusion as an Advantageous Technology to Obtain Effervescent Drug Products

Here, we assessed the feasibility of hot-melt extrusion (HME) to obtain effervescent drug products for the first time. For this, a combined mixture design was employed using paracetamol as a model drug. Extrudates were obtained under reduced torque (up to 0.3 Nm) at 100 °C to preserve the stability of the effervescent salts. Formulations showed vigorous and rapid effervescent disintegration (<3 min), adequate flow characteristics, and complete solubilization of paracetamol instantly after the effervescent reaction. Formulations containing PVPVA in the concentration range of 15–20% m/m were demonstrated to be sensitive to accelerated aging conditions, undergoing marked microstructural changes, since the capture of water led to the agglomeration and loss of their functional characteristics. HPMC matrices, in contrast, proved to be resistant to storage conditions in high relative humidity, showing superior performance to controls, including the commercial product. Moreover, the combined mixture design allowed us to identify significant interactions between the polymeric materials and the disintegrating agents, showing the formulation regions in which the responses are kept within the required levels. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that HME can bring important benefits to the elaboration of effervescent drug products, simplifying the production process and obtaining formulations with improved characteristics, such as faster disintegration, higher drug solubilization, and better stability.

Formulation of amorphous ternary solid dispersions of dapagliflozin using PEG 6000 and Poloxamer 188: solid-state characterization, ex vivo study, and molecular simulation assessment

The present study was designed to prepare dapagliflozin (DFG) loaded ternary solid dispersions (SDs) using the carrier blend polyethylene glycol 6000 (PEG 6000) and poloxamer 188 (PLX 188). The prepared DFG-SDs were evaluated for solubility study, physicochemical characterization and molecular simulation study. The prepared DFG-SDs showed significant higher solubility and dissolution vis-a-vis pure DFG and DFG physical mixture. The composition DFG:PEG:PLX (1:2.25:0.75 mM) showed the highest solubility (0.476 ± 0.016 mg/mL). The physicochemical characterization confirms the polymorphic transition of DFG from crystalline state to stable amorphous form. The prepared DFG-SDs showed a significantly higher dissolution (64.78 ± 2.34% to 78.41 ± 2.39%) than pure DFG (15.70 ± 3.54%). DFG-SD2 showed a significantly enhanced drug permeation (p<.05) (58.76 ± 4.65 µg/cm) as compared to pure DFG (14.97 ± 3.32 µg/cm). The molecular docking study result revealed a good hydrophobic interaction of DFG with the used carrier due to the lowest energy pose. The interaction occurs between the methylene bridges and the central hydrophobic chain of polyoxypropylene of the polymer. Therefore, DFG-SDs prepared by microwave irradiation method using hydrophilic carrier blend might be a promising strategy for improving the solubility and in vitro dissolution performance.

Polymer-Assisted Aripiprazole-Adipic Acid Cocrystals Produced by Hot Melt Extrusion Techniques

Pharmaceutical cocrystals are a promising strategy to increase the solubility and dissolution rate of poorly soluble drugs. However, their manufacturing process requires a large quantity of solvents. The present study aimed to produce cocrystals by a solvent-free hot melt extrusion (HME) method to improve their solubility and dissolution rate. Aripiprazole (ARP) and adipic acid (ADP) were used as a weakly basic drug and acidic coformer, respectively. The processability of a plain ARP-ADP physical mixture (PM) compared with a PM with 5% Soluplus® (SOL) was investigated. Incorporating 5% SOL into the ARP-ADP blend reduced the processing torque and improved processability. The effects of temperature and screw speed on the formation of cocrystals were studied, and cocrystals were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), scanning electron microscopy, and hot-stage microscopy. FTIR spectra revealed noncovalent interaction between ARP and ADP, which was confirmed by NMR spectra. Similarly, PXRD data exhibited characteristic peaks confirming the formation of new crystalline material. Further, the results indicated that cocrystals demonstrated higher dissolution rates and improved compressibility, as well as enhanced flow characteristics compared with pure ARP, suggesting its suitability in the development of solid dosage forms.

Physicochemical Characterization of Grewia ferruginea Hochst. ex A. Rich Mucilage for Potential Use as a Pharmaceutical Excipient

Gum and mucilages from natural sources are in recent times increasingly investigated for pharmaceutical applications. Different studies have shown that the gum and mucilage fraction of various species of the genus Grewia were found to be effective viscosity enhancers, stabilizers, disintegrants, suspending agents, gelling agents, bioadhesives, film coating agents, and binders. However, no study has been conducted on the potential use of Grewia ferruginea mucilage (GFM) as a pharmaceutical excipient. Therefore, this study was aimed at characterizing the Grewia ferruginea bark mucilage for its potential use as a pharmaceutical excipient. The mucilage was extracted from the Grewia ferruginea inner stem bark through aqueous extraction, precipitated with 96% ethanol, dried, and powdered. The powdered mucilage was characterized for different physicochemical properties such as powder property, loss on drying, solubility and swelling index, ash value, pH, viscosity, moisture sorption property, microbial load, and acute oral toxicity. According to the results, the percentage yield of the final dried and powdered GFM was found to be 11.96% (w/w). The density and density-related properties of the mucilage showed good powder flow property. The GFM exhibited pseudoplastic flow behavior. Moisture sorption property of GFM revealed its hygroscopic nature, and its solubility and swelling property was increased with temperature. The pH of GFM was near neutral. Microbial load of the mucilage was within the pharmacopoeial limit, and the oral acute toxicity test revealed that the mucilage is safe up to 2000 mg/kg. From the investigations of this study, it can be concluded that Grewia ferruginea bark mucilage has the potential to be utilized as an excipient in pharmaceutical formulations.

Optimization of solid self-dispersing micelle for enhancing dissolution and oral bioavailability of valsartan using Box-Behnken design

A novel solid self-dispersing micelle (S-SDM) was developed to enhance the oral bioavailability of valsartan (VST) and to reduce the total mass of solidified supersaturable self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (S-SuSMEDDS), composed of Capmul MCM, Tween 80 (T80), Gelucire 44/14 (G44), Poloxamer 407, Florite PS-10 (FLO), and low-substituted hydroxypropyl cellulose B1 (HPC). Excluding oil component from S-SuSMEDDS, S-SDM was optimized using a Box-Behnken design with three independent variables: X₁ (T80/G44, 0.63), X₂ (FLO/HPC, 0.41), and X₃ (solid carrier, 177.6 mg); and three response factors: Y₁ (droplet size, 191.9 nm), Y₂ (dissolution efficiency at 15 min, 55.0%), and Y₃ (angle of repose, 32.4°). The desirability function was 0.636, showing an excellent agreement between the predicted and experimental values. With approximately 75% weight of S-SuSMEDDS, no distinct crystallinity of VST was observed in S-SDM, resulting in critical micelle concentration value of 32 μg/mL. Optimized S-SDM showed an approximate 4-fold improved dissolution (pH 1.2, 500 mL) compared with raw VST. Following oral administration in rats, optimized S-SDM improved relative bioavailability by approximately 235%, 216%, and 127% versus raw VST, Diovan® (commercial reference), and S-SuSMEDDS, respectively. Thus, optimized S-SDM could be a selectable candidate for developing water-insoluble drugs in reduced quantity.

Filling of lactose-based formulations in a tamping-pin capsule filler

We studied three lactose-based formulations in terms of bulk powder properties and capsule-filling behavior in a tamping-pin capsule filling system, to which several mechanical adaptions were made for process optimization in light of future continuous production. The model formulations were thoroughly characterized and filled into size 1 capsules according a well-defined design of experiments (DoE). Overall, the three entirely different formulations were successfully filled within the selected design space. The fill weight and fill weight variability can be adjusted by fine-tuning the process settings, like the pin immersion depth and the maximum compaction pressure (pneumatic or spring-controlled), and by using the appropriate powder bed height and mechanical adaptions. This study demonstrated that selection of process parameters and mechanical adaptions could enhance the filling performance, especially in continuous production, since they reduce the powder volume in the process. Moreover, we showed that a tamping-pin system is capable of successfully filling a broad range of powders with various material characteristics and can potentially be used in a continuous production mode.

Acetylation and Evaluation of Taro Boloso-I Starch as Directly Compressible Excipient in Tablet Formulation

Taro Boloso-I (TB1), a newly improved Colocasia esculenta variety, is a potential source of starch with high yield. However, to improve some limitations of the native starches (NS), such as flowability and compactibility, different physical and chemical starch modifications have been employed. Acetylation is one of the chemical modifications which improves the flow and compaction of the NS, which are prerequisite during direct compression (DC) of tablets. Hence, in this study, TB1 starch was acetylated using acetic anhydride and evaluated as an ideal excipient for direct compression. Starch acetates (SA) with a degree of substitution (DS) of 0.072 (SA₁) and 0.695 (SA₂) were produced and evaluated. FTIR spectra of the SAs were used to verify the acetylation of the NS. Powder flow evaluation parameters showed significant improvement in the flow properties of the NS following acetylation. In addition, the swelling power, solubility, and compactibility were also improved. Tensile strength (TS) of the tablets comprising SAs only, SA₁ (41.40) and SA₂ (63.43 Kg/cm²), was significantly higher than tablets made of the NS (31.96) and Starch 1500® (15.12 Kg/cm²). The SAs also showed lower sensitivity towards lubrication than the NS and Starch 1500® as lower lubricant sensitivity ratios were recorded. In addition, tablets comprising the SAs satisfactorily accommodated at least up to 50 % w/w paracetamol—compared to 30 % w/w by Starch 1500®—upon DC processing. The paracetamol tablets comprising SAs also complied with the United States Pharmacopeia specifications for disintegration and dissolution studies. Therefore, taking all the facts into consideration, the SAs could be potential DC excipients in tablet formulations.

Lactose monohydrate flow characterization using shear cell method

The flow properties of pharmaceutical powders have a great importance in the manufacturing of solid dosage forms. In order to ensure the performance in the production line this parameter must be determined. There are several methods described in European Pharmacopeia that are used to measure these properties. Some of them were used in this study and the results obtained from conventional methods (Conv) and shear cell using the powder flow tester (PFT) showed differences that were more evident in fractions with smaller particle size (F < 63) and for bulk powder (F_Total). The various powder behaviors showed to be related with the size of the particles. An increase of the ff_c (Flow Index) was observed with the increase of the particle size. It was also found for the different fractions that the ff_c always increases with increasing major principal consolidation stress (σ₁). This study shown to be predictive because it also allowed the behavior profiles of other LactMN fractions to be known by interpolation of the median size (Dv50) or σ₁ values ranged between the studied intervals. Furthermore, it was also observed that ff_c of the F_Total was similar to the F < 63, showing the same behavior under σ₁. The occurrence of caking was not observed.

Determining key parameters of continuous wet granulation for tablet quality and productivity: A case in ethenzamide

This paper aims to determine key parameters that affect tablet quality and productivity in continuous tablet manufacturing. Experiments were performed based on design of experiments using a continuous high-shear granulator and ethenzamide as the active pharmaceutical ingredient. To guide a systematic and comprehensive parameter analysis, a parameter framework was defined that comprised five input parameters on raw material properties and process parameters, 11 intermediate parameters on granule properties, and 11 output parameters on tablet quality and productivity. The interrelationships were analyzed statistically and were described as matrix functions. The liquid/solid ratio was the key parameter that affected circularity, density, and flowability as the granule properties, and disintegration and dissolution as the tablet quality. The maximum acceptable manufacturing rate that governs productivity was also affected by the liquid/solid ratio. Circularity was found to affect disintegration and dissolution. This result was specific to the setup of the study, but suggested development opportunities for a new process analytical technology system/quality-by-design application based on circularity. In addition, practical findings were obtained as follows: (1) high-speed manufacturing favored a lower liquid/solid ratio, and (2) high circularity slowed down disintegration/dissolution. This obtained knowledge will enhance the applicability of continuous technology in an actual manufacturing environment.

Understanding the Performance of a Novel Direct Compression Excipient Comprising Roller Compacted Chitin

Chitin has been investigated in the context of finding new excipients suitable for direct compression, when subjected to roller compaction. Ball milling was concurrently carried out to compare effects from different energy or stress-inducing techniques. Samples of chitin powders (raw, processed, dried and humidified) were compared for variations in morphology, X-ray diffraction patterns, densities, FT-IR, flowability, compressibility and compactibility. Results confirmed the suitability of roller compaction to convert the fluffy powder of raw chitin to a bulky material with improved flow. X-ray powder diffraction studies showed that, in contrast to the high decrease in crystallinity upon ball milling, roller compaction manifested a slight deformation in the crystal lattice. Moreover, the new excipient showed high resistance to compression, due to the high compactibility of the granules formed. This was correlated to the significant extent of plastic deformation compared to the raw and ball milled forms of chitin. On the other hand, drying and humidification of raw and processed materials presented no added value to the compressibility and compactibility of the directly compressed excipient. Finally, compacted chitin showed direct compression similarity with microcrystalline cellulose when formulated with metronidazole (200 mg) without affecting the immediate drug release action of the drug.

Formulation and evaluation of liquisolid compacts of itraconazole to enhance its oral bioavailability

Aim: Formulate and evaluate liquisolid compacts of Itraconazole, a biopharmaceutical classification system class II drug, which has poor bioavailability. Materials & methods: PEG 600 was used as a nonvolatile solvent, Alfacel PH 200 as a carrier and Aerosil 200 as a coating material. The Itraconazole solution upon mixing with a carrier and coating material resulted in a dry powder, which was compressed into tablets. Results & conclusion: The optimized formulation exhibited a significantly higher drug dissolution (90.73% in 90 min) compared with conventional tablets and marketed capsules. The antifungal activity was retained in the formulation. Higher values of Cmax and AUC0-24 of the formulation compared with the plain drug indicated enhancement in oral bioavailability. The formulation was stable at room temperature as well as in accelerated conditions.