Advantages of tablets
Disadvantages of tablets
2 parts in tablet manufacturing
Compaction cycle
Types of tablet presses
What powder characteristics must be controlled for a successful tabletting operation?
Ways of tablet production
Advantages of tablet production via direct compaction
- no heat/water is involved -> more stable
Disadvantages of tablet production via direct compaction
Functions of tablet excipients
Filler
Added so that formulation has a sufficient bulk to be compressed into a tablet
Examples of filler
Lactose, microcrystalline cellulose, dicalcium phosphate, sugar, starch
Preference of a diluent for a poorly soluble drug
sucrose>lactose>dicalcium phosphate>starch
Disintegrant
Binders
Used to ensure that granules/tablets have the required mech strength. Excessive would affect the disintegration. Usual amounts: 2-10% of tablet weight
Examples of binders
HPMC, PVP, microcrystalline cellulose, pregelatinized starch, gelatin, acacia
Preference: PVP>acacia>HPMC>gelatin
Glidant
Used to improve the flowability of powder/granules into the tablet die during tabletting to ensure weight uniformity of tablets produced
Improve flow by adhering to the particle surface of other ingredients and reduce interparticulate friction
Many are hydrophobic
Examples of glidant
talc and colloidal silicon dioxide
Lubricant
Used to reduce friction between the tablet and the die wall so that it is ejected without physical defects
Many are hydrophobic
Antiadherent
Used to reduced adhesion between the powder and the punch faces to prevent sticking to the punches
Examples of antiadherent
Magnesium stearate, talc, starch
Sorbent
Used to absorb some quantities in an apparently dry state to ensure dryness
Examples of sorbent
Microcrystalline cellulose and silica
Flavor
Used to give the tablet pleasant taste or to mask unpleasant taste
Normally thermolabile and should not be added prior to an operation involving heat
Often mixed with the granules as an alcohol solution