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Effect of tabletting compaction pressure on alginate microspheres
1Department of Pharmacy, National University of Singapore, Singapore. phapaulh@nus.edu.sg
Journal of Microencapsulation
|October 19, 2000
Summary
Compacting alginate and alginate-hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC) microspheres into tablets generally preserves their integrity and drug release profiles, despite some observed deformation under pressure. This suggests microspheres can be successfully incorporated into solid dosage forms.
Area of Science:
- Pharmaceutical Technology
- Materials Science
- Drug Delivery
Background:
- Microsphere formulations offer advantages in drug delivery but face challenges during tablet compaction.
- Concerns exist regarding potential damage to microsphere integrity and altered drug release post-compaction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of compaction pressure on the physical integrity of alginate and alginate-HPMC microspheres.
- To assess the effect of compaction on the drug release characteristics of these microspheres.
- To determine the suitability of these microspheres for tablet dosage forms.
Main Methods:
- Alginate and alginate-HPMC microspheres were prepared using an emulsification method.
- Microspheres were compacted into tablets with microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) as a diluent.
- Compaction pressures were varied to assess their effect on microsphere integrity and tablet crushing strength.
- Drug release profiles of compacted and non-compacted microspheres were compared.
Main Results:
- Compacts containing alginate-HPMC (7:3) exhibited the highest crushing strength, followed by alginate-HPMC (9:1) and alginate microspheres.
- Tablet crushing strength showed no significant variation with increased compaction pressures.
- Microspheres showed minor dentation and distortion but generally maintained integrity with minimal rupture.
- Drug release profiles of compacted and non-compacted microspheres showed only slight, non-significant differences.
Conclusions:
- Alginate and alginate-HPMC microspheres can withstand tablet compaction pressures without significant loss of integrity or substantial alteration of drug release.
- The addition of HPMC enhances the mechanical strength of the compacted formulations.
- These findings support the feasibility of incorporating these microspheres into solid tablet dosage forms.