Co-Processed Excipients for Dispersible Tablets-Part 2: Patient Acceptability

Area of Science:

• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Materials Science

Background:

• Palatability and patient acceptability are crucial for dispersible tablet formulations.
• Co-processed excipients offer potential for improved organoleptic profiles through optimized composition and manufacturing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify the optimal co-processed excipient for directly compressible dispersible tablets.
• To evaluate patient preference and acceptability of various co-processed excipients.

Main Methods:

• Nine selected co-processed excipients were tested in a randomized preference and acceptability study.
• Twenty-four healthy adult volunteers participated, rating excipients on a five-point hedonic scale.
• Organoleptic properties and particle size in water were analyzed.

Main Results:

• SmartEx QD100 was the most preferred excipient, rated 'very acceptable'.
• F-Melt Type C, F-Melt Type M, and MicroceLac were rated 'acceptable'.
• Excipients with particle size >200-250 μm in water were poorly accepted, indicating a critical threshold.

Conclusions:

• SmartEx QD100 and F-Melt Type C are highly suitable co-processed excipients for directly compressible dispersible tablets.
• Particle size control is essential for achieving good patient acceptability in dispersible formulations.
• The study identified key excipients and a particle size guideline for improved dispersible tablet design.