A systematic evaluation of poloxamers as tablet lubricants

Lubricants are important for both preserving the tooling of high-speed tablet presses and attaining quality tablets. Magnesium stearate (MgSt) is most commonly used due to its superior lubrication efficiency; however, it can lead to negative effects on tabletability and dissolution. In this study, we have systematically evaluated two poloxamers, P188 and P407, for their suitability as alternative tablet lubricants. For two excipients with different mechanical properties, i.e., microcrystalline cellulose and lactose, both poloxamers exhibit acceptable lubrication efficiency without negatively impacting tabletability. Compared to 1% MgSt, the performance of 2% of both poloxamers in an experimental tablet formulation of ritonavir led to better lubrication, higher tabletability, and enhanced in vitro drug release. Thus, the use of P188 and P407 as alternative tablet lubricants deserves further evaluations.