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Multi-Analytical Framework to Assess the In Vitro Swallowability of Solid Oral Dosage Forms Targeting Patient
Abdul Latif Ershad1, Ali Rajabi-Siahboomi2, Shahrzad Missaghi2
1Aston Pharmacy School, College of Health and Life Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK.
Pharmaceutics
|April 3, 2021
Summary
Developing new in vitro methods to assess tablet swallowability is crucial for the aging population. This study introduces a multianalytical framework using novel oral models to rank tablet ease of swallowing, aiding pharmaceutical development.
Area of Science:
- Pharmaceutical Technology
- Biomaterials Science
- Drug Delivery Systems
Background:
- Patient non-adherence and swallowing difficulties in an aging population necessitate improved oral dosage form design.
- Current methods for assessing tablet swallowability are inadequate, highlighting the need for advanced in vitro techniques.
- Understanding the physical properties governing oral tablet transit is critical for patient compliance and therapeutic outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a novel in vitro analytical framework for assessing tablet swallowability.
- To mimic key oral processing stages, including static and dynamic tablet-mucosa interactions.
- To evaluate the discriminatory power of the framework using various tablet coating formulations.
Main Methods:
- Development of non-anatomical oral models with mucosa-mimicking surfaces for swallowability assessment.
- Utilized an SLA 3D printed apparatus to measure the coefficient of sliding friction and a modified tensometer for shear adhesion.
- Employed high-speed videography to quantify film coat hydration and in vitro wettability, simulating static oral processing with artificial saliva.
Main Results:
- Tablets lacking film coatings showed poor gliding properties and formed chalky residues due to erosion.
- Novel gelatin and λ-carrageenan film coats demonstrated superior lubricity and reduced stickiness compared to PVA, HPMC, and PVA-PEG.
- Opadry® EZ exhibited the lowest friction-adhesion (1.53 a.u.) and work of adhesion (1.28 J/mm²) profiles.
Conclusions:
- The developed multianalytical framework offers a fast, cost-effective, and repeatable method for in vitro swallowability ranking.
- This approach aids formulators in developing easier-to-swallow solid oral medicines, addressing a critical need in pharmaceutical development.
- The study provides quantitative insights into the physical forces governing tablet swallowability, paving the way for optimized drug delivery.
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