Optimization and Advantages of Molded Tablets Using Trehalose as a Binder

Area of Science:

• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Materials Science

Background:

• Molded tablets require binders for strength and disintegration, but achieving optimal ratios with traditional polymers like polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is challenging.
• Powder adherence during production can disrupt stable manufacturing of molded tablets.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate trehalose as a novel binder for molded tablets.
• To optimize molded tablet formulation using trehalose for improved strength and disintegration.
• To assess trehalose's impact on production stability by evaluating wet powder adhesion.

Main Methods:

• Design of Experiments (DOE) was employed to optimize trehalose concentration.
• Placebo molded tablets were formulated using trehalose as a binder.
• Tablet strength, disintegration, internal structure (porosity, solid bridges), solution viscosity, and wet powder adhesion were evaluated.

Main Results:

• Trehalose-bound tablets demonstrated high strength and rapid disintegration.
• Microscopic analysis revealed solid bridges and high porosity within trehalose tablets.
• Trehalose solutions exhibited lower viscosity than PVA solutions, and trehalose formulations showed significantly reduced wet powder adhesion.

Conclusions:

• Trehalose is a viable binder for molded tablets, offering a balance of tablet strength and rapid disintegration.
• The use of trehalose can lead to more stable and efficient manufacturing processes due to reduced powder adhesion.
• Trehalose presents a promising alternative for future molded tablet formulation design.