Preparation and Application of Shen Ling Cao Composite Particles with Different Structures Based on Co-Spray Drying

Area of Science:

• Pharmaceutical Technology
• Materials Science
• Natural Product Chemistry

Background:

• Sen Ling Cao (SLC) is a health food with fatigue-alleviating and immune-boosting properties.
• Current oral liquid formulations of SLC present challenges in transport and versatility.
• Developing solid dosage forms like tablets is desirable for improved administration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the preparation of direct compression (DC) tablets of Sen Ling Cao (SLC).
• To develop novel composite particles of SLC using co-spray drying technology.
• To evaluate the impact of various modifying and pore-forming agents on DC tablet properties.

Main Methods:

• Co-spray drying was used to create 13 types of composite particles incorporating SLC with agents like HPMC, PVP, HPC, MD, NH4HCO3, and NaHCO3.
• Physical properties and compacting parameters of the composite particles were characterized.
• The prepared composite particles were directly compressed into tablets to assess their performance.

Main Results:

• Co-spray drying successfully produced SLC composite particles with altered physical characteristics.
• Specific formulations, notably PCP-SLC-HPMC-NH4HCO3, showed significantly enhanced tensile strength compared to raw SLC.
• Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) combined with ammonium bicarbonate (NH4HCO3) demonstrated the most effective improvement in compactibility and flowability.

Conclusions:

• Porous composite particles enable the successful production of qualified direct compression tablets with high Sen Ling Cao (SLC) loading.
• The developed method offers a viable approach for the formulation of natural botanical products into solid dosage forms.
• These findings support the advancement and application of direct compression technology for botanical tablets.