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Assembled fixed-dose combination tablet for hypertension: A modular design inspired by LEGO® architecture
Tanikan Sangnim1, Kittipat Suwanpitak1, Pornsak Sriamornsak2
1Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Burapha University, Chonburi, 20131, Thailand.
Summary
This study introduces a novel, LEGO®-inspired system for creating customizable fixed-dose combination (FDC) tablets for hypertension. The modular design allows personalized dosing, but drug release depends heavily on the chosen polymer matrix for each active pharmaceutical ingredient.
Area of Science:
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Drug Delivery Systems
- Materials Science
Background:
- Polypharmacy in chronic diseases like hypertension presents adherence and efficacy challenges.
- Conventional fixed-dose combination (FDC) tablets offer improved adherence but lack personalized dosing flexibility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and characterize a novel, LEGO®-inspired assemblable FDC tablet system for customizable antihypertensive therapy.
- To evaluate the suitability of different polymer matrices for individual drug modules within the FDC system.
Main Methods:
- Utilized 3D-printed molds to create stackable, individual drug modules (Amlodipine, Valsartan, Hydrochlorothiazide).
- Investigated two polymer matrices (gelatin-based and HPMC-based) for drug formulation and release characteristics.
- Assessed drug release profiles against USP dissolution standards.
Main Results:
- Gelatin matrices facilitated rapid release of Amlodipine and Valsartan, meeting USP standards.
- HPMC matrices enabled controlled release of Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) but were unsuitable for Amlodipine and Valsartan.
- Demonstrated API-specific polymer matrix requirements for achieving desired dissolution profiles.
Conclusions:
- Validated the proof-of-concept for a modular FDC system for personalized polypharmacy.
- Highlighted the critical need for API-specific polymer selection to overcome formulation challenges in modular FDC systems.
- The developed system shows promise for tailored antihypertensive treatments.
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