Tablet excipients (2)

What holds a tablet together in mechanical theory?

Mechanical interlocking of deformed particles

What holds a tablet together in intermolecular theory?

Van der Waals forces between new surfaces

What holds a tablet together in liquid film theory?

Dissolved material recrystallises forming solid bridges

What is the role of fillers?

Provide bulk improve tablet size aid processing

Give examples of soluble fillers.

Lactose sucrose dextrose mannitol sorbitol

Give examples of insoluble fillers.

Calcium sulphate calcium phosphate calcium carbonate starch MCC

What is the role of binders?

Provide cohesiveness to granules and tablets

What is the role of glidants?

Improve powder flow by reducing interparticle friction

What is the role of lubricants?

Reduce friction during compression and ejection

What is the risk of excess lubricant?

Reduced bonding weaker tablets slower disintegration

What is the role of disintegrants?

Promote breakup of tablet into granules and particles

What is wicking?

Water drawn into tablet causing disintegration

What is swelling as a disintegration mechanism?

Particles expand and rupture the matrix

Give an example of a superdisintegrant.

Sodium starch glycolate croscarmellose crospovidone