Preparation and physico-chemical characterization of matrix pellets containing APIs with different solubility via extrusion process.

In this study a multiparticulate matrix system was produced, containing two different APIs: enalapril-maleate and hydrochlorothiazide. The critical control points of the process were investigated by means of factorial design. Besides the generally used microcrystalline cellulose, ethylcellulose was used as matrix former to achieve modified drug release ensured by diffusion. The matrix pellets were made by extrusion-spheronization using a twin-screw extruder. Some pellet properties (aspect ratio, 10% interval fraction, hardness, deformation process) were determined. The aim of our study was to investigate how the two different APIs with different solubility and particle size influence the process. The amount of the granulation liquid plays a key role in the pellet shaping. A higher liquid feed rate is preferred in the pelletization process. PMID: 27838930 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Drug Development and Industrial Pharmacy - Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Drug Dev Ind Pharm Source Type: research