Revealing the hidden structure of tablets with synchrotron X-rays
A recent study conducted by Xploraytion, Novitom, Merck, and…
Key findings from a research work by Univ. Lille, INSERM, CHU Lille, Novitom, Merck Sharp & Dohme
Through dynamic microtomography, the study revealed the existence of air-filled pores in the core of coated pellets . When the liquid penetrates, the core of the pellet becomes semi-solid, the pores fuse and increase in size (air bubbles), causing cracks in the coating. These cracks then facilitate the release of the active ingredient by convection, a key phenomenon in drug release kinetics.
Original publication: “Importance of air bubbles in the core of coated pellets: Synchrotron X-ray microtomography allows for new insights“, Fahier et al., 2016.
++ Non-invasive, real-time analysis
SR-μCT allows direct, non-invasive monitoring of structural changes in pellets, in particular the formation of cracks in polymeric coatings, without complex sample preparation. This reduces the risk of creating artefacts and provides a more accurate analysis of the internal dynamics of solid pharmaceutical dosage forms.
++ Optimisation of formulations
By better understanding the underlying mechanisms of drug release, such as osmosis and mechanical stress, manufacturers can optimise the design of coated tablets, reducing the amount of trial and error usually required in the development of new formulations.
++ Improved modelling and prediction
The data obtained from SR-μCT is also used to develop models, making it easier to predict drug release behaviour as a function of the composition of coatings and the internal structure of tablets, lozenges or pills.
As an independent lab, Novitom enables organisations to access synchrotron micro and nano-tomography :
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