Systematic screening of particle engineered polymers for the preparation of multiparticulates embedded orally disintegrating tablets

This paper evaluated polymers' physical and mechanical properties to formulate modified-release multiparticulates to be embedded in orally disintegrating tablets (ODTs). The targeted polymer should have adequate elastic-plastic properties in a multiparticulate system during the manufacturing process, which is affected by its physical properties. The good mechanical properties of the multiparticulate system can effectively aid in retaining the shape of the particles from being affected under applied compression pressure during the formulation process and tablets preparations. Therefore, the formulation should have good mechanical attains. Five polymers (three natural and two synthetic), namely: sodium alginate, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), methylcellulose (MC), polyacrylic acid (PAA) and Eudragit L100, were evaluated. Polymers in raw form or particle engineered using spray drying were characterised using different analysis techniques: differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), compacts tensile strength, texture analysis, particle size analysis and surface area analysis. The unprocessed PAA exhibited the lowest Young's modulus, measuring at 5.38 MPa, whereas MC displayed the highest value of 14.74 MPa. The polymers were subjected to spray drying at a concentration of 5 % w/v. Data of the texture analysis revealed that Young's modulus increased for the spray-dried PAA powder, reaching 13.69 MPa. This suggests an enhanced polymer compressibility subsequent to the spray drying process. Eudragit L100 demonstrated an enhanced tabletability prolife after spray drying. SEM and surface area results showed a correlation with the mechanical findings. Plasticity and elasticity together provide strong, durable tablets with structural integrity. Achieving a balance between these properties is crucial for effective tabletability. The results of this study provide an insight into physical and mechanical properties and changes encountered upon spray drying. A balance between elastic-plastic properties is required for optimal multiparticulate development.