Development of zero-order release tablets

Abstract

A new core-in-cup tablet manufactured from a novel adjustable punch, has been formulated and evaluated as to its ability to release various model drugs via a zero-order rate of release. The new punch, with an inner adjustable rod that can be adjusted to produce cup-shaped tablets of various thicknesses, was used to manufacture the core-in-cup tablets. These core-in-cup tablets were then evaluated as to their ability to be manufactured on a tabletting press, and to their ability to release model drugs both in vitro and in vivo. After evaluating the effect of various formulation factors on the compressibility and flow of various directly compressible powder combinations via factorial design, a directly compressible combination of 10%w/w camauba wax in ethylcellulose was found to produce the best cup tablets for the core-in-cup tablets