Dissolution is the ability of a compound (pharmaceutical formulations: API or drug) to separate into parts. A dissolution media forms the matrix wherein the compound separates.

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Cellets list of publication

Selected Scientific literature

Please, find scientific literature on CELLETS®, MCC spheres. This list is constantly updated and does not claim to be complete. If you are author, scientist or R&D specialist, please submit your present publication to us for improving the visibility.

List – Publications with MCC spheres, 2023

Research article
Paediatric solid oral dosage forms for combination products: Improving in vitro swallowability of minitablets using binary mixtures with pellets
European Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences (2023), 187, 106471; doi:10.1016/j.ejps.2023.106471
A. Avila-Sierra, A. Lavoisier, C. Timpe, P. Kuehl, L. Wagner, C. Tournier, M. Ramaioli

Research article
Continuous Manufacturing of Cocrystals Using 3D-Printed Microfluidic Chips Coupled with Spray Coating
Pharmaceuticals (2023), 16(8), 1064; doi:10.3390/ph16081064
A. Kara, D. Kumar 2, A.M. Healy, A. Lalatsa, and D.R. Serrano

Research article
High-Speed Tableting of High Drug-Loaded Tablets Prepared from Fluid-Bed Granulated Isoniazid
Pharmaceuticals (2023), 15(4), 1236; doi:10.3390/pharmaceutics15041236
V. Mohylyuk, and D. Bandere

Research article
The Effect of Design and Size of the Fluid‑Bed Equipment on the Particle Size‑Dependent Trend of Particle Coating Thickness and Drug Prolonged‑Release Profile
AAPS PharmSciTech (2023) 24, 93. doi:10.1208/s12249-023-02540-9
T. Brezovar, G. Hudovornik, M. Perpar, M. Luštrik, R. Dreu

Research article
Amorphous Solid Dispersions Layered onto Pellets—An Alternative to Spray Drying?
Pharmaceutics (2023) 15(3), 764. doi:10.3390/pharmaceutics15030764
M. Neuwirth, S.K. Kappes, M.U. Hartig, K.G. Wagner

Research article
Optimization of Fluidized-Bed Process Parameters for Coating Uniformity and Nutrient-Release Characteristics of Controlled-Release Urea Produced by Modified Lignocellulosic Coating Material
Agronomy (2023) 13(3), 725. doi:10.3390/agronomy13030725
A.M. Ali, B. Azeem, A.M. Alghamdi, K. Shahzad, A. Ahmad Al-Zahrani, M. Imtiaz Rashid, A. Binti Mahpudz, A. Jamil

Research article
Hydrodynamic behaviour of CELLETS® (Ph.Eur./USP) in a spouted bed using image processing method
Particuology (2023), 76, 101-112, doi:10.1016/j.partic.2022.07.009
J. Vanamu, A. Sahoo

List – Publications with MCC spheres, 2022

Research article
Product-Property Guided Scale-Up of a Fluidized Bed Spray Granulation Process Using the CFD-DEM Method
Processes (2022) 10(7), 1291. doi:10.3390/pr10071291
P. Kieckhefen, S. Pietsch-Braune, S. Heinrich

Research article
Influence of In Situ Calcium Pectinate Coating on Metoprolol Tartrate Pellets for Controlled Release and Colon-Specific Drug Delivery
Pharmaceutics (2022) 14(5), 1061. doi:10.3390/pharmaceutics14051061
P. Wanasawas, A. Mitrevej, N. Sinchaipanid

Research article
Delamination and wetting behavior of natural hot-melt coating materials
Powder Technology (2022) 404, 117443. doi:10.1016/j.powtec.2022.117443
B.M. Woerthmann, L. Totzauer, H. Briesen

Research article
A systematic approach for assessing the suitability of enteral feeding tubes for the administration of controlled-release pellet formulations
International Journal of Pharmaceutics (2022) 612, 121286. doi:10.1016/j.ijpharm.2021.121286
F. Karkossa, N. Lehmann, S. Klein

Research article
Spray-freeze-dried lyospheres: Solid content and the impact on flowability and mechanical stability
Powder Technology (2022) 411, 117905. doi:10.1016/j.powtec.2022.117905
A. Rautenberg, A. Lamprecht

Conference proceedings
Assessment of the effect of microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) spheres size on the flow via powder rheology
The FORGE, 2022 – pure.qub.ac.uk
V. Mohylyuk, R. Dattani

Research article
Solventless amorphization and pelletization using a high shear granulator. Part II; Preparation of co-amorphous mixture-layered pellets using indomethacin and arginine
European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics (2022) 181, 183-194. doi: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2022.11.011
K. Kondo, T. Rades

Research article
Solventless amorphization and pelletization using a high shear granulator. Part I; feasibility study using indomethacin
European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics (2022) 181, 147-158. doi: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2022.11.010
K. Kondo, T. Rades

Research article
Application of different models to evaluate the key factors of fluidized bed layering granulation and their influence on granule characteristics
Powder Technology (2022), 408:117737. doi: 10.1016/j.powtec.2022.117737
R. Maharjan, S. H. Jeong

Research article
Evaluation of gravitational consolidation of binary powder mixtures by modified Heckel equation
Powder Technology (2022), 408:117729. doi: 10.1016/j.powtec.2022.117729
P. Svačinová, O. Macho, Ž. Jarolímová, M. Kuentz, Ľ. Gabrišová and Z. Šklubalová

Research article
Integrated Purification and Formulation of an Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient via Agitated Bed Crystallization and Fluidized Bed Processing
Pharmaceutics (2022), 14(5)1058. doi: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14051058
M. W. Stocker, M. J. Harding, V. Todaro, A. M. Healy and S. Ferguson

List – Publications with MCC spheres, 2021

Research article
Correlating Granule Surface Structure Morphology and Process Conditions in Fluidized Bed Layering Spray Granulation
KONA Powder and Particle Journal (2021), DOI:10.14356/kona.2022016
M. Orth, P. Kieckhefen, S. Pietsch and S. Heinrich

Research article
Relative bioavailability enhancement of simvastatin via dry emulsion systems: comparison of spray drying and fluid bed layering technology
Eur J Pharm Biopharm (2021), S0939-6411(21)00353-2. doi: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2021.12.004
M. Pohlen, J. Aguiar Zdovc, J. Trontelj, J. Mravljak, M. G. Matjaž, I. Grabnar, T. Snoj and R. Dreu

Research article
A novel method for assessing the coating uniformity of hot-melt coated particles using micro-computed tomography
Powder Technology, Volume 378, Part A, 22 January 2021, Pages 51-59
B.M. Woerthmann, J.A. Lindner, T. Kovacevic, P. Pergam, F. Schmid, H. Briesen

List – Publications with MCC spheres, 2020

Research article
Material specific drying kinetics in fluidized bed drying under mechanical vibration using the reaction engineering approach
Advanced Powder Technology, Volume 31, Issue 12, December 2020, Pages 4699-4713
Soeren E. Lehmann, Tobias Oesau, Alfred Jongsma, Fredrik Innings, Stefan Heinrich

Research article
Simulation of pellet coating in Wurster coaters
International Journal of Pharmaceutics, Volume 590, 30 November 2020, 119931
Hamid Reza Norouzi

Research article
Quantification of swelling characteristics of pharmaceutical particles
International Journal of Pharmaceutics, Volume 590, 30 November 2020, 119903
Mithushan Soundaranathan, Pattavet Vivattanaseth, Erin Walsh, Kendal Pitt, Blair Johnston, Daniel Markl

Short communication
Introduction of the energy to break an avalanche as a promising parameter for powder flowability prediction
Powder Technology, Volume 375, 20 September 2020, Pages 33-41
Žofie Trpělková, Hana Hurychová, Martin Kuentz, Barbora Vraníková, Zdenka Šklubalová

Research article
Easy to Swallow “Instant” Jelly Formulations for Sustained Release Gliclazide Delivery
Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Volume 109, Issue 8, August 2020, Pages 2474-2484
Simmi Patel, Nathan Scott, Kavil Patel, Valentyn Mohylyuk, William J. McAuley, Fang Liu

Research article
Regulating the pH of bicarbonate solutions without purging gases: Application to dissolution testing of enteric coated tablets, pellets and microparticles
International Journal of Pharmaceutics, Volume 585, 30 July 2020, 119562
Nathan Scott, Kavil Patel, Tariro Sithole, Konstantina Xenofontos, Valentyn Mohylyuk, Fang Liu

Research article
Measuring segregation characteristics of industrially relevant granular mixtures: Part II – Experimental application and validation
Powder Technology, Volume 368, 15 May 2020, Pages 278-285
Alexander M. Fry, Vidya Vidyapati, John P. Hecht, Paul B. Umbanhowar, Julio M. Ottinoa, Richard M. Lueptow

Research article
Non-uniform drug distribution matrix system (NUDDMat) for zero-order release of drugs with different solubility
International Journal of Pharmaceutics, Volume 581, 15 May 2020, 119217
Matteo Cerea, Anastasia Foppoli, Luca Palugan, Alic Melocchi, Lucia Zema, Alessandra Maroni, Andrea Gazzaniga

Research article
Effects of humidity on cellulose pellets loaded with potassium titanium oxide oxalate for detection of hydrogen peroxide vapor in powders
Powder Technology, Volume 366, 15 April 2020, Pages 348-357
Maria H. Kastvig, Cosima Hirschberg, Frans W.J. Van Den Berg, Jukka Rantanen, Mogens L. Andersen

Research article
In-line particle size measurement and process influences on rotary fluidized bed agglomeration
Powder Technology, Volume 364, 15 March 2020, Pages 673-679
Marcel Langner, Ivonne Kitzmann, Anna-Lena Ruppert, Inken Wittich, Bertram Wolf

Research article
Recent advance in delivery system and tissue engineering applications of chondroitin sulfate
Carbohydrate Polymers, Volume 230, 15 February 2020, 115650
Jun Yang, Mingyue Shen, Huiliang Wen, Yu Luo, Rong Huang, Liyuan Rong, Jianhua Xie

Research article
Fixed-bed-column studies for Methylene blue removal by Cellulose CELLETS
Environmental Engineering and Management Journal, Volume 19 (2), March 2020, 269-279
Iulia Nica, Gabriela Biliuta, Carmen Zaharia, Lacramioara Rusu, Sergiu Coseri, Daniela Suteu

Research article
Optimization and tracking of coating processes of pellets with polyvinylpyrrolidone solutions in an acoustic levitator
Powder Technology, Volume 360, 15 January 2020, Pages 1126-1133
Doris L. Wong, Anna-Lena Wirsching, Kai Betz, Andreas Reinbeck, Hans-Ulrich Moritz, Werner Pauer

List – Publications with MCC spheres, 2019

Research article
Measurement of hydrogen peroxide vapor in powders with potassium titanium oxide oxalate loaded cellulose pellets as probes
AAPS PharmSciTech, Volume 21(1):3, 11 Nov 2019
Maria H. Kastvig, Johan P. Bøtker, Ge Ge, Mogens L. Andersen

Research article
Wurster Fluidised Bed Coating of Microparticles: Towards Scalable Production of Oral Sustained-Release Liquid Medicines for Patients with Swallowing Difficulties
AAPS PharmSciTech, Volume 21(1):3, 11 Nov 2019
Valentyn Mohylyuk, Kavil Patel, Nathan Scott, Craig Richardson, Darragh Murnane, Fang Liu

Research article
Assessment of the effect of Cellets’ particle size on the flow in a Wurster fluid-bed coater via powder rheology
Journal of Drug Delivery Science and Technology, Volume 54, December 2019, 101320
Valentyn Mohylyuk, Ioanna Danai Styliari, Dmytryi Novykov, Reiss Pikett, Rajeev Dattani

Research article
Particle electrification in an apparatus with a draft tube operating in a fast circulating dilute spout-fluid bed regime
Particuology, Volume 42, February 2019, Pages 146-153
Wojciech Ludwig

Research article
Development and evaluation of budesonide-based modified-release liquid oral dosage forms
Journal of Drug Delivery Science and Technology, Volume 54, December 2019, 101273
Federica Ronchi, Antonio Sereno, Maxime Paide, Ismaël Hennia, Pierre Sacré, George Guillaume, Vincent Stéphenne, Jonathan Goole, Karim Amighi

Research article
Evaluation of in-line particle measurement with an SFT-probe as monitoring tool for process automation using a new time-based buffer approach
European Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Volume 128, 1 February 2019, Pages 162-170
Theresa Reimers, Jochen Thies, Stefan Dietrich, Julian Quodbach, Miriam Pein-Hackelbusch

Research article
In vitro and sensory tests to design easy-to-swallow multi-particulate formulations
European Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Volume 132, 30 April 2019, Pages 157-162
Marco Marconati, Felipe Lopez, Catherine Tuleu, Mine Orlu, Marco Ramaioli

Research article
Numerical study of the hydrodynamics of fluidized beds operated under sub-atmospheric pressure
Chemical Engineering Journal, Volume 372, 15 September 2019, Pages 1134-1153
Sayali Zarekar, Andreas Bück, Michael Jacob, Evangelos Tsotsas

Research article
Solidification of carvedilol loaded SMEDDS by swirling fluidized bed pellet coating
International Journal of Pharmaceutics, Volume 566, 20 July 2019, Pages 89-100
J. Mandić, M. Luštrik, F. Vrečer, M. Gašperlin, A. Zvonar Pobirk

Research article
Quantitative bin flow analysis of particle discharge using X-ray radiography
Powder Technology, Volume 344, 15 February 2019, Pages 693-705
Sanket Bacchuwar, Vidya Vidyapati, Ke-ming Quan, Chen-Luh Lin, Jan D. Miller

Research article
Adjustment of triple shellac coating for precise release of bioactive substances with different physico-chemical properties in the ileocolonic region
International Journal of Pharmaceutics, Volume 564, 10 June 2019, Pages 472-484>
Eva-Maria Theismann, Julia Katharina Keppler, Jörg-Rainer Knipp, Daniela Fangmann, Esther Appel, Stanislav N. Gorb, Georg H. Waetzig, Stefan Schreiber, Matthias Laudes, Karin Schwarz

Research article
The analysis of the influence of the normal restitution coefficient model on calculated particles velocities by means of Eulerian-Lagrangian approach
Powder Technology, Volume 344, 15 February 2019, Pages 140-151
Wojciech Ludwig, PaweƚPłuszka

Research article
Measurement of granule layer thickness in a spouted bed coating process via optical coherence tomography
Powder Technology, Volume 356, November 2019, Pages 139-147
Swantje Pietsch, Anna Peter, Patrick Wahl, Johannes Khinast, Stefan Heinrich

Research article
A novel method of quantifying the coating progress in a three-dimensional prismatic spouted bed
Particuology, Volume 42, February 2019, Pages 137-145
Swantje Pietsch, Finn Ole Poppinga, Stefan Heinrich, Michael Müller, Michael Schönherr, Frank Kleine Jäger

Research article
Development and evaluation of an omeprazole-based delayed-release liquid oral dosage form
International Journal of Pharmaceutics, Volume 567, 15 August 2019, 118416
Federica Ronchi, Antonio, Sereno, Maxime Paide, Pierre Sacré, George Guillaume, Vincent Stéphenne, Jonathan Goole, Karim Amighi

Research article
Influence of separation properties and processing strategies on product characteristics in continuous fluidized bed spray granulation
Powder Technology, Volume 342, 15 January 2019, Pages 572-584
Daniel Müller, Andreas Bück, Evangelos Tsotsas

List – Publications with MCC spheres, 2018

Short communication
Novel production method of tracer particles for residence time measurements in gas-solid processes
Powder Technology, Volume 338, October 2018, Pages 1-6
Swantje Pietsch, Paul Kieckhefen, Michael Müller, Michael Schönherr, Frank Kleine Jäger, Stefan Heinrich

Research article
The effect of administration media on palatability and ease of swallowing of multiparticulate formulations
International Journal of Pharmaceutics, Volume 551, Issues 1–2, 15 November 2018, Pages 67-75
Felipe L. Lopez, Terry B. Ernest, Mine Orlu, CatherineTuleu

Research article
Compressibility and tablet forming ability of bimodal granule mixtures: Experiments and DEM simulations
International Journal of Pharmaceutics, Volume 540, Issues 1–2, 5 April 2018, Pages 120-131
Josefina Nordström, Göran Alderborn, Göran Frenning

Research article
Effects of pharmaceutical processes on the quality of ethylcellulose coated pellets: Quality by design approach
Powder Technology, Volume 339, November 2018, Pages 25-38
Prakash Thapa, Ritu Thapa, Du Hyung Choi, Seong Hoon Jeong

Research article
Euler-Lagrange model of particles circulation in a spout-fluid bed apparatus for dry coating
Powder Technology, Volume 328, 1 April 2018, Pages 375-388
Wojciech Ludwig, Paweł Płuszka

Research article
Inline acoustic monitoring to determine fluidized bed performance during pharmaceutical coating
International Journal of Pharmaceutics, Volume 549, Issues 1–2, 5 October 2018, Pages 293-298
Allan Carter, Lauren Briens

Research article
Sifting segregation of ideal blends in a two-hopper tester: Segregation profiles and segregation magnitudes
Powder Technology, Volume 331, 15 May 2018, Pages 60-67
Mariagrazia Marucci, Banien Al-Saaigh, Catherine Boissier, Marie Wahlgren, Håkan Wikström

Conference abstract
Multiple unit mini-tablets: Content uniformity issues
International Journal of Pharmaceutics, Volume 536, Issue 2, 5 February 2018, Pages 506-507
Anna Kira Adam, Jörg Breitkreutz

Research article
Influence of gas inflow modelling on CFD-DEM simulations of three-dimensional prismatic spouted beds
Powder Technology, Volume 329, 15 April 2018, Pages 167-180
Paul Kieckhefen, Swantje Pietsch, Moritz Höfert, Michael Schönherr, Stefan Heinrich, Frank Kleine Jäger

Research article
A redispersible dry emulsion system with simvastatin prepared via fluid bed layering as a means of dissolution enhancement of a lipophilic drug
International Journal of Pharmaceutics, Volume 549, Issues 1–2, 5 October 2018, Pages 325-334
Mitja Pohlen, Luka Pirker, Matevž Luštrik, Rok Dreu

Review article
Overview of PAT process analysers applicable in monitoring of film coating unit operations for manufacturing of solid oral dosage forms
European Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Volume 111, 1 January 2018, Pages 278-292
Klemen Korasa, Franc Vrečer

Research article
On the properties and application of beeswax, carnauba wax and palm fat mixtures for hot melt coating in fluidized beds
Advanced Powder Technology, Volume 29, Issue 3, March 2018, Pages 781-788
M.G. Müller, J.A. Lindner, H. Briesen, K. Sommer, P. Foerst

Research article
Novel hydrophilic matrix system with non-uniform drug distribution for zero-order release kinetics
Journal of Controlled Release, Volume 287, 10 October 2018, Pages 247-256
Matteo Cerea, Alessandra Maroni, Luca Palugan, Marco Bellini, Anastasia Foppoli, Alice Melocchi, Lucia Zema, Andrea Gazzaniga

Research article
Role of plasticizer in membrane coated extended release oral drug delivery system
Journal of Drug Delivery Science and Technology, Volume 44, April 2018, Pages 231-243
Pinak Khatri, Dipen Desai, Namdev Shelke, Tamara Minko

Research article
Evaluation of pellet cycle times in a Wurster chamber using a photoluminescence method
Chemical Engineering Research and Design, Volume 132, April 2018, Pages 1170-1179
Domen Kitak, Rok Šibanc, Rok Dreu

Research article
Influence of perforated draft tube air intake on a pellet coating process
Powder Technology, Volume 330, 1 May 2018, Pages 114-124
Matevž Luštrik, Rok Dreu, Matjaž Perpar

Research article
Optimising the in vitro and in vivo performance of oral cocrystal formulations via spray coating
European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, Volume 124, March 2018, Pages 13-27
Dolores R. Serrano, David Walsh, Peter O’Connell, Naila A. Mugheirbi, Zelalem Ayenew Worku, Francisco Bolas-Fernandez, Carolina Galiana, Maria Auxiliadora Dea-Ayuela, Anne Marie Healy


Research article

Research article
Mechanics of Pharmaceutical Pellets—Constitutive Properties, Deformation, and Breakage Behavior
Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Volume 107, Issue 2, February 2018, Pages 571-586
Alexander Russell, Rok Šibanc, Rok Dreu, Peter Müller

List – Publications with MCC spheres, 2017

Research article
Production of composite particles using an innovative continuous dry coating process derived from extrusion
Advanced Powder Technology, Volume 28, Issue 11, November 2017, Pages 2875-2885
Fanny Cavaillès, Romain Sescousse, Alain Chamayou, Laurence Galet

Research article
Determination of the release mechanism of Theophylline from pellets coated with Surelease®—A water dispersion of ethyl cellulose
International Journal of Pharmaceutics, Volume 528, Issues 1–2, 7 August 2017, Pages 345-353
Jurgita Kazlauske, Maria Margherita Cafaro, Diego Caccavo, Mariagrazia Marucci, Gaetano Lamberti, Anna Angela Barba, Anette Larsson

Research article
In-line monitoring of multi-layered film-coating on pellets using Raman spectroscopy by MCR and PLS analyses
European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, Volume 114, May 2017, Pages 194-201
Jin Hisazumi, Peter Kleinebudde

Research article
Analysis of pellet coating uniformity using a computer scanner
International Journal of Pharmaceutics, Volume 533, Issue 2, 30 November 2017, Pages 377-382
Rok Šibanc, Matevž Luštrik, Rok Dreu

Research article
Modeling of particle velocities in an apparatus with a draft tube operating in a fast circulating dilute spout-fluid bed regime
Powder Technology, Volume 319, September 2017, Pages 332-345
Wojciech Ludwig, Daniel Zając

Research article
UV imaging of multiple unit pellet system (MUPS) tablets: A case study of acetylsalicylic acid stability
European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, Volume 119, October 2017, Pages 447-453
Anna Novikova, Jens M. Carstensen, Thomas Rades, Claudia S. Leopold

Research article
New hybrid CPU-GPU solver for CFD-DEM simulation of fluidized beds
Powder Technology, Volume 316, 1 July 2017, Pages 233-244
H.R. Norouzi, R. Zarghami, N. Mostoufi

Research article
A top coating strategy with highly bonding polymers to enable direct tableting of multiple unit pellet system (MUPS)
Powder Technology, Volume 305, January 2017, Pages 591-596
Frederick Osei-Yeboah, Yidan Lan, Changquan Calvin Sun

Research article
Synthesis and melt processing of cellulose esters for preparation of thermoforming materials and extended drug release tablets
Carbohydrate Polymers, Volume 177, 1 December 2017, Pages 105-115
Sanna Virtanen, Riku Talja, Sauli Vuoti

Research article
Downstream drug product processing of itraconazole nanosuspension: Factors influencing drug particle size and dissolution from nanosuspension-layered beads
International Journal of Pharmaceutics, Volume 524, Issues 1–2, 30 May 2017, Pages 443-453
Johannes Parmentier, En Hui Tan, Ariana Low, Jan Peter Möschwitzer

List – Publications with MCC spheres, 2016

Research article
In-line particle size measurement and agglomeration detection of pellet fluidized bed coating by Spatial Filter Velocimetry
Powder Technology, Volume 301, November 2016, Pages 261-267
Dimitri Wiegel, Günter Eckardt, Florian Priese, Bertram Wolf

Research article
Effect of formulation variables on oral grittiness and preferences of multiparticulate formulations in adult volunteers
European Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Volume 92, 20 September 2016, Pages 156-162
Felipe L. Lopez, Alexandra Bowles, Mine Orlu Gul, David Clapham, Terry B. Ernest, Catherine Tuleu

Research article
Micropellet-loaded rods with dose-independent sustained release properties for individual dosing via the Solid Dosage Pen
International Journal of Pharmaceutics, Volume 499, Issues 1–2, 29 February 2016, Pages 271-279
Eva Julia Laukamp, Klaus Knop, Markus Thommes, Joerg Breitkreutz

Research article
Multivariate calibration of the degree of crystallinity in intact pellets by X-ray powder diffraction
International Journal of Pharmaceutics, Volume 502, Issues 1–2, 11 April 2016, Pages 107-116
Krisztina Nikowitz, Attila Domján, Klára Pintye-Hódi, Géza Regdon jr.

Research article
Towards improving quality of video-based vehicle counting method for traffic flow estimation
Signal Processing, Volume 120, March 2016, Pages 672-681
Yingjie Xia, Xingmin Shi, Guanghua Song, Qiaolei Geng, Yuncai Liu

Conference abstract
Multiple-unit orodispersible mini-tablets
International Journal of Pharmaceutics, Volume 511, Issue 2, 25 September 2016, Page 1128
Anna Kira Adam, Christian Zimmer, Stefan Rauscher, Jörg Breitkreutz

Research article
Asymmetric distribution in twin screw granulation
European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, Volume 106, September 2016, Pages 50-58
Tim Chan Seem, Neil A. Rowson, Ian Gabbott, Marcelde Matas, Gavin K. Reynolds, AndyIngram

Research article
Measurement of particle concentration in a Wurster coater draft tube using light attenuation
Chemical Engineering Research and Design, Volume 110, June 2016, Pages 20-31
R. Šibanc, I. Žun, R. Dreu

List – Publications with MCC spheres, 2015

Research article
Two-dimensional particle shape analysis from chord measurements to increase accuracy of particle shape determination
Powder Technology, Volume 284, November 2015, Pages 25-31
D. Petrak, S. Dietrich, G. Eckardt, M. Köhler

Research article
Passive acoustic emission monitoring of pellet coat thickness in a fluidized bed
Powder Technology, Volume 286, December 2015, Pages 172-180
Taylor Sheahan, Lauren Briens

Research article
Tabletability Modulation Through Surface Engineering
Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Volume 104, Issue 8, August 2015, Pages 2645-2648
Frederick Osei-Yeboah, Changquan Calvin Sun

Research article
Cellulose CELLETS as new type of adsorbent for the removal of dyes from aqueous media
Environmental Engineering and Management Journal, Volume 14, Issue 3, March 2015, Pages 525-532
Daniela Suteu, Gabriela Biliuta, Lacramioara Rusu, Sergiu Coseri, Gabriela Nacu

Research article
Formulation and process optimization of multiparticulate pulsatile system delivered by osmotic pressure-activated rupturable membrane
International Journal of Pharmaceutics, Volume 480, Issues 1–2, 1 March 2015, Pages 15-26
Sheng-Feng Hung, Chien-Ming Hsieh, Ying-Chen Chen, Cheng-Mao Lin, Hsiu-O Ho, Ming-Thau Sheu

Research article
Dry Coating Characterization of Coverage by Image Analysis: Methodology
Procedia Engineering, Volume 102, 2015, Pages 81-88
Olivier Lecoq, Fredj Kaouach, Alain Chamayou

Research article
Passive acoustic emissions monitoring of the coating of pellets in a fluidized bed—A feasibility analysis
Powder Technology, Volume 283, October 2015, Pages 373-379
Taylor Sheahan, Lauren Briens

List – Publications with MCC spheres, 2014

Research article
A New Apparatus for Real‐Time Assessment of the Particle Size Distribution of Disintegrating Tablets
Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Volume 103, Issue 11, November 2014, Pages 3657-3665
Julian Quodbach, Peter Kleinebudde

Research article
In-line spatial filtering velocimetry for particle size and film thickness determination in fluidized-bed pellet coating processes
European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, Volume 88, Issue 3, November 2014, Pages 931-938
Friederike Folttmann, Klaus Knop, Peter Kleinebudde, Miriam Pein

Research article
On-line monitoring of fluid bed granulation by photometric imaging
European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, Volume 88, Issue 3, November 2014, Pages 879-885
Ira Soppela, Osmo Antikainen, Niklas Sandler, Jouko Yliruusi

Research article
Application properties of oral gels as media for administration of minitablets and pellets to paediatric patients
International Journal of Pharmaceutics
Volume 460, Issues 1–2, 2 January 2014, Pages 228-233

Anna Kluk, Malgorzata Sznitowska

Research article
In-line monitoring of pellet coating thickness growth by means of visual imaging
International Journal of Pharmaceutics, Volume 470, Issues 1–2, 15 August 2014, Pages 8-14
Nika Oman Kadunc, Rok Šibanc, Rok Dreu, Boštjan Likar, Dejan Tomaževič

Research article
Optical microscopy as a comparative analytical technique for single-particle dissolution studies
International Journal of Pharmaceutics, Volume 469, Issue 1, 20 July 2014, Pages 10-16
Sami Svanbäck, Henrik Ehlers, Jouko Yliruusi

Research article
Formulation of itraconazole nanococrystals and evaluation of their bioavailability in dogs
European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, Volume 87, Issue 1, May 2014, Pages 107-113
Lieselotte De Smet, Lien Saerens, Thomas De Beer, Robert Carleer, Peter Adriaensens, Jan Van Bocxlaer, Chris Vervaet, Jean PaulRemon

Research article
Global monitoring of fluidized-bed processes by means of microwave cavity resonances
Measurement, Volume 55, September 2014, Pages 520-535
Johan Nohlert, Livia Cerullo, Johan Winges, Thomas Rylander, Tomas McKelvey, Anders Holmgren, Lubomir Gradinarsky, Staffan Folestad, Mats Viberg, Anders Rasmuson

List – Publications with MCC spheres, 2013

Research article
Water-mediated solid-state transformation of a polymorphic drug during aqueous-based drug-layer coating of pellets
International Journal of Pharmaceutics, Volume 456, Issue 1, 1 November 2013, Pages 41-48
Andres Lust, Satu Lakio, Julia Vintsevits, Jekaterina Kozlova, Peep Veski, Jyrki Heinämäki, Karin Kogermann

Research article
Preparation and characterization of controlled-release doxazosin mesylate pellets using a simple drug layering-aquacoating technique
Journal of Pharmaceutical Investigation (2013), 43:333–342. doi: 10.1007/s40005-013-0077-0
H. A. Hazzah, M. A. EL-Massik, O. Y. Abdallah & H. Abdelkader

Research article
Development of high drug loaded pellets by Design of Experiment and population balance model calculation
Powder Technology, Volume 241, June 2013, Pages 149-157
Florian Priese, Bertram Wolf

Research article
Particle sizing measurements in pharmaceutical applications: Comparison of in-process methods versus off-line methods
European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, Volume 85, Issue 3, Part B, November 2013, Pages 1006-1018
Ana F.T. Silva, Anneleen Burggraeve, Quenten Denon, Paul Van der Meeren, Niklas Sandler, Tom Van Den Kerkhof, Mario Hellings, Chris Vervaet, Jean Paul Remon, João Almeida Lopes, Thomas De Beer

Research article
Physical properties of pharmaceutical pellets
Chemical Engineering Science, Volume 86, 4 February 2013, Pages 50-60
Rok Šibanc, Teja Kitak, Biljana Govedarica, StankoSrčič Rok Dreu

Research article
Continuous pellet coating in a Wurster fluidized bed process
Chemical Engineering Science, Volume 86, 4 February 2013, Pages 87-98
N. Hampel, A. Bück, M. Peglow, E. Tsotsas

Research article
Study of the recrystallization in coated pellets – Effect of coating on API crystallinity
European Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Volume 48, Issue 3, 14 February 2013, Pages 563-571
Krisztina Nikowitz, Klára Pintye-Hódi, Géza Regdon Jr.

Research article
The influence of rolling friction on the shear behaviour of non-cohesive pharmaceutical granules – An experimental and numerical investigation
European Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Volume 49, Issue 2, 13 May 2013, Pages 241-250
Ann-Sofie Persson, Göran Frenning

Research article
Characteristics of pellet flow in a Wurster coater draft tube utilizing piezoelectric probe
Powder Technology, Volume 235, February 2013, Pages 640-651
Matevž Luštrik, Rok Šibanc, Stanko Srčič, Matjaž Perpar, Iztok Žun, Rok Dreu

Research article
Estimating coating quality parameters on the basis of pressure drop measurements in a Wurster draft tube
Powder Technology, Volume 246, September 2013, Pages 41-50
Matjaž Perpar, Matevž Luštrik, Rok Dreu, Stanko Srčič, Iztok Žun

Research article
Influence of Non-Water-Soluble Placebo Pellets of Different Sizes on the Characteristics of Orally Disintegrating Tablets Manufactured by Freeze-Drying
Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Volume 102, Issue 6, June 2013, Pages 1786-1799
Ulrike Stange, Christian Führling, Henning Gieseler

List – Publications with MCC spheres, 2012

Research article
A density-based segmentation for 3D images, an application for X-ray micro-tomography
Analytica Chimica Acta, Volume 725, 6 May 2012, Pages 14-21
Thanh N. Tran, Thanh T. Nguyen, Tofan A. Willemsz, Gijsvan Kessel, Henderik W. Frijlink, Kees van der Voort Maarschalk

Research article
Attrition and abrasion resistance of particles coated with pre-mixed polymer coating systems
Powder Technology, Volume 230, November 2012, Pages 1-13
G. Perfetti, F. Depypere, S. Zafari, P. van Hee, W.J. Wildeboer, G. M. H. Meesters

Research article
New spout-fluid bed apparatus for electrostatic coating of fine particles and encapsulation
Powder Technology, Volume 225, July 2012, Pages 52-57
Roman G. Szafran, Wojciech Ludwig, Andrzej Kmiec

Research article
Particle size and packing characterization by diffuse light transmission
Particuology Volume 10, Issue 5, October 2012, Pages 619-627
Henrik Ehlers, Jyrki Heinämäki, Jouko Yliruusi

Research article
Dry Powder Coating in a Modified Wurster Apparatus
Procedia Engineering, Volume 42, 2012, Pages 437-446
W. Ludwig, R.G. Szafran, A. Kmiec, J. Dziak

Research article
Attrition strength of water-soluble cellulose derivative coatings applied on different core materials
Powder Technology, Volume 222, May 2012, Pages 71-79
Katarzyna Nienaltowska, Frédéric Depypere, Giacomo Perfetti, Gabrie M.H. Meesters, Frederik Ronsse, Jan G. Pieters, Koen Dewettinck

Research article
An experimental evaluation of the accuracy to simulate granule bed compression using the discrete element method
Powder Technology, Volume 219, March 2012, Pages 249-256
Ann-Sofie Persson, Göran Frenning

List – Publications with MCC spheres, 2011

Research article
Dry particle high coating of biopowders: An energy approach
Powder Technology, Volume 208, Issue 2, 25 March 2011, Pages 378-382
S. Otles, O. Lecoq, J. A. Dodds

Research article
A density based segmentation method to determine the coordination number of a particulate system
Chemical Engineering Science, Volume 66, Issue 24, 15 December 2011, Pages 6385-6392
Thanh T. Nguyen, Thanh N. Tran, Tofan A. Willemsz, Henderik W. Frijlink, Tuomas Ervasti, Jarkko Ketolainen, Kees van der Voort Maarschalk

Research article
Study of the preparation of a multiparticulate drug delivery system with a layering technique
Powder Technology, Volume 205, Issues 1–3, 10 January 2011, Pages 155-159
Krisztina Nikowitz, Péter Kása Jr., Klára Pintye-Hódi, Géza Regdon Jr.

Research article
Effect of annealing time and addition of lactose on release of a model substance from Eudragit® RS coated pellets produced by a fluidized bed coater
Chemical Engineering Research and Design, Volume 89, Issue 6, June 2011, Pages 697-705
Ulrich M. Heckötter, Anette Larsson, Pornsak Sriamornsak, Mont Kumpugdee-Vollrath

Research article
Suspension pellet layering using PVA–PEG graft copolymer as a new binder
International Journal of Pharmaceutics, Volume 412, Issues 1–2, 30 June 2011, Pages 28-36
L. Suhrenbrock, G. Radtke, K. Knop, P. Kleinebudde

Research article
In-line particle sizing for real-time process control by fibre-optical spatial filtering technique (SFT)
Advanced Powder Technology, Volume 22, Issue 2, March 2011, Pages 203-208
Petrak Dieter, Dietrich Stefan, Eckardt Günter, Köhler Michael

Research article
Flowability of surface modified pharmaceutical granules: A comparative experimental and numerical study
European Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Volume 42, Issue 3, 14 February 2011, Pages 199-209
Ann-Sofie Persson, Göran Alderborn, Göran Frenning

List – Publications with MCC spheres, 2010

Research article
Labscale fluidized bed granulator instrumented with non-invasive process monitoring devices
Chemical Engineering Journal, Volume 164, Issues 2–3, 1 November 2010, Pages 268-274
Jari T. T. Leskinen, Matti-Antero H. Okkonen, Maunu M. Toiviainen, Sami Poutiainen, Mari Tenhunen, Pekka Teppola, Reijo Lappalainen, Jarkko Ketolainen, Kristiina Järvinen

Research article
X-ray micro tomography and image analysis as complementary methods for morphological characterization and coating thickness measurement of coated particles
Advanced Powder Technology, Volume 21, Issue 6, November 2010, Pages 663-675
Giacomo Perfetti, Elke Van de Casteele, Bernd Rieger, Willem J. Wildeboer, Gabrie M.H. Meesters

Research article
Granule size distribution of tablets
Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Volume 99, Issue 4, April 2010, Pages 2061-2069
Satu Virtanen, Osmo Antikainen, Heikki Räikkönen, Jouko Yliruusi

Research article
New insights into segregation during tabletting
International Journal of Pharmaceutics, Volume 397, Issues 1–2, 15 September 2010, Pages 19-26
S. Lakio, S. Siiriä, H. Räikkönen, S. Airaksinen, T. Närvänen, O. Antikainen, J.Yliruusi

Short communication
Can encapsulation lengthen the shelf-life of probiotic bacteria in dry products?
International Journal of Food Microbiology, Volume 136, Issue 3, 1 January 2010, Pages 364-367
F. Weinbreck, I. Bodnár, M.L. Marco

Research article
Evaluation of in-line spatial filter velocimetry as PAT monitoring tool for particle growth during fluid bed granulation
European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, Volume 76, Issue 1, September 2010, Pages 138-146
A. Burggraeve, T. Van Den Kerkhof, M. Hellings, J.P. Remon, C. Vervaet, T. De Beera

List – Publications with MCC spheres, 2009

Research article
Impact of polymers on dissolution performance of an amorphous gelleable drug from surface-coated beads
European Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Volume 37, Issue 1, 11 April 2009, Pages 1-10
Chon gFan, Rashmi Pai-Thakur, Wantanee Phuapradit, Lin Zhang, Hung Tian, Waseem Malick, Navnit Shah, M. Serpil Kislalioglu

Short communication
Raman spectroscopic investigation of film thickness
Polymer Testing, Volume 28, Issue 7, October 2009, Pages 770-772
T. Sovány, K. Nikowitz, G. Regdon Jr., P. Kása Jr., K. Pintye-Hódi

Research article
In vivo evaluation of the vaginal distribution and retention of a multi-particulate pellet formulation
European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, Volume 73, Issue 2, October 2009, Pages 280-284
Nele Poelvoorde, Hans Verstraelen, Rita Verhelst, Bart Saerens, Ellen De Backer, Guido Lopes dos Santos Santiago, Chris Vervaet, Mario Vaneechoutte, Fabienne De Boeck, Luc Van Borteld, Marleen Temmerman, Jean-Paul Remon

Research article
Modulating pH-independent release from coated pellets: Effect of coating composition on solubilization processes and drug release
European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, Volume 72, Issue 1, May 2009, Pages 111-118
Simon Ensslin, Klaus Peter Moll, Hendrik Metz, Markus Otz, Karsten Mäder

Research article
Dry Particle High-Impact Coating of Biopowders: Coating Strength
Particulate Science and Technology, Volume 27(4), 2009
S. Ötles, O. Lecoq, J. A. Dodds


Research article

Book
Formulation and Analytical Development for Low-Dose Oral Drug Products
John Wiley & Sons , inc. (2009), ISBN 978-0-470-05609-7
Jack Zheng (Editor)

List – Publications with MCC spheres, 2008 and earlier

Research article
Attrition strength of different coated agglomerates
Chemical Engineering Science, Volume 63, Issue 5, March 2008, Pages 1361-1369
B. van Laarhoven, S.C.A. Wiers, S.H. Schaafsma, G.M.H. Meesters

Research article
Direct Drug Loading into Preformed Porous Solid Dosage Units by the Controlled Particle Deposition (CPD), a New Concept for Improved Dissolution Using SCF-Technology
Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Volume 97, Issue 10, October 2008, Pages 4416-4424
Ragna S. Wischumerski, Michael Türk, Martin A. Wahl

Research article
Optimisation of an enteric coated, layered multi-particulate formulation for ileal delivery of viable recombinant Lactococcus lactis
European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, Volume 69, Issue 3, August 2008, Pages 969-976
Nele Poelvoorde, Nathalie Huyghebaert, Chris Vervaet, Jean-Paul Remon

Research article
Dynamic rearrangement of disulfide bridges influences solubility of whey protein coatings
International Dairy Journal, Volume 18, Issue 5, May 2008, Pages 566-573
René Floris, Igor Bodnár, Fanny Weinbreck, Arno C. Alting

Research article
New insight into modified release pellets – Internal structure and drug release mechanism
Journal of Controlled Release, Volume 128, Issue 2, 4 June 2008, Pages 149-156
Simon Ensslin, Klaus Peter Moll, Kurt Paulus, Karsten Mäder

Research article
Development of an enteric-coated, layered multi-particulate formulation for ileal delivery of viable recombinant Lactococcus lactis
European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, Volume 61, Issue 3, October 2005, Pages 134-141
Nathalie Huyghebaert, An Vermeire, Pieter Rottiers, Erik Remaut, Jean Paul Remon

Research article
Evaluation of extrusion/spheronisation, layering and compaction for the preparation of an oral, multi-particulate formulation of viable, hIL-10 producing Lactococcus lactis
European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, Volume 59, Issue 1, January 2005, Pages 9-15
Nathalie Huyghebaert, An Vermeire, Sabine Neirynck, Lothar Steidler, Eric Remaut, Jean Paul Remon

Research article
Liquid absorption capacity of carriers in the food technology
Powder Technology, Volume 134, Issue 3, 30 September 2003, Pages 201-209
Heidi Lankes, Karl Sommer, Bernd Weinreich

 

We identified, that amorphous solid dispersions gain in importance as they increase the solubility and dissolution rate of poorly water-soluble drugs. There are severall attempts, in which each of them positive aspects and certain issues occur. It’s time, drawing amorphous solids dispersions in a more general context and sheding some more light on elementary aspects. We like to point on an excellent summary given by Thomas Rades and Keita Kondo [Rades_2022]. Before switching over, we like to emphasis and anticipate one message: The lastest attempts for amorphous solid dispersions is using CELLETS® 175 (MCC spheres) which do not only act as drug carrier, but – due to best friability – as milling balls. You might like follow this attempt with MCC starter beads, so please contact us for getting some materials. Let’s now read more from Rades et al.:

Draw-back on Amorphous solid dispersions

Amorphization is a promising approach to improve the solubility and dissolution rate of poorly water-soluble drugs as amorphous solids lack a crystal lattice with long-range order [1]. However, since amorphous forms are thermodynamically unstable due to a high chemical potential compared to crystalline forms, amorphous drugs exhibit low physical stability and finally recrystallizes [2], [3]. Thus, strategies to stabilize amorphous forms are essential in the development of amorphous products and include the design of amorphous solid dispersions (ASDs) [4], [5] and co-amorphous formulations [6], [7], [8]. ASDs are the most common approach for preparing amorphous products and involve glass formation by molecularly dispersing drug compounds into an amorphous polymer [4], [5]. However, ASD preparations may require a large quantity of polymer to stabilize amorphized drug due to their low miscibility with drug molecules [9], leading to a high bulk volume of the amorphous products. Co-amorphous systems have recently attracted attention as an alternative approach to amorphous formulations and include the formation of a single amorphous phase in which multiple low molecular weight initially crystalline materials (including drug compounds) are uniformly mixed at the molecular levels [6], [7], [8]. Co-amorphous mixtures typically exhibit high physical stability and dissolution characteristics [6], [7], [10].

Co-amorphous systems are typically classified as drug-drug combinations and drug-excipient mixtures. In the former combinations, amorphous phases comprise two drug compounds, which act as a stabilizer for each other by forming intermolecular interactions [11], [12], [13]. These formulations are expected to offer a combination of drugs to enhance the therapeutic effects but their applicability is limited as drug-drug combinations forming co-amorphous solids are not necessarily suitable for combination therapy, or require fixed doses, not necessarily suitable for co-amorphization. In the co-amorphous drug-excipient systems, low molecular-weight substances (including organic acids [14], sugars [15] and amino acids [16]) act as a co-former and their properties and mixing ratio with the drug affect dissolution characteristics and physical stability of the resulting co-amorphous mixtures [8], [10]. Recently, various combinations of drug compounds and amino acids were systematically investigated [17], [18], indicating that co-amorphous mixtures with high dissolution characteristics and physical stability can be produced by selecting amino acids that can form interactions with the target drug compounds (e.g. pairs of acidic drugs and basic amino acids). Therefore, amino acids are a promising co-former class for co-amorphous formulations.

Preparation of co-amorphous mixtures has been reported using melt quenching [13], [19], spray drying [20], [21], and ball milling [16], [22]. Since the resulting solids are in cake or powder forms (regardless of the preparation method), downstream processes including milling and granulation are usually essential to produce final dosage forms such as capsules and tablets for oral administration [23]. These processes can lead to increased risk of phase separations and crystallization due to moisture, thermal, and mechanical stresses. In ASD systems, to avoid the problems due to the downstream processes, one-step preparations of ASD granules by amorphizing drug compounds during the granulation process using fluidized bed processors [24], [25], [26], [27], [28], [29], [30] and high shear granulators [31], [32], [33], [34] have been investigated. However, to our knowledge, there are no reports on one-step preparation methods for co-amorphous granules. In the first part of the current study, we investigated the feasibility of solventless amorphization and pelletization using a high shear granulator and could obtain fully amorphized indomethacin-layered pellets by simply mixing indomethacin crystals and microcrystalline cellulose spheres without using solvent and heating. Indomethacin crystals were pulverized and amorphized due to collisions with the spheres and subsequently are deposited on the surface of the spheres. Therefore, we hypothesized that co-amorphous mixture-layered pellets can be produced through a one-step amorphization and pelletization process using this technique, as the preparation of co-amorphous mixtures has previously been performed by mechanical activation [16], [22]. Furthermore, this technique holds promise as an economical as well as sustainable approach to manufacture co-amorphous formulations as the need for solvent and/or heat is eliminated.

In previous research, various combinations of indomethacin and amino acids for co-amorphous preparations were systematically investigated. The findings suggest that arginine is an excellent co-former for indomethacin to prepare co-amorphous mixtures with fast dissolution characteristics and high physical stability [18], as an amorphous salt is formed due to strong interactions between the acidic drug indomethacin and the basic amino acid arginine [35], [36]. In the current study, to investigate whether co-amorphous layer pellets can be produced through a one-step amorphization and pelletization process, indomethacin and arginine were selected as the model drug and the co-former, respectively. In the first part of this study, indomethacin crystals were mixed with microcrystalline cellulose spheres (with various mean diameters of 140 μm, 195 μm, 275 μm, 414 μm, and 649 μm) at a weight ratio of 1:10 using a high shear granulator [added: TMG1/6, Glatt GmbH, Binzen, Germany]. Fully amorphized indomethacin-layered pellets were obtained using carriers of 414 μm in diameter, whereas partially amorphized indomethacin-layered pellets were obtained using carriers of 195 μm in diameter. This difference was likely due to the higher impact forces of larger carriers promoting mechanical activation of indomethacin crystals. In this part of the study, to clarify the effects of using arginine on the amorphization and pelletization of indomethacin, the smaller cellulose spheres of 195 μm in diameter were employed as carrier particles. Indomethacin crystals and arginine crystals were initially mixed at various molar ratios (1:1, 2:1, and 3:1), and then the resulting mixtures were high shear granulated with microcrystalline cellulose spheres at a weight ratio of 1:10. The resulting composite particles were characterized using solid-state and particle analytical techniques. To identify effective co-amorphization approaches, we examined high shear mixing under various jacket temperatures. Furthermore, physical stability and dissolution characteristics of co-amorphous layer pellets were investigated.

References

[Rades_2022] K. Kondo, T. Rades, 181 (2022) 183-194. doi:10.1016/j.ejpb.2022.11.011

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[3] L.R. Hilden, K.R. Morris, J. Pharm. Sci. 93 (2004) 3-12.

[4] T. Vasconcelos, S. Marques, J. das Neves, B. Sarmento, Adv. Drug Deliv. Rev. 100 (2016) 85-101.

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[6] R. Laitinen, K. Lobmann, C.J. Strachan, H. Grohganz, T. Rades, Int. J. Pharm. 453 (2013) 65-79.

[7] R.B. Chavan, R. Thipparaboina, D. Kumar, N.R. Shastri, Int. J. Pharm. 515 (2016) 403-415.

[8] S.J. Dengale, H. Grohganz, T. Rades, K. Lobmann, Adv. Drug Deliv. Rev. 100 (2016) 116-125.

[9] S. Janssens, G. Van den Mooter, J. Pharm. Pharmacol. 61 (2009) 1571-1586.

[10] R. Laitinen, K. Lobmann, H. Grohganz, P. Priemel, C.J. Strachan, T. Rades, Int. J. Pharm. 532 (2017) 1-12.

[11] S. Yamamura, H. Gotoh, Y. Sakamoto, Y. Momose, Eur. J. Pharm. Biopharm. 49 (2000) 259-265.

[12] M. Allesø, N. Chieng, S. Rehder, J. Rantanen, T. Rades, J. Aaltonen, J. Control. Release 136 (2009) 45-53.

[13] K. Lobmann, R. Laitinen, H. Grohganz, K.C. Gordon, C. Strachan, T. Rades, Mol. Pharm. 8 (2011) 1919-1928.

[14] Q. Lu, G. Zografi, Pharm. Res. 15 (1998) 1202-1206.

[15] M. Descamps, J.F. Willart, E. Dudognon, V. Caron, J. Pharm. Sci. 96 (2007) 1398-1407.

[16] K. Lobmann, H. Grohganz, R. Laitinen, C. Strachan, T. Rades, Eur. J. Pharm. Biopharm. 85 (2013) 873-881.

[17] G. Kasten, H. Grohganz, T. Rades, K. Lobmann, Eur. J. Pharm. Sci. 95 (2016) 28-35.

[18] G. Kasten, K. Lobmann, H. Grohganz, T. Rades, Int. J. Pharm. 557 (2019) 366-373.

[19] A. Teja, P.B. Musmade, A.B. Khade, S.J. Dengale, Eur. J. Pharm. Sci. 78 (2015) 234-244.

[20] A. Beyer, L. Radi, H. Grohganz, K. Lobmann, T. Rades, C.S. Leopold, Eur. J. Pharm. Biopharm. 104 (2016) 72-81.

[21] E. Lenz, K.T. Jensen, L.I. Blaabjerg, K. Knop, H. Grohganz, K. Lobmann, T. Rades,

  1. Kleinebudde, Eur. J. Pharm. Biopharm. 96 (2015) 44-52.

[22] K.T. Jensen, F.H. Larsen, C. Cornett, K. Lobmann, H. Grohganz, T. Rades, Mol. Pharm. 12 (2015) 2484-2492.

[23] B. Demuth, Z.K. Nagy, A. Balogh, T. Vigh, G. Marosi, G. Verreck, I. Van Assche, M.E. Brewster, Int. J. Pharm. 486 (2015) 268-286.

[24] D.B. Beten, K. Amighi, A.J. Möes, Pharm. Res. 12 (1995) 1269-1272.

[25] H.-O. Ho, H.-L. Su, T. Tsai, M.-T. Sheu, Int. J. Pharm. 139 (1996) 223-229.

[26] N. Sun, X. Wei, B. Wu, J. Chen, Y. Lu, W. Wu, Powder Technol. 182 (2008) 72-80.

[27] A. Dereymaker, D.J. Scurr, E.D. Steer, C.J. Roberts, G. Van den Mooter, Mol. Pharm. 14 (2017) 959-973.

[28] A. Dereymaker, J. Pelgrims, F. Engelen, P. Adriaensens, G. Van den Mooter, Mol. Pharm. 14 (2017) 974-983.

[29] T. Oshima, R. Sonoda, M. Ohkuma, H. Sunada, Chem. Pharm. Bull. 55 (2007) 1557-1562.

[30] H.J. Kwon, E.J. Heo, Y.H. Kim, S. Kim, Y.H. Hwang, J.M. Byun, S.H. Cheon, S.Y. Park, D.Y. Kim, K.H. Cho, H.J. Maeng, D.J. Jang, Pharmaceutics 11(3) (2019) 136.

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More information on ASD

Read more about amorphous solid dispersions in our application notes.

Abstract

Multiparticulates made of pellets are ideal dosage forms to be used in pediatrics. Having the suitability of paediatric consumers in mind, formulations of small-sized pellets offer a valuable base for increased compliance and improved age-appropriately dosage form. Due to their round shape of pellets, smooth surface area and narrow particle size distribution they can easily be functionally coated [1] to achieve e. g. a taste masking, enteric protection or the controlled release of the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) in defined parts of the gastro-intestinal (GI) tract. The release profile then often depends on the coating weight gain (thickness) and composition of the functional coating.

Coating weight gain, manufacture and analysis of pellets

A well soluble drug was used as model API.  In a first approach, pellets were produced applying the ProCell technology, a direct pelletization process allowing the production of highly drug loaded matrix pellets (here 95%) in a spouted bed. Two types of pellets were produced: A) with a poly amino saccharide-based binder, followed by a cellulose based seal coating and B) with a polyacrylic acid-based binder, followed by a pH-depending coating. In a second approach the API was layered onto inert starter cores (MCC, CELLETS® 200) by the aid of a cellulose based binder and antitacking agent applying the Wurster technology targeting a drug load of 50 %, followed by a pH-depending coating (C). All three pellets-based populations were functionally coated by a pH-independent sustained release polymer. Samples were taken at pre-defined coating levels for dissolution testing. For API layering and coating a GPCG 1.1 with a 6” Wurster insert was used. Direct pelletization was performed in a ProCell 5. Particle size distribution (PSD) analysis was performed by Eyecon2TM. The particle size is given as numeric or volumetric distribution (e.g. Dn50 or Dv50). The specific surface area is calculated by measuring the true density by gas pycnometry and the Sauter diameter by Laser diffraction. Dissolution was measured in the acid stage (0.1 M HCl), in buffer pH 5.5 and in buffer pH 7.2 over 300 min. The API should not be released in the first 180 min. Between 210 min and 240 min an increased drug release is expected. The dissolution rates at 225 min were compared for the coating levels at 10, 15 and 20 %.

Results

With increasing coating weight gains decreasing dissolution rates at 225 min were measured for the sustained release coating with a good linearity. Matrix PEL (A) show higher dissolution rates comparing the same coating levels than Matrix PEL (B), Wurster pellets showed the strongest decrease with increasing CWG, table 1, figure 1. This correlation was not observed for pH-depending coating (data not shown).

Dv 50 [µm] Dn 50 [µm] PSD mean [µm] Specific surface area [m2/g]
A Matrix PEL 496 475 481 0,00980
B Matrix PEL 461 427 425 0,01210
C Wurster PEL 414 396 401 0,01100

Table 1. PSD data and specific surface area of starter beads before functional coating.

coating weight gain

Figure 1. Dissolution at 225 min vs. coating weight gain (CWG)

Summary

Drug loaded pellets were prepared either as matrix pellets applying the ProCell technology, or by layering of starter cores applying the Wurster technology. Both populations were coated with different coating levels of a sustained release functional coating, resulting in decreasing dissolution rates with increasing coating weight gain. Due to the good correlation between coating weight gain and dissolution profile a prediction of the dissolution rate might be possible for pre-defined coating levels. These findings are a crucial step towards novel paediatric formulations with improved dissolution profiles and dosage safety.

References

[1] Palugan, L.; Cerea, M.; Zema, L.; Gazzaniga, A.; Maroni, A. Coated pellets for oral colon delivery, Journal of Drug Delivery Science and Technology 25, 1 – 15 (2015).

This study was presented on 14th annual EuPFI conference, Rome, Italy.

CS_taste_image_1

Abstract

Several drug substances are known to be extremely bitter. In special for paediatric and geriatric applications, costumer compliance by means of taste acceptance is a highly sensitive topic. Taste masking is therefore an important issue in pharmaceutical industry of oral dosage forms not only to improve the compliance, but it is also used to define a unique taste identification by the costumer (competition advantages). This case study will focus on taste-masking of an API and on the optimization of release in the absorption window of the API.

Modifying the taste

Several methods are available to actively influence, hide or modify taste, such as the initial activation of the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) by biotransformation [1], the complexation into the cavity of a complexing agent [2] or layering with coating substances [3] and other methods.

Among all these solutions, coating seems to be one of the best understood and most flexible methods. In terms of the API bitterness, mild and extreme bitter APIs are applicable. Additionally, coating [4] is well suited for high dosed API formulations. There are two main approaches: (1) direct coating of the bitter API particles in multiple unit pellet system (MUPS) tablets, or (2) global coating of the tablet which contains the bitter API.

In this case study, we focus on the direct coating of API in a formulation based on starter cores as the unit pellet system. CELLETS® 200 are used as starter cores. They are pellets made of microcrystalline cellulose in size ranges from 100 µm to 1400 µm. In this specific case study, the core size ranges between 100 µm and 200 µm with a defined size distribution. The main advantages of CELLETS® are high sphericity, low friability and optimum in hardness. An API is coated onto the starter cores with a drug load of 5-20 %. The taste-masking coating is performed with Eudragit EPO® so that the resulting particle size remains below 500 µm (Figure 1). Eudragit is the polymer of choice as it ideally prevents API release in oral cavity and allows its release in the absorption window of the API. The final dosage form is a MUPS tablet (Figure 2).

CS_taste_image_1

Sketch of a coated pellet starter core (green) with API (blue) and taste masking Eudragit EPO® (yellow) coating. The API drug load is between 5 % to 20 %. The resulting particle size remains below 500 µm.

Compaction is an issue during production, which requires mechanically stable pellets. Coated CELLETS® 200 after compaction still represent as “hard” core pellets. The coated pellets show only little deformation, a reversible compaction behavior and an intact coating.

CS_taste_image_2

Sketch of a MUPS tablet. Coated starter cores (yellow) and filling excipient formulation (white).

Here, the MUPS formulation defines a content uniformity with an excellent taste masking at pH 7 (as a measure for the oral cavity) and fast dissolution at pH 1 (representing conditions in the stomach). Figure 3 shows the evaluation of taste masking and dissolution efficiency tests, where the dissolution at pH 7 remains less than 10 % after 10 minutes, and a desired dissolution at pH 1 with a drug release better than 85 % after 30 minutes.

CS_taste_image_3

Drug release versus time for coated CELLETS® 200 starter cores. Blue line: in vitro dissolution testing at pH 1 (stomach). Red line: taste masking evaluation at pH 7 (oral cavity).

Summary

Taste masking and modification is crucial for costumer compliance in paediatric and geriatric applications. Several methods are available, such as direct API coating. CELLETS® are perfect starter cores for a successful formulation and simplify taste masking of extreme bitter APIs. CELLETS® properties allow perfect coating abilities due to a high degree of sphericity. CELLETS® of small sizes and narrow size distribution are applicable in MUPS tablets thanks to their low friability and excellent hardness.

References

[1] K. Rafik. Computationally Designed Prodrugs for Masking the Bitter Taste of Drugs. Drug Des. Open Access (2012).

[2] V. Vummaneni and D. Nagpal. Recent, taste masking technologies: an overview and updates. Int. J. Res. Pharm. Biomed. Sci. (2012) 3, 510-524.

[3] D. Sharma, D. Kumar, M. Singh, G. Singh and M. Rathore. Taste masking technologies: a novel approach for the improvement of the organoleptic property of pharmaceutical active substance. Int. Res. J. Pharm. (2012) 3, 108-116.

[4] Hazzah, H.A., EL-Massik, M.A., Abdallah, O.Y. et al. Preparation and characterization of controlled-release doxazosin mesylate pellets using a simple drug layering-aquacoating technique. Journal of Pharmaceutical Investigation 43 (2013) 333–342. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40005-013-0077-0