Researchers from the University of Chemistry and Technology in Prague have conducted a study shedding light on dry-coated paracetamol particles using carnauba wax as a coating agent. Their work, published in the Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis, employed advanced Raman mapping techniques to examine coating properties, dissolution characteristics, and particle homogeneity.
The focus of the research was to enhance drug delivery properties of paracetamol by using carnauba wax as a dissolution retardant. Non-destructive Raman mapping revealed two distinct forms of wax on paracetamol particles’ surface, creating a porous coating layer.
Interestingly, the study noted significant variability in coating thickness within a few microns, independent of particle size. This underscores the need for accurate analytical methods for coating thickness in pharmaceuticals to ensure optimal drug release.
Experiments with powder and tablet formulations confirmed carnauba wax’s ability to reduce paracetamol’s dissolution rate. Larger coated particles exhibited slower dissolution rates, indicating particle size’s influence on drug release kinetics.
The study emphasized the impact of subsequent formulation processes, like tableting, on reducing dissolution rates, highlighting formulation’s importance in pharmaceutical product quality.
Dr. Georgia Koutentaki highlighted carnauba wax’s potential as a valuable coating agent for improving fast-dissolving drug performance. Understanding coating structures’ impact on dissolution rates aids in optimizing drug delivery systems and formulations.
These findings have significant promise for the pharmaceutical industry, offering insights into dry-coated paracetamol particles and their potential for controlled drug release. Enhanced drug delivery systems could lead to better patient experiences and optimized therapeutic results.