Powders are mixtures of finely divided drugs and chemicals that can be used internally or externally. Powders consist of particles that can range in size from 10 mm to 1 μm. The particle size distribution and properties influence how powders can be used. Before using powders to make pharmaceutical products, their chemical and physical characteristics like morphology, purity, solubility, and stability are analyzed. Proper blending and avoiding segregation of powder mixtures is important for ensuring uniform and consistent dosing.
DEFINITION
Capsules are solid preparations with hard and soft shells of various shapes and capacities, usually containing a single dose of active ingredients.
A suppository is a drug delivery system that is inserted into the rectum (rectal suppository), vagina (vaginal suppository) or urethra (urethral suppository), where it dissolves or melts and is absorbed into the blood stream. They are used to deliver both systemically and locally acting medications.
DEFINITION
Capsules are solid preparations with hard and soft shells of various shapes and capacities, usually containing a single dose of active ingredients.
A suppository is a drug delivery system that is inserted into the rectum (rectal suppository), vagina (vaginal suppository) or urethra (urethral suppository), where it dissolves or melts and is absorbed into the blood stream. They are used to deliver both systemically and locally acting medications.
Powder Technology
Particle analysis in pharmaceuticals
Determination of particle size and surface area
Large scale equipment for powders
Types of powders
Micromeritics study in different formulation • Colloidal dispersion are characterized by
particles that are too small to be seen in the ordinary microscope. • The particles of
pharmaceutical emulsion and suspension and the “fines” of powder fall in the range of the
optical microscope. • Particles having the size of coarser powder , tablet granulation , and
granular salts fall with in the sieve range. Control of particle size and the size range of a drug
can be significantly related to its physical, chemical and pharmacological properties.
Bioavailability, and physical stability in some dosage forms can also be affected by particle
size.Micromeritics is the science and technology of small particles . The unit of particle size
most frequently used in micromeritics is micrometer, also called as a micron.
Announcement about my previous presentations - Thank youAreej Abu Hanieh
ANNOUNCEMENT Thank you for all of you, my followers who sent me messages with a lot of love and appreciations, I finally graduated after 6 years of studying in Birzeit University , In doctor of Pharmacy department I hope all of you benefited from all the presentations posted before Thank you a new PharmD GraduatedAreej ^^
New Drug Discovery and Development .....NEHA GUPTA
The "New Drug Discovery and Development" process involves the identification, design, testing, and manufacturing of novel pharmaceutical compounds with the aim of introducing new and improved treatments for various medical conditions. This comprehensive endeavor encompasses various stages, including target identification, preclinical studies, clinical trials, regulatory approval, and post-market surveillance. It involves multidisciplinary collaboration among scientists, researchers, clinicians, regulatory experts, and pharmaceutical companies to bring innovative therapies to market and address unmet medical needs.
Ethanol (CH3CH2OH), or beverage alcohol, is a two-carbon alcohol
that is rapidly distributed in the body and brain. Ethanol alters many
neurochemical systems and has rewarding and addictive properties. It
is the oldest recreational drug and likely contributes to more morbidity,
mortality, and public health costs than all illicit drugs combined. The
5th edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders
(DSM-5) integrates alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence into a single
disorder called alcohol use disorder (AUD), with mild, moderate,
and severe subclassifications (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).
In the DSM-5, all types of substance abuse and dependence have been
combined into a single substance use disorder (SUD) on a continuum
from mild to severe. A diagnosis of AUD requires that at least two of
the 11 DSM-5 behaviors be present within a 12-month period (mild
AUD: 2–3 criteria; moderate AUD: 4–5 criteria; severe AUD: 6–11 criteria).
The four main behavioral effects of AUD are impaired control over
drinking, negative social consequences, risky use, and altered physiological
effects (tolerance, withdrawal). This chapter presents an overview
of the prevalence and harmful consequences of AUD in the U.S.,
the systemic nature of the disease, neurocircuitry and stages of AUD,
comorbidities, fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, genetic risk factors, and
pharmacotherapies for AUD.
Prix Galien International 2024 Forum ProgramLevi Shapiro
June 20, 2024, Prix Galien International and Jerusalem Ethics Forum in ROME. Detailed agenda including panels:
- ADVANCES IN CARDIOLOGY: A NEW PARADIGM IS COMING
- WOMEN’S HEALTH: FERTILITY PRESERVATION
- WHAT’S NEW IN THE TREATMENT OF INFECTIOUS,
ONCOLOGICAL AND INFLAMMATORY SKIN DISEASES?
- ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND ETHICS
- GENE THERAPY
- BEYOND BORDERS: GLOBAL INITIATIVES FOR DEMOCRATIZING LIFE SCIENCE TECHNOLOGIES AND PROMOTING ACCESS TO HEALTHCARE
- ETHICAL CHALLENGES IN LIFE SCIENCES
- Prix Galien International Awards Ceremony
Flu Vaccine Alert in Bangalore Karnatakaaddon Scans
As flu season approaches, health officials in Bangalore, Karnataka, are urging residents to get their flu vaccinations. The seasonal flu, while common, can lead to severe health complications, particularly for vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and those with underlying health conditions.
Dr. Vidisha Kumari, a leading epidemiologist in Bangalore, emphasizes the importance of getting vaccinated. "The flu vaccine is our best defense against the influenza virus. It not only protects individuals but also helps prevent the spread of the virus in our communities," he says.
This year, the flu season is expected to coincide with a potential increase in other respiratory illnesses. The Karnataka Health Department has launched an awareness campaign highlighting the significance of flu vaccinations. They have set up multiple vaccination centers across Bangalore, making it convenient for residents to receive their shots.
To encourage widespread vaccination, the government is also collaborating with local schools, workplaces, and community centers to facilitate vaccination drives. Special attention is being given to ensuring that the vaccine is accessible to all, including marginalized communities who may have limited access to healthcare.
Residents are reminded that the flu vaccine is safe and effective. Common side effects are mild and may include soreness at the injection site, mild fever, or muscle aches. These side effects are generally short-lived and far less severe than the flu itself.
Healthcare providers are also stressing the importance of continuing COVID-19 precautions. Wearing masks, practicing good hand hygiene, and maintaining social distancing are still crucial, especially in crowded places.
Protect yourself and your loved ones by getting vaccinated. Together, we can help keep Bangalore healthy and safe this flu season. For more information on vaccination centers and schedules, residents can visit the Karnataka Health Department’s official website or follow their social media pages.
Stay informed, stay safe, and get your flu shot today!
Tom Selleck Health: A Comprehensive Look at the Iconic Actor’s Wellness Journeygreendigital
Tom Selleck, an enduring figure in Hollywood. has captivated audiences for decades with his rugged charm, iconic moustache. and memorable roles in television and film. From his breakout role as Thomas Magnum in Magnum P.I. to his current portrayal of Frank Reagan in Blue Bloods. Selleck's career has spanned over 50 years. But beyond his professional achievements. fans have often been curious about Tom Selleck Health. especially as he has aged in the public eye.
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Introduction
Many have been interested in Tom Selleck health. not only because of his enduring presence on screen but also because of the challenges. and lifestyle choices he has faced and made over the years. This article delves into the various aspects of Tom Selleck health. exploring his fitness regimen, diet, mental health. and the challenges he has encountered as he ages. We'll look at how he maintains his well-being. the health issues he has faced, and his approach to ageing .
Early Life and Career
Childhood and Athletic Beginnings
Tom Selleck was born on January 29, 1945, in Detroit, Michigan, and grew up in Sherman Oaks, California. From an early age, he was involved in sports, particularly basketball. which played a significant role in his physical development. His athletic pursuits continued into college. where he attended the University of Southern California (USC) on a basketball scholarship. This early involvement in sports laid a strong foundation for his physical health and disciplined lifestyle.
Transition to Acting
Selleck's transition from an athlete to an actor came with its physical demands. His first significant role in "Magnum P.I." required him to perform various stunts and maintain a fit appearance. This role, which he played from 1980 to 1988. necessitated a rigorous fitness routine to meet the show's demands. setting the stage for his long-term commitment to health and wellness.
Fitness Regimen
Workout Routine
Tom Selleck health and fitness regimen has evolved. adapting to his changing roles and age. During his "Magnum, P.I." days. Selleck's workouts were intense and focused on building and maintaining muscle mass. His routine included weightlifting, cardiovascular exercises. and specific training for the stunts he performed on the show.
Selleck adjusted his fitness routine as he aged to suit his body's needs. Today, his workouts focus on maintaining flexibility, strength, and cardiovascular health. He incorporates low-impact exercises such as swimming, walking, and light weightlifting. This balanced approach helps him stay fit without putting undue strain on his joints and muscles.
Importance of Flexibility and Mobility
In recent years, Selleck has emphasized the importance of flexibility and mobility in his fitness regimen. Understanding the natural decline in muscle mass and joint flexibility with age. he includes stretching and yoga in his routine. These practices help prevent injuries, improve posture, and maintain mobilit
New Directions in Targeted Therapeutic Approaches for Older Adults With Mantl...i3 Health
i3 Health is pleased to make the speaker slides from this activity available for use as a non-accredited self-study or teaching resource.
This slide deck presented by Dr. Kami Maddocks, Professor-Clinical in the Division of Hematology and
Associate Division Director for Ambulatory Operations
The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, will provide insight into new directions in targeted therapeutic approaches for older adults with mantle cell lymphoma.
STATEMENT OF NEED
Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a rare, aggressive B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) accounting for 5% to 7% of all lymphomas. Its prognosis ranges from indolent disease that does not require treatment for years to very aggressive disease, which is associated with poor survival (Silkenstedt et al, 2021). Typically, MCL is diagnosed at advanced stage and in older patients who cannot tolerate intensive therapy (NCCN, 2022). Although recent advances have slightly increased remission rates, recurrence and relapse remain very common, leading to a median overall survival between 3 and 6 years (LLS, 2021). Though there are several effective options, progress is still needed towards establishing an accepted frontline approach for MCL (Castellino et al, 2022). Treatment selection and management of MCL are complicated by the heterogeneity of prognosis, advanced age and comorbidities of patients, and lack of an established standard approach for treatment, making it vital that clinicians be familiar with the latest research and advances in this area. In this activity chaired by Michael Wang, MD, Professor in the Department of Lymphoma & Myeloma at MD Anderson Cancer Center, expert faculty will discuss prognostic factors informing treatment, the promising results of recent trials in new therapeutic approaches, and the implications of treatment resistance in therapeutic selection for MCL.
Target Audience
Hematology/oncology fellows, attending faculty, and other health care professionals involved in the treatment of patients with mantle cell lymphoma (MCL).
Learning Objectives
1.) Identify clinical and biological prognostic factors that can guide treatment decision making for older adults with MCL
2.) Evaluate emerging data on targeted therapeutic approaches for treatment-naive and relapsed/refractory MCL and their applicability to older adults
3.) Assess mechanisms of resistance to targeted therapies for MCL and their implications for treatment selection
The prostate is an exocrine gland of the male mammalian reproductive system
It is a walnut-sized gland that forms part of the male reproductive system and is located in front of the rectum and just below the urinary bladder
Function is to store and secrete a clear, slightly alkaline fluid that constitutes 10-30% of the volume of the seminal fluid that along with the spermatozoa, constitutes semen
A healthy human prostate measures (4cm-vertical, by 3cm-horizontal, 2cm ant-post ).
It surrounds the urethra just below the urinary bladder. It has anterior, median, posterior and two lateral lobes
It’s work is regulated by androgens which are responsible for male sex characteristics
Generalised disease of the prostate due to hormonal derangement which leads to non malignant enlargement of the gland (increase in the number of epithelial cells and stromal tissue)to cause compression of the urethra leading to symptoms (LUTS
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN HEALTHCARE.pdfAnujkumaranit
Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to the simulation of human intelligence processes by machines, especially computer systems. It encompasses tasks such as learning, reasoning, problem-solving, perception, and language understanding. AI technologies are revolutionizing various fields, from healthcare to finance, by enabling machines to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence.
Lung Cancer: Artificial Intelligence, Synergetics, Complex System Analysis, S...Oleg Kshivets
RESULTS: Overall life span (LS) was 2252.1±1742.5 days and cumulative 5-year survival (5YS) reached 73.2%, 10 years – 64.8%, 20 years – 42.5%. 513 LCP lived more than 5 years (LS=3124.6±1525.6 days), 148 LCP – more than 10 years (LS=5054.4±1504.1 days).199 LCP died because of LC (LS=562.7±374.5 days). 5YS of LCP after bi/lobectomies was significantly superior in comparison with LCP after pneumonectomies (78.1% vs.63.7%, P=0.00001 by log-rank test). AT significantly improved 5YS (66.3% vs. 34.8%) (P=0.00000 by log-rank test) only for LCP with N1-2. Cox modeling displayed that 5YS of LCP significantly depended on: phase transition (PT) early-invasive LC in terms of synergetics, PT N0—N12, cell ratio factors (ratio between cancer cells- CC and blood cells subpopulations), G1-3, histology, glucose, AT, blood cell circuit, prothrombin index, heparin tolerance, recalcification time (P=0.000-0.038). Neural networks, genetic algorithm selection and bootstrap simulation revealed relationships between 5YS and PT early-invasive LC (rank=1), PT N0—N12 (rank=2), thrombocytes/CC (3), erythrocytes/CC (4), eosinophils/CC (5), healthy cells/CC (6), lymphocytes/CC (7), segmented neutrophils/CC (8), stick neutrophils/CC (9), monocytes/CC (10); leucocytes/CC (11). Correct prediction of 5YS was 100% by neural networks computing (area under ROC curve=1.0; error=0.0).
CONCLUSIONS: 5YS of LCP after radical procedures significantly depended on: 1) PT early-invasive cancer; 2) PT N0--N12; 3) cell ratio factors; 4) blood cell circuit; 5) biochemical factors; 6) hemostasis system; 7) AT; 8) LC characteristics; 9) LC cell dynamics; 10) surgery type: lobectomy/pneumonectomy; 11) anthropometric data. Optimal diagnosis and treatment strategies for LC are: 1) screening and early detection of LC; 2) availability of experienced thoracic surgeons because of complexity of radical procedures; 3) aggressive en block surgery and adequate lymph node dissection for completeness; 4) precise prediction; 5) adjuvant chemoimmunoradiotherapy for LCP with unfavorable prognosis.
2. Powders are mixtures of dry, finely divided drugs and/or chemicals
that may be intended for internal or external use.
Definition !?
3. The term ‘Powder’ may be used to describe:
The physical form of a material, that is, a dry substance composed of
finely divided particles.
Or, it may be used to describe a type of pharmaceutical preparation,
that is, a medicated powder intended for:
internal (i.e., oral powder)
external (i.e., topical powder) use.
5. Although the use of medicated powders in therapeutics is limited, the use
of powdered substances in the preparation of other dosage forms is
extensive.
For example:
1. Powdered drugs may be blended with powdered fillers and other
pharmaceutical ingredients to fabricate solid dosage forms as tablets and
capsules
2. They may be dissolved or suspended in solvents or liquid vehicles to
make various liquid dosage forms
3. They may be incorporated into semisolid bases in the preparation of
medicated ointments and creams.
6. Advantages Disadvantages
- More stable than liquid
- More convenient to swallow than tablet or
capsules
- Used in blending with medicated application as
ointments, suppositories and pastes
- Can be prepared into granules for use in
preparing tablets and or reconstituted to liquid
form
- Rapid therapeutic effect due to large surface area
- Useful for bulky drugs with large dose
- Unpleasant tasting of drugs
- It is difficult to protect powders containing
hygroscopic, deliquescent (tending to melt or
dissolve in humid environment), or aromatic
materials from decomposition.
- Time and expenses require in the preparation
of uniform powders are great
- Patient may misunderstand the correct method
of use. Without clear instruction, patients may
inhale through the nose a drug intended for oral
administration.
7. Before their use in the preparation of pharmaceutical products, solid
materials first are characterized to determine their chemical and
physical features, including:
Morphology
Purity
Solubility
Flowability
Stability
particle size
Uniformity
Compatibility
8. The particles of pharmaceutical powders and granules may range from being extremely coarse,
about 10 mm (1 cm) in diameter, to extremely fine, approaching colloidal dimensions of 1 μm or
less.
In order to characterize the particle size of a given powder, the United States Pharmacopeia (USP)
uses these descriptive terms:
1. very coarse
2. Coarse
3. moderately coarse
4. Fine
5. very fine
These terms are related to the proportion of powder that is capable of passing through the
openings of standard sieves of varying fineness in a specified period while being shaken, generally
in a mechanical sieve shaker
PARTICLE SIZE AND ANALYSIS
9.
10. This figure represents the
standard sieve numbers and the
openings in each, expressed in
millimeters and in microns.
11. o Very coarse (No. 8): All particles pass through a No. 8 sieve and not more than 20% pass
through a No. 60 sieve.
o Coarse (No. 20): All particles pass through a No. 20 sieve and not more than 40% pass
through a No. 60 sieve.
o Moderately coarse (No. 40): All particles pass through a No. 40 sieve and not more than
40% pass through a No. 80 sieve.
o Fine (No. 60): All particles pass through a No. 60 sieve and not more than 40% pass
through a No. 100 sieve.
o Very fine (No. 80): All particles pass through a No. 80 sieve. There is no limit to greater
fineness.
Powders of vegetable and animal origin drugs are officially
defined as follows
12. Granules typically fall within the range of 4- to12-sieve size, although
granulations of powders prepared in the 12- to 20-sieve range are
sometimes used in tablet making.
13. The purpose of particle size analysis in pharmacy is to obtain quantitative data on
The size
Distribution
Shapes of the drug and other components to be used in pharmaceutical
formulations.
There may be substantial differences in particle size, crystal morphology, and
amorphous character within and between substances.
14. 1. Dissolution rate of particles intended to dissolve; drug micronization can increase the
rate of drug dissolution and its bioavailability
2. Suspendability of particles intended to remain undissolved but uniformly dispersed in
a liquid vehicle (e.g., fine dispersions have particles approximately 0.5 to 10 μm)
3. Uniform distribution of a drug substance in a powder mixture or solid dosage form to
ensure dose-to-dose content uniformity
4. Penetrability of particles intended to be inhaled for deposition deep in the respiratory
tract (e.g., 1 to 5 μm)
5. Lack of grittiness of solid particles in dermal ointments, creams, and ophthalmic
preparations (e.g., fine powders may be 50 to 100 μm in size)
Particle size can influence a variety of important factors,
including the following:
15. Average particle size (mean)
Particle size distribution
Parameters important in particle size
determination
16. Sieving, in which particles are passed by
mechanical shaking through a series of sieves of
known and successively smaller size and the
proportion of powder passing through or being
withheld on each sieve is determined (range about
40 to 9,500 μm, depending upon sieve sizes)
A number of methods exist for the determination of particle
size
17. Analytical sieving
Sampling process
In order to obtain a powder sample, which represent the
whole batch, we proceed as in the following manner
Use a powder sampler (thief)
18. What is the importance of obtaining an optimum quantity of powder
for sieve analysis?
Because an excessive quantity of powder
1. Could deform the mesh of the sieve
2. Does not permit a regular flowing of the powder over the mesh of
the sieve
So a wrong classification will be obtained
19. The sieving process should be carried out automatically to be reproducible
With automatic sieving (6-8 sieves placed one over the other from the higher to
the lower sieve)
Put a powder sample of 100 g in the upper sieve, close with its cover
Shake for 5 min
Normally the process can be stopped if within 1 minute no more than 0.1% of the
powder passes
At the end of the process the powder sample will be distributed between the
sieves according to their diameter
20. SEDIMENTATION RATE, in which particles is
determined by measuring the terminal settling
velocity of particles through a liquid medium in
gravitational or centrifugal environment (range:
0.8-300 micrometers)
Sedimentation rate may be calculated from
Stokes’ law.
21. The sedimentation process is under the control of Stock’s law:
r is the radius of the sphere that has a volume equal to the particle.
is the particle density.
o is the density of the dispersion medium or vehicle.
is the vehicle viscosity.
g is the gravity acceleration.
9
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2
gr
V
7 June 2016 21
22. This equipment counts the particles & classifies them in different
dimensional classes
It permits to measure the volume of the particles using the
conductometric method
Counter coulter
23. Microscopy – particles are sized through the use of calibrated grid
background or other measuring device ( range 0.2 to 100
micrometers)
24. Flow of powder
Factors that decrease the flow of powder:
1. Superficial adhesiveness
2. Shape of the particles: Spherical particles flow quickly while irregular
shaped particles flow slowly
3. Surface of the particles: Wrinkled surface has low flowability while
smooth surface have high flowability
4. The presence of electrostatic charges on the surface of the particles
5. The hygroscopicity of the powders
Important magnitude in powder technology
25. Disadvantages of a bad powder flow:
An incomplete & irregular filling of dies or bottles is achieved
Advantages of good powder flow
Filling the dies in very short time
This means complete and regular filling of dies or bottles
26. Flow enhancers improve the flowability of the powder by reducing
interparticle friction
Excipients that have anti-adherent or lubricant properties may enhance
powder flowability
Usually glidants are hydrophobic types substance
1. Talc
2. Mg stearate
3. Starch
4. Silica gel
Flow enhancer or Glidants
27. If bad flowability is due to:
The humidity
Hygroscopicity
The use of MgO & SiO2 is advisable
Lipophilic glidants decrease
Disintegration of tablets
Dissolution of the active material
Thus, minimum quantity of glidant should be used
28. The angle of repose is a relatively simple technique for estimating the flow
properties of a powder.
It can easily be determined by allowing a powder to flow through a funnel
and fall freely onto a surface.
The height and diameter of the resulting cone are measured and the angle
of repose is calculated from this equation:
tan q = h/r
Angle of repose
29. θ = tan-1(h/r)
where
h = height of pile
r = radius of the base of the pile
Excellent flowability if θ < 25o
Good flowability if 25o
< θ < 30o
Passable flowability if 30o
< θ < 40o
Very poor flowability if θ > 40o
h
r
30.
31. Types of Volume:
True volume (VT)
Bulk volume (VB)
Relative volume (VR)
VR = VB / VT
VR tends to become unity as all air is eliminated from the mass during
the compression process.
Mass-Volume relationships
32. • True density (ρT = M / VT )
• Bulk density (apparent) (ρa = M / VB)
• Relative density (ρR = M / VR)
ρR = ρB / ρT
Types of Density:
M is the mass of powder
33. Porosity = (V bulk – V / V bulk) * 100
Porosity (ε ):
34. The bulk density of a powder is the ratio of the mass of an untapped powder sample and
its volume including the contribution of the interparticulate void volume. The bulk
density is expressed in grams per milliliter (g/mL)
The tapped density is obtained by mechanically tapping a graduated measuring cylinder
or vessel containing the powder sample.
USP
Tapped density = M / Tapped V
35. The process of reducing the particle size of a solid substance
Objectives of Comminution
• Facilitate crude drug extraction
• Increase the dissolution rates of drugs
• Aid in the formulation process
• Enhance absorption
COMMINUTION OF DRUGS
36. On a small scale, the pharmacist reduces the size of
chemical substances by grinding with a mortar and
pestle.
A finer grinding action is accomplished by using a
mortar with a rough surface (as a porcelain mortar)
than one with a smooth surface (as a glass mortar).
Grinding a drug in a mortar to reduce its particle size
is termed trituration or comminution.
COMMINUTION OF DRUGS
38. On a large scale, various types of mills and pulverizers may be
used to reduce particle size.
The following figure shows one such piece of equipment, a FitzMill
comminuting machine with a product containment system.
Through the grinding action of rapidly moving blades in the
comminuting chamber, particles are reduced in size and passed
through a screen of desired dimension to the collection container.
The collection and containment system:
o protects the environment from chemical dust
o reduces product loss
o prevents product contamination.
39. Levigation is commonly used in small-scale preparation of ointments and
suspensions to reduce the particle size and grittiness of the added powders.
A mortar and pestle or an ointment tile may be used.
A paste is formed by combining the powder and a small amount of liquid (the
levigating agent) in which the powder is insoluble.
The paste is then triturated, reducing the particle size.
The levigated paste may then be added to the ointment base and the mixture
made uniform and smooth by rubbing them together with a spatula on the
ointment tile.
Mineral oil and glycerin are commonly used levigating agents.
Levigation
40. When two or more powdered substances are to be combined to form a uniform
mixture, it is best to reduce the particle size of each powder individually before
weighing and blending.
Depending on the nature of the ingredients, the amount of powder, and the
equipment, powders may be blended by spatulation, trituration, sifting, and
tumbling.
BLENDING POWDERS
41. Spatulation is blending small amounts of powders by movement of a
spatula through them on a sheet of paper or an ointment tile.
It is not suitable for large quantities of powders or for powders
containing potent substances, because homogeneous blending is not
as certain as other methods.
• Spatulation
42. Trituration may be employed both to comminute and to mix powders. If simple
admixture is desired without the special need for comminution, the glass mortar
is usually preferred.
• Trituration
43. When a small amount of a potent substance is to be mixed with a large amount of diluent, the
geometric dilution method is used to ensure the uniform distribution of the potent drug.
This method is especially indicated when the potent substance and other ingredients are the
same color and a visible sign of mixing is lacking.
By this method, the potent drug is placed with an approximately equal volume of the diluent in a
mortar and is mixed thoroughly by trituration.
Then, a second portion of diluent equal in volume to the mixture is added and the trituration
repeated
This process is continued by adding an equal volume of diluent to the powder mixture and
repeating this until all of the diluent is incorporated.
Some pharmacists add an inert colored powder to the diluent before mixing to permit visual
inspection of the mixing process.
44. Powders may also be mixed by passing them through sifters like those
used in the kitchen to sift flour.
Sifting results in a light, fluffy product.
This process is not acceptable for the incorporation of potent drugs
into a diluent powder.
• Sifting
45. Another method of mixing powders is tumbling the powder in a
rotating chamber.
Special small-scale and large-scale motorized powder blenders mix
powders by tumbling them.
Mixing by this process is thorough but time consuming.
Such blenders are widely employed in industry, as are mixers that use
motorized blades to blend powders in a large vessel.
• Tumbling
49. Size
Shape
Density
Electrostatic Forces
Limits of Blend
Segregation Mechanisms
Factors in Blending
PHAR 332 Birzeit Un. Dr Hani Shtaya
50. Segregation is an undesirable separation of the different components of
the blend.
Segregation may occur by sifting or percolation, air entrapment
(fluidization), and particle entrapment (dusting).
Fine particles tend to sift or percolate through coarse particles and end up
at the bottom of the container and actually “lift” the larger particles to the
surface.
Dusting occurs when the finer, lighter particles remain suspended in air
longer and do not settle as quickly as the larger or denser particles.
Segregation
51.
52. Segregation can take place whenever forces are applied to the powder,
for example, by way of gravity, vibration, or air flow.
These forces act differently on particles with different physical
characteristics, such as particle size, shape, and density.
Most commonly, particles separate as a result of particle size
differences.
53. Some medicated powders are intended to be used internally and others, externally.
Most powders for internal use are taken orally after mixing with water or in the case of infants in
their infant formulas.
Some powders are intended to be inhaled for local and systemic effects.
Other dry powders are commercially packaged for constitution with a liquid solvent or vehicle,
some for administration orally, others for use as an injection, and still others for use as a vaginal
douche.
Medicated powders for external use are dusted on the affected area from a sifter-type container
or applied from a powder aerosol.
Powders intended for external use should bear a label marked external use only or a similar label.
MEDICATED POWDERS
54. Medicated powders for oral use may be intended for:
local effects (e.g., laxatives) or
systemic effects (e.g., analgesics)
And may be preferred to counterpart tablets and capsules by patients who
have difficulty swallowing solid dosage forms.
The doses of some drugs are too bulky to be formed into tablets or
capsules of convenient size, so they may be administered as powders.
For administration, they can be mixed with a liquid or soft food.
55. Powders taken orally for systemic use may be expected to result in
faster rates of dissolution and absorption than solid dosage forms,
because there is immediate contact with the gastric fluids.
A primary disadvantage of the use of oral powders is the undesirable
taste of the drug.
56. Some medications, notably antibiotics for children, are intended for
oral administration as liquids but are relatively unstable in liquid form.
They are provided to the pharmacist by the manufacturer as a dry
powder or granule for constitution with a specified quantity of
purified water at the time of dispensing.
Under labeled conditions of storage, the resultant product remains
stable for the prescribed period of use, generally up to 2 weeks.
57.
58. Some medicated powders are administered by inhalation with the aid
of dry-powder inhalers, which deliver micronized particles of
medication in metered quantities.
AEROSOL POWDERS
59. Most of these products are used in
the treatment of asthma and other
bronchial disorders that require
distribution of medication deep in the
lungs.
To accomplish this, the particle size of
the micronized medication is prepared
in the range of 1 to 6 μm in diameter.
60. In addition to the therapeutic agent, these products contain inert
propellants and pharmaceutical diluents, such as crystalline alpha-
lactose monohydrate, to aid the formulation’s flow properties and
metering uniformity and to protect the powder from humidity.
Powder blowers or insufflators may be used to deliver dry powders
to various parts of the body, e.g., nose, throat, lung, vagina.
Depression of the device’s rubber bulb causes turbulence of the
powder in the vessel, forcing it out through the orifice in the tip.
61. Medicated powders may be provided to the patient in bulk or may be
divided into unit of- use packages.
Some powders are packaged by manufacturers, whereas others are
prepared and packaged by the pharmacist.
BULK AND DIVIDED POWDERS
62. Among the bulk powders available in prepackaged amounts are:
a. Antacids (e.g., sodium bicarbonate) and laxatives (e.g., psyllium [Metamucil]),
which the patient takes by mixing with water or another beverages before
swallowing
b. Douche powders: dissolved in warm water by the patient for vaginal use
c. Medicated powders for external application to the skin, usually topical
antiinfectives (e.g., bacitracin zinc and polymyxin B sulfate) or antifungals (e.g.,
tolnaftate)
d. Brewer’s yeast powder containing B-complex vitamins and other nutritional
supplements.
In some cases, a small measuring scoop, spoon, or other device is dispensed with the
powder for measuring the dose of the drug.
• Bulk Powders
63. Dispensing powder medication in bulk quantities is limited to nonpotent substances.
Powders containing substances that should be administered in controlled dosage are
supplied to the patient in divided amounts in folded papers or packets.
Patients should be educated about appropriate handling, storage, measurement, and
preparation of bulk powder prescription and nonprescription products in addition to the
customary counseling at the time of dispensing or purchase.
Generally, these products are stored at room temperature in a clean, dry place.
These products should be kept out of the reach of children and animals.
Patients should be instructed how to measure the appropriate amount of the powder
and be told the type of liquid or vehicle to use to deliver the medication consistent with
package and/or physician instructions.
64. After a powder has been properly blended (using the geometric
dilution method for potent substances), it may be divided into
individual dosing units based on the amount to be taken or used
at a single time.
Each divided portion of powder may be placed on a small piece of
paper that is folded to enclose the medication.
A number of commercially prepared premeasured products are
available in folded papers or packets, including:
headache powders
powdered laxatives (e.g., psyllium mucilloid, cholestyramine
resin)
douche powders (e.g., Massengill powder packets)
• Divided Powders
65. Divided powders may be prepared by the pharmacist as follows.
Depending on the potency of the drug substance, the pharmacist decides whether to
weigh each portion of powder separately before enfolding in a paper or to approximate
each portion by using the block and- divide method.
By the latter method, used only for non-potent drugs, the pharmacist places the entire
amount of the prepared powder on a flat surface such as a porcelain or glass plate, pill
tile, or large sheet of paper and, with a large spatula, forms a rectangular or square
block of the powder having a uniform depth.
Then, using the spatula, the pharmacist cuts into the powder lengthwise and crosswise
to delineate the appropriate number of smaller, uniform blocks, each representing a
dose or unit of medication.
Each of the smaller blocks is separated from the main block with the spatula,
transferred to a powder paper, and wrapped.
66. The selection of the type of paper is based primarily on the nature of the
powder.
If the powder contains hygroscopic materials, waterproof or waxed paper
should be used.
Powders containing volatile components should be wrapped in waxed or
glassine papers.
Powders containing neither volatile components nor ingredients adversely
affected by air or moisture are usually wrapped in a white bond paper
67. Disadvantages Of Divided Powders
1. Difficult to protect from atmospheric moisture or oxygen
2. Not well suited for dispensing of many unpleasant tasting hygroscopic
drug
3. Preparation is time-consuming, therefore more costly.
Advantages Of Divided Powders
1. Flexibility
2. Dissolve more rapidly then compressed solid dosage form
3. Rapid therapeutic effect
4. StabilityEase of administration
68. Problems encountered in powder formulation
1- Hygroscopic and Deliquescent Powder
Problem: Absorption of moisture from air leading to partial or complete liquefaction.
Solution:
a. Reduce the amount of surface area exposed to the moisture
b. Packed in aluminum foil or in plastic film packets
c. Addition of light magnesium oxide to reduce the tendency to damp
d. Addition of adsorbent materials such as starch
Examples: Ammonium Bromide/Chloride/Iodide, Calcium Bromide/Chloride, Ephedrine Sulfate
Hyoscyamine HBr/Sulfate, Lithium Bromide, Phenobarbital Sodium, Potassium Acetate/Citrate
Check Table 6.3
69. 2- Efflorescent powders
(is the loss of water (or a solvent) of crystallization from a hydrated or solvated salt to the
atmosphere on exposure to air.)
Problem: Crystalline substances which during storage loose their water of crystallization and
change to powder (to be efflorescent). The liberated water convert the powder to a paste or
to a liquid.
Examples: Alum- atropine sulfate- citric acid- codeine phosphate…
Solution: Using the anhydrous form + treating it in a manner similar to hygroscopic powders (
include drying bulky powder)
70. 3- Eutectic Mixtures
A proportion of components that will give the lowest melting point
Problem: mixture of substances that liquefy when mixed, rubbed or triturated together.
The melting points of many eutectic mixtures are below room temperature.
Examples: menthol- thymol- phenol- salol- camphor…….
Solution:
A- using inert adsorbent such as starch, talc, lactose to prevent dampness of the powder
B- dispensing the components of the eutectic mixture separately.
71. 4- Explosive mixtures
Oxidising agents give oxygen to another substance.
Reducing agents remove oxygen from another substance.
Problem: Oxidizing agents (ex. Pot. Salts of chlorate, dichromate, permanganate and nitrate-
Sod. Peroxide- silver nitrate and silver oxide) explore violently when triturated in a mortar
with a reducing agent ( ex. sulfides- sulfur- tannic acid- charcoal).
Solution:
A- Comminute each salt separately.
B- Subject to a minimum pressure.