Twin Screw Extrusion – Granulation Technology for API Solubility

Continuous production of water soluble granules is now possible through twin screw granulation.

Poorly soluble drugs present a challenge: no matter how potent the active ingredient, there can be problems of incomplete absorption and low bioavailability. The recipients are thus unlikely to benefit from the full clinical effect. This is particularly the case for medicines belonging to class II (poorly soluble, highly permeable) and class IV (poorly soluble, poorly permeable) of the biological classification system. Where such drugs are administered via drinking water, only a small proportion of the active ingredient is released: tests have shown figures as low as 15 %.

In response to this situation, Laboratoria Smeets has pioneered its latest technology. In collaboration with Ghent University, the Belgian pharmaceutical powders company has developed a granulation technique for converting poorly soluble drugs into highly soluble granules. The granules can be used for direct dissolution or for tablet manufacturing.

The benefits are obvious: high solubility leads to a swift release of the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API), which in turn increases bioavailability. It is beneficial for ecotoxicity, as less API is wasted. For applications of administering API’s through drinking water (veterinary medicine), the advantages are also clear and very tangible.

Twin screw granulation is conducted by employing a twin screw granulator (Pharma TSG 24) which is supplied by Thermo Scientific.

For more information or to discuss twin screw granulation please contact us directly.