LAUSR

Abstract Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) is a frequently used matrix former for controlled release tablets. To adjust desired drug release kinetics, freely water-soluble lactose can be added. The aim of this study was to investigate the importance of the type of preparation technique of propranolol HCl loaded matrix tablets based on such HPMC:lactose blends. The tablets were prepared by: (i) direct compression of physical blends of drug, HPMC and lactose, (ii) direct compression of blends of the drug and co-processed HPMC:lactose (spray agglomerated), and (iii) via wet granulation. Interestingly, the co-processed HPMC:lactose particles provided better flowability and compactability than the physical HPMC:lactose blends, while the resulting water uptake kinetics and drug release rates were similar. Also wet granulation led to similar drug release kinetics. Thus, the use of co-processed HPMC:lactose can offer interesting technical advantages for the manufacturing of controlled release matrix tablets, while system performance remains unaltered.