Compaction of recrystallised ibuprofen

Ibuprofen (α-methyl-4-(isobutyl)phenylacetic acid) was recrystallised from a range of solvents. Particle morphology, crystallinity, melting points and powder flow properties were evaluated. Additionally, the compaction properties of the ibuprofen control and recrystallised samples were assessed at different compaction forces and speeds, before and after blending with an equal amount of lactose, using a Stylcam® 100R rotary press simulator. Recrystallised ibuprofen samples displayed equal or better tablet strength than the control, whilst ibuprofen recrystallised from acetone had improved flowability and ibuprofen recrystallised from 2-ethoxyethyl acetate exhibited lower levels of elastic energy during compaction. Additionally, when formulated with lactose, recrystallised ibuprofen samples displayed lower punch adhesion levels, particularly at a low compaction force.