Tabletability assessment of conventional formulations containing Vitamin E tocopheryl polyethylene glycol succinate

Vitamin E tocopheryl polyethylene glycol succinate (TPGS) is known to enhance the bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs via solubility and permeability enhancement. Few studies have evaluated feasibility of formulating TPGS in conventional solid dosage forms such as tablets due to processing challenges resulting from its waxy nature and low melting point (∼37 °C). The objective of this study is to systematically investigate the tabletability of conventional high shear wet granulation (WG) formulations incorporated with Vitamin E TPGS. Impact of critical formulation variables such as levels of TPGS, hydroxypropyl cellulose (binder) and Prosolv (extragranular filler) on product quality attributes was studied using a full factorial experimental design. The potential influence of temperature elevation during processing was assessed through a heated die fitted onto a compaction simulator. Bilayer tabletability of the TPGS formulation was also assessed in combination with a secondary non-TPGS formulation. TPGS levels significantly impacted tensile strength (TS), disintegration time and dissolution. Heat sensitivity studies indicated that TS reduction upon exposure to heat was minimized by higher levels of extragranular fillers. Acceptable interfacial strength of bilayer tablets was achieved and tablets could be coated without the need for hydroalcoholic solutions. The study demonstrates preliminary feasibility to develop monolithic and bilayer coated tablet formulations containing up to 10% (w/w) TPGS for the given compound and drug load. Further studies are required to validate these findings at larger scales.