Characterization of omega-3 tablets

•The maximum oil load in DC grade EEO powder was established at 25–30% (w/w).•The maximum oil load in DC grade TGO powder was established at 30–35% (w/w).•X-ray diffractograms of EEO/TGO powders and tablets indicated partial crystallinity.•NMR showed evidence of true inclusion of EE in β-cyclodextrin.•Compactibility of commercial omega-3 powders confirmed uniqueness of results.

Omega-3 nutraceuticals are extensively used as health supplements worldwide. Various administration forms for delivery of omega-3 are available. However, the niche omega-3 tablets have so far remained unexplored. In this work tablets containing 25–40% (w/w) omega-3 oil as triglycerides or ethyl esters were prepared utilizing a direct compaction grade powder with β-cyclodextrin as encapsulating agent. It was found that powders with up to 35% (w/w) triglyceride oil and 30% (w/w) ethyl ester oil, respectively, can be directly compressed into tablets of excellent quality. Physical properties of omega-3 containing powders and tablets are described. The powder X-ray diffractograms of the powders and crushed tablets show evidence of the formation of new crystalline phases not present in β-cyclodextrin. In addition, 1H NMR data suggest that the ethyl esters form inclusion complexes with β-cyclodextrin. Compaction of other, commercially available, omega-3 powders was performed as a comparison and deemed unsuccessful.