Real-time analysis of tablet surfaces

The new device – called the ActiPix Dissolution Imager – was introduced to the marketplace at Pittcon on March 9 and could make it easier for drug developers to develop controlled-release medications.

Paraytec says the instrument offers formulation scientists an alternative to “high-cost, complex techniques such as terahertz spectroscopic imaging and magnetic resonance imaging​ “as they investigate the release of active compounds from dosage forms.

The ActiPix Dissolution Imager is “a powerful tool that can reduce the time it takes a drug to come to market, thereby offering significant potential gains in earnings​,” according to a Paraytec statement.

Tablet holder enables accurate analysis​

The instrument combines a specially designed tablet holder and Paraytec's ActiPix D-100 UV area imager. The holder is placed inside the ActiPix D-100 which enables real time recording and review of data. When liquid flows over the surface of the formulation, release of the active ingredient can be quantitatively monitored directly at the tablet surface.

“It is important ... to understand the mechanism of drug release behaviour, as this regulates the performance of many solid pharmaceutical dosage formulations​,” said Paraytec.

The ActiPix D-100 instrument has been used in a number of other applications in the pharmaceutical industry, including enzyme assays and protein sizing. Paraytec has also been developing the technology for in-line testing in bioprocessing, for example by quantifying protein aggregation.

Paraytec spun off rom University of York​

Paraytec was spun out from the University of York to develop a series of instruments based on miniaturised ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) absorbance detectors and capillary-based fluid handling technology.

UV absorbance detection is a laboratory technique widely employed to characterise and determine the levels of substances which dissolve in water and other liquids, with light absorbed at different wavelengths in the ultra-violet region indicating different compounds.