Improving Flow Characteristics for APIs and Diluents in Pharmaceutical Formulations

In a study, Grace compared SYLOID® 244FP silica to other glidants such as fumed silica, precipitated silica and magnesium aluminum silicate to demonstrate improved flow in pharmaceutical formulations. Various active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and diluents were used to evaluate the flow properties when SYLOID® 244FP silica and other glidants were applied.

SYLOID® 244FP silica provides better flow improvement for both APIs and diluents. Initially, flow improvement was tested with different amounts of the glidant. SYLOID® silica is typically used at 0.25 - 2.0% levels. The optimum concentration coincides with the amount needed to build a layer around the bulk powder. For fine powders, 1% of glidant was found to provide optimal results. For coarse powders, 0.5% of glidant was found to be sufficient to provide flow improvement. Both fine powders and coarser materials were included in the evaluation, and SYLOID® 244FP silica performed better as a glidant in all cases.