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Types and Applications of Suspensions

The document provides a comprehensive overview of pharmaceutical suspensions, defining them as dispersions of solid particles in a liquid vehicle, and detailing their various types based on administration methods, particle size, and sediment characteristics. It discusses the formulation, stability, and quality control tests necessary for effective suspensions, emphasizing the importance of particle size, viscosity, and the use of stabilizers and preservatives. Additionally, it highlights the applications of suspensions in oral, topical, injectable, and rectal forms, along with the significance of proper dispensing and preservation techniques.

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
32 views17 pages

Types and Applications of Suspensions

The document provides a comprehensive overview of pharmaceutical suspensions, defining them as dispersions of solid particles in a liquid vehicle, and detailing their various types based on administration methods, particle size, and sediment characteristics. It discusses the formulation, stability, and quality control tests necessary for effective suspensions, emphasizing the importance of particle size, viscosity, and the use of stabilizers and preservatives. Additionally, it highlights the applications of suspensions in oral, topical, injectable, and rectal forms, along with the significance of proper dispensing and preservation techniques.

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896f88fhxr
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
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INTRODUCTION

We can define suspensions as those course dispersions in which the coarse powder (internal
phase) is disseminated into the liquid vehicle (external phase). Internal phase made up of
solid particles that have been added in separate or combined forms of suspending agents to
ensure that they are uniformly suspended in a sufficient quantity of vehicle. For oral
medicines, external phase vehicles are typically aqueous in nature; for non-oral preparations,
organic and greasy liquids are utilized instead.
For stability reasons, a lot of suspensions on the market these days are powders that be
injected into a vehicle's specified volume right before usage and solutions. These liquids are
dependent upon the solubility, stability, and composition of the medicinal substance.
Solvents, stabilizers, viscosity modifiers, preservatives, sweeteners, colouring agents, and
aromatizes are the extra chemicals, finely split solid particles, with sizes ranging from 0.5 to
5.0 microns, are distributed throughout a liquid or semisolid medium when in suspension.
While the liquid vehicle functions as the continuous phase, the solid particles serve as the
disperse phase. In most cases, parenteral or oral administration of suspensions is used. These
are used as other applications as well [2]. In perfect suspensions, insoluble particles should be
evenly distributed. As sediments in a standing condition, the solid particles are separated
from the liquid. Shaking the system is usually the best way to equally redistribute the volume
of sediment. Agents that raise viscosity have the potential to improve the settling rate.
Smaller suspended particles are preferred over rough textures for creating a refined and
smooth final product [3]. Particle size is a critical factor to take into account in suspensions
during the dispersed phase. Small particles should be included in suspensions intended for
topical or external use, as big molecules can irritate skin and give products a grainy texture.
The region where the suspension is applied is better covered and protected by small particle
size, Particles with small sizes also dissolve more quickly and have better skin penetration.
Particle sizes in suspensions used for ophthalmic purposes must be larger than 10 µm; if they
are, the patient would experience pain and discomfort during administration.
Smaller particles that are easily able to pass through a syringe needle are required in
suspensions used for parenteral administration [4].

Types of Suspension
There are several ways to classify suspensions, including.

1. Based on the mode of administration (generic classes).

2. Based on the dispersion phase type and the preparation process.

3. Based on the kind of sediments.


4. Based on the particles size of solid
1. Suspension classification according to mode of administration (generic
classes)
a. Oral Suspension
One or a picture of Oral suspensions are liquid formulations designed to be taken orally that
contain more active ingredients in a desired, sometimes colored, and usually thick media. For
example, 5 ml of the Macron solution contain 750 mg of the dispersed active ingredient,
atovaquone. Oral solutions with multiple active agents may dissolve some of their active
substances. Suspensions meant for perioral administration may include sediment that readily
disperses into a uniform suspension that is sufficiently stable to permit the administration of
the appropriate dose when gently shaken. When a medication is made for use as pediatric
drops, the concentration of the suspended drug component is correspondingly larger, enabling
a smaller administration volume for pediatric dosing. Antacids and radiopaque solutions are
commonly found to contain high concentrations of dispersed materials.
b. Topical and externally applied suspensions
An example of a topical solution Topical suspensions are designed for dermatological,
cosmetic, and protective purposes. These suspensions lack the typical oral administration
sweets and amours, but they are typically colored and may smell slightly. Concentrations in
the dispersed phase could be more than 20%. Topical suspensions can be fluid solutions, such
as calamine lotion, that are meant to leave a light deposit of the active component on the skin
before swiftly evaporating off it. Pastes are a kind of solution with concentrated granules that
are frequently distributed in a paraffin foundation. They have a semisolid consistency. As
with zinc cream, a drug in powder form can also be suspended in an emulsion base.
c. Injectable and parenteral suspensions
Devices that suspend or remove insoluble drug particles in vegetable or aqueous oil carriers
prior to administering the medication to a patient. The majority of parenteral medications are
designed to be injected or subcutaneously applied. For example, injecting insulin zinc
suspension subcutaneously and triamcinolone actinide injectable suspension intramuscularly,
respectively. The percentage of solid particles in the parenteral suspension might range from
0.5 to 30% of the total weight. Particle size and viscosity are significant factors since they
affect the medication in depot treatment as well as the ease of injection (syringability).
Parenteral suspensions must also be considered in light of sterility. Terminal filtration cannot
be used to sterilize them as they are a suspension dose form. Their manufacturing
consequently requires the use of sterile active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) and aseptic
processing. Antimicrobial preservatives are also not recommended for use in intravenous (IV)
solutions. Rectal Suspensions

d. Rectal Suspensions

Rectal suspensions are liquid concoctions meant to be used in the rectal cavity. These
suspensions are used to treat or manage localized colon problems. For example,
proctosigmoiditis, distal ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, and prostates are all treated with
melamine (5-aminosalicylic acid) suspension.
Rectal suspension formulation and quality factors are comparable to those of oral
suspensions.

e. Optic Suspensions
These liquid preparations, sometimes referred to as picture of optic suspension, include
micronized particles and are intended for injection into the outer ear. Many ocular solutions
contain analgesics, corticosteroids, or antibiotics for the treatment of ear infections,
inflammation, and discomfort. Optic suspensions are generally prepared as sterile
suspensions because of their interaction with the mucosal surface.

[Link] on the type of dispersed phase and the preparation technique


• Suspension containing diffusible solids
• Suspensions containing in diffusible solid
• Pooling wettable solids
• Precipitate forming liquids

3. Considering the sediment's nature

a. Flocculated kind of Suspensions

This type of solid dispersion creates a structure resembling a network.


within the dispersion medium of solid particles. The aggregates don't form a hard cake. These
aggregates settle quickly because of the high rate of sedimentation and the loose, easily
dispersible nature of the sediment created. The suspension is not elegant because the
dispersed phase frequently separates from the dispersion medium.

b. Non-flocculated kind of Suspensions

In this state, the solid particles exist as separate entities within the dispersion medium.
Particles are dispersed differently in the dispersion medium. These parts are baked as a solid
cake. Because the sedimentation rate is low and the solid particles settle slowly, a hard cake
forms that is difficult to re-disperse.

4. Based on the size of the solid particles

Particles in a colloidal suspension are less than one micron.


A coarse suspension has particles larger than one micron.
10 ng of particles make up the nano suspension.[5]

Applications

 Suspensions of drugs with very low solubility are created to be beneficial.


 It is necessary to scatter the drug map into a liquid form if individuals have trouble
to swallow solid dosage forms.
 Substances that taste bad when dissolved can be transformed into insoluble
derivatives and then produced as a more palatable solution. For instance,
chloramphenicol palmitate (insoluble) and chloramphenicol (soluble).
 Since the medication is given in finely divided form in oral solutions, dissolution in
the gastrointestinal (GI) fluids happens right away. When a medication is
administered as a suspension, it usually absorbs more quickly than when it is given as
a solid oral dose form, but more slowly than when it is dissolved in a solution.
Viscosity affects how quickly drugs become available from suspension; the more
viscous the substance, the slower the drug release
 Drugs in insoluble forms have the potential to extend their duration of action by
slowing down their rapid breakdown in the presence of water.
 Suspensions are made right away before being given to the patient in cases where the
medication is unstable when it comes into touch with the vehicle. This shortens the
time the drug particles are in contact with the dispersion medium. For instance, before
giving out ampicillin suspension to the patient, water is added to the powder or
granules. There is a 14-day expiration date if refrigerated.[6]

Characteristics of an effective medicine suspension


 Any sediment generated during storage is readily redispersed.
 Following a little agitation, the medication is suspended for an extended period,
allowing accurate measurement of a dosage.
 You can pour the suspension.
 There is no grainy texture in the product since the particles in suspension are small
and generally consistent in size.

Development of suspensions
To ensure the creation of a pharmaceutical suspension, follow these three steps:

 Control the size of particles. Using a mortar and pestle, components can be ground
into a fine powder on a small scale.
 To raise the viscosity of the vehicle, use a thickening agent and suspending agents
that increase viscosity.
 Make use of a wetting agent.[7]

Preservation of Suspensions

Microbial contamination is most frequently found in water sources. Since water is a


component of pharmaceutical preparations, microbiological growth might occur.
Furthermore, spores and microorganisms may come from naturally existing additions like
tragacanth and acacia. Because the preservative may adsorb onto solid medication particles or
interact with medicines that suspend suspension, the preservative's efficacy may be reduced.
Hydroxybenzoates, benzoic acid, and chloroform water are useful preservatives.

Dispensing of suspensions

Most suspensions are dispensed using the same technique, while some substances require a
different approach.
 The mortar finely powders granular and crystalline particles. Next, add the
suspending agent to the mortar and fully mix it in. Avoid applying excessive pressure
since this may cause the suspending agent to gum up or cake, and the frictional heat
will turn it sticky.
 To form a paste, add a small amount of the liquid vehicle and mix thoroughly until the
mixture is smooth and lump-free. Continue adding little amounts until the task is
finished. [8,9]

Stability of suspension

When the particles in a pharmaceutical suspension don't combine and stay evenly dispersed
throughout the dispersions, the suspension is said to be physically stable.
The suspension needs additives, which are added to achieve ease of resuspension by a
moderate degree of agitation, in order to achieve this perfect condition. As an illustration,
consider a situation where positively charged particles are dispersed and then flocculated by
adding an anionic electrolyte, such as monobasic potassium phosphate. Addition of
carboxymethylcellulose, Carbopol 934, vee gum, tragacanth, or bentonite, either separately or
in combination, improves the system's physical stability. Since most hydrophilic colloids are
negatively charged and work well with anionic flocculating agents, no physical
incompatibility has been observed. When hydrocolloid is added to a flocculated suspension
of negatively charged particles with a cationic electrolyte (aluminium chloride), it may
produce an incompatible product that has little mass and settles quickly without having any
suspending activity. Under such circumstances, a protective agent is added to the particles to
alter their sign from negative to positive. This can also be accomplished by fatty acid amine
or gelatine adhering to the particle surface. Consequently, floccules that are compatible with
a negatively charged suspending agent are created using an anionic electrolyte.[10]

Quality control tests for suspensions

 Sedimentation volume
The primary factor taken into account when determining whether a suspension is
acceptable is redispersibility. Two of the most used fundamental evaluation techniques
are the measurement of the sedimentation volume and the ease of redispersion. The
straightforward ratio of the sediment height to the starting suspension height is known as
the sedimentation volume. The better the suspend ability, the higher the value.

 Particle size and size distribution


The method of freeze-thaw cycling, which is employed to evaluate suspension for stress
testing and stability testing, causes a rise in particle growth and could reveal the state of
the material after extended storage. Examining the alterations in particle size distribution
and absolute values is crucial. Optical microscopy, Andreasen apparatus, and Coulter
counter apparatus are used for sedimentation; none of these techniques are direct
procedures. Particle size is determined using the sedimentation method in relation to the
speed at which particles settle through a suspending medium.

 Rheological studies
Rheologic techniques can be used to ascertain the suspension's settling behavior. For
assessing the viscosity of suspensions, a Brookfield viscometer with variable shear stress
control can be utilized. It consists of a T-bar spindle that is lowered into the suspension
and has a dial reading that indicates the resistance the spindle encounters at different
suspension levels. This method also shows which suspension level the structure is higher
in because of particle aggregates.
Information on old and stored suspension shows whether any changes have occurred.[11]

In Process Quality Control Tests for Suspensions

Tests for process quality control are conducted to guarantee product stability, safety, and
quality. They are listed below.

 Phase test for appearance

It is common practice to conduct appearance tests on both the dispersion medium and the
dispersed phase. The suspension is usually made with purified water. This test typically
monitors the water quality, gum dispersion consistency, solid particle distribution, and
syrup purity. To ensure that the medium has the appropriate viscosity and can be used to
construct a stable and re-dispersible suspension, rheological tests are performed. The
viscosity of the dispersion medium is guaranteed prior to the mixing of the dispersed
phase. A tool for measuring the viscosity of suspension is the Brooke Field Viscometer.
When a flaw is discovered, the test results are compared to a standard reference, and
appropriate action is taken.[12]

 Particle size of dispersed phase test

The stability of the final product is significantly influenced by the size of the drug's
particle particles. A microscopic analysis of the particle size is used to conduct this test. If
there is a discrepancy between the medication's particle size and the ideal particle size
required, strict measures are implemented.

 Pourability test

This test is performed to determine whether the final formulation can be poured and will
not cause problems when patients handle it or fill the container.

 pH test

The stability of the formulation is largely dependent on its pH. Thus, before and after
mixing, various car kinds and suspension stages are seen. Timely records are also kept to
confirm that the right pH can be maintained.

 Final product assay test


This test checks to see if the active ingredients are dispersed equally throughout the
formulation. In this test, the homogeneity level is determined by assaying the sample after
it has been removed. If a fault is found, it is fixed by keeping a tight eye on the
formulation processes.

 Zeta potential management

Zeta potential gives information on the suspension's future stability. The method used to
calculate zeta potential is microelectrophoresis or a Zeta meter.

 Centrifugation test

To evaluate the physical stability of the suspension, a centrifugation test is performed.


Checks are made for even color distribution and the absence of air globules prior to
packaging.[13]

Formulation of Pharmaceutical Suspensions

 Structured vehicles

In order to create stable suspensions Part of the formulation from stability requirements
that is crucial is the saturated vehicle. Suspensions have one major drawback: stability
issues arise when items are stored for extended periods of time. The phrase "structured
vehicle" is used to lessen this challenge. Thickening agent is another name for structured
vehicle. In order to keep the particles suspended and relatively stable, the vehicle acts like
a "false body."[14]. Only on deflocculating suspensions, where the solid particles settle
and form a hard cake that needs to be evenly and pleasantly distributed upon admission,
are structured vehicles practical. Since the settled molecules redispersed when the
container was shaken, saturated vehicles are inapplicable not flocculating suspensions.
Because of their tendency to increase viscosity, which can present issues when
administering via syringe, structured vehicles are not utilized in the formulation of
parenteral solutions.[15]. Additionally, the structure vehicle has some thixotropic
characteristics, such as the GEL-SOL-GEL transformation. Setting up the drenched
vehicle: Hydrocolloids in this particular medium hydrolyse first, swell to a two-degree
angle, and increase viscosity at lower concentrations. Additionally, the structured
vehicle's density rose by: Glycerine with polyethylene glycol [16]

 Suspending agent
Compounds known as suspending agents create a coating surrounding solid particles that
reduces the attraction between them. Certain suspending agents also give the solution
viscosity, among other functions. For the purpose of preventing particle sedimentation
and cake formation, the solution needs to have a viscous quality while at rest. Suspending
agents with thixotropic properties are the best choice. For instance, Avicel RC591,
sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, and xanthan gum. Parenteral suspensions are made with
suspending density-modifying agents like PEG (polyethylene glycol) 3350, PEG 4000,
and so forth. PEGs with molecular weights between 300 and 6000 g/mol are appropriate
for use as parenteral suspension agents. If there are additional substances present that
could increase the medium's viscosity, the amount of the suspending agent will vary.
Combinations of suspending agents have been shown to be more advantageous than
individual ones in comparative tests. The following list includes some significant and
often used suspending agents [17,18].

 Methyl cellulose
There are numerous varieties of methyl cellulose available in various viscosity grades.
These variances occur because of differences in polymer chain length and methylation. It
dissolves in water at both high and low temperatures. A translucent, opalescent, viscous
solution forms when methyl cellulose is added to hot water and allowed to cool while
being continuously stirred. In the pH range of 3 to 11, it is stable. Temperatures higher
than 500°C cause the solution to gel. After cooling, it solidifies as a solution. Methyl
cellulose is nontoxic and does not enter the gastrointestinal system [19].

 Hydroxyethyl cellulose
Like methyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) is a strong suspending agent with
similar properties. HEC is soluble in both hot and cold water, however when heated, it
does not form gel like methyl cellulose does [20].

 Carboxymethyl cellulose
Carboxymethyl cellulose is utilized in low, medium, and high viscosity grades and comes
in a variety of viscosity grades. The stability and viscosity of the suspension determine
which CMC grade is best [21].

 Sodium carboxymethyl cellulose


Sodium carboxymethyl cellulose depends on the degree of polymerization. It is found in
various viscosities. It is stable in the pH range of 5 to 10 and soluble in both hot and cold
water. It is incompatible with polyvalent cations [22].

 Tragacanth
Tragacanth is a more effective thickening agent than acacia since it is naturally viscous
and transforms the solution into a thixotropic solution. The maximal viscosity of the
solution is reached after several days because it takes several days to hydrate entirely
[23].

 Xanthan gum
Pharmaceutical ingredient concentration is dependent on active ingredient. Around 0.08%
to 0.12% w/w is the concentration of xanthan. For paracetamol suspension, the
concentration ranges from 0.1% w/w to 0.3%ew [24].

 Wetting agents
Wetting agents are substances that lower the surface tension of water, allowing drops to
spread out on the surface and enhancing the ability of liquids to spread. Water quickly
moisturises hydrophilic surfaces, while hydrophobic substances are moistened by non-
polar liquids.
The hydrophilicity of the material determines how well it will wet. A high interfacial
tension exists between the liquid and the particles when there is wetting incapacity. Since
ionic surfactants can alter the pH and are incompatible with some adjuvants, non-ionic
surface-active compounds are utilized instead of ionic surfactants for making
pharmaceutical suspensions. Their HLB value falls between 7 and 10. It functions as
forming agents if the HLB value is high [25].

 Surface active agents


The compounds known as surface active agents reduce the tension that exists between
solid particles on their surfaces. Whereas ionic surfactants are frequently employed under
specific circumstances, non-ionic surface-active compounds are more frequently utilized.
Every surfactant has a bitter taste, with the exception of plurionics and poloxamers. In
oral and parent formulations, surfactant Polysorbate 80 is frequently utilized.
Because polysorbate 80 is non-ionic, it does not alter with pH, is safe for oral use,
compatible with adjuvants, and is not poisonous, these factors account for its extensive
use [26].

 Buffering agents
The substances that are resistant to pH shifts are known as buffers. All liquid
formulations should be made at the ideal pH for stability's sake. Viscosity and rheology
are two other characteristics that depend on the system's pH. Ionizable acidic or basic
groups in the formulation that contain API are stable at pH values between 4 and 10.
Buffers should ideally have less harmful effects and be compatible with other excipients.
The most often used buffers are weekly acid salts. For instance, citrates, gluconates, and
carbonates. By altering pH, buffer stops the active substance in pharmaceuticals from
breaking down. Buffer preserves equilibrium in the body and mind [27].

 Preservatives
Natural occurring substances such as acacia and tragacanth are rapidly broken down by
microorganisms in solutions. The microorganisms that create stability issues in
suspensions that don't preserve well result in a loss of color, flavour, and odor as well as a
reduction in the suspending activity of the suspending agents. Preservatives are a part of
the formulation to stop these actions. Preservatives are substances that stop
microorganisms from growing in a formulation. Preservatives should ideally be safe,
insensitive to pH changes, incapable of being absorbed through the container's surface,
and compatible with other excipients. Airtight glass containers are meant to maintain the
preservatives' effectiveness. The most frequent problem with plastic containers is that the
preservative adheres to the plastic's surface [28]. Combinations of two or more
preservatives are better for the formulation since they can be employed at lower
concentrations, have a wider spectrum of activity, and are less hazardous.
For instance, eye drops currently contain benzalkonium chloride, phenoxetol, and
phenylethyl alcohol in combination. Preservatives include things like potassium sorbate,
benzoic acid, sorbic acid, methyl paraben, cetrimide, propylene glycol, and disodium
edetate [29].
 Osmotic agents
To maintain the osmotic pressure, osmotic agents are utilized in the manufacture of
parenteral and ophthalmic solutions. As osmotic agents, sorbitol, mannitol, and dextrose
are frequently utilized in ocular treatments. Parenteral tonicity is regulated by the use of
substances like glycerol, sodium sulphate, and chloride [30].

 Flavouring agents
Flavouring agents are substances which provide a flavour and help patients tolerate it
better. The purpose of flavouring and coloring chemicals is to enhance the drug's
aesthetic appeal and conceal its disagreeable taste. The Flavors and colors differ
depending on the nation. Acacia, ginger, anise oil, glucose, benzaldehyde, glycerine, tolu
balsam, honey, vanilla, vanilla tincture, lemon oil, clove oil, orange oil, rose oil, fennel
oil, coriander oil, and so on are a few examples of flavouring agents [31].

 Humectants
Humectants are substances that take up moisture and work to prevent moisture from
destroying active ingredients in pharmaceuticals.
The most often used humectants are glycol and propylene glycol, which are utilized at a
concentration of 4% w/w [32].

 Antioxidants
These substances improve the stability of the formulation and prevent the drug from
oxidation. Examples include compounds of ascorbic acid, tocopherol, and thiol
derivatives such as thioglycerol and cysteine.

 Coloring agents
The substances that give a formulation its color is known as coloring agents. They are
obtained from both natural and artificial sources. Plants, animals, and minerals are
sources of natural color; pigments are the names given to the colors found in minerals.
Use of synthetic dyes should be limited to 0.0005% to 0.001%. Tetrazine (yellow),
caramel (brown), indigo carmine (blue), titanium dioxide (white), and so on are examples
of coloring agents [33].

Advancements in Pharmaceutical Suspension

Recent advancements in pharmaceutical suspension include


1. Nano Suspension

2. Taste Masked Suspension

3. Sustained-Release Suspension

4. Aqueous Suspension

1. Nano Suspension
Drug particles that are nanosized and stabilized by surfactants are dispersed in submicron
colloidal solutions. It may alternatively be described as discrete drug particles, stabilized with
polymers, surfactants, or a combination of the two, in sub-micron colloidal dispersions that
range in size from 100 to 1,000 nm. Nano suspensions are made up of the medication, which
is poorly soluble in water, suspended in a dispersion without any matrix material. For nano
suspensions, an aqueous dispersion medium is typically used, however non-aqueous or
hydro-alcoholic solutions are also possible.

Patents related to nano suspensions include


 A formulation of aqueous nano suspension containing a drug with low intrinsic water
solubility e.g. amidarone
 Ingredients and methods for making oral nanosuspensions of poorly soluble drugs
that have higher bioavailability
 Nano suspension of antifungal azole derivatives particularly itraconazole, with
improved bioavailability
 Systems with strongly increased saturation solubility which is obtained by preparing
nanosuspensions of medicaments [34,35].

2. Taste Masked Suspension


A perceived reducing of an unwanted taste that would otherwise exist is known as taste
masking. The issue of some pharmaceutical formulations having bitter tastes, which may lead
to lower patient compliance with a drug, has been addressed by a variety of taste-masking
technologies. Among them are:
 Sweeteners, flavours, and amino acids added
 Taste masking through inclusion complexation
 Taste Masking by Ion-Exchange Resins
 Taste Masking by Coating
 Taste Masking by effervescent agent
 Taste Masking by microencapsulation
 Taste Masking by rheological modifications
 Taste Masking by salt preparation
 Taste Masking by solid dispersion systems
 Taste Masking by wax embedding of drug
 Taste Masking through pro-drug methods and group modification
 Taste Masking by incorporation of drug into liposomes
 Taste Masking by using various emulsions
 Taste Masking by freeze-drying process

Patents related to taste-masked suspension include


 A steroid, or its salts or derivatives, and a pharmacologically approved excipient are
combined to create a dry powder that masks flavours.
 The process of making the Gegenqinlian decoction's taste-masked suspension
granules
 A suspension of dexamethasone acetate that is approved by pharmaceuticals, with the
active ingredient evenly distributed throughout an aqueous carrier, is what is meant to
be used orally –vehicle [36].

3. Sustained-Release Suspensions
Sustained release dosage forms are made to release a medication at a pace that is
predetermined and to provide a long-lasting therapeutic impact. This allows the drug to
remain at a consistent concentration for a longer amount of time with fewer adverse effects.

The drug ingredient is coated with an insoluble polymer during the manufacturing of
sustained-release solutions, which not only offers sustained release but also mitigates the
bitter taste of the medicine. The polymers ethyl cellulose, eudragit, and cellulose acetate have
been used in the production of sustained-release solutions.

Patents related to sustained release suspensions include


 Propranolol mixed with montmorillonite as a sustained-release dry solution
 Progesterone and estradiol suspended particles for low- and ultralow-dose hormone
replacement in female animals are present in this parenteral pharmaceutical
formulation or composition in suspension with sustained release.
 Oral sustained dry-mixed suspension of gliclazide
 Pharmacological active components in a stable, sustained-release oral liquid
suspension dosage form that is simple to use and especially helpful for elderly and
podiatric patients, among other things [37].

4. Aqueous Suspension
For the administration of an insoluble or poorly water-soluble drugs, an aqueous solution is a
helpful dosage form. It is a particle suspension used in pharmaceuticals, with water making
up the suspension phase.
Applications for aqueous solutions include topical, ophthalmic, oral, and inhalation.

Related Patents to aqueous suspensions include


 Aqueous suspension of an androstane derivative in a pharmaceutical formulation for
the management of allergy and inflammatory diseases
 The aqueous preparation is made by adding a water-soluble polymer to an aqueous
suspension of a drug that is hardly soluble. The polymer's concentration can range
from the point where the drug's aqueous suspension's surface tension starts to
decrease to the point where it stops, etc [38,39].

Packaging of Suspension
Particularly, the stability and acceptability of the suspension are enhanced by the packaging
materials. Pharmacists nowadays must be knowledgeable with a wide variety of packaging
materials because drug regulations are becoming more complex globally and dose types are
becoming more complex. To maximize suspension shelf life, the industrial pharmacist should
comprehend the interactions between material qualities. Typically, pharmaceutical
suspensions are packaged in wide-mouth containers with a gap to allow for adequate mixing
during shaking. Parenteral suspensions are packaged in glass ampoules or vials. The packing
material ought to be inert ideally. The product should be effectively protected from light, air,
and other elements. For the product to be delivered without any problems, the mode of
transportation must be affordable and efficient [40].

Materials Used for Packaging


Different types of glass and plastic are commonly used in suspension packaging.
Plastic
These days, plastic is utilized for packaging more often than glass because it has so many
benefits. Plastic is lightweight, flexible, and unbreakable. Plastic packaging is made of
materials including polyethylene, PVC, and polysorbate, among others. When selecting
plastic as a suspension packing medium, the following factors are taken into account:
Leaching, penetration, sorption, chemical reactions, and modifications to the physical
properties of plastic [41].

Glass
Soda lime and borosilicate glass are typically used to make non-parenteral suspensions.
Amber-colored glass containers are used to pack compositions that are deteriorated by light.
Amber glass blocks the UV radiation from penetrating the mixture.

Disadvantages of glasses:
 Handling and transportation challenges; easily breakable.
 Glasses types and additives used to create the color amber
 Soda lime: sulfur and FeO
 FeO+TiO2 borosilicate
Closure: An elastomeric closure is needed for all containers other than ampoules. Closures
ought to match the formulation. The processing shouldn't compromise the integrity of the seal
and closure. Plastics and rubber can be used for closure [42].
FDA regulations for packaging:
When the FDA examines the packaging of pharmaceuticals, they need to be quite certain that
the packaging will maintain the drug's efficacy as well as its purity, identity, and quality.
What is "Generally Recognized as Safe" (GRAS) was issued by the FDA. Manufacturers are
required to assess and submit to the FDA any chemicals that do not fall within this list [43].

Special Labels and Advice for Suspensions


The most important warning on the suspension's label is to "shake well before use," since
certain drug sedimentation is usually expected. Shaking the container aids in the medication's
redispersing and guarantees that patients are taking the prescribed amount.
Temperature changes affect the stability of "store in cool place".
Certain suspensions that are created from reconstituted dry powder can be kept cold.

Innovation in Suspensions
Polymer coating of drugs suspension
By allowing the patient to consume the drug particles before the threshold concentration
enters their mouth, polymer coating aids with the patient's perception of the formulation's
flavour. For coating purposes, ethyl cellulose, Eudragit RS 100, Eudragit RS 30 D, and a few
additional polymers are utilized. This method is frequently used to prepare dry powder
medications that are mixed with a liquid, such as water, right before usage, to create a
suspension. These polymer-coated reconstituted powders have a lengthy shelf life [44].

Encapsulation with basic substance

This procedure involves mixing a basic material with a bitter-tasting medication.


Subsequently, this combination is encapsulated using polymers (derived from vinyl,
cellulose, etc.). To create the finished product, this enclosed product is now suspended and
distributed in a suspending medium [45].

Coating and pH control

Drugs that are soluble at low pH are most beneficial in suspension at high pH, where the drug
particles are insoluble, and vice versa, according to the pH control approach. We can prevent
the solubilization of the medicine and achieve taste masking by using polymeric coating [46].
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Common questions

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Controlling particle size is critical in pharmaceutical suspensions to ensure the physical stability, texture, and absorption rate of the formulation. Smaller particles improve the suspension's smoothness and aid in skin penetration for topical use. They also dissolve more rapidly, enhancing the drug's bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy .

The solubility and formulation techniques of oral suspensions enhance therapeutic efficacy by ensuring drugs are present in an easily absorbable form. By converting poorly soluble drugs into insoluble forms, suspensions allow for higher absorption rates than solid dosage forms, without the immediate drug release seen in solutions. Techniques such as using taste-masked particles improve patient adherence .

Particle sizes significantly affect the effectiveness of pharmaceutical suspensions by influencing the dispersion and application properties. For topical applications, smaller particles are preferred because they cover and protect the application area better, dissolve more quickly, and provide smoother textures without irritating the skin. For ophthalmic purposes, particles must be larger than 10 µm, as smaller particles could lead to discomfort or pain during administration .

An effective medicinal suspension should be easy to redisperse after settling, stable over its shelf life, pourable, and have a consistent particle size to avoid a grainy texture. These characteristics ensure accuracy in dosing and patient acceptability .

The classification according to sediment type influences redispersion properties. In flocculated suspensions, particles form loose aggregates that settle quickly but are easy to redisperse. In contrast, non-flocculated suspensions feature discrete particles that settle slowly and form a hard cake, making redispersion more difficult .

Modifying the pH in suspensions influences drug solubility by shifting the drug to a less soluble form at a given pH, thus enhancing taste masking since the particles are less likely to dissolve in the mouth. This method also helps to control the release and absorption rates, contributing to improved therapeutic outcomes .

Flocculated suspensions exhibit rapid sedimentation but are easy to redisperse due to the loose network of aggregates, which aids stability and ease of use. Non-flocculated suspensions feature slowly settling particles that form hard cakes, complicating redispersion and potentially leading to inconsistent dosing, thus negatively affecting user experience .

To preserve suspensions and prevent microbial growth, preservatives such as hydroxybenzoates and benzoic acid should be used. It's crucial to consider potential interactions between preservatives and drug particles that may reduce efficacy. Proper storage conditions, such as refrigeration for reconstituted powders, also help maintain the suspension's stability and efficacy .

Innovations in nanotechnology, such as the development of nanosuspensions, have significantly impacted drug suspension formulations by enhancing the solubility and bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs. These fine particle suspensions provide targeted delivery and controlled release, minimizing side effects and improving patient outcomes .

Polymer coatings in drug suspensions have the advantage of improving patient compliance by masking unpleasant tastes and extending shelf life. Polymers like ethyl cellulose and Eudragit are used for encapsulating drugs, making them more palatable and stable. However, they can add complexity to the formulation process and increase production costs .

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