What are the advantages of direct compression when producing tablets?

Answer 1

Direct compression has not that many processing steps so it is the preferred method for manufacturing tablets. The powders produced are similar sized so it helps reduce segregation. As direction compression helps ensure that all tablets have the same amount of the active pharmaceutical ingredient, it helps to increase their flowability as well.

Answer 2

Direct compression is not that time consuming as it requires fewer steps than other production methods. It also requires relatively less equipment so it is not as expensive as other production methods. The tablets will not be exposed to a lot of heat and moisture so it is suitable for heat or moisture sensitive drugs. The tablets produced in this manner will also have particles available for disintegration so it leads to optimal tablet disintegration.

Answer 3

Direct compression can only be used for certain drugs as it can be difficult to handle high-dose and poorly compressible drug material. The ratio of drug to diluent needs to be controlled where the drug is usually les than 25% of the tablet. If the dose is too high, the diluent may not be able to have enough binding effect for the particles. It may also result in a tablet which is too large in size. Special diluents to be used for direct compression such as spray dried lactose, Avicel, and Emcompress. Direct compression may also lead to he segregation of powders when the materials are being mixed or pressed.