A new BASF tablet coating system enables individual, on-site production of tablet coatings in countless shades from only seven basic colours.
The system combines BASF's Kollicoat water-soluble IR film former with a new production process and novel colour concept making tablet coating production more efficient.
Kollicoat IR has low viscosity and allows a shorter spray process because it can accommodate high concentrations of solids, the company says. As a result, pharmaceutical manufacturers can cut their energy bills and reduce CO2 emissions in the production process. In addition the granules are dust-free and have excellent flowability, which simplifies handling during the production process.
BASF says Kollicoat IR is a graft copolymer composed of polyethylene glycol and polyvinyl alcohol and because it is flexible does not require any additional plasticiser. The polymer dissolves rapidly in the stomach, resulting in prompt release of the active substance and rapid onset of action after the tablet is swallowed.
The tablet's striking colour supports and enhances treatment compliance and also prevents mix-ups during tablet production.