Optimization of Tablet Formulations Containing

Abstract

An optimized direct compression tablet formulation of a conventional theophylline tablet was developed using the technique of response surface methodology and successive quadratic programming (SQP). The response surfaces were obtained from fitting data generated from a secondorder uniformprecision rotatable hexagonal experimental design. The tablet formulation was optimized for mean in vitro dissolution time using disintegration time, ejection force, friability and hardness, as constraints within the experimental region by the SQP technique. The response surface model was validated by preparing and evaluating the predicted formulation. The characteristics of the tablet formulation were analyzed by principal component analysis. Sensitivity analysis for the optimal solution was performed for each constraint, while all remaining constraints were held constant. The robustness of the response surface model was evaluated by simulation for error in the compression force values.