Selective Laser Sintering of Solid Oral Dosage Forms with Copovidone and Paracetamol Using a CO2 Laser

Material suitability needs to be considered for the 3D printing of solid oral dosage forms (SODFs). This work aims to assess the suitability of a CO2 laser (lambda = 10.6 mu m) for selective laser sintering of SODFs containing copovidone and paracetamol. First, physicochemical characterization of powders (two grades of copovidone, two grades of paracetamol and their mixtures at various proportions) was conducted: particle size distribution, morphology, infrared absorbance, flowability, and compactness. Then, printing was launched, and printability of the powders was linked to their physicochemical characteristics. The properties of the sintered SODFs were evaluated (solid state, general aspect, porosity, hardness, drug content and release). Hence, it was found that as copovidone absorbs at the laser's wavelength, sintering was feasible without using an absorbance enhancer. Also, flowability, which mainly depends on the particle size, represents the first control line for sinterability as a fair flow is at least required. Low compactness of copovidone and mixtures reduces the mechanical properties of the SODFs but also increases porosity, which can modulate drug release. Moreover, the drug did not undergo degradation and demonstrated a plasticizer effect by lowering the heating temperature. In conclusion, this work proves the applicability of CO2 laser SLS printer to produce SODFs.

Automated summary

This study assesses the suitability of CO2 laser for selective laser sintering of solid oral dosage forms containing copovidone and paracetamol, proving the feasibility of this method. Physicochemical characterization of powders and evaluation of sintered SODFs properties were conducted, demonstrating the applicability of CO2 laser SLS printer for producing SODFs.