Chapter- 7

Powders-I

Mr. Ashutosh Jain

Assistant Professor,
Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Pharmacy,
Faculty of Pharmaceutical Science & Technology,
AKS University Satna, (M.P.)

ABSTRACT

Powders are finely divided solid dosage forms containing one or more active pharmaceutical
ingredients (APIs) and excipients. They can be used internally or externally and are often the
basis for other dosage forms such as tablets and capsules. The definition of powder highlights
its physical state and versatility in pharmaceutical formulations. Powders can be classified
based on their particle size, intended use, and method of preparation. For example, they are
categorized as bulk powders, which are supplied in large quantities, and divided powders,
which are individually packaged in unit doses. Other classifications include effervescent
powders, which release gas when in contact with water, and dusting powders, which are
applied to the skin for therapeutic or protective effects. The advantages of powders include
their stability and long shelf life compared to liquid formulations. They offer flexibility in
dosing, as they can be easily measured and adjusted. Powders are also suitable for patients
who have difficulty swallowing tablets or capsules and can be administered in various ways,
including orally, topically, and through inhalation. However, powders have certain
disadvantages. They can be inconvenient to handle and store due to their bulkiness and the
potential for spillage and dust formation. The uniformity of dose can be challenging to
achieve, especially in bulk powders. Powders can also be hygroscopic, absorbing moisture
from the air, which may affect their stability and efficacy.

7.1 Introduction

Definition
Powders are solid particles that can be used alone or mixed with other substances to create a
dosage form. They are often used to deliver drugs or active ingredients in a fine, easily
dispersed form.

Types of Powders
1. Bulk Powders: These are large quantities of powder, usually packaged in containers
or bags. They are often intended for reconstitution or mixing before use.
2. Granules: Granules are coarser than powders and are often used to make tablets or
capsules. They are also used in effervescent formulations.

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3. Powdered Drugs: These are drugs in powder form that can be administered directly
or mixed with other substances.

Properties
1. Particle Size: The size of the particles can affect the drug's dissolution rate and
absorption. Powders can be classified as coarse, moderate, or fine, depending on their
particle size.
2. Flowability: This refers to how easily a powder can flow. Good flowability is
essential for accurate dosing and consistent mixing.
3. Compressibility: This indicates how easily a powder can be compacted.
Compressibility is important for tablet formulation.

Preparation
1. Milling: Powders are often produced by grinding or milling substances to achieve the
desired particle size.
2. Sifting: Sifting is used to separate powders based on particle size and ensure
uniformity.
3. Mixing: Powders can be mixed with other powders or excipients to create a
homogeneous blend.

Uses
1. Oral Medications: Powders can be mixed with water or other liquids to form
suspensions or solutions. They are used for drugs that need to be taken in larger doses
or are not stable in liquid form.
2. Topical Applications: Powders can be applied directly to the skin for conditions like
fungal infections or acne.
3. Inhalation: Some powders are used in inhalers for respiratory conditions, where fine
particles are inhaled into the lungs.

Advantages
1. Stability: Powders can be more stable than liquids, reducing the risk of degradation.
2. Flexibility: They can be easily formulated into different dosage forms or combined
with other substances.
3. Taste Masking: Powders can mask the unpleasant taste of certain medications.

Disadvantages
1. Dosing Accuracy: It can be challenging to ensure accurate dosing with powders,
especially when they are not pre-measured.
2. Taste: Powders can have an unpleasant taste, which may be a drawback for oral
formulations.

Examples
1. Antibiotic Powders: Such as amoxicillin, which are reconstituted with water before
use.
2. Antacids: Like calcium carbonate powders used to neutralize stomach acid.
3. Inhalers: Powders used for asthma treatment, such as those containing corticosteroids
or bronchodilators.

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7.2 Classification of Powder

Powders can be classified based on various criteria, including their intended use, particle size,
and composition. Here’s a detailed classification of powders:

1. Based on Intended Use

a. Medicinal Powders:
i. Internal Use: Powders meant to be ingested, usually mixed with water or
other liquids. Examples include antacids and antibiotics.
ii. External Use: Powders applied to the skin or mucous membranes, such as
talcum powder, antifungal powders, or powders used in topical treatments.
b. Pharmaceutical Powders:
i. Bulk Powders: Large quantities intended to be measured and used as needed.
Often used for reconstitution or mixing before use.
ii. Divided Powders: Pre-measured doses, usually in single-use packets or
sachets. Commonly used for oral medications or as topical applications.
c. Industrial Powders:
i. Used in manufacturing processes, such as in the production of tablets or
capsules. Examples include excipients and fillers.

2. Based on Particle Size

a. Coarse Powders: Particles larger than 100 mesh (149 microns). Used in applications
where fine particle size is not critical.
b. Moderately Fine Powders: Particles ranging from 60 to 100 mesh (149 to 250
microns). Common in many pharmaceutical and industrial applications.
c. Fine Powders: Particles smaller than 60 mesh (149 microns). These are used in
applications requiring a more uniform and finer consistency, such as in inhalation
therapies.

3. Based on Composition
a. Simple Powders: Contain a single active ingredient or substance. Examples include
salt or sugar powders.
b. Compound Powders: Mixtures of two or more active ingredients or substances. They
are often used to achieve a specific therapeutic effect or to enhance the properties of
the individual components.

4. Based on Formulation
a. Effervescent Powders: Contain ingredients that react with water to release gas,
creating a fizzy solution. Commonly used in effervescent tablets or powders for oral
solutions.
b. Controlled-Release Powders: Designed to release their active ingredient gradually
over time. Often used in extended-release formulations to provide prolonged
therapeutic effects.
c. Soluble Powders: Dissolve completely in a specified solvent, usually water, to form a
solution. Examples include oral rehydration salts.

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5. Based on Application
a. Inhalation Powders: Designed for delivery via inhalers or nebulizers. These powders
have specific characteristics to ensure effective delivery to the lungs. Examples
include powders for asthma inhalers.
b. Topical Powders: Applied directly to the skin or mucous membranes. Used for their
therapeutic effects, such as in treating fungal infections or providing a protective
barrier. Examples include talc or antifungal powders.

6. Based on the Method of Preparation

a. Milled Powders: Produced by grinding or milling substances. This method is
commonly used to achieve the desired particle size and uniformity.
b. Sifted Powders: Separated based on particle size through sifting. This process helps
to ensure uniformity and consistency in the final product.

7. Based on Stability
a. Stable Powders: Formulations that maintain their potency and effectiveness over
time. Often used for long-term storage.
b. Unstable Powders: Powders that may degrade or lose efficacy over time or when
exposed to certain conditions. These may require special storage conditions or be
formulated with stabilizers.

7.3 Advantages of Powder

Powders offer several advantages as a dosage form, making them a popular choice in
pharmaceuticals and other applications. Here’s a detailed look at the advantages of powders:

1. Stability
a. Long Shelf Life: Powders generally have a longer shelf life compared to liquid
formulations. They are less prone to degradation or chemical changes over time.
b. Reduced Risk of Microbial Growth: Powders are less likely to support microbial
growth, which can be an issue in liquid formulations.

2. Flexibility in Formulation
a. Customizable Dosing: Powders can be easily measured and adjusted to meet specific
dosing requirements. This is particularly useful in compounding medications or when
precise dosages are needed.
b. Versatility: Powders can be formulated for various routes of administration,
including oral, topical, and inhalation. They can also be mixed with other substances
to create new formulations.

3. Ease of Preparation
a. Simpler Manufacturing: The process of preparing powders, such as milling and
blending, can be less complex and more cost-effective compared to liquid
formulations.
b. Quick Reconstitution: Powders can be reconstituted into a liquid form when needed,
allowing for ease of preparation and administration at the point of use.

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4. Improved Stability of Active Ingredients

a. Protection from Degradation: Powders can protect sensitive active ingredients from
environmental factors such as light, heat, and moisture that may cause degradation.
b. Enhanced Shelf Stability: By reducing the amount of water in the formulation,
powders minimize the risk of hydrolysis or other chemical reactions.

5. Taste Masking
a. Palatability: Powders can be used to mask the unpleasant taste of certain
medications, especially when mixed with flavorings or sweeteners. This is particularly
beneficial for oral medications.

6. Ease of Administration
a. Convenient for Patients: Powders can be easily mixed with water or other liquids,
making them suitable for patients who have difficulty swallowing tablets or capsules.
b. Flexibility in Use: For topical applications, powders can be directly applied to
affected areas, providing a straightforward method for treatment.

7. Cost-Effectiveness
a. Lower Production Costs: Producing powders often involves simpler processes and
fewer raw materials compared to manufacturing complex liquid formulations.
b. Reduced Packaging Costs: Powders can be packaged in bulk or in single-dose
packets, which can be more cost-effective than packaging liquids.

8. Controlled Release and Dosage Forms

a. Controlled Release: Powders can be formulated to release their active ingredients
gradually, providing sustained therapeutic effects.
b. Customizable Dosing: They can be divided into specific doses, which allows for
flexibility in adjusting the dosage according to individual needs.

9. Wide Range of Applications

a. Medical: Powders are used for a variety of medical conditions, from antibiotics and
analgesics to vitamins and supplements.
b. Industrial: They are used in manufacturing processes, such as in the production of
tablets, capsules, and other dosage forms.
c. Cosmetic: Powders are used in cosmetics and personal care products, including face
powders, body powders, and exfoliants.

7.4 Disadvantages of Powder

While powders have many advantages, they also come with certain disadvantages that can
impact their use and effectiveness. Here’s a detailed look at the disadvantages of powders:

1. Dosing Accuracy
a. Measurement Challenges: Accurate dosing can be challenging with powders,
especially if they are not pre-measured. Variability in how the powder is scooped or
measured can lead to inconsistent dosages.
b. Potential for Overdose or Underdose: Without precise measurement tools, there's a
risk of administering too much or too little of the active ingredient.

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2. Taste and Palatability

a. Unpleasant Taste: Powders, particularly those containing active pharmaceutical
ingredients, may have an unpleasant taste, which can be off-putting for patients. This
can be a significant issue, especially for children and elderly patients.
b. Taste Masking Challenges: While some powders can be flavored or sweetened,
masking the taste of certain drugs effectively can be difficult.

3. Solubility and Dissolution Issues

a. Insolubility: Some powders may not dissolve well in liquids, leading to gritty or
unpleasant textures. This can affect patient compliance and the effectiveness of the
medication.
b. Variable Dissolution Rates: The rate at which a powder dissolves can impact the
drug’s absorption and therapeutic effect.

4. Handling and Administration

a. Dusting and Mess: Powders can create dust when handled, which can be messy and
inconvenient. Dust can also pose health risks if inhaled.
b. Spillage: Powders can be prone to spillage during preparation or administration,
leading to waste and potential contamination.

5. Storage and Stability

a. Moisture Sensitivity: Powders can be sensitive to moisture, which may cause
clumping, degradation, or loss of potency. Proper storage conditions are necessary to
maintain powder stability.
b. Storage Challenges: Some powders require specific storage conditions (e.g., in
airtight containers) to prevent degradation, which can be cumbersome.

6. Uniformity Issues
a. Inconsistent Mixing: Achieving a uniform blend of ingredients in a powder can be
challenging, especially with multiple components. Poor mixing can lead to uneven
distribution of the active ingredient.
b. Segregation: Components of a powder mixture can separate over time, leading to
inconsistencies in dosing and effectiveness.

7. Patient Compliance
a. Inconvenience: Powders may require preparation, such as mixing with liquids, which
can be inconvenient for patients. This can lead to non-compliance or improper use.
b. Difficulty in Administration: Some patients may have difficulty properly mixing or
administering powders, particularly if they have physical or cognitive impairments.

8. Potential for Contamination

a. Microbial Contamination: Although powders are less likely to support microbial
growth compared to liquids, improper handling or storage can still lead to
contamination.
b. Environmental Exposure: Powders can be exposed to environmental factors, such as
air and moisture, which may affect their quality and safety.

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9. Limited Therapeutic Options

a. Suitability for Certain Drugs: Not all drugs are suitable for powder formulation due
to stability, solubility, or absorption issues. Some medications may be less effective or
less practical in powder form.

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