GRANULOMETRIC CHARACTERIZATION AND STUDY OF IBUPROFEN LYSINATE BY MEANS OF AN IMAGE-PROCESSOR

This article examines the possibility of using the microscope methods in conjunction with an image processor (Kontron IBAS 2000) to granulom etrically characterise ibuprofen lysinate, a recently discovered solub le salt of ibuprofen (analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic). L ikewise, the advantages this method has over conventional microscope m ethods and other existing procedures are analysed. The methodology app lied is described and the findings reported. The crystal morphology of ibuprofen lysinate is acicular. All parameters determined follow a lo g-normal distribution pattern. As a result, the Feret diameters are th e least representative parameters of this active agent's granulometry. On the other hand, the equivalent diameter is the most representative parameter. From a technological and pharmaceutical point of view, the drugs' appearance is that of a granulometrically homogenous powder. F inally, the article demonstrates that apart from being much easier and much more reliable, the method applied saves a considerable amount of time when compared with the conventional microscope method.