Dissolution characteristics of divisible tablets

The objective of this work was to study the in vitro dissolution equivalenc e and divisibility of three brands of captopril tablets, applying the table t divisibility assay described in the Portuguese Pharmacopoeia VI (FP VI). At the same time, the physical characteristics (hardness, friability) and r elease characteristics of whole tablets and halves and quarters resulting f rom the division of tablets, were analysed The dissolution test was carried out using a USP paddle apparatus. Captopril tablets (25 mg) with crossed s coring were tested. In this way, captopril doses of 25 mg (one tablet), 12. 5 mg (one half tablet) and 6.25 mg (one quarter tablet) can be administered . The results obtained with tablet halves, and particularly tablet quarters , exhibited broad variations in weight which could give rise to significant differences in plasma levels.