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.