Phinternship 2 - Exam 3

Titanium dioxide is the most commonly used opacifying agent. It is a white pigment that is widely used in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food. It is added to products to provide opacity and whiteness. In the pharmaceutical industry, titanium dioxide is commonly used in tablet coatings to improve their appearance and protect the active ingredients from light and moisture. It is also used in creams, lotions, and sunscreen products to provide a white color and enhance their sun protection properties. Overall, titanium dioxide is a versatile and widely used opacifying agent in various industries.

Avicel is a brand name for microcrystalline cellulose, which is a commonly used excipient in pharmaceuticals and dietary supplements. It is derived from cellulose, a natural polymer found in plant cell walls. Microcrystalline cellulose is often used as a filler or bulking agent in tablets and capsules due to its excellent compressibility and flow properties. It also acts as a disintegrant, helping the tablet break down and release the active ingredient in the body. Therefore, microcrystalline cellulose is the correct answer for Avicel's alternative name.

An ideal suppository base should have properties that make it safe and effective for use. It should be nontoxic and nonirritating to the mucous membrane to prevent any harm or discomfort to the patient. Additionally, it should be compatible with a variety of drugs to allow for flexibility in formulating different medications. Lastly, the base should melt or dissolve in rectal fluids to ensure proper absorption of the medication. Therefore, all of the given options are correct and should be properties of an ideal suppository base.

Unit dose packaging is better if accuracy of dose is required. This is because unit dose packaging involves individually packaging each dose, ensuring precise and accurate measurement. On the other hand, multiple dose packaging involves packaging multiple doses together, which may lead to the possibility of errors in dosage measurement. Therefore, unit dose packaging is preferred when accuracy of dose is a priority.

Tragacanth is the correct answer because it is a naturally occurring dried gum obtained from Astragalus gummifer. It is commonly used as a thickening agent in food and pharmaceutical industries due to its ability to absorb water and form a gel-like consistency. Tragacanth is also used in traditional medicine for its potential medicinal properties, such as reducing inflammation and promoting wound healing.

Chipping refers to the phenomenon of the edges of tablets getting removed. It is a common issue in tablet manufacturing where the edges of the tablet become damaged or chipped off, resulting in an uneven appearance. This can occur due to various factors such as improper compression force, poor tablet design, or inadequate lubrication during the manufacturing process. Chipping can affect the functionality and aesthetics of the tablet, making it important for manufacturers to address this issue to ensure the quality of the final product.

The Limulus Amebocyte Lysate (LAL) test is used to detect the presence of bacterial endotoxin in parenteral products. Bacterial endotoxins are toxic components of the outer membrane of certain bacteria that can cause severe reactions in humans. The LAL test utilizes the blood cells (amebocytes) of the horseshoe crab Limulus polyphemus, which are sensitive to endotoxins. The lysate from these cells is added to the product being tested, and if endotoxins are present, a clotting reaction occurs. This clotting reaction indicates the presence of bacterial endotoxins and helps ensure the safety and quality of parenteral products.

The dip tube is a component of the aerosol that extends from the housing body down into the product concentrate. It is responsible for bringing the formulation from the container to the valve. The dip tube allows for efficient dispensing of the product by ensuring that the formulation is always in contact with the valve, ready to be sprayed. Without the dip tube, the product concentrate would not be able to reach the valve and therefore would not be dispensed properly.

The actuator is the button on an aerosol can that users press to activate the valve assembly. It is responsible for controlling the easy opening and closing of the valve, allowing the contents of the can to be released.

A diluent is an inert substance that is used to increase the bulk of a tablet. It is added to the active ingredients in order to achieve the desired tablet size and shape. The diluent does not have any therapeutic effect, but it helps in the manufacturing process and aids in the swallowing of the tablet by the patient.

Chewable tablets do not require disintegration testing because they are designed to be chewed and dissolved in the mouth before swallowing. The purpose of disintegration testing is to ensure that a tablet will break down and dissolve within a specified time frame in order to release the active ingredients. Since chewable tablets are already designed to dissolve quickly, there is no need for additional testing to confirm their disintegration.

The bioavailability of a drug refers to the amount of the drug that enters the bloodstream and is available to produce a therapeutic effect. Dissolution refers to the process by which a drug dissolves in the gastrointestinal tract and becomes available for absorption. Therefore, the dissolution rate of a tablet directly affects its bioavailability. A tablet that dissolves quickly will release the drug faster, increasing its bioavailability. On the other hand, a tablet that dissolves slowly will release the drug more slowly, decreasing its bioavailability. Therefore, the dissolution property of a tablet is a key factor in determining its bioavailability.

Bloom strength is a measure of the strength of a gelatin capsule. It refers to the ability of the gelatin to form a firm gel and hold its shape. A higher bloom strength indicates a stronger gelatin capsule that is less likely to break or dissolve prematurely. This is an important characteristic to consider in the manufacturing of capsules, as it ensures the stability and effectiveness of the medication or supplement contained within. The other options, friability test, hardness test, and viscosity, are not directly related to the strength of a gelatin capsule.

Bulk packaging is better if the company desires to decrease packaging expenses because it involves packaging products in larger quantities, reducing the cost of individual packaging materials and labor. By packaging items in bulk, the company can save on costs associated with smaller, individual packaging units, such as boxes, wrappers, and labels. Additionally, bulk packaging allows for more efficient transportation and storage, further reducing expenses.

Gelatin capsules are made from gelatin, which is a substance that softens when it comes into contact with water. This softening can cause the gelatin capsule to become distorted and lose its shape. Therefore, aqueous liquids, which contain water, are unsuitable for gelatin capsules as they can soften the gelatin and distort the capsule.

Hand rolling is the oldest and simplest method of suppository preparation. This technique involves manually shaping the suppository mass into a cylindrical shape using the hands. It does not require any special equipment or machinery, making it a straightforward and cost-effective method. Hand rolling allows for precise control over the size and shape of the suppository, ensuring consistency in dosage. This method has been used for centuries and continues to be utilized in certain settings where more advanced manufacturing techniques may not be available or necessary.

The correct answer is "Patient coordination is not required." This is not a disadvantage of a nebulizer because nebulizers are designed to be user-friendly and require minimal effort from the patient. They are easy to use and do not require the patient to coordinate their breathing or timing with the device. The other options listed are actual disadvantages of a nebulizer, such as the need for more electrical power sources, the risk of contamination, and the need for frequent cleaning of the device.

Parenterals are a type of medication that is administered through injection or infusion. The disadvantages of parenterals include the need for aseptic technique to prevent infections, the potential for rapid and intense allergic reactions, and the difficulty in reversing the effects of drugs that have been administered. However, parenterals are actually advantageous for drugs that offer poor bioavailability or those that are rapidly degraded within the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. This is because parenteral administration bypasses the GI tract, allowing for better absorption and effectiveness of these drugs.

Gelatin is a refined and purified protein that has multiple functions such as stabilizing, binding, and gelling. It is commonly used in the production of soft and hard gel capsules. Gelatin helps to provide structure and stability to the capsules, allowing them to maintain their shape and protect the contents inside. It is a popular choice in the pharmaceutical industry due to its versatility and reliability as a gelling agent.

A blister pack is a type of packaging where tablets and capsules are placed in individual cavities made of plastic or aluminum. These cavities are custom-formed to fit the shape and size of the medication, ensuring a secure fit. The blister pack is then sealed to keep the medication protected and maintain its freshness. This type of packaging is commonly used for over-the-counter medications and provides a convenient and tamper-evident way to store and dispense medication.

The given options are examples of different chemical compounds. Polyoxyethylene fatty acid, polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers, and fatty alcohols are all types of compounds that contain polyoxyethylene groups. On the other hand, sorbitan esters are a different type of compound altogether. Therefore, the correct answer is sorbitan esters.

Sedimentation refers to the settling of particles or floccules under gravitational force in a liquid dosage form. This process occurs when the particles or floccules in the liquid become denser than the surrounding liquid and begin to sink to the bottom. Sedimentation is commonly used in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, where it is utilized to separate solid particles from liquid suspensions. It is an important step in the formulation and manufacturing of many liquid dosage forms, ensuring that the final product is uniform and free from any solid particles.

The classification of powder based on particle size where all particles pass through a no. 120 sieve is known as a very fine powder. This means that the particles of the powder are extremely small and can easily pass through a sieve with 120 mesh openings per inch.

Oil-soluble materials have low HLB (Hydrophilic-Lipophilic Balance) values because they have a greater affinity for oil or lipids. On the other hand, water-soluble materials have high HLB values because they have a greater affinity for water. The HLB value is a measure of the balance between the hydrophilic (water-loving) and lipophilic (oil-loving) properties of a substance, and it determines its solubility in water or oil. Therefore, the correct answer is "low, high".

The sedimentation volume refers to the ratio of the ultimate volume of sediment (Vu) to the original volume of sediment (Vo) before settling. This means that it measures how much the sediment settles and compacts over time.

Unit doses are preferable if better protection of the preparation is a priority because they are individually packaged in single-use containers. This packaging method ensures that each dose is protected from contamination and maintains its potency until it is used. On the other hand, multiple doses packaging involves larger containers that are opened and closed multiple times, increasing the risk of contamination and potential degradation of the preparation over time. Therefore, unit doses provide better protection and ensure the safety and effectiveness of the preparation.

Palm oil cannot be used as a non-aqueous parenteral vehicle because it contains a high level of free fatty acids, which can lead to irritation and inflammation at the injection site. Cottonseed oil, corn oil, and sesame oil are commonly used as non-aqueous parenteral vehicles due to their low levels of free fatty acids and compatibility with drug formulations.

Increasing the concentration of disintegrant in tablets may increase the dissolution rate of drugs. Disintegrants are substances added to tablets to promote their breakup and disintegration when in contact with water. By increasing the concentration of disintegrant, the tablets will break down more easily, allowing the drug to be released and dissolved faster in the body. This can lead to quicker onset of action and increased bioavailability of the drug.

Sugar-coated tablets have several advantages, such as protecting from environmental degradation, improving taste and masking odor, and enhancing appearance. However, one disadvantage is that they may add 50% to the weight and bulk of uncoated tablets. This means that sugar-coating can significantly increase the size and weight of the tablet, which may be undesirable for certain patients or make it difficult to swallow.

Twinning refers to the phenomenon of two tablets sticking together. It is more commonly observed in capsule-shaped tablets.

The colors and dyes in tablet formulations serve various purposes, such as disguising off-colored drugs, providing product identification, and producing more elegant products. However, they do not serve the purpose of disguising unpleasant-tasting drugs. This means that the colors and dyes are not used to mask the taste of drugs that may have an unpleasant flavor.

Lubricants are excipients that are added to compressed tablets to reduce friction between the tablet and the die during the compression process. They help in promoting the release of the tablet from the die by preventing sticking or adhesion. By reducing friction, lubricants allow for smooth movement of the tablet within the die, facilitating its release without any damage or deformation. Therefore, lubricants are the excipients that promote the release of the compressed tablet from the die.

Cold cream is an example of a W/O (water-in-oil) type of cream. W/O creams are formulated with water droplets dispersed in an oil base. Cold cream is a thick, emollient cream that is used to moisturize and cleanse the skin. It is made up of water, oil, and an emulsifying agent that helps to stabilize the mixture. The oil base in cold cream helps to provide a protective barrier on the skin, preventing moisture loss and keeping the skin hydrated.

Carrageenan is derived from red seaweed and is a member of the family of polysaccharides. It is commonly used as a thickening and stabilizing agent in various food products. Sodium alginate and alginic acid are also derived from seaweed but are not specifically mentioned as members of the polysaccharide family in the given statement. Therefore, the correct answer is carrageenan.

The term "shelf life" refers to the length of time that a drug remains within the required specification. It indicates the period during which a drug can be stored and used safely and effectively. This includes factors such as storage conditions, expiry date, and stability. Therefore, "shelf life" is the most appropriate term that encompasses all these aspects related to the duration of a drug's effectiveness and safety.

The chilsonator is not considered a wet granulator because it is a dry granulation process. Wet granulators involve the addition of a liquid binder to the powder mixture, which then forms granules through a wet massing and drying process. Sheer granulators, high-speed mixers, and fluidized-bed granulation are all examples of wet granulation techniques.

In tablet manufacturing, the large, poorly-formed, compacted mass produced by the dry granulation method is called "slugs". Slugs are formed by compressing the powdered ingredients without the use of any liquid binding agents. These slugs are then further processed to form tablets by breaking them down into smaller particles and compressing them into the desired tablet shape.

Layered compression is the best method for compression of two incompatible ingredients because it involves compressing the ingredients in separate layers. This allows for the ingredients to be kept separate and prevents any potential reactions or incompatibilities between them. By layering the ingredients, their individual properties can be maintained while still achieving compression. This method is particularly useful when dealing with ingredients that have different particle sizes, densities, or chemical properties that may not be compatible when mixed together.

Beeswax is used as a glossant in sugar-coated tablets. It is a natural wax produced by honey bees and is commonly used in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. Beeswax helps to give a smooth and shiny coating to the tablets, making them easier to swallow and improving their appearance.

Zeta potential is the potential difference across phase boundaries between solids and liquids. It plays a crucial role in governing the degree of repulsion between adjacent, similarly charged, dispersed particles. If the zeta potential is reduced below a certain value, the attractive forces between particles exceed the repulsive forces, causing the particles to come together. Therefore, all of the statements mentioned in the options are true about zeta potential.

A roller mill uses attrition as a mechanism of size reduction. Attrition refers to the wearing down of particles by rubbing against each other or against a solid surface. In a roller mill, the material is crushed between two rollers that rotate in opposite directions, causing attrition between the particles. This results in the reduction of particle size as the material is gradually broken down into smaller fragments. Therefore, attrition is the correct mechanism of size reduction used by a roller mill.

Pulverization by intervention is the correct answer because this method involves using an external force or intervention to break down gummy substances or hard, crystalline powders that are difficult to crush or triturate. In this process, an additional substance is added to aid in the pulverization, such as a liquid or a solid that can absorb the substance being pulverized. This method is commonly used in the pharmaceutical industry to prepare powders for various applications.

Magnesium stearate is not considered a soluble lubricant because it is insoluble in water. Soluble lubricants are substances that can dissolve in water or other solvents to form a lubricating film. PEG, polyoxyethylene stearates, and SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate) are examples of soluble lubricants commonly used in various industries.

When a liquid is broken up into small particles in emulsions, the surfactant or emulsifying agent adsorbs at the global interface. This means that the surfactant molecules accumulate at the interface between the liquid particles and the surrounding medium. The adsorption of the surfactant molecules at the interface reduces the interfacial tension between the oil and water phases, causing it to decrease. Therefore, the correct answer is "adsorption; decrease."

Triethanolamine stearate is not considered a hydrophilic polymer because it is a surfactant and emulsifier rather than a polymer. Hydrophilic polymers have a high affinity for water and can absorb and retain large amounts of water. Methylcellulose, hydroxymethylcellulose, and polyacrylic acid are all examples of hydrophilic polymers commonly used in various applications due to their ability to interact with water molecules.

Glycerol-gelatin suppositories do not require preservatives because glycerol, which is a major component of the base, has antimicrobial properties. This means that it can help prevent the growth of microorganisms and therefore eliminate the need for preservatives.

A fluidized-bed dryer is an example of a convective dryer. In this type of dryer, the material to be dried is suspended in a stream of hot air or gas, creating a fluidized bed. The hot air or gas flows through the material, transferring heat and moisture, resulting in efficient drying. This method is commonly used in industries such as food processing and pharmaceuticals. Vacuum oven and microwave radiation are not examples of convective dryers as they use different mechanisms for drying.

Ethyl ether can be used as a co-solvent with alcohol in collodions. Collodions are solutions of pyroxylin (nitrocellulose) in a mixture of alcohol and ether. Ethyl ether is commonly used as a co-solvent in collodions due to its ability to dissolve both the pyroxylin and alcohol, allowing for a homogeneous solution. It also helps to improve the spreading and drying properties of the collodion.

Bulk packaging is better if flexibility of dose is the priority. This is because bulk packaging allows for the dispensing of varying doses according to individual needs. It provides the flexibility to adjust the dose based on specific requirements, making it suitable for situations where different doses may be necessary for different individuals or circumstances. On the other hand, unit dose packaging typically contains pre-measured doses, which may not offer the same level of flexibility in adjusting dosages.

Glycerol-gelatin suppository bases require a mold lubricant because glycerol-gelatin is a sticky and adhesive substance. A mold lubricant is necessary to prevent the suppository from sticking to the mold during the manufacturing process. This lubricant helps in easy removal of the suppository from the mold without causing any damage or deformation. Other suppository bases like synthetic fats, macrogols, and PEG do not require a mold lubricant as they do not possess the same sticky properties as glycerol-gelatin.