In this work, near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) method was used to evaluate the uniformity of dosage units of three captopril 25 mg tablets commercial batches. The performance of the calibration method was assessed by determination of Q value (0.9986), standard error of estimation (C-set SEE = 1.956), standard error of prediction (V-set SEP = 2.076) as well as the consistency (106.1%). These results indicated the adequacy of the selected model. The method validation revealed the agreement of the reference high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) and NIRS methods. The process evaluation using the NIRS method showed that the variability was due to common causes and delivered predictable results consistently. Cp and Cpk values were, respectively, 2.05 and 1.80. These results revealed a non-centered process in relation to the average target (100% w/w), in the specified range (85-115%). The probability of failure was 21:100 million tablets of captopril. The NIRS in combination with the method of multivariate calibration, partial least squares (PLS) regression, allowed the development of methodology for the uniformity of dosage units evaluation of captopril tablets 25 mg. The statistical process control strategy associated with NIRS method as PAT played a critical role in understanding of the sources and degree of variation and its impact on the process. This approach led towards a better process understanding and provided the sound scientific basis for its continuous improvement.

Palavras-chave: Tecnologia analítica de processo; espectroscopia de infravermelho próximo; validação do método; validação de processo; índices de capacidade. ABSTRACTThe Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) for Medicinal Products point out that the pharmaceutical industry must direct efforts to understand the variation of the processes, including the sources, the level of variation and the variation impact on the process in characteristics of the product. The manufacturing process has shown meaningful changes, especially in the introduction of new analytical technologies that allow the process control in real time. The approach based on risk analyses and on the new Pharmaceutical Quality System is a central key for the GMP for the XXI century. The Regulatory Agencies have demanded the pharmaceutical industry to adhere the continuous improvement related to the performance of its processes and, consequently, the product quality. Thus, the present paper aimed the development and validation of the analytical method employing NIR spectroscopy as the assessment of manufacturing process of Captopril 25 mg tablets, using rational scientific approach. Regarding the process assessment, the following tools were adopted: analysis of failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA), control charts, capability indexes, as well as analysis of variance (ANOVA). The near-infrared spectroscopy was selected due to its greater speed in getting the results, simplicity in sample preparation, and multiplicity of analysis from a single reading and provide non-invasive feature. The results confirmed the suitability of this technology in quantitative assessment of Captopril on the steps of mixing powders and compression. The relative standard deviations for the determination of Captopril uniformity in the post mixtures and in the tablets employing NIR were 3,15 e 0,18%, respectively. In reference to the stability assessment and process capacity, the tools adopted permitted the understanding of the sources of variability, as well as the determination of their level in different phases of the process. The capacity indexes relating to Captopril uniformity (% p/v) in the powder mixture, the average weight of the tablet, the content uniformity and the % (p/v) dissolved Captopril, in the dissolution assay were 0,70, 1,94, 1,80 and 2,19, respectively.