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Introduction Microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) is the commonly used pelletization aid in wet extrusion-spheronization processes. MCC has the structure of cellulose I and is denoted as MCC I. Recently, MCC II, a different polymorphic type of MCC, became commercially available, known under the name MCC SANAQ®burst. Due to the fact, that MCC II can be used as a filler and a disintegrant in tableting, MCC SANAQ®burst was investigated as new pelletization aid with the goal to prepare disintegrating pellets. Materials MCC II pellets were compared to the corresponding conventional pellets, manufactured on the basis of MCC I, namely Avicel® PH 102. Formulations with 10%, 20%, and 50% of either MCC I or MCC II as pelletization aids were produced. Methods One series of binary mixtures, contained lactose monohydrate as filler and a second series chloramphenicol as model drug. All pellets were characterized by their yield, aspect ratio, equivalent diameter, water content, tensile strength, disintegration behavior and-if applicable-drug release. Results and DiscussionThe production of pellets with sufficient quality properties by addition of 10%, 20%, and 50% of MCC II as pelletization aid was possible. In contrast to MCC I pellets, MCC II-based pellets showed disintegration resulting in a much faster drug release. Conclusion MCC SANAQ®burst is a promising pelletization aid providing disintegrating and fast-dissolving pellets.

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