Alex (Host)
Welcome to PharmaCast AI. Today we're exploring the intricate world of extended-release pellets, focusing on proton pump inhibitors like Esomeprazole. I'm Alex, and with me is Dr. Chen, a pharmaceutical scientist.
Dr. Chen (Expert)
Alex (Host)
Hello Alex. This is a fascinating topic. Esomeprazole is an acid-labile drug, meaning it degrades rapidly in the stomach's acidic environment.
Alex (Host)
So, we can't just compress it into a normal tablet?
E
Dr. Chen (Expert)
Exactly. We use a multi-particulate system—pellets. We start with an inert sugar sphere core and layer the drug onto it using a fluid bed coater.
H
Alex (Host)
I've heard about 'enteric coating'. Is that what protects it?
E
Dr. Chen (Expert)
Yes, but there's a catch. The enteric polymers themselves are acidic. If they touch the Esomeprazole directly, they'll degrade it. So, we apply a 'barrier layer' first, then the enteric coat.
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Alex (Host)
So it's Core, Drug, Barrier, then Enteric Coat?
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Dr. Chen (Expert)
Precisely. This ensures the drug survives the stomach and releases only in the small intestine where the pH is higher.
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Alex (Host)
It sounds like a very precise manufacturing process.
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Dr. Chen (Expert)
It is. The thickness of that enteric layer determines exactly when the drug releases. It's a perfect example of how manufacturing science directly impacts patient care.