Multilayer tablets are an innovative form of drug formulation consisting of two or more layers of different drugs or excipients compressed together to form a single tablet. These layers can be layered with different technological means to achieve drug layering and can control the rate and timing of drug release. Multi-layer tablets have a wide range of applications in drug therapy and can be used for extended release of single drugs, multi-drug combination therapy, and time series therapy.

Protheragen-ING specializes in comprehensive multilayer tablet design and development services with a focus on zero-order sustained release, fast/slow delivery systems, and time-programmed delivery systems. Our experienced team of formulation scientists combined with advanced technologies and precise manufacturing processes allow us to create customized multilayer tablet designs that meet specific therapeutic requirements.

Fig. 1 Schematic of tablets containing multiple drugs. (A) Multilayer device and (B) DuoCaplet. (Giovanny F, et al. 2016)

Advantages of Multilayer Tablets

• Flexible drug combinations - Combine different drugs together to achieve multi-drug combinations for improved therapeutic efficacy.
• Compatibility of Incompatible Ingredients - Incorporating incompatible active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) or excipients into different layers prevents drug-drug interactions and maintains the stability and efficacy of each ingredient.
• Controlled Release Rates - Design different layers and drug release mechanisms to achieve precise control of drug release rates to meet individualized therapeutic needs.
• Targeted therapy - Designing drug release profiles to target specific areas of the gastrointestinal tract to enhance drug absorption and minimize side effects.

Multilayer Tablet Design

The design of multilayer tablets is a complex and critical process. Our team of experienced formulation scientists and pharmaceutical engineers work closely with clients to develop customized multilayer tablet designs. We consider factors such as drug properties, drug compatibility, release profiles, target sites, stability, and patient requirements to create optimized tablet designs that meet specific therapeutic goals.

Our multilayer tablet development services cover a wide range of multilayer tablet types, including but not limited to the following:

• Delayed-release multilayer tablets: By controlling the layers and release mechanisms of the drug, we achieve delayed release of the drug to improve its efficacy and duration of treatment.
• Combination therapeutic multilayer tablets: combining multiple drugs together, realizing combined therapy through different release mechanisms, and improving the therapeutic effect.
• Time sequence therapeutic multilayer tablets: different drugs are layered according to time sequence to realize timed release and meet specific therapeutic needs.

Technologies Usd for Multilayer Tablets

In the development of multilayer tablets, we employ advanced technologies to achieve drug layering and controlled release, including but not limited to the following technologies:

• Layering technologies: We utilize various layering technologies, such as direct compression, dry granulation, or compression coating, to achieve uniform layer distribution and tablet integrity.
• Coating Technologies: We utilize advanced coating technologies such as film coating, enteric coating, or sustained release coating to provide protection and controlled delayed release or controlled release rates of the drug in each layer.
• Analytical Methods: Our laboratories are equipped with state-of-the-art analytical instruments to evaluate the quality, homogeneity, and stability of multilayer tablets during development and manufacturing.

Fig. 2 Schematic presentation of the bi-layered tablets in the impermeable capsule body. (Sah ML, et al. 2012)

Multilayer Tablet Production Process

1. Selection of suitable drug combinations and formulations based on API properties and therapeutic needs.

2. Pre-treatment of APIs and excipients, including operations such as crushing, screening, and mixing, to ensure homogeneity and stability of drug particles.

3. Preparation of multilayer tablets using suitable techniques according to design requirements.

4. If required, the multilayer tablets are coated using coating technology.

5. The manufactured multilayer tablets are inspected and quality controlled to ensure that they meet the drug standards and requirements.

6. Our packaging experts carefully pack multilayer tablets to ensure stability and provide clear instructions for use.

Contact us today to discuss your multilayer tablet design needs and explore how we can help you develop an innovative drug delivery system.