Hot Melt Extrusion and 3D Printing in the Preparation of Bupropion Tablets Using Different Grades of Ethylcellulose

Dennis Douroumis – Professor, University of Nicosia Athens; Marilena Vlachou – Professor, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens; Angeliki Siamidi – Post-doc, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens

Introduction:

Hot-Melt Extrusion (HME) is an advanced technique for producing molecular dispersions of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) within polymeric and/or lipid matrices, enabling drug delivery systems with controlled, modified, extended, or targeted release [1]. Bupropion (BUP) is one of the drugs that require a personalized approach, as lower or overdoses carry high risk of side effects. In this study, three filament formulations were prepared with 30% BUP, 60% ethylcellulose (7N, 10N, 20N), and 10% xanthan gum. Filaments were pelletized and used in a screw-based 3D printer to fabricate tablets. Morphology was assessed by high-resolution microCT, and the drug release profile was evaluated.