This question is designed to evaluate your knowledge of excipients, which are inactive substances used in drug formulations to aid in the manufacturing process, protect, support or enhance stability, or improve bioavailability or patient acceptability.
How to Answer: 1. Define Excipients: Start by defining what excipients are and their general purpose in formulations. 2. Importance: Discuss the various roles excipients play, such as improving stability, enhancing bioavailability, and ensuring patient compliance. 3. Selection Criteria: Explain the criteria you use to select excipients, such as compatibility with the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API), regulatory considerations, and the specific needs of the formulation (e.g., taste masking, controlled release). 4. Examples: Provide specific examples of excipients you have used in past projects and why they were chosen.
Example Answer: "Excipients are inactive substances that are crucial in the development of pharmaceutical formulations. They serve multiple purposes, such as improving the stability and bioavailability of the drug, and ensuring patient compliance. For instance, in a recent project, I selected microcrystalline cellulose as a filler due to its excellent compressibility and stability. I also used magnesium stearate as a lubricant to ensure smooth tablet manufacturing. The selection process involved evaluating the compatibility of these excipients with the active ingredient and considering regulatory guidelines. This comprehensive approach ensures the development of effective and safe pharmaceutical products."
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