title: Applications of β-limit dextrin as a matrix forming excipient for fast disintegrating buccal dosage formats.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To compare the properties of buccal delivery matrices (wafers) made with dextrin, β-limit dextrin and pre-gelatinised starch.
  
  
  METHODS
  The constituent α-glucans were tested for their mucoadhesive properties in solution plus their content of crystalline material (differential scanning calorimetry, DSC). Wafers were made by lyophilisation of aqueous solutions/dispersions of the α-glucans. Physical properties of the wafers were evaluated using texture analysis, dissolution coupled to photography and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
  
  
  RESULTS
  The results highlighted how the β-limit dextrins chemical and physical properties were ideally suited for the production of buccal delivery wafers. Dissolution testing confirmed the excellent hydration profile of the β-limit dextrin (within wafers) with time. Using SEM it was evident that the homogeneous "bee-hive" like structure of the β-limit dextrin wafers, unlike the other α-glucans, provided a rapidly hydratable strong porous matrix.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The β-limit dextrin α-glucan makes a superb (lyophilised) mucoadhesive delivery structure for the delivery of active agents to the buccal mucosa.
authors: Glycologic Limited, 70 Cowcaddens Road, Glasgow, UK. e.qi@glycologic.co.uk
authors: Xin
authors: X
authors: Qi
authors: Richard
authors: R
authors: Tester
authors: Yu
authors: Y
authors: Liu
authors: Margaret
authors: M
authors: Mullin
mesh_terms: D000268:Adhesiveness; D000278:Administration, Buccal; D002152:Calorimetry, Differential Scanning; D003460:Crystallization; D003912:Dextrins / Q000737:chemistry*; D016503:Drug Delivery Systems; D005079:Excipients / Q000737:chemistry*; D005612:Freeze Drying; D005936:Glucans / Q000737:chemistry; D008855:Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; D012995:Solubility; D013213:Starch / Q000737:chemistry*; D013997:Time Factors
chemical_list: D003912:Dextrins; D005079:Excipients; D005936:Glucans; D013213:Starch