Malvern, UK: Chemical imaging specialists at Malvern Instruments are demonstrating how data derived from reverse engineering of pharmaceutical tablets can aid the fight against counterfeit drugs. Using the SyNIRgi near infrared chemical imaging (NIRCI) system they have been able to collect data detailed enough to characterize the formulation and processes used to create individual dosages. Results can be compared to both the original manufacturer specifications and a database of known counterfeits.

An application note, entitled ‘NIR chemical imaging for tablet deconstruction: A case study for solid dosage forms’ outlines the methodology required to produce this level of information. The free download is available from the Malvern Instrument website at: https://www.malvern.com/nircitablets

SyNIRgi combines the species identification capabilities of conventional near infrared spectroscopy with digital imaging, to answer the questions ‘what?’, ‘how much?’ and ‘where?’. Able to non-destructively analyze powders, granules and tablets of all shapes and sizes, SyNIRgi gives results in minutes. Not only does it have clear applications in counterfeit detection and as a tool for Quality by Design, it also takes the guesswork out of formulation development, speeds up QA/QC and aids rapid troubleshooting in manufacturing. No sample preparation is needed, data acquisition speeds are high, and by simply changing an objective the system can be quickly configured for either microscopic or macroscopic imaging.

To download the application note visit https://www.malvern.com/nircitablets

Malvern, Malvern Instruments and SyNIRgi are registered trademarks of Malvern Instruments Ltd

About Malvern Instruments

Malvern Instruments is a market leader in measuring performance controlling material properties. These include particle size, particle shape, zeta potential, molecular weight, size and conformation, rheological properties and chemical distribution. Malvern delivers the systems, support and expertise that ensure the analytical integrity and productivity needed to drive research, development and manufacturing.

Malvern’s measurement solutions for scientists, technologists and engineers advance continually through customer collaboration. Complementary materials characterization systems deliver inter-related measurements that reflect the complexities of particulates and disperse systems, nanomaterials and macromolecules. Combining intelligently implemented technologies with in-depth industry applications knowledge and support, Malvern provides customers with the competitive advantage they demand.

Headquartered in Malvern, UK, Malvern Instruments has subsidiary organizations in all major European markets, North America, China, Korea and Japan, a joint venture in India, a global distributor network and applications laboratories around the world. www.malvern.com