Understanding the physical stability of freeze dried dosage forms from the glass transition temperature of the amorphous components.

Modulated differential scanning calorimetry has been applied to understanding the long-term physical stability of freeze-dried units. It is known that these units are liable to contract on exposure to elevated temperature or humidity. The contraction occurs when the storage temperature is above the glass transition temperature of the amorphous components in the system. The effect of moisture content on the glass transition temperature of the amorphous components in the system has been studied. By combining this information with the moisture sorption isotherm it has been demonstrated that it is possible to predict the temperature and humidity conditions that will induce contraction of the unit. The magnitude of the glass transition temperature is composed of the contribution of each of the amorphous components in the system. It is proposed that it should be possible to develop a more robust system by the rational selection of excipients that increase the glass transition temperature or by modification of the processing conditions to promote crystallization of components that would otherwise depress the glass transition temperature.