Electrospun HPMC/PEO-blend orodispersible films: how slight batch differences affect the crucial mechanical properties

Abstract

Orodispersible films comprise a promising dosage form with a wide range of advantages compared to conventional formulations. The electrospinning process can significantly enhance the relevant characteristics of orodispersible films, e.g., the dissolution rate and the ease of administration. This study involved the use of two types of hydroxypropyl methylcelluloses of low molecular weight obtained from three different manufacturers as the matrix. The SEM, FTIR, RAMAN, and DSC analyses revealed comparable values for all the fabricated materials. However, the mechanical properties of the fibers differed significantly, with electrospun Methocel E5/PEO proving to be particularly brittle. This is probably caused by the different arrangements of substituted methoxy- and hydroxypropyl groups of studied HPMCs. It is hoped that this paper will serve as an example of the extent to which slight differences between HPMC powder batches can dramatically alter the key properties of electrospun orodispersible films.