Direct Compression of Piracetam

Abstract

It is demonstrated that piracetam undergoes plastic deformation during compression. Incorporation of magnesium stearate dramatically reduces the mechanical strength of the tablets. This effect is much less pronounced when using glyceryl behenate as a lubricating agent.

Silicon dioxide on the contrary increases to a great extent the tensile strength of piracetam tablets. This advantageous impact remains unaffected by addition of magnesium stearte on condition that the drug is mixed with silicon dioxide prior to the addition of the lubricant.