MPharm Master of Pharmacy Master of Pharmacy: Pharmaceutical Technology and Drug Delivery Systems 3

Question 1

Which nanoparticle property is measured by the polydispersity index (PDI), and what PDI value indicates a monodisperse distribution?

Accepted Answer

Particle size distribution uniformity; PDI < 0.1

Answer

PDI measures the width of nanoparticle size distribution; a PDI less than 0.1 indicates a very narrow, monodisperse population, which is desirable for reproducible drug delivery.

Question 2

In mucoadhesive drug delivery systems, which polymer property is most critical for achieving strong mucoadhesion?

Accepted Answer

Presence of hydrogen-bonding functional groups (e.g., hydroxyl, carboxyl)

Answer

Mucoadhesive polymers adhere to mucus via hydrogen bonds, electrostatic interactions, and chain interpenetration; functional groups like –OH and –COOH are essential for these interactions.

Question 3

Which in vitro dissolution test apparatus is most appropriate for evaluating drug release from transdermal patches?

Accepted Answer

USP Apparatus 5 (paddle over disk)

Answer

USP Apparatus 5 (paddle over disk) is specifically designed for transdermal drug delivery systems, where the patch is placed on a disk at the bottom of the vessel beneath the paddle.

Question 4

What is 'hot-melt extrusion' primarily used for in pharmaceutical manufacturing?

Accepted Answer

Creating amorphous solid dispersions to enhance solubility of poorly soluble drugs

Answer

Hot-melt extrusion converts crystalline poorly-soluble drugs into amorphous solid dispersions in a polymer matrix, significantly enhancing dissolution rate and oral bioavailability.

Question 5

In self-emulsifying drug delivery systems (SEDDS), what happens upon dilution with GI fluids after oral administration?

Accepted Answer

The lipid-surfactant mixture spontaneously forms an oil-in-water emulsion or microemulsion

Answer

SEDDS contain oil, surfactant, and cosurfactant in ratios that allow spontaneous emulsification under gentle agitation of GI motility, presenting hydrophobic drugs in a finely dispersed, readily absorbable form.

MPharm Master of Pharmacy Practice Test

MPharm Master of Pharmacy Practice Test

MPharm Master of Pharmacy Master of Pharmacy: Pharmaceutical Technology and Drug Delivery Systems 3