What is the primary purpose of binders in tablet formulations?

The primary purpose of binders in tablet formulations is to help form granules and impart cohesive properties. Binders are substances that, when added to a powder mixture during the tablet manufacturing process, facilitate the agglomeration of particles. This aggregation of powders is essential for creating uniform granules that have the desired density and size, contributing to the overall tablet integrity.

Cohesive properties are important because they ensure that the granules hold together within the tablet matrix, which is crucial for maintaining tablet hardness and preventing disintegration during handling and transport. The effective use of binders also promotes uniformity in drug distribution within the tablet, ensuring consistent release and efficacy.

In contrast, enhancing flavor, increasing solubility, or providing color are functions typically associated with other excipients or additives in pharmaceutical formulations, each serving distinct roles that do not align with the primary function of binders. For example, flavoring agents are specifically included to enhance the palatability of the dosage form, while solubilizers are used to improve the dissolution characteristics of active ingredients. Colorants may be employed for aesthetic appeal or to distinguish between different medications but do not participate in the mechanical stability of the tablet itself.