What is the primary purpose of applying high pressure during tableting?

The primary purpose of applying high pressure during tableting is to consolidate the powder into a tablet. This process involves compressing the powder mixture to achieve a solid, compact form, which is essential for producing tablets that can maintain their shape, integrity, and dosage uniformity during handling and storage. The application of high pressure helps to bring the particles closer together, leading to strong interparticle bonding, which is crucial for the tablet's mechanical strength and dissolution properties.

While flavor enhancement and color changes may occur during tablet formulation, they are not the primary objectives of applying pressure during the tableting process. Similarly, reducing tablet size does not align with the main goal, which is the formation and stability of the tablet itself rather than merely focusing on its dimensions. Hence, consolidating the powder into a stable form is central to effective tablet production.