Evaluation of Homogeneity of Effervescent Tablets Containing Quercetin and Calcium Using X-ray Microtomography and Hyperspectral Analysis

Drug stability describes its ability to maintain physical, chemical, therapeutic, and microbiological properties during storage. The study aimed to assess whether there are any differences in the homogeneity of the effervescent tablets containing quercetin and calcium using hyperspectral imaging and X-ray microtomography. We analyzed unexpired, expired, as well as stressed tablets which were stored at 40 ℃ for 14 days. Both unexpired and expired tablets met the pharmacopoeial requirements. The homogeneity analysis showed significant differences between the three types of tablets. In addition, significantly higher reflectance values in the visible and near-infrared range were observed in unexpired tablets compared to expired and stressed tablets (p = 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). The X-ray microtomography showed that the densities of unexpired and stressed tablets were significantly higher compared to the density of expired tablets (p < 0.001). The changes in tablets' homogeneity may indicate possible physical changes in effervescent tablets during storage, especially in conditions deviating from those recommended by the manufacturer.