Excipients for direct compaction--an update.

In 1996, Bolhuis and Chowhan compiled a review of excipients that were used for the direct compaction of tablets. This article updates that review because since that time there has been considerable activity in this area. New single component and coprocessed filler-binders have been introduced. In addition, there have been advances in the understanding of how such substances act and hence how they can be optimally designed.