This may surprise you, but there are seven compendial dissolution apparatuses in the USP! In addition to these seven apparatuses, there are many other adaptations that may be used for different products. When should you pick baskets for your dissolution method, and what are some key factors when working with them?
Baskets are USP Apparatus 1 and are the first standardized apparatus added to the USP. Baskets are the second most common apparatus used in methods today and is very versatile for a variety of dosage forms. This apparatus should be considered when you have a product that you want contained/suspended to prevent floating of dosage forms as well as avoid coning issues on the bottom of the vessel. Baskets are also appropriate when gentler mixing is appropriate.
When working with baskets, it is important to realize that a basket does not mix well compared to the other USP apparatuses. Rotating a cylinder does not create much mixing! Knowing this, you need to take care to ensure that the baskets being used are kept in good condition (not bent, dented, etc.) since these deformations can increase mixing and make results more variable. For the same reason, it is important that you use the 3-clip attachment for the baskets on the shaft, since they also are part of the mixing.
40-mesh baskets are the standard in USP <711>, but there are many other basket types available. If your basket is clogging with 40-mesh, more open baskets are available such as 10- and 20-mesh baskets as well as slotted baskets. If your product falls out of the basket, there are many options for higher mesh baskets as well. For larger or smaller dosage forms, there are even bolus and mini baskets available.
Baskets are fragile, and should always be handled and cleaned with care. Only remove and attach baskets by the top ring. Cleaning baskets can be done effectively rinsing them in the sink, followed by sonication in alcohol. Always store baskets in a protected case when not in use.
Read also:
Resource Person: Ken Boda (Dissolution Product Specialist at Agilent Technologies)
