Question

‘Picking’ is a term used to describe:

• A. Separation of tablet into two or more layers
• B. The situation when the surface material from a tablet that is sticking to and being removed from the tablet’s surface by a punch
• C. Unequal distribution of colour on a tablet
• D. Partial or complete separation of the top and bottom crowns of a tablet from the main body of the tablet

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The question is asking about the meaning of the term "picking" in the context of tablet manufacturing in pharmaceutics. Let's evaluate the given options to determine the correct answer:

• Separation of tablet into two or more layers: This phenomenon is commonly known as layering or laminating, not picking.
• The situation when the surface material from a tablet is sticking to and being removed by a punch: This accurately describes "picking," which happens when part of the tablet material sticks to the punch surface during tablet ejection or compression.
• Unequal distribution of colour on a tablet: This is generally referred to as mottling and involves uneven colouring, unrelated to picking.
• Partial or complete separation of the top and bottom crowns of a tablet from the main body of the tablet: This describes capping, where the crowns separate, which is different from picking.

Hence, after analyzing the options, the correct answer is: The situation when the surface material from a tablet is sticking to and being removed from the tablet’s surface by a punch. Picking typically occurs when the tablet formulation has properties that enhance adherence to punch surfaces, possibly related to excessive moisture, stickiness, or improper granulation.