Good formulas are not created by chance
Not every ingredient is suitable for every dosage form. The optimal form for a formulation is determined by its stability, bioavailability and dosage.
A high-quality formula is much more than a combination of individual vitamins or minerals. Every decision – from the selection of ingredients and their dose to the dosage form – influences the quality of the finished product.
This is why Burgerstein develops each formula individually and on the basis of scientific and pharmaceutical findings. The aim is to coordinate each part in an effective way and to find the best possible solution for the respective area of application.
The properties of an ingredient determine the dosage form. Each raw material (nutrient compound?) has different properties. Some require more space, while others are sensitive to oxygen or moisture. Still others are easier to process as a powder, a tablet or a capsule.
Each product development therefore begins with the question:
which combination and which dosage form are best suited for this product?
Here is an example:
The combination of vitamin C and iron is recommended because vitamin C can improve the absorption of iron in the intestines:
Vitamin C ensures that trivalent iron (Fe³⁺) is converted into divalent iron (Fe²⁺), which can be better absorbed. During this process, however, the vitamin C itself is oxidised and turns brownish.
When iron is combined with vitamin C and other oxidation-sensitive vitamins such as folic acid and beta-carotene, it is important to ensure that these sensitive vitamins do not come into contact with oxygen. A soft gelatine capsule is an ideal dosage form for this product as it protects the sensitive vitamins from the oxidation reactions facilitated by iron.
The right dosage is key
It is not only the choice of ingredients that is important – but also their quantity. The aim of a formula is to combine scientific findings, effective dosages and good suitability for everyday use.
In doing so, our scientific team takes into account, amongst other things:
- The latest scientific findings
- Appropriate dosages
- Stability of the formula
- Tolerability
- Suitability for everyday use
The dosage form is also part of the formula
Whether a tablet, a capsule, granules or powder – this is no coincidence either. Organic magnesium compounds, for example, require a lot of space and are more suitable for tablets, as the ingredients are compressed in this form. Sensitive ingredients such as carotenoids, on the other hand, benefit from a protective soft gelatine capsule. Granules and powders offer more flexibility in terms of dosing: the quantity can be easily adapted to the individual needs of children and adults. They are also well suited to nutrients that are required in larger quantities and therefore require greater volume.
Fewer excipients – whenever possible
Excipients are also carefully selected during development. The aim is to use only those that are necessary for production, stability or quality.
Every formula not only needs to be scientifically convincing, but also needs to meet Burgerstein’s stringent quality standards.
Every formula is the result of many decisions
There are many considerations behind every Burgerstein product. Which ingredients are combined? Which dosage form is best? How is the quality maintained until the end of the shelf life?
Only when all these questions have been answered can we create a formula that meets our quality standards.