A method for the preparation of microcrystalline cellulose containing tablets by roller compaction followed by tabletting is disclosed. A tablet formulation is converted to a dry granulate by roller compaction, and the dry granulate lubricated dry granulate and compacted to a tablet. The tablet formulation comprises at least one active, an microcrystalline cellulose containing material, and, optionally other pharmaceutically acceptable excipients. The microcrystalline cellulose containing material has a maximum primary compaction tensile strength of at least 9 MPa or at least 9.5 MPa and a secondary compaction tensile strength of at least 5 MPa, at least 5.5 MPa, or at least 6 MPa.