Main Article Content
Abstract
Aim: The aim of the study was to design, formulate and characterize famotidine floating matrix tablets employing three grades of Methocil (HPMC) i.e., K4M, HPMC K15M and HPMC K100M.
Materials and methods: Controlled release floating matrix tablets were prepared using wet granulation method employing drug and polymers in four ratios (1:0.5; 1:1; 1:5 and 1:2). Characterization was done on prepared formulations, such as drug-excipient interaction, in vitro buyoncy, swelling, in vitro dissolution and accelerated stability studies.
Results: FTIR, DSC and XRD studies on the formulations showed no interaction of famotidine with the polymers employed in the study. Most of the tablet formulations showed values within the official limit upon pre and post- compression evaluation. The type of polymer affected the drug release rate and the mechanism. Polymer swelling was crucial in determining the drug release rate flotation. A lesser FLT could be achieved by increasing the concentration and increasing the viscosity grade of the polymer. The optimized formulation (FS4) offered best controlled release along with floating lag time of 1min and total floating time of >14 h. Good stability was observed for 3 months during accelerated stability studies.
Conclusion: The optimized formulation FS4 employing famotidine:HPMC K4M in the ratio of 1:1 showed sufficient release for prolonged period, the dose could be reduced and the possible incomplete absorption of the drug could be avoided.