Abstract

EFFECT OF VARIOUS OSMOGENS ON DRUG RELEASE PROFILES OF SELF PORE FORMING OSMOTIC TABLETS OF AZATHIOPRINE

K. Ranjeeth Reddy*, M. Rajendar and G. Kiran

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to formulate and evaluate self pore forming Osmotic ally controlled drug delivery system of azathioprine. Azathioprine is an oral anti-rheumatic agent which belongs to BCS class II with relatively short elimination half life of 3-5 hours. The main objective to formulate this system was to achieve zero order release for azathioprine. The present study was also aimed to develop a system that would reduce the frequency of dosing and thus increases patient compliance. Cellulose acetate was used as a film forming polymer. PEG 400 was used as plasticizers. PVP-K30 was used as pore forming agent. Acetone and isopropyl alcohol were used as solvent. Single and combination of Combinations of Mannitol, Lactose, sodium bicarbonate and potassium chloride were used as osmotic agents. Sodium lauryl sulphate was used as wicking agent. This system was developed in two stages: (a) formulation of core tablet and (b) coating of tablet core. Core tablets were evaluated for content uniformity, hardness and weight variation etc, while coated tablets were evaluated for percentage weight gain and in vitro release study. Effect of varying the concentration of pore forming agent on release rate was studied. Effect of various osmogens differing in osmotic pressure on release rate was also evaluated. Film was characterized by SEM studies.

Keywords: Azathioprine, Potassium chloride, Mannitol, Lactose, Sodium bicarbonate, cellulose acetate, PVP-K30, sodium lauryl sulphate.