Abstract

DEVELOPMENT AND EVALUATION OF CONTROLLED-RELEASE SWELLABLE MATRIX TABLETS FOR ORAL DELIVERY OF PENTOXIFYLLINE USING VISCOSITY SYNERGISTIC GUM BLENDS

Ms. Pratiksha V. Shrikhande*, Dr. V. N. Shrikhande

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Abstract

Controlled-release solid dosage forms play a crucial role in enhancing drug delivery efficacy. This research focuses on the development and optimization of swellable matrix tablets for controlled release of the vasodilator drug Pentoxifylline. Swellable matrix tablet is the most accepted classification of such systems. Such formulations are prepared by compression of a powdered mixture of one or more hydrophilic polymers and one or more drug(s). The study explores the use of various gum blends exhibiting viscosity synergism, emphasizing the swelling behavior of hydrophilic polymers such as xanthan, guar, and konjac gums. The formulations were evaluated for their effectiveness in retarding drug release, with a detailed analysis of stereophotographs, dissolution studies, and drug release profiles. The main objective of the present investigation was to evaluate the various gum blends that demonstrate viscosity synergism, in the development of controlled release swellable matrix tablet of a water-soluble drug. The results demonstrate the potential of mixed gum systems in achieving effective controlled drug release with reduced gum quantities. This research contributes valuable insights for the design and optimization of swellable matrix tablets for controlled drug delivery systems.

Keywords: Controlled-release, Swellable matrix tablets, Pentoxifylline, Gum blends, Viscosity synergism, Stereophotography, In vitro dissolution studies.