Abstract

DEVELOPMENT OF FAST-DISSOLVING SUBLINGUAL FILMS OF METOPROLOL SUCCINATE: A NOVEL APPROACH FOR HYPERTENSION MANAGEMENT

*Sejal Rohidas Kanade, Sakshi Sanjay Dighe, Akanksha Bhagwan Ghadge, Snehal Santosh Pendbhaje

Abstract

The present study aims to develop and evaluate fast-dissolving sublingual films of metoprolol succinate to enhance its onset of action and improve patient compliance in the management of hypertension. Metoprolol succinate, a selective β1-blocker, undergoes extensive firstpass metabolism, which significantly reduces its oral bioavailability. To overcome this limitation, sublingual films were formulated using the solvent casting method. Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC E15) was selected as the film-forming polymer, while propylene glycol served as the plasticizer. Other excipients like citric acid, sucrose, peppermint oil and distilled water were optimized to enhance the films mechanical properties, taste and patient acceptability. A series of trial batches were prepared and evaluate based on parameter like film thickness, folding endurance, surface pH, Weight Variation. The results confirmed that the films were uniform, flexible, smooth and compatible with the physiological pH of saliva, indicating their suitability for sublingual administration of metoprolol succinate.

Keywords: Metoprolol succinate, Sublingual film, Solvent casting, Fast dissolving film.