FORMULATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF FAST DISSOLVING TABLETS OF ANTIEMETIC DRUG
Kalyani Tamrakar, V. P. Gupta, Bhupendra Tiwari
ABSTRACT
The aim of this study was to formulate and evaluate fast-dissolving tablets (FDTs) of Metoclopramide, an antiemetic drug, to improve patient compliance, especially for those who have difficulty swallowing tablets. Various formulations of Metoclopramide FDTs were prepared using different excipients, including sodium starch glycolate, croscarmellose sodium, and magnesium stearate, through direct compression. Pre-compression parameters such as loose bulk density, tapped bulk density, Carr’s index, and Hausner’s ratio were determined to assess the powder flowability. Post-compression parameters including hardness, friability, weight variation, thickness, and drug content were evaluated, showing that all formulations met the official standards for fast-dissolving tablets. The disintegration time of the formulations ranged from 65 to 96 seconds, with F3 showing the fastest disintegration (65 ± 4 seconds). In-vitro drug release studies revealed that F3 exhibited nearly complete release of Metoclopramide (98.74%) within 15 minutes. The release data followed the Higuchi model, indicating a diffusion-controlled release mechanism. The optimized formulation F3 demonstrated excellent characteristics, including rapid disintegration, optimal drug release, and good physical properties. These findings suggest that F3 is a promising formulation for rapid antiemetic relief and can enhance patient compliance.
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