DESIGN AND FORMULATION OF TWICE DAILY NIFEDIPINE SUSTAINED RELEASE TABLET USING METHOCEL K15M CR AND METHOCEL K100LV CR Research Article

The purpose of the present investigation was to design and evaluate sustained release tablets of a poorly water soluble drug nifedipine, employing hydrophilic polymers Methocel K15M CR and Methocel K100LV CR and to select the best formulation based on pharmacokinetic studies. Direct compression method was used to prepare matrix tablets. The granules were evaluated for angle of repose, loose bulk density, tapped bulk density, compressibility index and drug content. The tablets were subjected to various tests for their physical parameters such as thickness, hardness and friability. In vitro release study was carried out for 12 hours using USP paddle type dissolution apparatus in phosphate buffer with sodium lauryl sulphate (pH 6.8). Quantitative evaluation by mathematical model indicates that formulation containing HPMC K15M CR and HPMC K100LV CR in a ratio of 1:3 showed better dissolution properties compared to other formulations. Korsmeyer’s plot indicated that the drug release mechanisms from the matrix tablet followed Fickian mechanism. The study indicates that the hydrophilic matrix tablets of nifedipine prepared using Methocel K15M CR and Methocel K100LV CR can successfully be employed as twice-a-day oral controlled release dosage form in order to improve patient compliance.