Formulation and evaluation of ranitidine floating tablets using different polymer combinations

Abstract

The current study was designed for preparation of gastro-retentive floating tablet of ranitidine HCl by using polymers ethyl cellulose (EC) and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose and xanthan gum (XG) in an attempt to delay its gastric retention time. The tablets were manufactured by direct compression technique. The outcome of varying concentrations of HPMC, XG and EC on drug release was evaluated. The preparation was augmented on the basis of adequate tablet qualities, total duration of floating, floating lag time and in-vitro drug release. The prepared tablets found to have optimal hardness, low friability, consistent weight uniformity and thickness. Dissolution studies and floating lag time results indicated that formulation F5 showed better and controlled release of drug. The optimized formulation F5 containing 18% HPMC 8% ethyl cellulose and 5% xanthan gum showed 69% drug release within 6 hours, floating lag time was about 1 second and total floating time was 10 hours. The release mode of actions were discovered and elucidated with zero, first order, Higuchi release model and Korsmeyer-Peppas release model. FTIR spectroscopy studies showed no interaction between used polymers and drug. Non-effervescent floating delivery of drug could be a favorable method to attain in-vitro buoyancy. Current approach may enhance the gastric retention time of Ranitidine HCl up to 10 hours, thereby improving its antiulcer activity, thus its bioavailability