Fabrication and Analysis of Hydroxypropylmethyl Cellulose and Pectin-Based Controlled Release Matrix Tablets Loaded with Loxoprofen Sodium

The basic purpose of the current study was to formulate controlled release matrix tablets loaded with loxoprofen sodium using pectin and hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose (HPMC). The effect of these polymers on the release pattern of drug from the formulated matrix system was evaluated. Different concentrations of these polymers alone as well as polymeric blends were used in tablets formulation using wet granulation technique. The differential scanning calorimetric technique was used to detect the chemical interactions between ingredients. Precompression studies were done to assess fineness and flow properties of the granules. Hardness, friability, weight variations, and percentage drug contents were calculated for the evaluation of compressed tablets. F9 formulated in the combination of HPMC and pectin in the ratio of 30:10 showed better retardation during dissolution studies. Upon application of statistical models, the diffusion process was found to be dominant for drug release following the Higuchi model. HPMC and pectin were found suitable for the formulation of controlled release matrix tablets.