Abstract:
In the present investigation an attempt has been made to increase therapeutic efficacy, reduced frequency of administration and improved patient compliance by developing controlled release matrix tablets of Losartan Potassium. Sustained release matrix tablets were developed using different drug polymer ratios and prepared by direct compression method. The influence different concentrations and nature of polymer was studied. The tablets were evaluated for preformulation studies like angle of repose, bulk density, compressibility index and physical characteristics like hardness, weight variation, friability and drug content. In-vitro release of drug was performed in PBS pH 6.8 for 24 hours. All the physical characters of the fabricated tablet were within acceptable limits. Drug-excipient interaction was evaluated by Differential scanning calorimetry and FTIR. There was no drug excipient interaction. The tablet with xanthan gum (F4) in the ration of drug: polymer (1:2) exhibited greater swelling index and better dissolution profile than those with pectin, xanthan gum, sodium alginate and pectin. Optimized tablet formulation (F4) containing xanthan gum showed no change in physical appearance and dissolution profile upon storage at 40°C/75% relative humidity for three months. The drug release of optimized formulation follows the Higuchi kinetic model, and the mechanism is found to be non-Fickian /anomalous according to Korsmeyer–Peppas equation. Compared to conventional tablets, release of losartan potassium from these matrix tablets was prolonged, leading to achieve an effective therapy with low dosage of the drug, to reduce the frequency of medication.

Keywords: Guar Gum, Pectin, Xanthan Gum, Sustained Release Matrix Tablets, Losartan Potassium.