ABSTRACT
Background and purpose of study: In the present investigation, sustained release tablets of diclofenac sodium were formulated using guar gum and gum arabic (gum acacia) as release modifier.
Methods: Six batches of sustained release matrix tablets of diclofenac sodium were prepared by using different drug:polymer ratios viz., 1:1, 1:1.5, 1:2, 1:2.5, 1:3, and 1:3.5 for both guar gum and gum acacia. The tablets were evaluated for physical characteristics like hardness, weight variation, fraibilty, and drug content. In vitro release of drug was studied in phosphate buffered saline (pH 7.4) for twenty four hours.
Results: All the physical characters of the formulated tablets were found to be within acceptable limits. The tablets with guar gum exhibited greater swelling index than those with gum acacia. A better controlled drug release (98.7%) was obtained with the matrix tablet (F1) made-up of the guar gum.
Conclusion: It is clear through the dissolution profile of matrix tablets prepared using guar gum and gum acacia that these polymers have ability to retard drug release for 24 hrs.