OPTIMIZATION OF METOCLOPRAMIDE FAST-DISSOLVING TABLETS: FORMULATION, DEVELOPMENT, AND EVALUATION

Abstract

Metoclopramide, a widely utilized antiemetic and gastroprokinetic drug, is renowned for its effectiveness in managing nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal disorders. However, conventional Metoclopramide tablets face limitations related to slow dissolution and delayed onset of action. To overcome these challenges and enhance patient compliance, this study focuses on the formulation, development, and evaluation of Metoclopramide fast-dissolving tablets (FDTs). The optimization process incorporates superdisintegrants like croscarmellose sodium, crospovidone, and sodium starch glycolate to facilitate rapid tablet disintegration and dissolution. Various excipients are assessed for mouthfeel, taste-masking, and tablet stability. The final formulation, prepared through direct compression, undergoes characterization for physical attributes, weight variation, hardness, friability, disintegration time, and drug content. In vitro dissolution studies reveal significantly improved drug release in Metoclopramide FDTs compared to conventional tablets, resulting in quicker absorption and onset of action. The optimized FDT formulation exhibits excellent performance in terms of physical characteristics, disintegration time, drug content, and dissolution rate. These findings indicate the potential of the formulated FDTs as a patient-friendly dosage form, offering enhanced therapeutic efficacy and faster relief from symptoms. Metoclopramide FDTs present a valuable alternative to conventional tablets, particularly beneficial for patients with swallowing difficulties or those requiring swift symptom relief. Subsequent investigations, including stability assessments and in vivo studies, are crucial for confirming the long-term stability, bioavailability, and therapeutic efficacy of the developed Metoclopramide fast-dissolving tablets.

Key words: Metoclopramide, fast-dissolving tablets, Formulation, Evaluation