Design and in vitro/in vivo evaluation of sustained-release floating tablets of itopride hydrochloride.

PURPOSE

The aim of the present study was to improve the bioavailability of itopride (ITO) and sustain its action by formulating as a floating dosage form.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sustained-release floating tablets of ITO hydrochloride (HCl) were prepared by direct compression using different hydrocolloid polymers such as hydroxypropyl methylcellulose and ethylcellulose and/or methacrylic acid polymers Eudragit RSPM and Carbopol 934P. The floating property was achieved using an effervescent mixture of sodium bicarbonate and anhydrous citric acid (1:1 mol/mol). Hardness, friability, content uniformity, and dissolution rate of the prepared floating tablets were evaluated. The formulation F composed of 28.5% Eudragit RSPM, 3% NaHCO, and 7% citric acid provided sustained drug release.

RESULTS

In vitro results showed sustained release of F where the drug release percentage was 96.51%±1.75% after 24 hours (=0.031). The pharmacokinetic results indicated that the area under the curve (AUC) of the prepared sustained-release floating tablets at infinity achieved 93.69 µg·h/mL compared to 49.89 µg·h/mL for the reference formulation (Ganaton) and the relative bioavailability of the sustained-release formulation F increased to 187.80% (=0.022).

CONCLUSION

The prepared floating tablets of ITO HCl (F) could be a promising drug delivery system with sustained-release action and enhanced drug bioavailability.