Preparation and optimization of sustained release matrix tablets of metoprolol succinate and taro gum using response surface methodology

Abstract

In the present study, an effort was made to formulate and evaluate matrix tablets of tarogum utilizing metaprolol succinate
as the model drug. 32 full optimization procedure was adopted where two factors are studied at three levels. The amount
of taro gum (X1) and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) K30 (X2) were selected as independent variables. The time required
for 90% of drug release was selected as the dependent variable. Tablets were prepared by direct compression and were
evaluated for various post compression parameters such as tablet hardness, friability, weight variation, drug content and
in vitro dissolution. The results were found to be within the acceptable limits. The release exponent (n) lies between 0.416
and 0.584 indicating drug release from the matrix tablets may be fickian or non‑fickian (anomalous) depending upon the
concentration of natural polymer. T90 was 10.70, 11.20, 12.05, 12.66 h for B6, B7, B8 and B9 batches respectively showing
overriding potential of taro gum, but still the effect of PVP K 30 is noteworthy. PVP K 30 has an indirect effect on all the
factors by increasing tensile strength and making the tablet firm and intact.