Formulation and Evaluation of Sustained Release Metoprolol Matrix Tablets Using Natural Gums and Cellulose Derivatives

Background: The aim of this work is to develop tablets of Metoprolol freely water soluble drug. Xanthum gum a naturally available non- toxic compatible with most of the pharmaceutical ingredients and has good stability and viscosity properties over a wide pH and temperature range Methods: Matrix tablets of Metoprolol (Dose 50mg) were produced by wet granulation method by using Drug: Gum ratio of 1:0.5, 1:1, 1:1.5 and 1:2. Magnesium stearate and Talc were added to the formulation to prevent drug, gum adhesion to punch and die. The tablets were analyzed to determine their hardness friability, percentage composition and an in-vitro release studies carried out. The release of Metoprolol from a swollen mass controls the diffusion of drug molecules. Results: The matrices of formulation showed zero order kinetics. Formulation F-V11 having Drug and Xanthum gum ratio 1: 1.5 showed most similar to reference marketed formulation. No chemical interaction between drugs and polymers in formulation was seen and confirmed by FTIR studies. The other cellulose derivatives were used Guar gum, Sodium carboxy methyl cellulose and Ethyl cellulose