Formulation and Evaluation of Sustained Release Atorvastatin Tablets Using Natural Polymers, with a Focus on Okra Gum

This research study presents the development and evaluation of sustained-release tablets of Atorvastatin using five distinct natural polymers, namely guar gum, xanthan gum, hibiscus gum, okra gum, and soya bean gum, at different drug-polymer ratios. The formulations underwent rigorous pre-compression and post-compression assessments to ensure their quality and efficacy. The utilization of natural polymers in drug formulations has gained significance due to their cost-effectiveness, biocompatibility, and eco-friendliness. In this study, we investigated the potential of these natural polymers to create sustained-release tablets, a vital need for long-term management of conditions like hypercholesterolemia. Atorvastatin, a BCS class-II drug, was chosen as the model drug for this study, as it plays a crucial role in managing cardiovascular diseases related to high blood pressure. The pre-compression tests ensured that the formulations met pharmacopoeial standards for characteristics such as bulk density, angle of repose, compressibility index, and Hausner's ratio. The post-compression studies confirmed that the tablets exhibited acceptable features, including hardness, friability, and weight variation. In vitro dissolution studies revealed that formulation F8, incorporating okra gum as the rate-retarding polymer, exhibited an impressive 98.5% drug release after 10 hours. This suggest that okra gum holds promise as a natural polymer for designing sustained-release drug formulations. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the use of natural polymers for the controlled release of drugs, particularly Atorvastatin, and could pave the way for further research in this field.