Design and characterization of solid dispersion based fast dissolving tablet of Cetirizine hydrochloride

The aim of present investigation was to prepare fast dissolving tablets (FDT) of an antiallergic drug Cetirizine hydrochloride to increase its clinical effects and bioavailability through pre-gastric absorption. The solubility of this poorly soluble drug was enhanced by preparing its solid dispersions with colloidal Silicon dioxide in various ratios. The surface morphology (SEM) of solid dispersion revealed its amorphous form compared to needle shape crystals of pure drug.The optimized batch of solid dispersions (SD3) were characterized by DSC and XRD studies and further developed into FDT by using different concentration of super disintegrants like Sodium starch glycolate and Crosscarmellose sodium via direct compression method. The pre-compression and post-compressive parameters for the designed tablets were evaluated. All formulations showed desired pre and post-compressive characteristics. FTIR study revealed that there was no drug excipient interaction. Formulation (F3) was selected as the best formulation with maximum amount of drug release i.e. 99.98± 0.14% in 6 min and minimum disintegration time of 2.76±0.1 sec. Stability studies of optimized formulation revealed that formulation is stable. Hence, efficacious allergic treatment anywhere and anytime particularly for geriatric, pediatric, mentally ill, bed ridden and patients who do not have easy access to water could be possible.