Formulation and Evaluation of Sustained Release Verapamil Hydrochloride Using Natural Polymers

The aim of the present study was to develop sustained release formulation of Verapamil Hydrochloride to maintain constant therapeutic levels of the drug for over 12 hrs. Various grades of HPMC polymers, Guar gum, and Xanthum gum were employed as polymers. Verapamil Hydrochloride dose was fixed as 120 mg. Total weight of the tablet was considered as 400 mg. Polymers were used in the concentration of 60, 120 and 180 mg concentration. All the formulations were passed various physicochemical evaluation parameters and they were found to be within limits. Whereas from the dissolution studies it was evident that the formulation (F6) showed better and desired drug release pattern i.e.,96.10 % in 12 hours containing Guar gum polymer in the concentration of 180mg. It followed zero order release kinetics. For the optimized formulation alcohol effect has been studied by using various concentrations of alcohol in dissolution medium. As the concentration of alcohol increased the sustained action of polymer was decreased. Hence it was concluded that alcohol has significant effect on drug release pattern.