DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND IN-VITRO EVALUATION OF METOPROLOL TARTRATE FAST DISSOLVING TABLETS

The main objective of the study is to formulate and evaluate oro-dispersible tablets of Metoprolol tartrate with suitable superdisintegrantsMetoprolol Tartrate is effective β-blocker used in the second line treatment for angina and for myocardial infarction. Adult dose as conventional preparations is 25-100 mg daily in single or divided doses, as extended release 100-200 mg once daily. The bioavailability of the drug when formulated as conventional tablets is 40 % due to hepatic metabolism. The present investigation was undertaken with a view to develop a fast dissolving tablet of Metoprolol tartrate which offers a new range of product having desired characteristics and intended benefits prepared by direct compression method using different concentrations of superdisintegrant. Effect of superdisintegrant on wetting time, drug content, in-vitro drug release, disintegration time has been studied. Disintegration time increased with increase in the level of Croscarmellose while it decreased for Sodium starch glycolate, the release was dependent on the aggregate size in the dissolution medium. It is concluded that Metoprolol Tartrate fast dissolving tablets could be prepared using superdisintegrant with improved bioavailability and rapid onset of action. Keywords: Fast dissolving tablets, Metoprolol Tartrate, Croscarmellose sodium, Sodium starch glycolate, disintegration time, in-vitro drug release.