Abstract

GASTRORETENTVE DRUG DELIVERY OF METOCLOPRAMIDE HYDROCHLORIDE FROM A FLOATING IN SITU GELLING SYSTEM

Samiksha Khadka*, Anil Kumar Shah, Junu Khatri Silwal

ABSTRACT

Floating Drug Delivery Systems (FDDS) are one of the Gastroretentive Drug Delivery Systems (GRDDS) that are advantageous for improving the bioavailability of drugs through prolongation of gastric residence time. Compared to conventional controlled release formulations used in FDDS, in-situ gel forming polymeric formulations possess potential advantages like simple manufacturing process, ease of administration, reduced frequency of administration and improve patient compliance and comfort. The main objective of this research work is to formulate the in-situ gel of an anti-emetic and prokinetic drug Metoclopramide hydrochloride which has a short plasma half life. Hence, a gastro retentive in-situ gel was formulated for easy administration of sustained release dosage form through oral route and to keep the dosage form for a long time in the stomach pH. Twelve different formulations (Fm1-Fm12) were prepared by using completely biodegradable polymers: Sodium alginate and Guar gum, and Calcium carbonate as the crosslinking agent. Their concentrations were varied in order to obtain optimized formulations and they were evaluated for characterizations tests (physical appearance and pH, gelling capacity) and in vitro tests (in vitro release test, determination of drug content). Among all formulations, Fm3 (API 200mg, Sodium alginate 2000mg, Guar gum 600mg, calcium carbonate 1800mg) was found to possess maximum gel strength, floating ability, % drug content and prolonged drug release up to 12 hrs, compared to the others formulations. Thus, the gastro retentive in-situ gel of Metoclopramide hydrochloride is a promising approach for its prolonged, sustained delivery.

Keywords: Metoclopramide hydrochloride; Gastroretentive drug delivery system; Floating drug delivery system; in-situ gel; sustained delivery.