Author(s): Vinod R
The purpose of the present study was to formulate the nicorandil sustained release matrix tablets by using Mangifera indica gum as rate controlling factor and to evaluate drug release parameters as per various release kinetic models. The Mangifera indica gum is extracted and evaluated for physicochemical and phytochemical property using official procedures. The tablets were prepared by wet granulation method. The granules were evaluated for angle of repose, loose bulk density, tapped bulk density and compressibility index, showed satisfactory results. All the granules were lubricated and compressed and were evaluated for uniformity of weight, content of active ingredient, thickness, friability, hardness and In-vitro dissolution studies. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) study revealed that there was no chemical interaction between drug and the gum used. All the formulation showed compliance with Pharmacopoeial standards. In-vitro drug release studies were carried out using USP 35/NF 30 dissolution apparatus type II at 50 rpm (rate per minute). The in-vitro release study of matrix tablets were carried out for 12 h. The prepared matrix tablets were shown 97.8%, 96.5%, 96.8%, 90.7% and 86.5% release over a period of 12 h. A better sustained drug release of 96.8% was obtained with formulation F3 at the end of 12 h. Optimized formulation F3 was subjected to stability studies for three months, which showed stability with respect to release pattern. Mathematical analysis of the release kinetics indicated that the nature of drug release from the matrix tablets was dependent on gum concentration and it was found to be diffusion coupled with erosion.