Matrix properties of a new plant gum in controlled drug delivery

A new plant gum, Okra (extracted from the pods of Hibiscus esculentus), has been evaluated as a controlled-release agent in modified release matrices, in comparison with sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (NaCMC) and hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose (HPMC), using Paracetamol as a model drug. Tablets were produced by direct compression and the in-vitro drug release was assessed in conditions mimicking the gastro intestinal system, for 6 h. Okra gum matrices provided a controlled-release of Paracetamol for more than 6 h and the release rates followed time-independent kinetics. The release rates were dependent on the concentration of the drug present in the matrix. The addition of tablet excipients, lactose and Avicel, altered the dissolution profile and the release kinetics. Okra gum compared favourably with NaCMC, and a combination of Okra gum and NaCMC, or on further addition of HPMC resulted in near zeroorder release of paracetamol from the matrix tablet. The results indicate that Okra gum matrices could be useful in the formulation of sustained-release tablets for up to 6 h.