Studies on formulation and in vitro evaluation of floating matrix tablets of domperidone

Floating matrix tablets of domperidone were developed to prolong gastric residence time and thereby increased drug bioavailability. Domperidone was chosen as a model drug because it is poorly absorbed from the lower gastrointestinal tract. The tablets were prepared by wet granulation technique, using polymers such as hydroxypropylmethylcellulose K4M, carbopol 934P, and sodium alginate, either alone or in combination, and other standard excipients. Tablets were evaluated for physical characteristics viz. hardness, % friability, floating capacity, weight variation and content uniformity. Further, tablets were evaluated for in vitro release characteristics for 24 h. In vitro release mechanism was evaluated by linear regression analysis. Floating matrix tablets based on combination of three polymers namely; hydroxypropylmethylcellulose K4M, carbopol 934P and sodium alginate exhibited desired floating and prolonged drug release for 24 h. Carbopol loading showed negative effect on floating properties but were found helpful to control the release rate of drug.