Formulation and evaluation of Ficus glomerata mucilage sustained release matrix tablets of gliclazide

The main aim of present investigation was to develop sustained release matrix tablets of Gliclazide using fruit mucilage from the plant Ficus glomerata. Varying ratios of drug and polymer viz. 1:0.25, 1:0.5, 1:0.75, 1:1.0 and 1:1.25 were selected for the study. The flow properties of powdered mucilage and physical properties of matrix tablets were performed. The swelling behavior and release rate characteristics were studied. The in vitro drug release data was analyzed by zero order, first order, Higuchi plot, Peppas plot and Hixon-Crowell Models. It was observed that as the proportion of mucilage increased the release of drug from the matrix tablets was retarded. Stability studies were conducted at 40±2ºC and RH 75±5% for 3 months indicates that Gliclazide was stable in the matrix tablets. The Differential Scanning Calorimetric (DSC) and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) study revealed that there was no negative chemical interaction between drug and the mucilage used. From the dissolution study, it was concluded that dried Ficus glomerata mucilage can be used as an excipient for making sustained release matrix tablets.