Formulation Development and Polymer Optimization for Once-Daily Sustained Release Matrix Tablets of Domperidone

Domperidone is a dopamine receptor blocking agent, which acts on the dopamine receptors in the chemo-emetic trigger zone produces an antiemetic effect. The purpose of this study was to develop and optimize the polymer for once-daily sustained release matrix tablets of domperidone. The tablets were prepared by the wet granulation method. Aqueous solution of polyvinyl pyrrolidone was used as granulating agent along with hydrophilic matrix material like HPMC, IM-OR-023 and acrylic polymer e.g. Eudragit RS PM. The granules were evaluated for angle of repose, bulk density, compressibility index and drug content. The tablets were subjected to thickness, hardness, friability,, weight variation test, drug content and in vitro release studies. The granules showed satisfactory flow properties, compressibility, and drug content. All the tablet formulations showed acceptable pharmacotechnical properties and drug release profile. The results of dissolution studies indicated that formulations having different weight ratios of IM-OR-023; and in combination of HPMC with Eudragit could extend the drug release up to 24h. Formulation with drug:IM-OR-023 (1:0.48) was the best formulation of the study, exhibited satisfactory drug release in the initial hour and the total release pattern was very close to the theoretical release profile.