Formulation and In Vitro Characterization of Sustained Release Matrix Tablets of Metoprolol Tartrate Using Synthetic and Natural Polymers

The aim of current study was to formulate sustained release (SR) matrix tablets of metoprolol tartrate by using synthetic Eudragit L100 and natural polymers pectin, and acacia that were economical in requisites of developing cost by direct compression method. FTIR study showed that drug and polymers used were compatible. Blends of powder and tablets were assessed by different pre and post-compression parameters. In vitro release was carried using different media like 0.1 N HCl, Distilled water and pH 6.8 phosphate buffers. Results showed that by combining the different concentration of polymers the release retarding effect was in sustained manner. Most of formulations followed Higuchi model and non-fickian diffusion was involved in drug release process. Statistical analysis showed non-significant results. Similarity factor f(2) indicated that F8 a combination of natural and synthetic polymers was most similar to reference product. Combination of hydrophilic and hydrophobic polymers can be used to formulate the SR tablets of metoprolol tartrate.