Formulation and Evaluation of Floating Matrix Tablets of Tolcapone Using Psyllium Husk Powder by Non-Effervescent Method

The aim of the work is to modify the bioavailability of Tolcapone, by employing non effervescent floating drug delivery (tablet dosage forms) system. Non-effervescent systems are a type of floating drug delivery systems that have been used to boost the gastric residence and the floatation time in the gastrointestinal tract. In the present study of Tolcapone floating matrix tablets were prepared by non effervescent method by using Natural Polymer (Psyllium husk) as floating agent. Psyllium husk is gastric protectant so we can overcome the gastric irritancy caused by the other added chemical excipients. The study included formulation of floating tablets using polymers like Hydroxy Propyl Methyl Cellulose (HPMC K100, & HPMC K15M), Sodium carboxy methyl Cellulose and Eudragit RS100. The tablets were prepared by direct compression technique. Fourier Transform Infra Red Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Differential Scanning Calorimetric – Thermo Gravimetric Analysis (DSC-TGA) studies confirmed that there was no incompatibility between the polymers and the drug. Tablets pre formulation parameters were within the Pharmacopoeias limit. Tablets showed zero lag time, continuance of buoyancy for >12hrs. In- vivo X-ray studies depicted that the tablets continued to float in the Gastro Intestinal Tract for 12hrs. The in-vitro drug release pattern of Tolcapone floating tablets was fitted to different kinetic models which showed highest regression for zero order kinetics & all the formulations followed Non-fickian diffusion. Thus the prepared non-effervescent floating tablet of Tolcapone can be used for the treatment of Parkinsonism for more than 12 hrs with single dose administration.