Development of stavudine sustained release tablets: In-vitro studies

Abstract

Objective: The objective of the present study was to develop sustained release tablets of stavudine (SVD), an anti-retroviral drug and effect of retardants on drug release. Methods: The sustained release tablets were prepared by wet granulation method. The various batches (F1 to F10) were prepared by altering the process and formulation parameters in order to design ideal formulae for the treatment of infection with better patient compliance. The release retardants were used in the formulation development namely tamarind gum (TG), sodium alginate (SA) and sodium carboxy methyl cellulose (SCMC). Results: Compatibility of the drug with various excipients was studied by FTIR peak matching technique and the ingredients were found compatible with each other. The compressed tablets were evaluated and showed compliance with standard limits. Based on the experimental results, the F9 was considered as an ideal formulation and the release mechanism was monitored with application of mathematical models. Conclusion: From all the evaluation studies, the release of SVD from its dosage from (F9) was sustained and thereby expected to provide patient compliance with reduced frequency of administration and side effects by avoiding the sudden burst release.

Keywords

• SCMC
• SA
• SVD
• TG