Formulation and evaluation of sustained release matrix tablets of capparis erythrocarpos roots extract to improve patient compliance in management of arthritis

Abstract

Capparis erythrocarpos is used in the management of arthritis in Ghana and some other African countries. In Ghana, the powdered form of Capparis erythrocarpos is prescribed and dispensed to patients for the management of arthritis. In the present study, Capparis erythrocarpos controlled release tablets were successfully prepared by wet granulation method. Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose and Xanthan gum were used as drug release modifying polymers in varying ratios of (1;1), (1;2) and (1;3) respectively. The formulated tablets passed the uniformity of weight, friability, uniformity of thickness and uniformity of diameter tests respectively. The formulated tablets had crushing strength ranging from 73.39 to 78.42 N and good tensile strength. Ratios of 1:1 and 1:2 (F1 and F2) combinations of HPMC and Xanthan gum respectively are able to provide the desired drug release over a twenty-four (24) hour period. Higher proportions of Xanthan gum in combination with HPMC (3:1) retarded the release of Capparis erythrocarpos and did not provide the desired drug release after 24 h. Keywords: Capparis erythrocarpos, Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), Xanthan gum, Matrix tablets, Sustained-release tablets, Polymer ratio