Controlled release matrix tablets of glipizide: Influence of different grades of ethocel and Co-excipient on drug release

The aim of the current study was to formulate and evaluate glipizide controlled release matrix tablets by means of different grades of polymer Ethoceland different co-excipients in order to evaluate their effect on drug release profiles during in vitro dissolution studies. Type II diabetes mellitus is usually treated with Glipizide. Glipizide belongs to sulfonylurea group. Gastric disturbance and severe hypoglycemia has been observed after taking glipizide orally. To overcome these problems, controlled release matrices were developed using different grades of ethyl cellulose polymer with a drug-polymer ratio of 1:3by the direct compression method. The effect on drug release of partial replacement of lactose by different co-excipients, HPMC K100M, starch and CMC, were also studied. Diameter, thickness, hardness, friability, weight variations, drug contents of formulations were tested, these properties were within prescribed limits. Co-excipients and polymer containing formulations were compared to the without co-excipients and polymer containing formulations with respect to their release profile. After a 24-hour release study, ethyl cellulose polymer containing formulation exhibited prolonged release for 5-16 hours; however the polymer Ethocel® standard FP 7 Premium without co-excipient containing formulation exhibited controlled release for 24 hours. Incompatibility was investigated between drugs, co-excipient DSC and polymer study was performed and any type of interaction was not found. Different kinetic models were used to study the release mechanism. An enhanced release rate was observed in case of excipients containing formulations.