Formulation and Evaluation of Sustained Release Matrix Tablets of Pregabalin

The objective of the research work was to develop sustained release matrix tablets of Pregabalin for the treatment of epilepsy. The matrix tablets of Pregabalin were prepared by direct compression method using hydroxylpropyl methylcellulose (HPMC K-100), Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP K-30) and microcrystalline cellulose (MCC 101 and MCC 102) in varying ratios. Powder blends were evaluated for bulk density, tapped density, Carr′s index, Hausner′s ratio and angle of repose. The compressed tablets were evaluated for various tests like weight variation, thickness, diameter, hardness, friability, dissolution and drug content. The results of all these tests were found to be satisfactory. The in vitro dissolution study was carried out for 12 hours using basket method, with 1.2 N HCl as dissolution media for first two hours and phosphate buffer (pH 6.8) as dissolution media for further two to twelve hours. Formulation F5 (which composed of HPMC K100 and MCC 102 in the ratio 1:3) and F7 (which composed of HPMC K100 and MCC 102 in the ratio 2:1) exhibited 93.03% and 95.80% of drug release respectively at the end of 12 hours. These findings revealed that by using MCC 102 and HPMC K-100, sustained release of Pregabalin over 12 hours can be achieved.