Design and in vitro/in vivo evaluation of sustained-release floating tablets of itopride hydrochloride

PURPOSE: The aim of the present study was to improve the bioavailability of itopride (ITO) and sustain its action by formulating as a floating dosage form. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sustained-release floating tablets of ITO hydrochloride (HCl) were prepared by direct compression using different hydrocolloid polymers such as hydroxypropyl methylcellulose and ethylcellulose and/or methacrylic acid polymers Eudragit RSPM and Carbopol 934P. The floating property was achieved using an effervescent mixture of sodium bicarbonate and anhydrous citric acid (1:1 mol/mol). Hardness, friability, content uniformity, and dissolution rate of the prepared floating tablets were evaluated. The formulation F(10) composed of 28.5% Eudragit RSPM, 3% NaHCO(3), and 7% citric acid provided sustained drug release. RESULTS: In vitro results showed sustained release of F(10) where the drug release percentage was 96.51%±1.75% after 24 hours (P=0.031). The pharmacokinetic results indicated that the area under the curve (AUC(0–∞)) of the prepared sustained-release floating tablets at infinity achieved 93.69 µg·h/mL compared to 49.89 µg·h/mL for the reference formulation (Ganaton(®)) and the relative bioavailability of the sustained-release formulation F(10) increased to 187.80% (P=0.022). CONCLUSION: The prepared floating tablets of ITO HCl (F(10)) could be a promising drug delivery system with sustained-release action and enhanced drug bioavailability.