Formulation and Evaluation of Fast Dissolving Sublingual Tablets of Nifedipine Using Plantago Ovata Husk as a Natural Superdisintegrant

The aim of this study was to formulate fast dissolving sublingual tablets of Nifedipine using natural super-disintegrant. The metabolism of Nifedipine in liver could be bypassed by sublingual route offering a faster relief from anginal pain and hypertension. In this method mucilage of Plantago ovate husk was used as a natural superdisintegrant. The tablets were prepared by using different concentrations of synthetic as well as natural superdisintegrants by direct compression method. The prepared batches of tablets were evaluated for pre-compression parameters like angle of repose, bulk density, tapped density, Carr’s compressibility index and Hausner ratio and post compression parameters like disintegration time, wetting time, water absorption ratio, drug content, hardness, friability, thickness and weight variation for each formulation and found satisfactory. Among all the formulations F9 containing Plantago ovata husk powder as a natural super-disintegrant was found to be the best acceptable in terms of fast dissolving tablet having adequate strength. The disintegration time was found to be 40 seconds, hardness of 4.6g/cm2, wetting time of 38.33 seconds, water absorption ratio of 92.68%, drug content was 94.96% and drug release of 99.36% in 35 mins. The ability of Plantago ovata husk powder to vigorously swell by rapid uptake of water contributes to its super disintegration effect and therefore could be recommended for such formulations.