Application of Acetylated Corn Starch as a Sustained Release Formulation in Metronidazole Tablets

Objective(s): This study aimed to assess the impact of acetylation on the disintegrant properties of corn starch and evaluate its effectiveness as a sustained release formulation in metronidazole tablets. Design: Experimental study involving acetylation of corn starch using acetic anhydride. Intervention(s): Formulation of granules with varying concentrations of acetylated corn starch as disintegrant, followed by tablet production. Main Outcome Measure(s): Disintegration time, sustained release of metronidazole, tablet properties (friability, hardness, content uniformity), and release kinetics. Results: Acetylated corn starch increased disintegration time, resulting in sustained release of metronidazole over several hours. Tablets met standard requirements for friability (<1% weight loss), hardness (>5 kg/cm²), and content uniformity (>90% active ingredient). The release profile showed a controlled release pattern, indicating the potential of acetylated corn starch as a sustained release polymer. Conclusion: Acetylation successfully modified corn starch, making it an effective polymer for sustained release metronidazole tablets. This study demonstrates the potential of acetylated corn starch in formulation development for sustained release applications. Keywords: Disintegration, Acetylation, Sustained Release.