Formulation and Evaluation of Fast Disintegrating Oral Solid Dosage Form

The present research focuses on the formulation and evaluation of fast disintegrating tablets (FDTs) intended to enhance patient compliance, particularly for geriatric, pediatric, and dysphagic patients who experience difficulty in swallowing conventional tablets. The objective was to develop a solid oral dosage form that rapidly disintegrates in the oral cavity without the need for water, ensuring a quick onset of therapeutic action. Nifedipine, a calcium channel blocker used to treat hypertension and angina, was selected as the model drug due to its poor water solubility and the need for rapid action. Various formulations were prepared using the direct compression method with different superdisintegrants such as Crospovidone, Sodium Starch Glycolate, and Croscarmellose Sodium. The formulations were evaluated for precompression and post-compression parameters including hardness, friability, disintegration time, and drug release. Among the batches tested, the optimized formulation showed a disintegration time of under 30 seconds and over 99% drug release, indicating improved bioavailability. The study concludes that fast disintegrating tablets of Nifedipine can be successfully formulated using suitable superdisintegrants and direct compression techniques. This approach offers a promising solution for rapid drug delivery and improved therapeutic effectiveness.