FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF FLOATING TABLETS OF MISOPROSTOL FOR NSAID-INDUCED GASTRIC ULCER

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely used but are associated with gastric ulceration due to inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis. Misoprostol, a prostaglandin E₁ analogue, is effective in preventing NSAID-induced ulcers; however, its conventional dosage forms exhibit short gastric residence time and require frequent dosing. The present study aimed to formulate and evaluate gastroretentive floating tablets of misoprostol to enhance gastric retention and provide sustained drug release. Floating tablets were prepared using hydrophilic polymers such as HPMC and Carbopol along with effervescent agents. The formulations were evaluated for pre- and post-compression parameters, floating behavior, swelling index, and in-vitro drug release. The optimized formulation showed a floating lag time of 25 seconds and remained buoyant for more than 12 hours. Drug release studies indicated sustained release up to 12 hours following non-Fickian diffusion kinetics. The results suggest that floating tablets of misoprostol can improve gastric retention, enhance therapeutic efficacy, and reduce dosing frequency in NSAID-induced ulcer management.