DEVELOPMENT AND OPTIMIZATION OF ZIDOVUDINE FAST-DISSOLVING TABLETS USING CO-PROCESSED EXCIPIENTS

Zidovudine is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor widely used in the treatment of HIV/AIDS; however, its administration in pediatric and geriatric patients is often complicated by dysphagia. To enhance patient compliance, the present study aimed to formulate and optimize fast dissolving tablets (FDTs) of Zidovudine using co-processed excipients to achieve rapid disintegration and enhanced dissolution rates. The co-processed excipients were prepared using [Insert Method, e.g., solvent evaporation] utilizing a combination of [Insert Excipient 1] and [Insert Excipient 2]. The FDTs were subsequently prepared via the direct compression method. A [Insert Design type, e.g., 32 full factorial design] was employed to optimize formulation variables, focusing primarily on the concentration of the co-processed excipients and [Insert second variable]. Pre-compression studies of the optimized blend indicated excellent flow properties with an angle of repose ranging from [Insert Range]. Post-compression evaluation showed that the optimized formulation ([Insert Formulation Code]) exhibited a hardness of [Insert Value] kg/cm2, a friability of [Insert Value]%, and an in vitro dispersion time of [Insert Value] seconds. Furthermore, in vitro dissolution studies revealed that [Insert Value]% of Zidovudine was released within [Insert Value] minutes, significantly outperforming both the physical mixture and the pure drug. In conclusion, the utilization of co-processed excipients successfully yielded Zidovudine FDTs with superior mechanical strength and rapid disintegration, presenting a viable, patient-friendly alternative to conventional solid dosage forms.