Formulation, Optimization and Evaluation of Delayed Release Tablet of Esomperazole Magnesium

The objective of the current investigation was to formulate delayed release tablets of Esomeprazole that could control the release of the drug thereby reducing its dosing frequency and improving the bioavailability. The objective was accomplished by preparation of the matrix tablets using HPMC K4M, carbopol 940 and Eudragit RLPO as the matrix forming polymers. The angle of repose for all formulations was found to be within the range from 23°13 to 28°15. This indicates that good flow property of powder blend. The bulk density and tapped density values were found to be within the range from 0.54 to 0.60 and 0.63 to 0.71 respectively. The Hausner’s ratio values were found to be within the range from 6.35 to 21.13. The friability of all formulation was in the range of 0.37% to 0.52% and the weight variation was in the range of 1.7 to 2.8 %. Swelling study was performed on all the formulation for 9 h and was found to be in the range of 1.32 to 5.22. The highest degree of swelling was achieved by F8 that contained equal concentration of HPMC K4M, carbopol 940 and Eudragit RLPO. The formulations F1, F2, F3 and F4 could not control the release for even up to 8 h. On the other hand, the formulation F5 was able to release almost 100% of the drug at the end of 10th whereas formulations F6 and F7 released 100% drug at the end of 11th hour.