Formulation of Ibuprofen Orally Disintegrating Tablets (ODT) Using a Combination of Cassava Starch (Manihot esculenta Crantz) and Mannitol as a Superdisintegrant

Background: Orally Disintegrating Tablets (ODT) are solid dosage forms designed to disintegrate rapidly in the oral cavity, making them highly beneficial for patients with swallowing difficulties. Aim: This study aimed to determine the formulation and evaluate the physical properties of Ibuprofen ODTs using a co-processed combination of cassava starch (Manihot esculenta Crantz) and mannitol as a superdisintegrant. Methods: The study was conducted experimentally using direct compression with varying ratios of cassava starch and mannitol in a co-milled physical mixture. Pre-compression evaluation included flow properties, angle of repose, compressibility index, and moisture content; tablet evaluation included weight and size uniformity, hardness, friability, disintegration time, stability, and dissolution. Results: F3 showed a disintegration time of 151.33 seconds (2.52 min) and the highest ibuprofen dissolution at 60 min (79.01%), compared with F1 (60.44%) and F2 (49.82%). Tablet hardness ranged from 3.33 to 3.70 kg, while friability was <1% for all formulations. Conclusion: The cassava starch–mannitol combination can be used in ibuprofen ODT formulations, although further optimization of mechanical strength and dissolution is required.