Development of extended-release formulation of domperidone using a blend of Raphia hookeri gum and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose as tablet matrix

Purpose: To develop an extended-release formulation of domperidone using a blend of Raphia hookeri gum and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose as tablet matrix.Methods: Tablets (400 mg) containing 30 mg domperidone (DPD) were formulated using binary mixtures of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and Raphia hookeri gum (RHG) as matrix former; and microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) as direct compression excipient. The proportions of the matrix formers (40 % of tablet weight) was varied as 100:0, 75:25, 50:50, 25:75 and 0:100. The composition of the matrix former was also kept constant (50:50) while MCC was varied as 40, 30, 20 and 10 %. The tablets were evaluated for compact density, tensile strength, friability and drug release over 24 h.Results: The tensile strength of tablets decreased while their friability increased with increase in the proportion of RHG. A similar trend was observed with decrease in the concentration of MCC. Tablets containing RHG alone as matrix former and 40 % MCC as direct compression excipient had tensile strength of 0.95 MNm-2, friability of 1.07 % and cumulative drug release of 83.2 % over a period of 24 h. Tablets containing equal proportions of HPMC and RHG as matrix former had the best release properties of 95.0 % over a period of 24 h.Conclusion: RHG is comparable with HPMC in terms of extending the release of domperidone for a once daily administration. A suitable combination of the two polymers for use as a matrix former is superior to either of the individual polymers.Keywords: Domperidone, Extended drug release, Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, Raphia hookeri gum, Tablet properties