Abstract

DESIGN AND INVITRO EVALUATION OF RITONAVIR EFFERVESCENT FLOATING TABLETS

Saritha Ch.*, Madhu M. and Shankaraiah P.

ABSTRACT

Objective: The objective of the study involves preparation and evaluation of effervescent floating tablets of Ritonavir. It is an antiretroviral agent used in the treatment of HIV and viral diseases have been taken as a model drug in this investigation because it is primarily absorbed from stomach and low biological half-life (3-5 hrs). Methods: Ritonavir floating tablets were prepared by the dry granulation technique using HPMC K15 M and HPMC K100 M as polymers. The prepared tablets were evaluated for various physicochemical parameters. Results: The prepared tablets were evaluated for their physical characteristics. All the parameters were within the pharmacopoeial limits. Further, tablets were also studied for their floating properties and in vitro drug release characteristics. Thetablets exhibited controlled and prolonged drug release profiles. Conclusion: The developed floating tablets of Ritonavir exhibit the drug release up to 12 hrs and thus may improve bioavailability and minimize fluctuations in plasma drug concentrations.

Keywords: Ritonavir, Effervescent floating tablets, Gastric residence time, GRDDS.