Formulation and Evaluation of Floating Tablet of Norfloxacin

Abstract

The oral route is considered as the most promising route of drug delivery. Several approaches have been attempted in the preparation of gastro-retentive drug delivery systems. These include floating systems, swell able and expandable systems, high density systems, bio adhesive systems, altered shape systems, gel forming solution or suspension systems and sachet systems. Floating systems have low bulk density so that they can float on the gastric juice in the stomach. The problem arises when the stomach is completely emptied of gastric fluid. In such a situation, there is nothing to float on. It shows absorption window in stomach area, which makes it suitable candidate for gastro retentive dosage forms. The aim and objective of the study is to develop a floating tablet of Norfloxacin to minimize the frequency of dosing by increasing dissolution and sustained release action up to 12 hrs by single unit dosage. Floating tablet of Norfloxacin, consist of HPMC K4M and lactose as release retardant polymer and sodium bicarbonate as gas generating agent, were formulated by direct compression method. It was found that formulation containing 245 mg HPMC K4M & PVPk30 of Norfloxacin in 12 hrs with desired floating lag time 1min 48 sec and constantly float on dissolution medium for more than 12 hrs.