Formulation and evaluation of sublingual tablet of Venlafaxine hydrochloride for the treatment of depression

摘要

The objective of preparing Venlafaxine hydrochloride as sublingual formulations as it is very patient friendly compared to the conventional tablets. Sublingual tablet formulation was proposed to be developed for Venlafaxine hydrochloride to enhance the bioavailability by avoiding first pass effect. Crospovidone and sodium starch glycolate used as superdisintegrants. Lactose was used as glidant and mannitol as directly compressible filler. Microcrystalline cellulose used as tablet disintegrant. Direct compression method found best and easy for preparing the sublingual tablets. Seven formulations (S1-S7) were prepared and evaluated for thickness which ranges from 1.91 to 2.21, hardness ranges from 2.6 to 3.4 kg/cmsup2/sup, friability 0.71% to 0.90%, weight variations, wetting time ranges from 32-69 seconds disintegration time ranges from 29 to 57 seconds and in vitro drug release ranges from 70.7 to 98%. Formulation F-7 containing crospovidone (15mg) emerged as best formulation based on drug release characteristics. From the present study, it can be concluded that the superdisintegrants increased the solubility and in vitro drug release of Venlafaxine hydrochloride. Sublingual formulation (tablets) increased the onset of action and bioavailability of Venlafaxine Hydrochloride and prevent them from extensive first-pass effect.