Comparative evaluation of plastic, hydrophobic and hydrophilic polymers as matrices for controlled-release drug delivery.

PURPOSE: The present study was undertaken to investigate the effect of plastic, hydrophilic and hydrophobic types of polymers and their content level on the release profile of drug from matrix systems. As the physico-chemical nature of the active ingredients influence the drug retarding ability of these polymers, three different drugs were used to evaluate their comparative release characteristics in similar matrices. METHODS: Matrix tablets of theophylline, diclofenac sodium and diltiazem HCl using Kollidon SR, Carnauba wax and Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC-15cps) were prepared separately by direct compression process. The USP Basket method was selected to perform the dissolution test carried out in 250 ml 0.1N HCl for first two hours and 1000 ml phosphate buffer of pH 6.8 for ten hours.…