Formulation, in vitro Characterization and Stability Studies of Fast Dispersing Tablets of Diclofenac Sodium

The present study was aimed to formulate, develop and evaluate the fast dissolving tablets of diclofenac sodium, used for the treatment of arthritis, inflammation, pain. Fast dissolving tablets of diclofenac sodium were prepared by direct compression method using crospovidone and sodium starch glycolate as superdisintegrants in concentrations of 5.3%, 6.6% and 8% w/w and in combination. In this work microcrystalline cellulose and mannitol are investigated as diluents. Prepared powder mixtures were evaluated for drug excipient compatibility with FTIR spectroscopy and DSC analysis. Prepared formulations are evaluated for In vitro dissolution, disintegration dispersion and wetting time. Formulation FCS6 prepared with combination of crospovidone and sodium starch glycolate at weight ratio of 6.6 and 2.3% showed better results compare with control. Post compression parameters like hardness (3.4 kg/cm2) and friability (0.31%) are at good acceptable levels in accordance with official compendia. FCS6 showed improved dissolution (99.8 %) and dispersion (75 seconds) profiles compared to control. The FTIR and DSC showed no interaction between the drug and excipients. The optimized formula FCS6 showed good drug release characteristics with acceptable mouth feel and fast dissolving properties.