Formulation And Optimization Of Extended-Release Matrix Tablets Of Nateglinide

Abstract

The present study focused on the formulation and optimization of extended-release matrix tablets of Nateglinide using natural polymers such as guar gum and xanthan gum. Tablets were prepared by direct compression and optimized using a Central Composite Design (CCD). The formulations were evaluated for post-compression parameters, swelling behavior, in-vitro drug release, and release kinetics. All batches showed acceptable physicochemical properties. Increased polymer concentration enhanced swelling and prolonged drug release due to the formation of a hydrophilic gel matrix. Among all formulations, F4 exhibited the best release profile with approximately 96% drug release over 12 hours. Drug release kinetics indicated predominantly Higuchi diffusion-controlled release, while the optimized formulation followed near zero-order kinetics with non-Fickian diffusion behavior. The study confirmed that the combination of guar gum and xanthan gum is suitable for developing extended-release matrix tablets of Nateglinide.