Formulation and In-vitro Evaluation of Floating Tablets for Spray Dried Extract of Curcuma Longa, Piper Nigrum and Berberis Aristata

Consumption of non-steroidal anti inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and Helicobacter pylori (H.pylori) infection are responsible factors for induction of peptic ulcer. Extract of Curcuma longa, Piper nigrum and Berberis aristata is reported to be useful in stomach ailments and has been shown to possess antiulcer activity. Since, treatment for peptic ulceration includes a consumption of multiple herbs displays synergistic impacts compare to single herb against ulcer.  The objective of this project work was defined with a view to retain the extracts of mention herbal drugs in stomach for better antiulcer activity. Hence, aim of the present work was to design and develop a floating tablet of spray dried extract of Curcuma longa, Piper nigrum and Berberis aristata for the treatment of peptic ulceration. The floating tablets were formulated using hydrophilic polymers as Hydroxy propyl methyl cellulose (HPMC K4M and HPMC E15), Sodium CMC and Sodium bicarbonate as a gas generating agent to reduce floating lag time. The formulated tablets were evaluated for the quality control tests such as weight variation, hardness, friability, swelling index, floating lag time, and total floating time. The in vitro release study of the tablets was performed in 0.1N HCl as a dissolution media. The results of the present study clearly indicate the HPMC K4M and HPMC E15 (Batch F-11) in appropriate concentration shown sustained release floating tablets. Such system can remain buoyant for 8 hours along with the sustained drug release for the same duration.