Design and evaluation of mucoadhesive buccal drug delivery systems containing metoprolol tartrate

Abstract

Mucoadhesive buccal tablets of metoprolol tartarate were fabricated with objective of avoiding first pass metabolism and prolonging duration of action. The mucoadhesive polymers used in formulation were Carbopol-934, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose and sodium carboxymethylcellulose. The formulations were characterized for physiochemical parameters, in vitro release studies and in vivo placebo studies. The best mucoadhesive performance and in vitro drug release profile were exhibited by the tablets containing hydroxyethylcellulose and Carbopol-934 in ratio 1:2. This product was more comfortable to the user due to absence of erosion, faster hydration rate and less viscosity of surrounding environment. In vivo placebo studies did not show any side effects.