Formulation and in vitro release studies of pegylated mucin based matrix tablets.

The effects of polymer concentration on the flow properties of granules and in-vitro release profiles from matrix tablets of three model drugs formulated from pegylated mucin base was investigated. Mucin was extracted from the African giant snail and in combination with PEG was used to produce a copolymer matrix base, which was mixed with the model drugs using wet granulation method. The granules and tablets were evaluated according to official and unofficial requirements. Results showed best flow with Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) and Chloroquine Phosphate (CQ) granules with Hausner ratio of 1.04-1.2, Carr's index of 4.2-17.5% and angle of repose between 19°-26°. The tablets met B.P specifications with respect to tablet weights, friability and drug content. The release profiles showed faster release of the drug with high content of PEG and a slower release with high concentration of mucin. Pegylated mucin base will find useful application in the development of a wide range of formulations.