Development of Famotidine Swelling Matrix Tablets: In Vitro Evaluation and Release Kinetics Study

Abstract

The present study focuses on the formulation and evaluation of gastro-retentive swelling matrix tablets of Famotidine,
a histamine H₂-receptor antagonist with a short half-life and limited bioavailability. The aim was to develop a controlledrelease
dosage form to enhance gastric retention and sustain drug release over 24 hours. Various hydrophilic polymers
including HPMC K15M, HPMC K100M, Calcium CMC, Xanthan gum, and Avicel PH 101 were used to formulate six matrix
tablet batches (F1–F6) using the direct compression method. Preformulation studies confirmed the drug’s compatibility with
selected excipients through FTIR and DSC analysis. Micrometric properties such as angle of repose, compressibility index,
and Hausner’s ratio indicated good flow characteristics of the blend. All tablets were evaluated for physical parameters
including weight variation, thickness, hardness, friability, and content uniformity. In vitro, drug release studies conducted in
0.1 N HCl showed sustained release behavior across all formulations. F1 exhibited the fastest release (103.7% at 24 hrs),
while F3 had the most controlled profile (90.4% at 24 hrs). Kinetic modeling of the release data indicated that the Higuchi
model best described the release mechanism (R² = 0.969–0.998), suggesting diffusion-controlled drug release. The study
concluded that the swelling matrix system effectively sustained the release of famotidine and holds promise for once-daily
gastro-retentive dosage forms.