The use of response surface methodology for the formulation and optimization of salbutamol sulfate hydrophilic matrix sustained release tablets

The objective of this study was to develop a hydrophilic matrix formulation with in vitro release characteristics similar to Asthalin (R) tablets and that would sustain the release of salbutamol sulfate over a 12-h period. A central composite design was used as the framework for manufacturing formulations that may be used to understand the relationships between polymer levels and in vitro release characteristics. Tablets were manufactured using wet granulation with Surelease (R) as the granulating fluid and different levels of Methocel (R) K100M, xanthan gum, and Carbopol (R) 974P as matrix-forming materials. In vitro dissolution testing was conducted using USP Apparatus 3 and samples were analyzed using a validated reversed-phase HPLC method. The results revealed that the levels and types of polymers had a significant impact on the rate of drug release from these formulations and that it was possible to optimize the levels of matrix-forming polymers to achieve the desired release characteristics. Statistical design and response surface methodology have been successfully used to understand and optimize formulation factors and interactions that impact the in vitro release characteristics of salbutamol sulfate from a potential multisource sustained release dosage form.