Objective: The objective of this study is to develop extended release matrix tablet by taking mixture of chitosan and anionic polymers and then to study the drug release pattern for a low solubility drug Tramadol Hydrochloride (TH). TH has mean elimination half-life is ~6 hrs and requires dosing every 6 hrs in order to maintain optimal relief of chronic pain. So once-daily extended-release tablets are formulated by taking Chitosan (CS) and anionic polymers Eudragit-L100-55. Methods: The tablets were prepared by direct compression method. In vitro drug release was carried out under simulated gastric and intestinal condition to achieve drug release more than 20 hrs. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) study was conducted to study any interaction between dug and ingredients. Results: CS and Eudragit-L combination form a Poly Electrolyte Complex which is responsible for extending drug release for low solubility drug. This complex formation is also confirmed by FTIR study. Conclusion: Stability studies (40ºC and 75 ± 5%RH) for 3 months indicated that Tramadol hydrochloride was stable in the matrix tablets.
Key words: Chitosan, Eudragit-L100, Tramadol Hydrochloride, Matrix Tablet, FTIR.