Preparation and evaluation of matrix type gastro retentive floating atenolol tablets using sintering technique.

The aim of this investigation was to design and assess the gastric floating tablets of Atenolol using thermal sintering and investigate the effect of sintering on PEO polymer. Atenolol is an Antihypertensive with only 50 percent bioavailability due to poor absorption in lower GI tract. Gastro retentive Floating tablets were prepared to enhance the gastric retention time, to prolong the drug release. PEO which was selected as sintered polymer. Tablets were prepared by direct compression method .Formulated tablets were exposed to different temperatures (400C, 500C and 600C)  at various time intervals( 1h ,2h ,3h and4h) in a hot air oven .Post compression parameters were evaluated like weight variation, hardness, friability, floating lag time and total floating time. The result of the investigation indicates sintering influenced the floating time and dissolution properties. Weight variation, friability and content uniformity values were within limits. Sintering time and temperature contributes to effectiveness of polymers in extending drug release. Reduction in floating lag time and increase in total floating time as well as release of drug was delayed. All sintered formulation have no interaction was found in FTIR, DSC studies. All sintered tablets followed zero order with nonfickian diffusion mechanism. This study helps the use of thermal sintering in preparation of floating tablets.