Formulation and Evaluation of Fast Dissolving Oral Films of an Anti-Migrain Drug (Zolmitriptan)

Abstract

Zolmitriptan known for its anti-migrain activity. The fast dissolving oral film of drug Zolmitriptan was designed in order to relief and ease the pain caused to patient suffering from Migraine followed by nausea, vomiting and sensitivity towards light/sound. The oral film was prepared using HPMC (Hydroxy Propyl Methyl Cellulose) as polymer and PEG as plasticizer by solvent casting method. The aim of preparing fast dissolving oral film of drug zolmitriptan was to have better Bioavability, quick onset of action (quick relief) and to prevent first pass metabolism. Films were subjected to physicochemical characterization such as thickness, weight variation, folding endurance drug content and were found to be satisfactory. The surface pH of all the films was found to be neutral. The results of the studies indicated that HPMC E50 could be used as a film forming polymer for the formulation. All the films prepared using HPMC E50 showed acceptable mechanical properties. On the basis of tensile strength, drug content and in vitro dissolution, formulation F3 was found to be the promising formulation showing better strength and good drug release profile. Also this formulation was stable for a period of 45 days with no significant change in drug content and drug release profile. Thus it could be said that the fast dissolving sublingual film of Zolmitriptan could be a better option for acute treatment of migraine attacks compared to the available conventional dosage forms.

Keywords: Zolmitriptan, Fast dissolving, HPMC