DEVELOPMENT AND EVALUATION OF COLON TARGETED DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEM OF METRONIDAZOLE

ABSTRACT
Colon targeted drug delivery systems have gained considerable attention due to their ability to
deliver drugs directly to the colon and reduce systemic side effects. The present study focuses
on the formulation and evaluation of colon targeted tablets of Metronidazole using suitable
polymers. Tablets were prepared using direct compression method with varying concentrations
of HPMC K4M and xanthan gum. Preformulation studies including drug identification,
solubility analysis, and compatibility studies were performed. The prepared formulations were
evaluated for pre-compression parameters such as angle of repose, bulk density, tapped density,
Carr's index, and Hausner ratio. Post-compression parameters including hardness, thickness,
friability, weight variation, and drug content were evaluated. In-vitro drug release study was
performed using dissolution apparatus in simulated gastrointestinal conditions. Stability studies
were conducted according to ICH guidelines. The optimized formulation showed controlled
drug release and minimal release in gastric medium, confirming colon targeted delivery of
Metronidazole.