Sertraline hydrochloride has low solubility and undergoes first-pass metabolism resulting in low bioavailability. The main objective of this research was to enhance the dissolution rate of the drug. The drug was recrystallized in the presence of polymers and surfactant. The formulation was optimized by studying the effects of drug/polymer ratio, concentration of SLS, and type of polymer on particle size and drug release. The optimized formulation was characterized using different techniques and by evaluating in vitro release, stability, and flow properties. A tablet was compressed and evaluated for hardness, friability, and in vitro dissolution. Release profile of the drug from the optimum formulation (poloxamer 407, drug/polymer ratio 1:2/3, and 0.05% SLS) was higher (96%) than that from processed drug alone (56%). After storage of the optimum formulation for 6 months in a desiccator containing silica gel at room temperature, the drug remained crystalline and did not interact with additives, and almost the same cumulative amount (%) of the drug was released as compared to that from the freshly prepared formulation. Flow proprieties were slightly improved. Compressed tablets exhibited acceptable hardness and friability, and the release profile was better (faster and higher) than that from commercial tablet (Zoloft®). In conclusion, the optimum formulation was successful in enhancing the dissolution.
Keywords: crystal modification; dissolution enhancement; poloxamer 407; sertraline hydrochloride; sodium lauryl sulfate.