Formulation, Development and Evaluation of Fast Dissolving Oral Film of a Selective Serotonin-Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRIS) Escitalopram Oxalate

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to develop fast dissolving oral film of Escitalopram oxalate. Fast dissolving oral film offers a solution for paediatrics, geriatrics; psychiatric or mentally ill people and those have difficulty in swallowing tablets/capsules resulting in improved patient compliance. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which are broad spectrum antidepressants that are effective for major depressive disorder and several anxiety disorders. Escitalopram Oxalate is highly selective, more effective and better than other SSRIs. The prepared formulations were evaluated for Thickness, Weight uniformity, Folding Endurance, Percentage of Moisture Content, Drug Content Analysis, Disintegrating time and In vitro dissolution study. Stability studies were carried out with optimized formulation F5 which was stored for a period of one, two and three months at 40±2oC temperature and 75±5% relative humidity for a period 3 months. Thus it can be concluded that Escitalopram oxalate fast dissolving films could be commercially exploited for the treatment of panic disorder using Escitalopram oxalate with merits of faster onset of action, avoidance of extensive first pass metabolism, low dosage regimen, enhanced bioavailability and improved patient compliance.
 Keywords: Escitalopram oxalate, Fast dissolving oral film, Evaluation