THE ROLE OF MATRIX TABLET IN DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEM

Abstract

Matrix tablet is an important tool for controlled and sustained release dosage forms. The oral route remains the most common route for the administration of drugs. Tablets offer the lowest cost approach to sustained and controlled release dosage forms. The hydrophilic polymer matrix is widely used in this dosage form. The use of different polymers in controlling the release of drugs has become the most important tool in the formulation of matrix tablets. The drug releases by both dissolution-controlled as well as diffusion-controlled mechanisms from the matrix. The development of oral controlled release systems has been a challenge to formulation scientists due to their inability to restrain and localize the system at targeted areas of the gastrointestinal tract. There are several advantages of matrix devices including improved patient compliance due to less frequent drug administration, reduction of fluctuation in steady-state drug levels, maximum utilization of the drug, increased safety margin of a potent drug. This review aims on the discussion of different materials used to prepare matrix tablets, different types of matrix tablets and the drug release mechanism from the matrices.