ABSTRACT:
The sustained release pulsatile capsules of terbutaline sulphte were prepared by hand filling method. In order to sustain the release of drug crosslinking of capsules by formalin treatment has been employed to modify the solubility of gelatin capsules. Then the drug-diluent mixture was prepared and loaded in the capsules in a divided doses by using polymeric hydrogel plugs. Terbutaline sulphate is a direct acting sympathomimetic agent with predominantly ß- adrenergic activity and a selective action on ß2-receptors, which is widely used in the prophylaxis and control of asthma. The drug along with diluent and polymers was filled in to the crosslinked capsules by hand filling method. Macroscopical features revealed that drug was dispersed in the polymer matrix. The empty capsules were subjected for various physicochemical tests like appearance, dimension, identification, weight and moisture content. The prepared capsules were evaluated for their thickness, content uniformity, weight variation, disintegration and in-vitro dissolution. The average weight and thickness of all the capsules were uniform. Invitro dissolution studies showed a burst release initially followed by a progressive fall and a constant release of the drug and extended upto 8 to 10 hours. Release kinetics of terbutaline sulphte from crosslinked capsules followed the first order release profile.