Treatment of musculo-skeletal disorders with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) produces extensive gastric adverse effects. Aceclofenac, a novel NSAID, loaded sodium carboxymethyl cellulose and Aluminium hydroxide matrix tablets was prepared by wet granulation method with an aim to minimize the drug release at gastric mucosa and provide prolonged release at the small intestine. The effect of formulation variables like polymer/ Al(OH)3 ratio, drug load and processing variable like compression force on the extent of in-vitro drug release in acid solution (pH 1.2) and phosphate buffer solution (pH 6.8) was studied. The concentration of Aluminium hydroxide significantly influenced the drug release behavior from the matrix tablets. At low concentrations it gave slower release, while at higher concentration it produced faster release. Drug load and hardness of the tablets produced considerable variation in drug release. Compatibility of the drug in the tablets was evaluated through FTIR, XRD and DSC analyses. The drug release in acidic pH was minimal (3-8%) from all the batches observed. This study reveal that proper selection of formulation and processing variables could produce a tablet dosage form that can be effectively used to control the drug release in stomach and prolong the same at small intestine.
