Formulation and Evaluation of Nelfinavir Extended Release Trilayer Matrix Tablets by Design of Experiment

The present study was aimed to develop once-daily controlled release trilayer matrix tablets of nelfinavir to achieve zero-order drug release for sustained plasma concentration. Nelfinavir trilayer matrix tablets were prepared by direct compression method and consisted of middle active layer with different grades of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), PVP (Polyvinyl Pyrrolidine) K-30 and MCC (Micro Crystalline Cellulose). Barrier layers were prepared with Polyox WSR-303, Xanthan gum, microcrystalline cellulose and magnesium stearate. Based on the evaluation parameters, drug dissolution profile and release drug kinetics DF8 were found to be optimized formulation. The developed drug delivery system provided prolonged drug release rates over a period of 24 h. The release profile of the optimized formulation (DF8) was described by the zero-order and best fitted to Higuchi model. FT-IR studies confirmed that there were no chemical interactions between drug and excipients used in the formulation. These results indicate that the approach used could lead to a successful development of a controlled release formulation of nelfinavir in the management of AIDS.