Designing and Evaluation of Diclofenac Sodium Sustained Release Matrix Tablets Using Abelmoschus Esculentus Mucilage

The aim of this work is to design and evaluate diclofenac sustained release matrix tablets using Abelmoschus esculentus mucilage (okra gum). Diclofenac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug used in the long-term treatment of Rheumatoid arthritis. The biological half life of diclofenac is about 1-2 hr; therefore it requires multiple dosing to maintain therapeutic drug blood level. The most frequent side effects of diclofenac on long term administration are gastrointestinal disturbances, peptic ulceration. Hence an attempt was made to formulate a sustained release formulation with increased patient compliance and decreased signs of adverse effects.