Design and Evaluation of Levofloxacin Floating Tablets for the Treatment of Helicobacter Pylori Infection

Abstract

Levofloxacin floating tablets with prolonged gastric residence time were successfully developed using a blend of natural and synthetic polymers. The use of Design-Expert® 13 software enabled efficient optimization of the formulation, confirming the significant impact of the polymer blend on drug release studies. The tablets met the required quality standards according to USP specifications, and the increased gastric residence time provided by the formulation has the potential to improve patient outcomes. HPMC K100M demonstrated faster hydration compared to HPMC K4M due to its higher hydrophilic hydroxypropoxyl substitution. Xanthan gum, being more hydrophilic than HPMC K4M, hydrated more quickly and formed a protective barrier layer, reducing the floating lag time. HPMC K100M, Xanthan gum, and Guar gum exhibited better swelling properties compared to HPMC K4M. Increasing polymer concentration resulted in a longer time required to release 90% of the drug due to increased swelling and a lengthened diffusional path. The increased gastric residence time provided by the formulation has the potential to maximize drug utilization and improve patient outcomes. HPMC K4M exhibited a higher drug release rate compared to Xanthan gum, Guar gum, and HPMC K100M. Xanthan gum showed greater drug release retardation than Guar gum. The mechanisms of drug release from HPMC matrix systems involve wetting, hydration, and swelling of the polymer, followed by the formation of a gel layer. The Levofloxacin floating tablet oral drug delivery system has the potential to enhance drug availability in the mucus and efficacy, benefiting patients with H. pylori infections. In conclusion, the prepared Levofloxacin floating tablet oral drug delivery system has the potential to overcome the limitations associated with conventional drug delivery systems. The prolonged drug availability in the stomach and consistent drug release profile could lead to improved efficacy, reduced dosing frequency, and ultimately benefit patients with H. pylori infection.