FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF ZOLMITRIPTAN FAST-DISSOLVING ORAL THIN FILMS

Ramya Teja Medarametla*, Dr. J. N. Suresh Kumar, A. Raja kumar, A. Bindhu Sri, A. Shaik Kousar R. Sravanthi, D. Saida

ABSTRACT

Fast-dissolving oral thin films (OTFs) of Zolmitriptan were developed using pullulan, sodium alginate, and guar gum by the solvent casting method to enhance dissolution and bioavailability for migraine therapy. Nine formulations (F1–F9) were prepared and evaluated for physicochemical and mechanical properties. Films showed uniform thickness (0.112–0.135 mm), weight (65.6–107.4 mg), drug content (98.6–99.5%), and surface pH (6.74–6.97). Disintegration occurred within 70 s. In vitro dissolution studies demonstrated more than 90% drug release within 10 min in acidic medium. Mechanical testing confirmed adequate tensile strength and folding endurance. Pharmacokinetic studies in rabbits indicated improved bioavailability compared with oral solution. The results suggest that Zolmitriptan OTFs provide rapid drug release, enhanced bioavailability, and improved patient compliance for migraine management.

Keywords: Zolmitriptan, Oral Thin Films, Fast-Dissolving, Pullulan, Polysorbate-80, Pharmacokinetics.