FORMULATION AND COMPRESSION EVALUATION OF ENTERIC-COATED PANTOPRAZOLE TABLETS FOR GASTRO-RESISTANT DRUG DELIVERY

Riya Jain*, Dr. R. P. S. Rathore

ABSTRACT

Pantoprazole is a proton pump inhibitor widely used for the treatment of acid-related gastrointestinal disorders. Due to its acid-labile nature, enteric coating is essential to protect the drug from degradation in the gastric environment and to ensure its release in the intestinal region. The present study focuses on the formulation and compression evaluation of enteric-coated pantoprazole tablets. Pre-compression parameters such as bulk density, tapped density, angle of repose, Carr’s index, and Hausner’s ratio were evaluated to assess the flow properties of the powder blend. The results indicated satisfactory flowability suitable for direct compression. Post-compression parameters including hardness, thickness, friability, weight variation, and disintegration time were analyzed to determine tablet quality and uniformity. The enteric-coated tablets were further assessed for their ability to resist acidic conditions and release the drug in intestinal pH.

Keywords: Pantoprazole; Enteric-coated tablets; Compression evaluation; Pre-compression parameters; Post- compression parameters; Gastro-resistant formulation; Tablet quality control; Controlled release dosage form.