Controlled Release Formulation of Tofacitinib Citrate Tablets Evaluated Using Quality by Design (QBD) Approach

Abstract

The goal of the project is to use the quality-by-design (QbD) method to create and optimise Tofacitinib citrate matrix tablets with controlled release excipients. The drug's physicochemical parameters, reference product characterisation, QTPP (Quality Target Product Profile), and CQAs were used to start product development (Critical Quality Attributes). Hypromellose (Methocel K100 premium LV CR), Polyethylene Oxide (SentryPolyox WSR N80 LEO), and Magnesium Stearate were used as formulation variables and were optimised together. The complete factorial design of experiment (DOE) with three centre points was used to investigate traditional monolithic controlled release matrix tablets. Using Design-expert12 programme, dissolution was assessed as CQA. At acidic pH, hypromellose with a higher viscosity grade provides a regulated release pattern by retaining the integrity of the medication and preventing rapid drug release. Due to the nonionic nature of the polymer, drug release from the polymer matrices is pH independent. Present monolithic controlled release matrix system the extensive degradation of Tofacitinib Citrate in the acidic condition can be avoided with desired in-vitro drug release.