Design And Evaluation of Fexofenadine Orally Disintegrating Tablets For Rapid Dissolution

Abstract: This study aims to formulate and evaluate Fexofenadine Oral Disintegration Tablets (ODTs), focusing on overcoming patient compliance issues related to taste and swallowing difficulties, especially in elderly and pediatric patients. Fexofenadine, a first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes, is used to enhance rapid dissolution, absorption, and bioavailability. Objectives included preparing tablets using direct compression and evaluating formulations through in-vitro tests such as weight variation, thickness, hardness, friability, drug content, wetting time, dispersion time, disintegration time, and dissolution studies. FTIR spectral analysis confirmed the presence of principal peaks and interactions between drugs and polymers. Results indicated a strong correlation (r = 0.998) between fexofenadine concentration and absorbance values. Tablets exhibited weight and thickness within pharmacoeial limits, with hardness, friability, and drug content meeting acceptable standards. Wetting time and water absorption ratio varied among formulations, with Cross povidone and Croscarmellose sodium showing superior performance. Disintegration times ranged from 17.66±0.51 to 171.83±1.16 seconds, with tablet formulations containing Cross povidone or combinations of super disintegrants (CP + CCS, CP + SSG) demonstrating rapid disintegration. In-vitro dispersion and dissolution studies reaffirmed these findings, suggesting these ODT formulations can significantly improve patient adherence, providing a quick onset of action and enhanced drug bioavailability. Further studies are recommended to establish extended in vivo performance and safety profiles, supporting the efficacy of fexofenadine ODTs in clinical settings.