Formulation and Evaluation of Pulsatile Drug Delivery System of Ramipril for Controlling Morning Spate of B.P.

The aim of the study was to design pulsatile release capsule of Ramipril. Plasma norepinephrine level and plasma renin activity are elevated in the morning; both hormones have potential to induce coronary vasoconstriction, therefore, we can achieve peak plasma concentration of drug at morning and can control morning spate of B.P. compliances. The rapid release of the drug after a lag time consistent with the requirement for chronotherapeutics was achieved with developed formulation M-6 (swellable polymer; xanthan gum, core tablet; C-2, erodible tablet; E-2 and 10 % w/w coated capsule body) which show lag time of 4 hr. During the lag time, only 25 % drug released following rapid release (99.13 ± 83 % in 7 hr.) of the drug was observed. The ex-vivo absorption study conducted using everted chicken intestinal segment indicated a delay in absorption of the drug. Thus this approach can provide a useful means for timed release of Ramipril and may be helpful for patients with morning spate of BP.