Development and Evaluation of Fast Dissolving Liquisolid Haloperidol Tablets

Aim: The aim of this study was to design fast dissolving tablets (FDT) of the anti -psychiatric drug, Haloperidol in liquisolid forms as a way to enhance its dissolution profile and anti-psychiatric effect.

Methodology: Solubility studies of Haloperidol in various solvents and surfactants were conducted. The solvent with high solubilizing ability was tween 20 (80%), selected and absorbed into the carrier and then coating material added with other solid powder excipients, finally all powder compressed into tablets. The resulting liquisolid tablets were evaluated according to British Pharmacopoeia (B.P.) specifications. Pre- and post-compression studies were performed to determine the flow properties and evaluate the liquisolid systems, followed by in vivo studies through forced swimming test (FST).

Results: Pre-compression studies showed adequate flowability and compatibility of liquid and solid excipients with haloperidol. The selected liquisolid tablet (LS4) demonstrated the best disintegration and water absorption ratio in addition to satisfactory friability and hardness. Attempts of in vivo dissolution results and thermodynamic stability studies showed acceptable results for the F4 formulation containing 80% Tween 20,Avicel and aerosel (0.22:81.6:10.2%), respectively. The in vivo study of (LS4) formulation revealed the highest immobility time to rats compared to control rats and others treated with purchased halonace®.

Conclusion: Fast dissolving liquisolid tablets expressed rapid onset of action with enhanced anti-psychiatric effect of haloperidol.