FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF MOXIFLOXACIN TASTE-MASKED CHEWABLE TABLES FOR PEDIATRIC TUBERCULOSIS

Moxifloxacin (MOX) is a second-line treatment for drug-susceptible and multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR TB). MOX has poor patient compliance due to taste and odour concerns, particularly in the pediatric population. MOX taste-masked chewable tablets were developed by direct compression method using mannitol, aspartame, and sucralose as sweetening agents and lemon and peppermint flavor as flavoring agents. The lubricated granules were evaluated for flow properties, and compressed tablets were evaluated for hardness, friability, content uniformity, weight variation, DT and in-vitro drug release. FTIR, DSC, and XRD analysis were performed to detect any possible drug excipient compatibility issues and the nature of the drug molecule in the formulation. F6 formulation granules showed excellent flow properties, and batches manufactured with these granules showed physicochemical properties within acceptable limits. Complete drug release was observed within 8 minutes from the F6 formulation. FTIR and DSC studies demonstrated no drug excipient compatibility issues. According to XRD, the MOX in the final formulation was present in crystalline form. The dispersible MOX pills would be a superior alternative for treating pediatric TB.