[Theophylline release and diffusion from a compressed ethylcellulose matrix through an artificial membrane].
The aim of this work was to study theophylline dissolution and diffusion from a compressed ethylcellulose matrix through an artificial membrane. The sustained release tablets were manufactured manufactured by direct compression. Dissolution and diffusion studies were performed using an absorption simulator. In the donor compartment, different pH media were used: i) 1.2, 5, 6, ii) the same media supplemented with 10% glucose and iii) an amino acid medium. The receiver medium was held at pH 7.4. The Higuchi equation was used to elucidate the dissolution mechanism. Results showed that dissolution was mainly influenced by theophylline solubility with a mechanism based on diffusion. Diffusion rate was assessed by calculating the diffusion coefficients. Diffusion was essentially dependent on rate of theophylline release.