Role of hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC 4000) in the protection of the polymorphs of Piroxicam extended release tablets

The present study deals with the influence of hydroxypropylmethylcellulose 4000 in the protection of Piroxicam polymorphs which could appear during the processes of formulation of extended release tablets. The physico-chemical tests and the dissolution profiles of polymorphs and tablets showed that the metolose incorporated in the tablets at a rate equivalent to 5% could possibly act doubly; initially by protecting the piroxicam polymorphism transition (form II) during compression, then modulating its in vitro release (extended release).