A Comparative Study on In-vitro Quality Control Parameters of Different Brands of Loratadine Tablets Commercially Available in Bangladesh

Loratadine, a second generation H1-receptor antagonist, works by blocking the action of histamine and is widely prescribed for itching, runny nose, watery eyes, and sneezing from "hay fever" and other allergic conditions. To ensure quality the main requirements for a medicinal product are safety, potency, efficacy and stability. This research work aimed to compare and assess the quality levels of different local brands of loratadine tablets available in the drug market of Bangladesh. Six different brands of loratadine 10 mg tablet manufactured by the local companies were used for the analysis. The evaluation was performed through the determination of weight variation, hardness, friability, percent potency, disintegration time, and dissolution profile in accordance with USP-NF specifications. All brands showed acceptable weight variation and % friability. The percent potency for tested samples by UV method ranges from 97.02%-108%, showing none of the brands contains less than 90% of the active principle as per the specification. The result of the physical and chemical studies, such as in-vitro dissolution, disintegration, hardness, etc., has been found to differ but lie within the specified limit. After analyzing the data obtained from the tests, it can be claimed that loratadine 10 mg tablets manufactured and marketed by several local companies in Bangladesh meet the quality standard required to achieve the desired therapeutic outcomes.