Sulindac loaded alginate beads for a mucoprotective and controlled drug release

Ionotropic gelation was used to entrap sulindac into calcium alginate beads as a potential drug carrier for the oral delivery of this anti-inflammatory drug. Beads were investigated in vitro for a possible sustained drug release and their use in vivo as a gastroprotective system for sulindac. Process parameters such as the polymer concentration, polymer/drug ratio, and different needle diameter were analysed for their influences on the bead properties. Size augmented with increasing needle diameter (0.9 mm needle: 1.28 to 1.44 mm; 0.45 mm needle: 1.04 to 1.07 mm) due to changes in droplet size as well as droplet viscosity. Yields varied between 87% and 98% while sulindac encapsulation efficiencies of about 88% and 94% were slightly increasing with higher alginate concentrations. Drug release profiles exhibited a complete release for all formulations within 4 hours with a faster release for smaller beads. Sulindac loaded alginate beads led to a significant reduction of macroscopic histological damage in the stomach and duodenum in mice. Similarly, microscopic analyses of the mucosal damage demonstrated a significant mucoprotective effect of all bead formulation compared to the free drug. The present alginate formulations exhibit promising properties of a controlled release form for sulindac; meanwhile they provide a distinct tissue protection in the stomach and duodenum.     

Controlling release of metformin HCl through incorporation into stomach specific floating alginate beads

The aim of present study was to develop stomach specific floating beads of metformin hydrochloride for effective management of type 2 diabetes mellitus. The beads were evaluated for surface morphology, particle size, tapped density, true density, percent porosity, drug entrapment efficiency, percent yield, differential scanning calorimetry, in vitro floating ability and in vitro drug release. Stability studies were performed at 25 and 40 °C up to 45 days. Effectiveness of the formulations was evaluated in vivo by hypoglycemic response in both normal and diabetic albino rats. The beads were grossly spherical in shape, and average particle diameter of beads was found to be in the size range of 861.34 to 991.75 μm. Percent entrapment was found to be in the range of 77.61 to 82.48%. Beads demonstrated favorable in vitro floating ability. All the formulations followed a non-Fickian release mechanism. It was found that there was no significant effect on floating ability of aged beads since it floated up to an 8 h study period. In vivo studies on diabetic rats showed that the hypoglycemic effect induced by the metformin hydrochloride loaded alginate beads was significantly greater (P < 0.05) and more prolonged than that induced by the nonfloating beads. The results clearly demonstrated the ability of the formulation to maintain blood glucose level and improved the patient compliance by enhancing, controlling and prolonging the systemic absorption of metformin hydrochloride.     

Mucoadhesive chitosan-coated liposomes: characteristics and stability

Lecithin liposomes, empty or containing FITC-dextran, were prepared by the ethanol injection method. Three different types of chitosans with different molecular weight and degrees of deacetylation were used (Seacure 113, 210 and 311). Chitosan coating was carried out by mixing the liposomal suspension with the chitosan solution followed by incubation. The size of liposomes was measured before and after polymer coating by an image analysis technique. The mean diameter of liposomes containing FITC-dextran was in the size range 250-280 nm, whereas the size after coating was 300-330 nm, regardless of chitosan type. All chitosan-coated liposomes were of spherical shape and no morphological differences between uncoated and coated liposomes were observed. Liposomes with FITC-dextran, originally entrapping 50% of the marker substance taken in the preparation and coated in the presence of unentrapped marker substance, contained 60-65% of the marker substance. The highest entrapment was found for liposomes coated with medium molecular weight chitosan. The stability of chitosan-coated liposomes in simulated gastric fluid was significantly higher as compared to uncoated liposomes. One can conclude that chitosan is stabilizing the original liposomal structure and protecting liposomally entrapped drug.     

Preparation and evaluation of a novel gastric floating alginate/poloxamer inner-porous beads using foam solution

In the present study, a simple and rapid method was developed to prepare a novel kind of inner-porous floating beads. The beads were prepared by dripping the foam solution into CaCl(2) solution using disposable syringe needle, where the foam solution consisting numerous of microbubbles with poloxamer 188 as foaming agents, alginate as foaming stablizer. Foamability and foam stability of different polymer ratios were evaluated. The SEM cross-section pictures of the beads showed that the beads were inner-porous and composed of bubbles with very thin wall bubbles stacked together. The visual observation result and the resultant-weight method confirmed that the floating beads showed good buoyancy, most beads could float in the stomach for more than 6 h. The floating beads release behavior in vitro showed that drug release from the beads in a sustained-release fashion for 10 h. Gamma scintigraphic images and pharmacokinetic studies in vivo showed that the beads can retained in the stomach for over 6 h and can improve the bioavailability of drug with narrow absorption window.     

Use of floating alginate gel beads for stomach-specific drug delivery.

Two types of alginate gel beads capable of floating in the gastric cavity were prepared. The first, alginate gel bead containing vegetable oil (ALGO), is a hydrogel bead and its buoyancy is attributable to vegetable oil held in the alginate gel matrix. The model drug, metronidazole (MZ), contained in ALGO was released gradually into artificial gastric juice, the release rate being inversely related to the percentage of oil. The second, alginate gel bead containing chitosan (ALCS), is a dried gel bead with dispersed chitosan in the matrix. The drug-release profile was not affected by the kind of chitosan contained in ALCS. When ALCS containing MZ was administered orally to guinea pigs, it floated on the gastric juice and released the drug into the stomach. Furthermore, the concentration of MZ at the gastric mucosa after administration of ALCS was higher than that in the solution, though the MZ serum concentration was the same regardless of which type of gel was administered. These release properties of alginate gels are applicable not only for sustained release of drugs but also for targeting the gastric mucosa.     

Mucoadhesive chitosan-coated liposomes: characteristics and stability

Lecithin liposomes, empty or containing FITC-dextran, were prepared by the ethanol injection method. Three different types of chitosans with different molecular weight and degrees of deacetylation were used (Seacure 113, 210 and 311). Chitosan coating was carried out by mixing the liposomal suspension with the chitosan solution followed by incubation. The size of liposomes was measured before and after polymer coating by an image analysis technique. The mean diameter of liposomes containing FITC-dextran was in the size range 250-280nm, whereas the size after coating was 300-330nm, regardless of chitosan type. All chitosan-coated liposomes were of spherical shape and no morphological differences between uncoated and coated liposomes were observed. Liposomes with FITC-dextran, originally entrapping 50% of the marker substance taken in the preparation and coated in the presence of unentrapped marker substance, contained 60-65%of the marker substance. The highest entrapment was found for liposomes coated with medium molecular weight chitosan. The stability of chitosan-coated liposomes in simulated gastric fluid was significantly higher as compared to uncoated liposomes. One can conclude that chitosan is stabilizing the original liposomal structure and protecting liposomally entrapped drug.     

A comparative histological study of alginate beads as a promising controlled release delivery for mefenamic acid

The new mefenamic acid-alginate bead formulation prepared by ionotropic gelation method using 3 x 2(2) factorial design has shown adequate controlled release properties in vitro. In the present study, the irritation effects of mefenamic acid (MA), a prominent non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAI) drug, were evaluated on rat gastric and duodenal mucosa when suspended in 0.5% (w/v) sodiumcarboxymethylcellulose (NaCMC) solution and loaded in alginate beads. Wistar albino rats weighing 200 +/- 50 g were used during in vivo animal studies. In this work, biodegradable controlled release MA beads and free MA were evaluated according to the degree of gastric or duodenal damage following oral administration in rats. The gastric and duodenal mucosa was examined for any haemorrhagic changes. Formulation code A10 showing both Case II transport and zero order drug release and t(50) % value of 5.22 h was chosen for in vivo animal studies. For in vivo trials, free MA (100 mgkg(-1)), blank and MA (100 mgkg(-1)) loaded alginate beads (formulation code A10) were suspended in 0.5% (w/v) NaCMC solution and each group was given to six rats orally by gavage. NaCMC solution was used as a control in experimental studies. In vivo data showed that the administration of MA in alginate beads prevented the gastric lesions.     

Biphasic release characteristics of dual drug-loaded alginate beads

The dual drug-loaded alginate beads simultaneously containing drug in inner and outer layers were prepared by dropping plain (single-layered) alginate beads into CaCl₂ solution. The release characteristics were evaluated in simulated gastric fluid for 2 h followed by intestinal fluids thereafter for 12 h. The surface morphology and cross section of dual drug-loaded alginate beads was also investigated using scanning electron microscope (SEM). The poorly water-soluble ibuprofen was chosen as a model drug. The surface of single-layered and dual drug-loaded alginate beads showed very crude and roughness, showing aggregated particles, surface cracks and rough crystals. The thickness of dual drug-loaded alginate beads surrounded by outer layer was ranged from about 57 to 329μm. The distinct chasm between inner and outer layers was also observed. In case of single-layered alginate beads, the drug was not released in gastric fluid but was largely released in intestinal fluid. However, the release rate decreased as the reinforcing Eudragit^® polymer contents increased. When the plasticizers were added into polymer, the release rate largely decreased. The release rate of dual drug-loaded alginate beads was stable in gastric fluid for 2 h but largely increased when switched in intestinal fluid. The drug linearly released for 4 h followed by another linear release thereafter, showing a distinct biphasic release characteristics. There was a difference in the release profiles between single-layered and dual drug-loaded alginate beads due to their structural shape. However, this biphasic release profiles were modified by varying formulation compositions of inner and outer layer of alginate beads. The release rate of dual drug-loaded alginate beads slightly decreased when the outer layer was reinforced with Eudragit^® RS100 polymers. In case of dual drug-loaded alginate beads with polymer-reinforced outer layer only, the initial amount of drug released was low but the initial release rate (slope) was higher due to more swellable inner cores when compared to polymer-reinforced inner cores. The current dual drug-loaded alginate beads may be used to deliver the drugs in a time dependent manner.     

Ionotropic alginate beads for controlled intestinal protein delivery: effect of chitosan and barium counter-ions on entrapment and release

Alginate beads containing the model protein haemoglobin (Hb) were prepared by coagulation with various counter-ions to improve the controlled release of the protein. The effect of Ba(2+) and Ca(2+) ions and of the polycationic polysaccharide chitosan was investigated. Coagulation with Ba(2+), Ca(2+) and/or chitosan showed differences in the swelling index of the beads, in the encapsulation efficiency of Hb entrapment and in the release of the entrapped protein. Chitosan in the coagulation fluid markedly enhanced the encapsulation efficiency of the Hb. Release studies were conducted in simulated gastric fluid (SGF pH approximately or equal to 1.2) and subsequently in simulated intestinal fluid (SIF ) at 37 degrees C. Beads were stable in the gastric fluid but released their protein upon transfer to intestinal fluid. The release coincides with the burst and disintegration of beads. Rate of protein release from the beads was affected by the Ba(2+) and chitosan concentration in coagulation fluid.     

Preparation and release characteristics of polymer-reinforced and coated alginate beads

Polymeric reinforcement and coatings of alginate beads were carried out to control the release rate of drug from alginate beads. A poorly water-soluble ibuprofen (IPF) was selected as a model drug. A commercially available Eudragit^® RS100 was also used as a polymer. Effects of polymeric contents, the presence of plasticizers and amount of drug loading on the release rate of drug were investigated. The release rate of drug from alginate beads in the simulated gastric fluid did not occur within 2 h but released immediately when dissolution media were switched to the simulated intestinal fluid. No significant difference of release rate from polymer-reinforced alginate bead without plasticizers was observed when compared to plain (simple) beads. However, the release rate of drug from polymer-reinforced alginate beads was further sustained and retarded when aluminium tristearate (AT) as a plasticizer was added to polymer. However, polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG400) did not change the release rate of drug from alginate beads although PEG400 was used to improve dispersion of polymer and sodium alginate, and plasticize Eudragit^® RS100 polymer. The presence of plasticizer was crucial to reinforce alginate gel matrices using a polymer. As the amount of drug loading increased, the release rate of drug increased as a result of decreasing effects of polymer contents in matrices. The significantly sustained release of drug from polymer-coated alginate beads occurred as the amount of polymer increased because the thickness of coated membrane increased so that cracks and pores of the outer surface of alginate beads could be reduced. The sustained and retarded action of polymer-reinforced and coated beads may result from the disturbance of swelling and erosion (disintegration) of alginate beads. From these findings, polymeric-rein-forcement and coatings of alginate gel beads can provide an advanced delivery system by retarding the release rate of various drugs.     

Chitosan-alginate multilayer beads for controlled release of ampicillin

The aim of this study is to develop multilayer beads with improved properties for controlled delivery of the antibiotic ampicillin. Ionotropic gelation was applied to prepare single and multilayer beads using various combinations of chitosan and Ca²⁺ as cationic components and alginate and polyphosphate as anions. Beads prepared with higher concentrations of chitosan entrapped more ampicillin. During incubation in simulated gastric fluid, the beads swelled and started to float but did not show any sign of erosion. Single layer chitosan–alginate beads released 70% of the drug within 4 h. Multilayer beads released only 20–30% in the same period of time. During subsequent incubation in simulated intestinal fluid, both single and multilayer beads continued to release drug. At least part of this release is due to disintegration of the beads. The rate of release both in gastric and intestinal fluid and the kinetics of disintegration in intestinal fluid can be controlled by changing the chitosan concentration in the coagulation fluid. The release of the drug can also be controlled by the degree of cross-linking using polyphosphate. Cross-linked multilayer beads were prepared that released only 40% of the entrapped drug during 24 h. It is concluded that chitosan–alginate multilayer beads, cross-linked with polyphosphate offer an opportunity for controlled gastrointestinal passage of compounds with low molecular weight like ampicillin.     

Mucoadhesive chitosan-coated nanostructured lipid carriers for oral delivery of amphotericin B

This study describes the properties of an amphotericin B-containing mucoadhesive nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC), with the intent to maximize uptake within the gastrointestinal tract. We have reported previously that lipid nanoparticles can significantly improve the oral bioavailability of amphotericin B (AmpB). On the other hand, the aggregation state of AmpB within the NLC has been ascribed to some of the side effects resulting from IV administration. In the undissolved state, AmpB (UAmpB) exhibited the safer monomeric conformation in contrast to AmpB in the dissolved state (DAmpB), which was aggregated. Chitosan-coated NLC (ChiAmpB NLC) presented a slightly slower AmpB release profile as compared to the uncoated formulation, achieving 26.1% release in 5?hours. Furthermore, the ChiAmpB NLC formulation appeared to prevent the expulsion of AmpB upon exposure to simulated gastrointestinal pH media, whereby up to 63.9% of AmpB was retained in the NLC compared to 56.1% in the uncoated formulation. The ChiAmpB NLC demonstrated mucoadhesive properties in pH 5.8 and 6.8. Thus, the ChiAmpB NLC formulation is well-primed for pharmacokinetic studies to investigate whether delayed gastrointestinal transit may be exploited to improve the systemic bioavailability of AmpB, whilst simultaneously addressing the side-effect concerns of AmpB.     

Development and evaluation of polyethyleneimine-treated calcium alginate beads for sustained release of diltiazem

The objective of this investigation is to develop a multi-unit sustained release dosage form of a water soluble drug from a completely aqueous environment avoiding the use of any organic solvent. The drug was complexed with resin and calcium alginate or polyethyleneimine-treated calcium alginate beads loaded with the resinate were prepared by a ionic/polyelectrolyte complexation method. The effect of different formulation variables on the characteristics of the beads was investigated. Although the drug release from spherical and smooth-surfaced calcium alginate beads in both acidic and alkaline dissolution media were slower than those obtained from plain resinate, none of the variables were found to prolong the drug release considerably due to rapid swelling and disintegration of calcium alginate beads in alkaline medium. On the other hand, drug release from polyethyleneimine-treated calcium alginate beads in acidic medium did not increase appreciably following a burst release. However, in alkaline medium, the drug release was found to increase gradually and extend over a different period of time depending on the intensity of polyethyleneimine treatment. Scanning electron micrographs revealed the formation of a dense membrane around the resinate-loaded calcium alginate matrix. The membrane appeared to be responsible for reduced swelling and protracted disintegration of the beads resulting in slow release of the drug. The results indicate that sustained release of a water soluble drug from polyethyleneimine-treated calcium alginate beads could be achieved by adjusting the formulation variables.     

Development and evaluation of polyethyleneimine-treated calcium alginate beads for sustained release of diltiazem

The objective of this investigation is to develop a multi-unit sustained release dosage form of a water soluble drug from a completely aqueous environment avoiding the use of any organic solvent. The drug was complexed with resin and calcium alginate or polyethyleneimine-treated calcium alginate beads loaded with the resinate were prepared by a ionic/polyelectrolyte complexation method. The effect of different formulation variables on the characteristics of the beads was investigated. Although the drug release from spherical and smooth-surfaced calcium alginate beads in both acidic and alkaline dissolution media were slower than those obtained from plain resinate, none of the variables were found to prolong the drug release considerably due to rapid swelling and disintegration of calcium alginate beads in alkaline medium. On the other hand, drug release from polyethyleneimine-treated calcium alginate beads in acidic medium did not increase appreciably following a burst release. However, in alkaline medium, the drug release was found to increase gradually and extend over a different period of time depending on the intensity of polyethyleneimine treatment. Scanning electron micrographs revealed the formation of a dense membrane around the resinate-loaded calcium alginate matrix. The membrane appeared to be responsible for reduced swelling and protracted disintegration of the beads resulting in slow release of the drug. The results indicate that sustained release of a water soluble drug from polyethyleneimine-treated calcium alginate beads could be achieved by adjusting the formulation variables.     

阿西美辛海藻酸钙凝胶微丸释药影响因素考察

目的:考察阿西美辛海藻酸钙凝胶微丸的释药机制。方法:采用滴制法制备阿西美辛海藻酸钙微丸,考察海藻酸钠浓度,钙离子浓度,投药量,滴头直径大小对药物释放的影响。结果:海藻酸钠浓度增加,钙离子浓度增加,滴头直径增加,释药速率减慢。结论:在体外释放度实验中,阿西美辛海藻酸钙凝胶微丸具有良好的缓释作用,海藻酸钙凝胶微丸是一种非常有潜力的药物载体。     

Preparation andin vitro release of melatonin-loaded multivalent cationic alginate beads

The sustained release dosage form which delivers melatonin (MT) in a circadian fashion over 8 h is of clinical value for those who have disordered circadian rhythms because of its short half-life. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the gelling properties and release characteristics of alginate beads varying multivalent cationic species (Al⁺⁺⁺, Ba⁺⁺, Ca⁺⁺, Mg⁺⁺, Fe⁺⁺⁺, Zn⁺⁺). The surface morphologies of Ca- and Ba-alginate beads were also studied using scanning electron microscope (SEM). MT, an indole amide pineal hormone was used as a model drug. The Ca⁺⁺, Ba⁺⁺, Zn⁺⁺, Al⁺⁺⁺, and Fe⁺⁺⁺ ions except Mg⁺⁺ induced gelling of sodium alginate. The strength of multivalent cationic alginate beads was as follows: Al⁺⁺⁺?Fe⁺⁺⁺<Zn⁺⁺<Ca⁺⁺?Ba⁺⁺. In case of Al⁺⁺⁺, the induced hydrogel beads were very fragile and less spherical. Fe-alginate beads were also fragile but stronger compared to Al-alginate beads. Ba-alginate beads, had a similar gelling strength but was less spherical when compared to Ca-alginate beads. Zn-alginate beads were weaker than Ca- and Ba-alginate beads. Very crude and rough crystals of Ba- and Ca-alginate beads at higher magnifications were observed. However, the type and shape of rough crystals of Ba- and Ca-alginate beads were quite different. No significant differences in release profiles from MT-loaded multivalent cationic alginate beads were observed in the gastric fluid. Most drugs were continuously released upto 80% for 5 h, mainly governed by the passive diffusion without swelling and disintegrating the alginate beads. In the intestinal fluid, there was a significant difference in the release profiles of MT-loaded multivalent cationic alginate beads. The release rate of Ca-alginate beads was faster when compared to other multivalent cationic alginate beads and was completed for 3 h. Ba-alginate beads had a very long lag time (7 h) and then rapidly released thereafter. MT was continuously released from Fe-and Zn-alginate beads with initial burstout release. It is assumed that the different release profiles of multivalent cationic alginate beads resulted from forces of swelling and disintegration of alginate beads in addition to passive diffusion, depending on types of multivalent ions, gelling strength and drug solubility. It was estimated that 0.2 M CaCl₂ concentration was optimal in terms of trapping efficiency of MT and gelling strength of Ca-alginate beads. In the gastric fluid, Ca-alginate beads gelled at 0.2 M CaCl₂ concentration had higher bead strength, resulting in the most retarded release when compared to other concentrations. In the intestinal fluid, the decreased release of Ca-alginate beads prepared at 0.2 M CaCl₂ concentration was also observed. However, release profiles of Ca-alginate beads were quite similar regardless of CaCl₂ concentration. Either too low or high CaCl₂ concentrations may not be useful for gelling and curing of alginate beads. Optimal CaCl₂, concentrations must be decided in terms of trapping efficiency and release profiles of drug followed by curing time and gelling strength of alginate beads.     

pH-dependent release property of alginate beads containing calcium carbonate particles

Alginate bead containing calcium carbonate particle were prepared by dropping the suspension of alginate/calcium carbonate (4/1, w/w) into aqueous solution of CaCl(2) (0.1 M). The pH-dependent release property of the bead was observed for 12 h using blue dextran as a model drug. The release increased up to 4 h in a saturation manner. When no calcium carbonate was contained, the release exhibited no marked variation with pH and the values were 27-39%. On the other hand, in case calcium carbonate was included in the matrix of alginate beads, intensive release(40-50%) was achieved in acidic and neutral conditions and the degrees of release were suppressed in alkali conditions and the values were approximately 20%. The pH-sensitive release property is possibly because the particles of calcium carbonate embedded in the matrix of beads were leached out in acidic and neutral conditions, leaving cavities in the matrix. The cavities are likely to be main pathways for the release of blue dextran.     

pH-dependent release property of alginate beads containing calcium carbonate particles

Alginate bead containing calcium carbonate particle were prepared by dropping the suspension of alginate/calcium carbonate (4/1, w/w) into aqueous solution of CaCl₂ (0.1?M). The pH-dependent release property of the bead was observed for 12?h using blue dextran as a model drug. The release increased up to 4?h in a saturation manner. When no calcium carbonate was contained, the release exhibited no marked variation with pH and the values were 27–39%. On the other hand, in case calcium carbonate was included in the matrix of alginate beads, intensive release(40–50%) was achieved in acidic and neutral conditions and the degrees of release were suppressed in alkali conditions and the values were ～20%. The pH-sensitive release property is possibly because the particles of calcium carbonate embedded in the matrix of beads were leached out in acidic and neutral conditions, leaving cavities in the matrix. The cavities are likely to be main pathways for the release of blue dextran.     

Microencapsulation of a recombinant aminopeptidase (PepN) from Lactobacillus rhamnosus S93 in chitosan-coated alginate beads

A recombinant aminopeptidase (90 kDa) of Lactobacillus rhamnosus S93 produced by E. coli was encapsulated in alginate or chitosan-treated alginate beads prepared by an extrusion method. This study investigated the effects of alginate, CaCl2, chitosan concentrations, hardening time, pH and alginate/enzyme ratios on the encapsulation efficiency (EE) and the enzyme release (ER). Chitosan in the gelling solution significantly increased the EE from 30.2% (control) to 88.6% (coated). This polycationic polymer retarded the ER from beads during their dissolution in release buffer. An increase in alginate and chitosan concentrations led to greater EE and lesser ER from the beads. The greatest EE was observed in a pH 5.4 solution (chitosan-CaCl2) during bead formation. Increasing the CaCl2 concentration over 0.1 M neither affected the EE nor the ER. Increasing hardening time beyond 10 min led to a decrease in EE and the alginate:enzyme ratio (3 : 1) was optimal to prevent the ER.