Effects of the permeability characteristics of different polymethacrylates on the pharmaceutical characteristics of verapamil hyhdrochloride-loaded microspheres

Microspheres containing verapamil hydrochloride (VRP) were prepared with various polymethacrylates, with different permeability characteristics (Eudragit RS 100, Eudragit RL 100, Eudragit L 100 and Eudragit L 100-55) and also with mixtures of these polymers in a 1:1 ratio using the solvent evaporation method. The aim was to investigate the effects of the permeability of the polymers on drug release rates and the characteristics of the microspheres. To achieve these aims, yield, incorporation efficiency, particle size and the distribution of microspheres were determined, and the influence of the inner phase viscosities prepared with different polymer and polymer mixtures on particle size and the distribution of microspheres were evaluated. Surface morphologies of microspheres were observed by scanning electron microscope. Drug release rates from microspheres were determined by the half-change method using a flow-through cell. The results indicate that microspheres with different surface morphologies and statistically different yields and incorporation efficiencies could be prepared and their particle size and distribution variances resulted from the viscosity of the inner phase. Dissolution profiles showed that the drug release rate could be modified depending on the permeability characteristics of polymethacrylates.     

Preparation and in vitro dissolution profile of zidovudine loaded microspheres made of Eudragit RS 100, RL 100 and their combinations

The objective of present investigation was to evaluate the entrapment efficiency of the anti-HIV drug, zidovudine, using two Eudragit polymers of different permeability characteristics and to study the effect of this entrapment on the drug release properties. In order to increase the entrapment efficiency optimum concentration of polymer solutions were prepared in acetone using magnesium stearate as droplet stabilizer. The morphology of the microspheres was evaluated using a scanning electron microscope, which showed a spherical shape with smooth surface. The mean sphere diameter was between 1000-3000 microm and the entrapment efficiencies ranged from 56.4-87.1%. Polymers were used separately and in combination to prepare different microspheres. The prepared microspheres were studied for drug release behavior in phosphate buffer at pH 7.4, because the Eudragit polymers are independent of the pH of the dissolution medium. The release profiles and entrapment efficiencies depended strongly on the structure of the polymers used as wall materials. The release rate of zidovudine from Eudragit RS 100 microspheres was much lower than that from Eudragit RL 100 microspheres. Evaluation of release data reveals that release of zidovudine from Eudragit RL 100 microspheres followed the Higuchi rule, whereas Eudragit RS 100 microspheres exhibited an initial burst release, a lag period for entry of surrounding dissolution medium into polymer matrix and finally, diffusion of drug through the wall material.     

Effect of formulation variables on in vitro drug release and micromeritic properties of modified release ibuprofen microspheres

Modified release microspheres of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, ibuprofen, were formulated and prepared using the emulsion solvent diffusion technique. The contribution of various dispersed phase and continuous phase formulation factors on in vitro drug release and micromeritic characteristics of microspheres was examined. The results demonstrated that the use of Eudragit RS 100 and Eudragit RL 100 as embedding polymers modified the drug release properties as a function of polymer type and concentration. Eudragit RS 100 retarded ibuprofen release from the microspheres to a greater extent than Eudragit RL 100. The drug/polymer concentration of the dispersed phase influenced the particle size and drug release properties of the formed microspheres. It was found that the presence of emulsifier was essential for microsphere formation. Increasing the concentration of emulsifier, sucrose fatty acid ester F-70, decreased the particle size which contributed to increased drug release properties. Scanning electron microscopy revealed profound distortion in both the shape and surface morphology of the microspheres with the use of magnesium stearate as added emulsifier. The application of an additional Eudragit RS 100 coat onto formed microspheres using fluid bed technology was successful and modulated the drug release properties of the coated microspheres.     

Effect of formulation variables on in vitro drug release and micromeritic properties of modified release ibuprofen microspheres.

Modified release microspheres of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, ibuprofen, were formulated and prepared using the emulsion solvent diffusion technique. The contribution of various dispersed phase and continuous phase formulation factors on in vitro drug release and micromeritic characteristics of microspheres was examined. The results demonstrated that the use of Eudragit RS 100 and Eudragit RL 100 as embedding polymers modified the drug release properties as a function of polymer type and concentration. Eudragit RS 100 retarded ibuprofen release from the microspheres to a greater extent than Eudragit RL 100. The drug/polymer concentration of the dispersed phase influenced the particle size and drug release properties of the formed microspheres. It was found that the presence of emulsifier was essential for microsphere formation. Increasing the concentration of emulsifier, sucrose fatty acid ester F-70, decreased the particle size which contributed to increased drug release properties. Scanning electron microscopy revealed profound distortion in both the shape and surface morphology of the microspheres with the use of magnesium stearate as added emulsifier. The application of an additional Eudragit RS 100 coat onto formed microspheres using fluid bed technology was successful and modulated the drug release properties of the coated microspheres.     

Preparation and in vitro evaluation of Eudragit microspheres containing acetazolamide

The aim of this study was to prepare and evaluate Eudragit (RS and RL) microspheres containing acetazolamide. Microspheres were prepared by solvent evaporation method using acetone/liquid paraffin system. The influence of formulation factors (stirring speed, polymer:drug ratio, type of polymer, ratio of the combination of polymers) on particle size, encapsulation efficiency and in vitro release characteristics of the microspheres were investigated. The yields of preparation and the encapsulation efficiencies were high for all formulations the microspheres were obtained. Mean particle size changed by changing the polymer:drug ratio or the stirring speed of the system. Although acetazolamide release rates from Eudragit RS microspheres were very slow and incomplete for all formulations, they were fast from Eudragit RL microspheres. When Eudragit RS was added to Eudragit RL microsphere formulations, release rates slowed down and achieved the release profile suitable for peroral administration.     

Sustained release spherical agglomerates of polymethacrylates containing mefenamic acid: in vitro release, micromeritic properties and histological studies

Mefenamic acid (MA) spherical agglomerates (SAs) were prepared with various polymethacrylates having different permeability characteristics (Eudragit RS 100, Eudragit RL 100 and Eudragit L 100) and also with combination of Eudragit RS 100 and Eudragit L 100 in different ratios. SAs were prepared by spherical crystallization method using ethanol/dichloromethane solvent (crystallization) system. The influence of various formulation factors on the encapsulation efficiency, as in vitro drug release, and micromeritic properties was investigated. Target release profile of MA was also drawn. The yields of preparation and the encapsulation efficiencies were high for all formulations. The shape and surface characteristics of SAs were observed by a scanning electron microscope. The particle sizes are in the range of 0.219 ± 0.1 to 0.482 ± 0.25 mm (mean ± confidence interval t(95%)). In addition, histological studies showed that the administration of MA in SAs containing Eudragit RS/L provided a distinct tissue protection in the stomach and duodenum. Differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray diffraction of powder studies showed that MA particles crystallized in the presence of polymethacrylates did not undergo structural modifications.     

Preparation and in vitro evaluation of propylthiouracil microspheres made of Eudragit RL 100 and cellulose acetate butyrate polymers using the emulsion-solvent evaporation method

The objectives of this investigation are to evaluate the encapsulation efficiency of the anti-thyroid agent 6-n-propyl-2-thiouracil using two polymers of different characteristics (cellulose acetate butyrate polymer, (CAB-551-0.01) and ammonio methacrylate copolymer (Eudragit RL 100) and to study the effect of this encapsulation on the drug release properties. Polymers were used separately and in combination to prepare different microspheres. Also, the effect of polymer solution phase viscosity was studied for each of the polymers and for their combinations. An Ostwald viscometer was used to evaluate the relative viscosities of polymer solution phases and their combinations. Microspheres with 25% theoretical drug loading of 6-n-propyl-2-thiouracil core material were prepared by the emulsion solvent evaporation method. Microspheres prepared from CAB-551-0.01, which has higher relative polymer phase viscosity than Eudragit RL 100, showed significantly lower drug release rates and a noticeable lag time. Polymer combinations of CAB-551-0.01 and Eudragit RL 100 (1:1) showed an interesting synergistic increase in relative polymer solution viscosities at all concentrations. Unlike microspheres prepared from the two polymers separately which follow Higuchi spherical matrix release kinetics, microspheres prepared using a combination (1:1) of the two polymers showed near zero order with faster rates compared to those prepared using CAB-551-0.01 equivalent polymer concentrations. The results of this study suggest that 6-n-propyl-2-thiouracil was successfully and efficiently encapsulated and release rates of matrix microspheres are related to polymer solution phase viscosity, but when polymer combinations were used other factors such as structural effects must be considered.     

Floating properties and release characteristics of hollow microspheres of acyclovir

Acyclovir, a selective antiherpes virus agent, was loaded in the hollow microspheres to improve bioavailability and patient compliance by prolonging the residence time in the gastrointestinal tract. The hollow microspheres of acyclovir were prepared by solvent evaporation diffusion method using Eudragit S 100 as a controlled polymer. We found that the process conditions that provided the high % yield of the hollow microspheres were the use of 5:8:2 of dichloromethane: ethanol: isopropanol as a solvent system and stirring at 300 rpm for 60 min. The size of the microspheres prepared from different ratios of acyclovir and Eudragit S 100 was 159-218 microm. When the drug-to-polymer ratio was increased, the size and percent drug content increased. The highest percent drug entrapment was obtained at the ratio of 600 mg acyclovir: 1 g Eudragit S 100. The hollow microspheres tended to float over 0.1 M hydrochloric acid containing 0.02% Tween 20 solution for 24 hr. The rate of acyclovir released from the microspheres was generally low in simulated gastric fluid without enzyme due to the low permeability of the polymer. However, in phosphate buffer pH 6.8, the drug release increased as the drug load increased due to the swelling property of the polymer. In simulated intestinal fluids without enzymes, the polymer completely dissolved resulting in instant release of the drug in this medium.     

Effect of processing temperature on Eudragit RS PO microsphere characteristics in the solvent evaporation process

Eudragit RS PO microspheres containing stavudine as a model drug were prepared by the solvent evaporation method using acetone liquid paraffin system. The influence of processing temperature: 10, 30 and 40 degrees C on various parameters like particle shape, size distribution, drug loading, drug polymer interaction and release kinetic were studied. It was found that at lower temperature (10 degrees C) small particles of irregular size, rough and wrinkled surface were formed, whereas higher temperature gradually increases the particle size as well as improves the shape and smoothness of microspheres. It was found that temperature had no effect on encapsulation efficiency and drug polymer compatibility. Drug release rate from microspheres were found to be a function of mean particle size distribution.     

Sustained release spherical agglomerates of polymethacrylates containing mefenamic acid: in vitro release,micromeritic properties and histological studies

Mefenamic acid (MA) spherical agglomerates (SAs) were prepared with various polymethacrylates having different permeability characteristics (Eudragit RS 100, Eudragit RL 100 and Eudragit L 100) and also with combination of Eudragit RS 100 and Eudragit L 100 in different ratios. SAs were prepared by spherical crystallization method using ethanol/dichloromethane solvent (crystallization) system. The influence of various formulation factors on the encapsulation efficiency, as in vitro drug release, and micromeritic properties was investigated. Target release profile of MA was also drawn. The yields of preparation and the encapsulation efficiencies were high for all formulations. The shape and surface characteristics of SAs were observed by a scanning electron microscope. The particle sizes are in the range of 0.219?±?0.1 to 0.482?±?0.25?mm (mean ± confidence interval t_95%). In addition, histological studies showed that the administration of MA in SAs containing Eudragit RS/L provided a distinct tissue protection in the stomach and duodenum. Differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray diffraction of powder studies showed that MA particles crystallized in the presence of polymethacrylates did not undergo structural modifications.     

Release characteristics of polymethacrylate nanospheres containing coumarin-6

Sustained release nanospheres were prepared from the polymethacrylates Eudragit S(100) and E(100) containing a water insoluble dye by a salting-out method. Coumarin-6 was used as a model for insoluble analgesics to ascertain uptake and release properties dependent on polymer characteristics and pH. Morphology and particle size were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Particles were smooth, spherical and uniform with diameters ranging from 0.6-0.8 micro m. Yield was 38% and 86% for E(100) and S(100), respectively, and encapsulation of coumarin-6 efficiency was 58% and 75%, respectively. Coumarin-6 was stable within the polymer matrix at temperatures from -20 degrees C to 45 degrees C for 4 months. Release was most efficient from S(100) polymers in phosphate buffer at pH 7.4 and 8.0 reaching a maximum; 5 hours prior to samples at pH 7.0 and 9.0. Release was biphasic and concentration as a function of the square root of time produced linear data suggesting a Higuchi type diffusion from a polymer matrix. Release from E(100) was 65% lower than that from S(100) and was not solely dependent upon the ionization of polymer but most likely due to a combination of factors including buffer ionization.     

Effect of different dispersing agents on the characteristics of Eudragit microspheres prepared by a solvent evaporation method

Eudragit RS microspheres containing verapamil HCl for oral use were prepared using three different dispersing agents: aluminium tristearate, magnesium stearate and sucrose stearate, by a solvent evaporation method. The effects of the type and concentration of the dispersing agents and the inner phase polymer concentration on the size and T63.2%, (the time at which 63.2% of the drug is released) of microspheres were determined by multiple linear regression analysis. The morphology of microspheres was characterized by scanning electron microscopy. The surface of microspheres prepared with sucrose stearate was smoother and non-porous and the drug release from these microspheres was the fastest. When aluminium tristearate or magnesium stearate were used as dispersing agents, the particle size of microspheres became smaller. Increasing amounts of these two dispersing agents led to the accumulation of their free particles onto the surfaces of the microspheres. The drug release from the microspheres was slower than that of the microspheres from sucrose stearate depending on their hydrophobic structures. According to the results of the multiple linear regression analysis among the dispersing agents used, aluminium tristearate showed the best correlation between the examined input (dispersing agent and polymer concentrations) and output (T63.2%. and particle size) variables.     

The effect of the drug/polymer ratio on the properties of the verapamil HCl loaded microspheres

In this study, the microspheres containing verapamil hydrochloride (VRP) were prepared with Eudragit RS 100 by solvent evaporation method. In the solvent evaporation method one of the parameters which affect to the formation and properties of the microspheres is the variations of drug/polymer ratios. The aim of our study is to examine the effects of this parameter on the VRP loaded microspheres. To achieve this purpose, only drug/polymer ratio was altered while the other formulation parameters were kept constant and percentage yield value, incorporation efficiency, particle size and distribution of the microspheres were analyzed and micrographs of the microspheres were taken to determine the effects of the increase in the polymer amount of formulations. All the dispersed phase viscosities were evaluated by comparing them with the variations in particle size and distribution of the microspheres. In vitro dissolution tests were done by using dissolution media with three different pH in sequence as half-change method with flow through cell and the effect of the variation in polymer ratio on drug dissolution was evaluated according to dissolution test results. As a result of our study, it is thought that the variation in drug/polymer ratios might have an influence on the physical characteristics of the microspheres and the increasing amount of polymer might be result in decreased drug dissolve.     

Permeability and swelling studies on free films containing inulin in combination with different polymethacrylates aimed for colonic drug delivery.

The aim of this study was to assess some permeability and swelling characteristics of free films prepared by combination of inulin as a bacterially degradable system and time- or pH-dependent polymers as a coating formulation for colonic drug delivery. Different free films were prepared by casting and solvent evaporation method. Formulations containing inulin with Eudragit RS, Eudragit RL, Eudragit RS-Eudragit RL, Eudragit FS and Eudragit RS-Eudragit S with different ratios of inulin were prepared. After preparation, free films were evaluated by water vapor transmission test, swelling experiment and permeability to indomethacin and theophylline in different media. Formulations containing Eudragit FS had high resistance to water vapor permeation; but were unable to protect premature swelling and drug release in simulated small intestine media. Also, combination of Eudragit RS and Eudragit S had no suitable characteristics for colon delivery. However, Eudragit RS and Eudragit RL in combination with inulin made free films which had more swelling and permeation of drug in the colonic medium rather than the other media. It was shown that formulations containing sustained release polymethacrylates in combination with inulin have more potential as a coating system for specific colon delivery compared with pH-dependent polymers.     

Insulin encapsulation in reinforced alginate microspheres prepared by internal gelation.

Insulin-loaded alginate microspheres prepared by emulsification/internal gelation were reinforced by blending with polyanionic additive polymers and/or chitosan-coating in order to increase the protection of insulin at simulated gastric pH and obtain a sustained release at simulated intestinal pH. Polyanionic additive polymers blended with alginate were cellulose acetate phtalate (CAP), Eudragit L100 (EL100), sodium carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), polyphosphate (PP), dextran sulfate (DS) and cellulose sulfate (CS). Chitosan-coating was applied by using a one-stage procedure. The influence of additive polymers and chitosan-coating on the size distribution of microspheres, encapsulation efficiency and release profile of insulin in simulated gastrointestinal pH conditions was studied. The mean diameter of blended microspheres ranged from 65 to 106 microm and encapsulation efficiency of insulin varied from 14 to 100%, reaching a maximum value when CS and DS were incorporated in the alginate matrix. Insulin release, at pH 1.2, was almost prevented by the incorporation of PP, DS and CS. When uncoated microspheres were transferred to pH 6.8, a fast dissolution occurred, independently of the additive polymer blended with alginate, and insulin was completely released. Increasing the additive polymer concentration in the alginate matrix and/or chitosan-coating the blended alginate microspheres did not promote a sustained release of insulin from microspheres at pH 6.8.     

Influence of formulation and process variables on in vitro release of theophylline from directly-compressed Eudragit matrix tablets

Extended-release theophylline (TP) matrix tablets were prepared by direct compression of drug and different pH-dependent (Eudragit L100, S100 and L100-55) and pH-independent (Eudragit RLPO and RSPO) polymer combinations. The influence of varying the polymer/polymer (w/w) ratio and the drug incorporation method (simple blend or solid dispersion) was also evaluated. Drug release, monitored using the Through Flow Cell system, markedly depended on both the kind of Eudragit polymer combinations used and their relative content in the matrix. Maintaining a constant 1:1 (w/w) drug/polymers ratio, the selection of appropriate mixtures of pH-dependent and pH-independent polymers enabled achievement of a suitable control of TP release. In particular, matrices with a 0.7:0.3 w/w mixture of Eudragit L100-Eudragit RLPO showed highly reproducible drug release profiles, with an almost zero-order kinetic, and allowed 100% released drug after 360 min. As for the effect of the drug incorporation method, simple blending was better than the solid dispersion technique, which not only did not improve the release data reproducibility, but also caused, unexpectedly, a marked slowing down in drug release rate.     

Preparation and characterization of ibuprofen microspheres

Ibuprofen was microencapsulated with Eudragit RS using an o/w emulsion solvent evaporation technique. The effects of three formulation variables including the drug:polymer ratio, emulsifier (polyvinyl alcohol) concentration and organic solvent (chloroform) volume on the entrapment efficiency and microspheres size distribution were examined. The drug release rate from prepared microspheres and the release kinetics were also studied. The results demonstrated that microspheres with good range of particle size can be prepared, depending on the formulation components. The drug:polymer ratio had a considerable effect on the entrapment efficiency. However, particle size distribution of microspheres was more dependent on the volume of chloroform and polyvinyl alcohol concentration rather than the drug:polymer ratio. The drug release pattern showed a burst effect for all prepared microspheres due to the presence of uncovered drug crystals on the surface. It was shown that the release profiles of all formulations showed good correlation with the Higuchi model of release.     

Preparation and characterization of ibuprofen microspheres

Ibuprofen was microencapsulated with Eudragit RS using an o/w emulsion solvent evaporation technique. The effects of three formulation variables including the drug:polymer ratio, emulsifier (polyvinyl alcohol) concentration and organic solvent (chloroform) volume on the entrapment efficiency and microspheres size distribution were examined. The drug release rate from prepared microspheres and the release kinetics were also studied. The results demonstrated that microspheres with good range of particle size can be prepared, depending on the formulation components. The drug:polymer ratio had a considerable effect on the entrapment efficiency. However, particle size distribution of microspheres was more dependent on the volume of chloroform and polyvinyl alcohol concentration rather than the drug:polymer ratio. The drug release pattern showed a burst effect for all prepared microspheres due to the presence of uncovered drug crystals on the surface. It was shown that the release profiles of all formulations showed good correlation with the Higuchi model of release.     

Preparation and release characteristics of polymer-coated and blended alginate microspheres

To prevent a rapid drug release from alginate microspheres in simulated intestinal media, alginate microspheres were coated or blended with polymers. Three polymers were selected and evaluated such as HPMC, Eudragit RS 30D and chitosan, as both coating materials and additive polymers for controlling the drug release. This study focused on the release characteristics of polymer-coated and blended alginate microspheres, varying the type of polymer and its concentration. The alginate microspheres were prepared by dropping the mixture of drug and sodium alginate into CaCl(2) solution using a spray-gun. Polymer-coated microspheres were prepared by adding alginate microspheres into polymer solution with mild stirring. Polymer-blended microspheres were prepared by dropping the mixture of drug, sodium alginate and additive polymer with plasticizer into CaCl(2) solution. In vitro release test was carried out to investigate the release profiles in 500 ml of phosphate buffered saline (PBS, pH 7.4). As the amount of polymer in sodium alginate or coating solution increase, the drug release generally decreased. HPMC-blended microspheres swelled but withstood the disintegration, showing an ideal linear release profiles. Chitosan-coated microspheres showed smooth and round surface and extended the release of drug. In comparison with chitosan-coated microspheres, HPMC-blended alginate microspheres can be easily made and used for controlled drug delivery systems due to convenient process and controlled drug release.     

Release of diltiazem from Eudragit microparticles prepared by spray-drying

Microparticles containing diltiazem hydrochloride were prepared by the spray-drying technique using acrylatemethacrylate copolymers, Eudragit RS and Eudragit RL, as coating materials. The choice of solvent used during spray-drying determined the structure of the resultant microparticles. Spray-drying using dichloromethane as the solvent resulted in microspheres where the drug was distributed in the coating polymer matrix, whereas using toluene gave microcapsules with the drug coated by the polymer. The particle size distribution for both microspheres and microcapsules was narrow, with mean particle size below 10 μm. DTA-analysis showed that the drug was amorphous in the microspheres but crystalline in the microcapsules. The release pattern of diltiazem hydrochloride was affected by microparticle structure, whether the structure was matrix (microspheres) or reservoir (microcapsules). The results indicate that spray-drying is a method that can be used to prepare microparticles from the Eudragit acrylic resins RL and RS with a narrow particle size distribution. It is concluded that drug release rate can be controlled by choice of polymer type and production conditions during spray-drying.