Development of a buccal mucoadhesive film for fast dissolution: mathematical rationale,production and physicochemical characterization

Abstract

The validity of a mathematical rationale for preparation of a fast-dissolving buccal mucoadhesive was tested. A buccal mucoadhesive biopolymeric formulation has been developed having pullulan as the main component. The formulation was duly evaluated physicochemically, via assays for intrinsic viscosity (resulting in 71.61?cm³?g^?1), differential scanning calorimetry analysis (resulting in a Tg?=?63?°C), thermogravimetric analysis (244–341?°C), moisture content determinations (14%, w/w), dissolution timeframe (41.6?s), mucoadhesion force (40?kg/cm²), scanning electron microscopy analyses (critical ray under 1.0?μm), mechanic strength (tensile strength?=?58?N/mm², deformation?=?4.4%). The mucoadhesive formulation exhibited important characteristics for a drug carrier, that is, a 6?cm² area, a fast dissolution timeframe, an adequate mucoadhesivity, resistance to both oxygen and water vapor penetration, increased viscosity in solution (ranging from 33.2?cm³/g to 71.61?cm³/g), easy molding, suitable water solubility and transparency.