Preparation and evaluation of modified release ibuprofen microspheres with acrylic polymers (Eudragit) by quasi-emulsion solvent diffusion method: effect of variables

The aim of this study was to prepare and evaluate microspheres containing ibuprofen. Microspheres were prepared by modified quasi-emulsion solvent diffusion method. The influence of formulation factors (drug-polymer ratio, volumes of solvent, polyvinyl alcohol concentration and type of polymer) on the morphology, particle size distribution, drug loading capacity, micromeritical properties and the in vitro release characteristics of the microspheres were investigated. Physical characterizations of ibuprofen microspheres were also carried out using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffractometry and IR spectrophotometry. It was found that the yield of preparation was dependent on the initial temperature gradient between the emulsion phases. When there was an initial difference of temperature between the aqueous phase and dispersed emulsion phases, yield of preparation was increased distinctly. The drug loading capacities were very high for all formulations of the microspheres which were obtained. Mean particle size changed by changing the drug-polymer ratio, volumes of solvent or polyvinyl alcohol concentration. The flow properties were much improved over those of the original crystals. In vitro dissolution results showed that the release rate of ibuprofen was modified in all formulations. Although ibuprofen release rates from Eudragit RS microspheres were very slow, they were fast from Eudragit RL microspheres. These results observed that if Eudragit RS and Eudragit RL are used in combination, optimum release profiles may be obtained.