Formulation Development and Evaluation of Gastro retentive Microspheres for the Delivery of Anti-Ulcer Drug

Abstract

Gastroretentive microspheres are an advanced drug delivery system designed to enhance the effectiveness of anti-ulcer drugs by prolonging their retention in the stomach. This study focuses on the formulation, development, and evaluation of gastroretentive microspheres to improve drug absorption and therapeutic efficacy. The microspheres were prepared using different polymers to achieve controlled drug release and buoyancy. Various formulation techniques, including solvent evaporation and emulsion methods, were employed to create microspheres with desirable characteristics such as high drug entrapment, good floating ability, and sustained drug release.The developed microspheres were evaluated for particle size, drug-loading efficiency, floating behavior, and in-vitro drug release. Particle size ranged from 214–254 µm, ideal for gastric retention. Entrapment efficiency was 83.2%–92.1%, and drug loading ranged from 16.6%–19.2%, both increasing with higher HPMC concentration. Batches F3 to F6 remained buoyant for over 12 hours, indicating excellent floating capacity. Famotidine release was sustained over 12 hours, with slower release at higher polymer concentrations. The release followed a diffusion-controlled mechanism and fit best with the Higuchi model. HPMC’s polymeric matrix significantly delayed drug diffusion, supporting its role in sustained delivery. These findings confirm the effectiveness of the formulation in enhancing gastric residence and controlled drug release for anti-ulcer therapy.