EFFECT PROCESSING VARIABLES ON THE CHARACTERISTICS OF ITRACONAZOLE HOLLOW MICROSPHERES
Objective: The purpose of the study was to develop the multiple unit non-effervescent gastroretentive floating hollow microspheres to enhance the bioavailability of the drug by varying the concentration of low-density polymer and release modifier to retaining the formulation at its absorption site. Design of experiment approach applied to get the best possible formulation with minimum assets and experimentation. Methods: The hollow microspheres were prepared by emulsion solvent diffusion-evaporation technique using ethylcellulose as low-density polymer and Eudragit E100 as release modifier. The central composite design was used for the optimization of independent variables and was evaluated for particle size, entrapment efficiency, in vitro floating ability and drug release characteristics. Results: The physicochemical analysis was done to confirm any interaction between drug and excipients. The Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) showed a smooth, spherical surface with an inner hollow cavity. The stability study proves that the hollow microspheres were more stable under different storage conditions with no significant changes in formulation. The drug release mechanism of the optimized batch can be explained by Korsmeyer Peppas model. Conclusion: Based on the results, the hollow microspheres with a release modifying polymer offers a superior approach to retain the formulation in the stomach.