Development and Optimization of Nateglinide Loaded Polymeric Sustained Release Microspheres

This research study aims to develop and characterize of polymeric sustained release microspheres of Nateglinide (NTG), anti-diabetic drug known for its shorter half-life, which leads to poor bioavailability and frequent dosing. NTG polymeric microsphere developed by Emulsion-Solvent Diffusion-Evaporation method. Ethyl cellulose was used as rate retarding material. The polymeric microsphere were characterised for % yield, encapsulation efficiency, drug release, FTIR, and SEM. The developed NTG polymeric microspheres were smooth and spherical with porous nature and showed entrapment efficiency in range of 59.43% - 88.47 % with highest percent yield of 98.75%. FTIR spectra showed drug excipient compatibility while optimized formulation F5 showed complete drug release up to 24 hrs. These results indicate that NTG microspheres offer a safe and effective drug delivery system with prolonged release, which can enhance bioavailability, improve patient compliance, and reduce dosing frequency.