MUCOADHESIVE SODIUM ALGINATE PATCHES FOR ENHANCED BUCCAL DELIVERY OF OLMESARTAN IN HYPERTENSION MANAGEMENT

Objective: To develop and optimize olmesartan (OMS) buccal patches using sodium alginate (SA) for enhanced bioavailability and sustained release. Methods: A Box–Behnken design evaluated the effects of SA, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) K4M, and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) on patch performance across 17 formulations. Patches were assessed for swelling, mucoadhesion, drug release, physical properties, pH, and drug content. X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy analyzed the drug state and surface morphology. In vitro, ex vivo, and pharmacokinetic studies were conducted. Results: The optimal formulation (SA, HPMC K4M, PVA in a ratio of 2:1.5:1) showed strong mucoadhesion, uniform drug dispersion, and sustained release. Higher HPMC K4M enhanced adhesion and release control. The optimized patch achieved 78.2% bioavailability, compared to 27.8% for oral suspension. Conclusion: Box–Behnken optimization yielded an effective buccal patch for OMS, offering improved bioavailability and sustained drug delivery.