Formulation and Evaluation of Floating Microspheres Containing Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug

In order to develop a site-specific delivery of NSAID for enhanced gastric retention and controlled release, research in this project is directed at developing floating microspheres. Ideally, most conventional NSAIDs produce a degree of gastrointestinal irritation and are cleared rapidly from the stomach preventing full bioavailability. To address the problem of rapid gastric emptying, floating microspheres have been developed to retain release drugs in stomach for longer periods thereby reducing dosing frequency and improve therapeutic efficacy with decreased side effects. We prepared buoyant microspheres loaded with NSAID using solvent evaporation method employing polymers such HPMC and ethyl celluloseand assessed them for in vitro parameters like particle size, drug entrapment efficiency and release profile. Results showed more than 80% buoyancy for up to 12 hours and controlled drug release profile, suggesting that the system can enhance bioavailability [18], increase patient compliance while reducing gastric irritation associated with NSAIDs therapy.