Abstract

PREPARATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF GASTRORETENTIVE FLOATING MICROSPHERES OF BALOFLOXACIN

S. Indira*, P Amareshwar and Prathima Srinivas.

ABSTRACT

The objective of the study was to develop and characterize multiple unit type oral floating microspheres of Balofloxacin to prolong gastric residence time. These floating microspheres release the drug in the stomach and upper GIT and thereby improve absorption and bioavailability of Balofloxacin. Floating microspheres of Balofloxacin were prepared by solvent diffusion method using polymers Ethyl cellulose, HPMCK4M and Eudragit RSPO in different ratios. The prepared Microspheres were evaluated for particle size, percent yield, entrapment efficiency, flow properties, SEM, buoyancy test, invitro drug release studies, everted sac test for bioadhesion and in vitro absorption by everted sac technique. The prepared microspheres were found to be discrete, spherical in shape, free flowing and remain buoyant for more than 12 hours. In vitro drug release was found to be 80-98% at the end of 12 hours. In vitro absorption studies indicate a significant absorption of drug in the stomach. The everted sac test revealed that microspheres also exhibit bioadhesion property. From our studies it is evident that these floating microspheres can be explored for the development of gastro retentive drug delivery system of Balofloxacin.

Keywords: Gastroretentive floating microspheres, Balofloxacin, Eudragit RSPO, Everted sac test.