Abstract:
The purpose of this research was to prepare a floating drug delivery system of Nicorandil.
In the present study preparation of Nicorandil floating microspheres, evaluation of
Floating microspheres, in vitro prediction of the release, and optimization of stirring
speed and polymers ratio to match target release profile were investigated. Floating
microspheres were prepared by solvent evaporation technique using hydroxylpropyl
methylcellulose (HPMC) and Ethylcellulose (EC) as the rate controlling polymers.
Particle size analysis, drug entrapment efficiency, surface topography, buoyancy
percentage and release studies were performed. Results showed that the polymer ratio
and stirring speed affected the size, incorporation efficiency and drug release of
microspheres, floating time and the satisfactory results were obtained at the ratio of
HPMC:EC (1:2). The mean particle size of prepared floating microspheres increased but
the drug release rate from the microspheres decreased as the polymer concentration
increased. The formulated floating microspheres of Nicorandil may be used in for
prolonged drug release in stomach for at least 12 hrs, thereby improving the
bioavailability and patient compliance.
