Cetirizine release from cyclodextrin formulated compressed chewing gum

Area of Science:

• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Drug Delivery Systems
• Formulation Development

Background:

• Cyclodextrins (CDs) are known for masking bitter tastes, such as that of cetirizine.
• CDs can also influence the release kinetics of active pharmaceutical ingredients from various dosage forms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the in vitro release profiles of cetirizine from compressed chewing gums containing different types of cyclodextrins (α-, β-, and γ-CD).
• To evaluate the impact of cyclodextrin type, molar ratio, and formulation (complex vs. physical mixture) on cetirizine release.

Main Methods:

• In vitro release studies were conducted using a three-cell chewing apparatus.
• Cetirizine release from compressed chewing gums was analyzed under varying conditions: different CDs, molar ratios (cetirizine/CD), and formulations (complexed vs. physical mixture).
• Statistical analysis using ANOVA was employed to determine the significance of various factors on drug release.

Main Results:

• All tested cyclodextrins increased cetirizine release compared to chewing gum without CDs.
• The molar ratio of cetirizine/CD and the formulation type (complex vs. physical mixture) significantly influenced release (P < 0.05).
• Formulations with a 1:5 molar ratio of cetirizine/CD in complexed form showed the highest release, but physical mixtures offered comparable release yields, making them a more economical choice.

Conclusions:

• Cyclodextrins significantly impact cetirizine release from chewing gum formulations.
• Physical mixtures of cetirizine and cyclodextrins are a cost-effective alternative to pre-formed complexes, providing comparable release profiles and avoiding unnecessary expenses.
• Optimizing the molar ratio and formulation type is crucial for achieving desired cetirizine release from chewing gum.