[Optimization of preparation process of floating sustained-release pellets of capsaicin based on nanometer CaCO3 by...

To prepare floating sustained-release pellets of capsaicin based on nanometer CaCO3.

The floating sustained-release pellets were prepared by the dropping method with sodium alginate as matrix. The effects of the concentration of sodium alginate, the ratio of capsaicin to sodium alginate and the ratio of nanometer CaCO3 to sodium alginate on pellets were detected in the single-factor test. On that basis, central composite design-response surface method were used to optimize the formula, with the floating capacity, drug-loading rate and in vitro drug release property of pellets as indicators.

In the optimal formula, CaCl2 accounted for 1.87%, the ratio of nanometer CaCO3 to sodium alginate was 2.16:1, and the ratio of capsaicin to sodium alginate was 2.36: 1, respectively. Capsaicin sustained-release pellets prepared under the conditions featured round granule, even particle size. It could float on artificial gastric fluid for over 15 hours, showing good sustained-release effect. Its accumulative drug-release percent of pellets in vitro at 12 h were 89.93%.

The floating sustained-release pellets of capsaicin show good floating capacity and sustained-release effect after being optimized with central composite design-response surface method.