Development and optimization of flurbiprofen loaded microsponges; an in-vitro evaluation

Area of Science:

• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Materials Science

Background:

• Flurbiprofen (FLB) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug.
• Developing effective drug delivery systems is crucial for improving therapeutic outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate Flurbiprofen (FLB) loaded microsponges using quasi and double emulsification techniques.
• To assess the physicochemical properties and in-vitro drug release of the developed microsponges.

Main Methods:

• Quasi emulsification and double emulsification techniques were employed for microsponges preparation.
• Physicochemical characterization included FTIR, crystallographic analysis, optical microscopy, SEM, micromeritics, zeta potential, and particle size analysis.
• In-vitro dissolution studies were conducted to evaluate drug release profiles.

Main Results:

• FTIR confirmed ingredient compatibility; crystallography showed drug crystallinity was masked in microsponges.
• Microscopy revealed spherical, spongy microsponges with excellent flow properties and high drug entrapment efficiency (98.55±0.08%).
• In-vitro studies demonstrated controlled FLB release up to 8 hours, with variations based on formulation (e.g., EC vs. XG-facilitated EC).

Conclusions:

• The developed Flurbiprofen (FLB) microsponges exhibit suitable physicochemical properties for sustained drug delivery.
• The chosen ingredients and formulation techniques are effective for incorporating FLB into microsponges.
• Further optimization of formulation components can modulate drug release kinetics.