FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF COLON TARGETED DELAYED RELEASE MICROSPHERIC CAPSULES OF ALBENDAZOLE

Abstract

The aim of the present work was to prepare and evaluate the colon targeted delayed release microspheric capsules of albendazole. The preparation of albendazole microspheres by ionic gelation method avoids the usage of toxic organic solvents and considered to be relatively economical method. Calcium chloride was used as a counter ion and two polysaccharides namely sodium alginate and chitosan were used as a polymers that restrict the drug release in stomach and upper GIT and thus delayed the drug release. Different formulations were formulated by varying the polymers and counter ion concentration. These formulations were subjected to various evaluation parameters like percentage yield, particle size, surface morphology, drug entrapment efficiency, DSC study, flow property and in vitro drug release studies. The results of all parameters are tabulated and depicted graphically in the result and discussion section. The experimental results demonstrated that the prepared microspheres of albendazole for colon targeting may reduce the side effects of the drug caused by its absorption from the upper part of GIT when given in conventional dosage forms. Thus the albendazole microspheres have the potential to be used as a drug carrier for an effective colon targeted drug delivery system.

KEYWORDS: Colon targeting, Albendazole, Ionic gelation, Microspheres, Capsule, Colon.