Preparation and in vitro characterization of piroxicam enteric coated pellets using powder layering technique.

The objective of this study was to develop piroxicam enteric coated pellets using nonpareil seeds by powder layering technique to minimize its gastrointestinal adverse effects. Inert seeds were prepared by incorporating sugar, Avicel PH 101 and lactose. The obtained cores were then treated by PVP 10 w/v % solution using centrifugal granulator (CF-granulator) and then coated with micronized piroxicam using HPMC solution (8 w/v %) as binder. The piroxicam pellets were finally coated with different polymers (Eudragit L30D-55, Eudragit L100, Eudragit NE30D, Acryleze, or mixture of Eudragits L30D-55 and NE30D) and plasticizers (triethyl citrate and polyethylene glycol 6000). Results showed that Eudragit L30D-55 with 3% weight gain accompanied with TEC produced suitable enteric coated pellets.