EVALUATION OF ALGINATE MICROSPHERES WITH METRONIDAZOLE OBTAINED BY THE SPRAY DRYING TECHNIQUE.

In the present study, nine formulations (F1-F9) of alginate microspheres with metronidazole were prepared by the spray drying technique with using different drug:polymer ratio (1:2, 1:1, 2:1) and different sodium alginate concentration (1, 2, 3%). The obtained microspheres were characterized for size, morphology, drug loading, (potential and swelling degree. Mucoadhesive properties were examined using texture analyzer and three different models of adhesive layers--gelatin discs, mucin gel and porcine vaginal mucosa. In vitro drug release, mathematical release profile and physical state of microspheres were also evaluated. The obtained results indicate that sodium alginate is a suitable polymer for developing mucoadhesive dosage forms of metronidazole. The optimal formulation F3 (drug:polymer ratio 1:2 and 1% alginate solution) was characterized by the highest metronidazole loading and sustained drug release. The results of this study indicate promising potential of ALG microspheres as alternative dosage forms for metronidazole delivery.