Entric-Coated Pectin Microspheres of Indomethacin for Targeting Inflammation in Lower Gastro Intestinal Tract

An objective of the present investigation was to formulate and evaluate targeting of indomethacin (IND) using Methaacrylalte-coated pectin microspheres. Pectin microspheres were prepared by emulsion dehydration method using different ratios of IND and pectin (1:40 to 1:80), stirring speeds (400-1800 rpm) and emulsifier concentrations (0.75%- 1.5% wt/vol). Microspheres prepared by using drug:polymer ratio 1:4, stirring speed 1000 rpm, and 1.25% wt/vol concentration of emulsifying agent were selected as an optimized formulation. Eudragit-coating of pectin microspheres was performed by oil-in-oil solvent evaporation method using coat:core ratio (5:1). Pectin microspheres and Eudragitcoated pectin microspheres were evaluated for surface morphology, particle size and size distribution, swellability, percentage drug entrapment, and in vitro drug release in simulated gastrointestinal fluids (SGF). The in vitro drug release study of optimized formulation was also performed in simulated colonic fluid, where higher release rate was observed than gastric fluid It is concluded from the present investigation that Eudragit-coated pectin microspheres are promising controlled release carriers for colon-targeted delivery of IND.