Design and Characterization of Albumin-Chitosan Microspheres of Aceclofenac for Sustained Release

The present study deals with the formulation and characterization of cross linked chitosan/ albumin microspheres containing an NSAID drug Aceclofenac. The microspheres were prepared by suspension cross linking method using gluteraldehyde as a cross linking agent of the polymer matrix. Total eight formulation batches (F1 to F8) were formulated using chitosan/albumin alone and in combinations. The formulations were subjected to various evaluation parameters like % practical yield, entrapment efficiency, particle size distribution, swelling ratio, In vitro release and stability studies. Perfectly spherical cross linked microspheres loaded with aceclofenac were obtained in the size range of 50 - 500 μm. The % practical yield, entrapment efficiency, particle size, swelling ratio were increased with increased concentration of polymer used. The release of aceclofenac was influenced by polymer concentration and size of microspheres. The stability studies of formulation showed 4°C is suitable temperature for storage.