Exploration of in vitro drug release testing methods for saquinavir microenvironmental pH modifying buccal films

Buccal films containing a pH modifying excipient may be able to increase bioavailability of drugs with pH-dependent solubility such as saquinavir. Access suitable in vitro drug release testing methods facilitate buccal formulation development. This study aimed explore two for characterising and elucidate the relationship between microenvironmental (pHM, i.e. around swelling films) saquinavir release. The Franz diffusion cell method was applicable investigate effect hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) grade on Films HPMC K3 LV had faster than K100 LV. A UV/Vis imaging developed visualise pHM changes during initial dissolution. Within 5 min, decreased from 6.8 5.4 LV-based 11.1 % or 16.6 (w/w) malic acid. Subsequently, increased due increasing concentrations An acid content led combination broadly screening development formulations. approach holds promise characterizing other principles.