Analytical Characterization of a Controlled Release Polymeric Suspension

Aims: Qualitative analysis of a mucoadhesive polymeric (Carbopol940) suspension of Norfloxacin was carried out with the aim of developing an oral controlled release gastro-retentive dosage form. Methods: The characterization of ultrasonicated formulation was performed by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman Spectroscopy, Xray powder diffraction (XRD) and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses. For interpretation, FTIR (400 cm to 4000 cm region) and Raman (140 to 2400 cm region) spectra were used. XRD data of pure drug, polymer and the mucoadhesive polymeric (Carbopol940) suspension were obtained using a powder diffractometer, scanned from a Bragg’s angle (2θ) of 10 ̊ to 70 ̊. In addition, dispersion of particle was studied using SEM techniques. Results: The results from FTIR and Raman Spectroscopic analyses suggested that in the mucoadhesive suspension, carboxylic groups of Norfloxacin and hydroxyl groups of C940 undergo chemical interaction leading to esterification and hydrogen bonding. The XRD data indicated that the retention of crystalline nature of Norfloxacin in the mucoadhesive suspension. Moreover, the SEM image analysis suggested that in the formulation maximum particles exhibited network like structure to produce pseudoplastic flow. Conclusion: From our analysis, it can be concluded that homogeneous, uniformly dispersed, pharmaceutically stable controlled release Norfloxacin suspension was prepared, which had the property of better bioavailability and penetration capacity. INTRODUCTION: Due to their considerable therapeutic advantages such as ease of administration, patient compliance and flexibility in formulation, oral controlled release (CR) dosage forms (DFs) have been developed over the past three decades. Incorporation of the drug in a controlled release gastro retentive dosage forms (CR-GRDF) could remain in the gastric region for prolonged period, which would significantly increase gastric residence time of drugs and improve their bioavailability, reduce drug wastage and enhance the solubility of drugs . Several approaches are currently used to prolong gastric retention time. Since the goals of controlled drug delivery are to conserve and maintain effective drug concentration, eliminate