Design, characterization and evaluation of Eudragit microspheres containing glipizide

Objectives The aim of the present investigation was to formulate and evaluate Eudragit microspheres for controlled release of glipizide. Methods The microspheres were produced by emulsion solvent evaporation method, using the Eudragit RS100, Eudragit RL100 and also by their combination. Further, the prepared microspheres were characterized for the micromeritic properties, drug loading as well as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy. In vitro release study was performed in phosphate buffer (pH 7.4). Results and discussion The microspheres were free flowing in nature. The mean particle size ranged from 112 to 132 μm and the entrapment efficiencies ranged from 43.27 to 61.89%. The entrapment efficiency was found to be dependent on nature of polymer used for formulation. The FTIR confirmed stable character of glipizide in the drug-loaded microspheres. The DSC revealed the uniform dispersion of drug and polymer. Scanning electron microscopy revealed the surface morphology. The mechanism of drug release from the microsphere was found to be non-fickian type. Conclusion Eudragit microsphere containing glipizide was prepared successfully by using an emulsion solvent evaporation technique.