DRUG RELEASE CONTROL AND ENHANCEMENT USING CARRIERS WITH DIFFERENT CONCENTRATIONS OF CAPMUL® MCM C8

Abstract

Objective: The main aim of this study was to design a drug carrier capable to control and enhance the release of poorly water soluble drugs. Methods: Three polymeric formulations, based on poly (2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) and loaded with different Capmul® MCM C8 concentrations (0, 10 and 20 % w/w), were prepared. Felodipine, which is a poorly soluble substance, was selected as a model drug. The effect of Capmul® MCM C8 on swelling behavior and in vitro release profile of the prepared polymer was investigated in PBS. Results: The swelling profiles of allformulationswere statistically similar, which indicated the non-significant effect of added Capmul® MCM C8 on polymer's swelling behavior. All formulations showed a delayed drug release. Formulation-F3, which is loaded with 20% w/wCapmul® MCM C8 displayed a significant higher release compared to the other formulations. Conclusion: Capmul® MCM products, which are widely used in food industries, can be used to improve the oral delivery of poorly soluble substances. The optimized formulation exhibited the ability to control and enhance the release of the model drug.