Aceclofenac‐Loaded Plantago ovata F. Husk Mucilage‐Zn+2‐Pectinate Controlled‐Release Matrices

Abstract

The current study is aimed at developing Plantago ovata F. husk mucilage (PHM)‐blended Zn2+‐crosslinked low methoxyl (LM) pectinate (PHM‐Zn2+‐LM‐pectinate) controlled‐release matrices containing aceclofenac (ACF) for the management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in patients with an outright zinc deficiency. The ACF‐encapsulated hydrogel matrices are accomplished by ionic gelation using ZnSO4 as a crosslinker. The matrix diameter ranges from 1.39 ± 0.14 to 1.62 ± 0.16 mm. These formulations demonstrate excellent drug encapsulation efficiency (DEE, 63.80 ± 1.73–90.56 ± 2.72%) and controlled drug‐release behavior over a prolonged period of time (Q10 h, 51.42 ± 3.10 to 92.60 ± 2.38%). The drug‐elution patterns of different matrices are best‐fitted by a zero‐order kinetic model with a case‐II‐transport‐driven mechanism. The matrices also depict pH‐dependent swelling and degradation properties. In addition, the composites are characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform IR (FTIR), and powder X‐ray diffraction (P‐XRD) analyses. Thus, the newly developed PHM‐Zn+2‐LM‐pectinate matrices could be appropriate for controlled ACF delivery along with Zn supplementation in the effective treatment of RA.