Co-processed κ-carrageenan-pectin as pelletizing aid for immediate-release pellets

Abstract

ABSTRACTThis study investigates the extrusion-spheronization performance of some mixtures of co-processed κ-carrageenan and pectin (as excipient), and sodium starch glycolate (as superdisintegrant). Attention is focused with an objective to improve the mechanical stability and the dissolution rate of poorly soluble domperidone (as a model drug). Initially, co-processed κ-carrageenan-pectin excipient is prepared with different ratios of κ-carrageenan and pectin. Different marketed brands of κ-carrageenan (Gelcarin, Aquagel and Eugel) were employed and dried by solvent evaporation method. Further characterization was carried out by SEM, XRD and FTIR analysis. Pellets were prepared using extrusion-spheronization technique. Pellets were evaluated for flow properties, particle size, sphericity, tensile strength, friability, disintegration time and in-vitro drug release studies. Solid-state characterization of pellets was also done by FTIR, DSC and SEM analysis. The mechanical stability and dissolution rate of prepared pellets were found to be dependent on the concentration of pectin and type of κ-carrageenan employed in the fabrication of pellets. The pellets made with a high proportion of Eugel showed a very high dissolution rate of domperidone and undergo rapid disintegration validating co-processed k-carrageenan-pectin as a promising pelletizing aid for immediate-release pharmaceutical formulations.