Preparation and biopharmaceutical evaluation of gelatin microcapsules of piretanide

Abstract

Gelatin microcapsules containing piretanide were prepared and evaluated biopharmaceutically for the purpose of preparing a slow-release preparation. The microcapsules of piretanide were evaluated in vitro and in vivo. In the former case, the dissolution profile of piretanide in dissolution media of pH 1.2—6.8 was examined. When compared with powder and tablet forms, microcapsules of piretanide showed slow-release properties at each pH value. In the in vivo study, the plasma piretanide level was measured after oral administration to beagle dogs. Microcapsules of piretanide were satisfactory as a slow-release preparation, although the AUC slightly increased after repeated administration.