Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Floating microspheres as gastroretentive drug delivery systems
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Subtitle: a review
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Kavita Shah, Peeyush Kumar Sharma, Anil Bhandari, Akanksha Garud, Navneet Garud
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Floating microspheres as gastroretentive drug delivery systems
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved
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Summary of article contents:
1) Introduction
Oral drug delivery has gained significant attention in pharmaceutical research, as it provides an accessible and convenient route for patient administration. Among various drug delivery systems, microspheres have emerged as essential carriers due to their small size and effective delivery capabilities. Gastro retentive multiparticulates, particularly floating microspheres, have been found to enhance drug bioavailability while minimizing local irritation and providing more consistent absorption compared to traditional single-unit dosage forms. This review discusses the gastrointestinal physiology, factors affecting gastric retention time, drug delivery systems, and the advantages and limitations of floating microspheres.
2) Gastric Retention and Factors Influencing It
Gastric retention time (GRT) plays a crucial role in drug absorption, as effective oral drug delivery depends on various physiological factors including gastric emptying processes, gastrointestinal transit time, and drug release profiles. Notably, the gastric physiology consists of three main regions: the fundus, body, and antrum, each contributing to the mixing and emptying of food. Factors such as the density of the dosage form, meal composition, caloric content, frequency of food intake, and even the emotional state of the individual can significantly impact GRT. For instance, floating drug delivery systems must have a density of less than the gastric fluid (1.004 gm/ml) to achieve prolonged retention, which is essential for drugs with narrow absorption windows.
3) Approaches to Enhance Gastric Retention
Various approaches have been developed to achieve gastric retention, primarily involving high-density systems, floating systems, swelling and expandable systems, mucoadhesive systems, and raft-forming systems. Floating drug delivery systems (FDDS) are particularly noteworthy as they are designed to remain buoyant in the stomach, facilitating controlled drug release. These systems encompass non-effervescent and effervescent formulations that employ polymers to provide the desired buoyancy. Effervescent systems generate gas upon contact with gastric fluids, which becomes entrapped within the solid polymer matrix, enhancing their floating capabilities and allowing for a sustained release of the drug.
4) Advantages and Limitations of Floating Drug Delivery Systems
Floating microspheres present numerous advantages, including prolonged gastric retention, enhanced bioavailability for drugs requiring local action in the stomach, and improved patient compliance by reducing dosing frequency. However, they also carry some limitations. Drugs that irritate the gastric mucosa or those that are unstable in acidic environments may not be suitable candidates for incorporation into floating systems. Additionally, a high level of gastric fluid is necessary for optimal performance of these systems, and drugs that are absorbed throughout the gastrointestinal tract may also be less effective when formulated as floating microspheres.
5) Conclusion
The complexity of drug absorption in the gastrointestinal tract necessitates innovative approaches in drug delivery technologies. Floating microspheres have shown significant potential for improving gastric retention, bolstering bioavailability, and enabling controlled drug release. By exploring the physiological aspects of the gastrointestinal system alongside the various techniques to enhance gastric retention, researchers can optimize drug formulations to achieve better therapeutic outcomes. As such, floating drug delivery systems represent a valuable advancement in pharmaceutical sciences, promising improved treatment regimens for a range of therapeutic applications.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What are floating microspheres in gastroretentive drug delivery systems?
Floating microspheres are small polymeric particles designed to remain buoyant in the stomach, enhancing drug bioavailability and providing controlled release, thus improving therapeutic effects for orally administered medications.
What advantages do floating drug delivery systems provide?
Floating drug delivery systems prolong gastric retention time, enhance drug absorption, reduce dosing frequency, and improve patient compliance while effectively managing local actions in the stomach.
What are the factors affecting gastric residence time?
Factors include dosage form density, meal composition, caloric content, and individual differences such as sex, body posture, and emotional state, all influencing how long a drug stays in the stomach.
How are floating microspheres characterized in drug formulation?
Characterization involves assessing micromeritic properties, particle size, shape via microscopy, floating behavior in simulated gastric fluid, and drug entrapment efficiency, ensuring effective delivery system performance.
Which drugs are suitable for gastroretentive drug delivery systems?
Suitable drugs include those active in the stomach, with narrow absorption windows, or unstable in the intestine, like misoprostol and L-DOPA, ensuring maximum effectiveness when retained in the stomach.
What limitations exist for floating drug delivery systems?
Limitations include the unsuitability for irritating drugs, drugs unstable in acidic environments, and the requirement of adequate stomach fluid for the system to float and function effectively.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Floating microspheres as gastroretentive drug delivery systems”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Drug:
The term 'Drug' refers to a chemical substance that has a physiological effect on living organisms. Drugs are administered for therapeutic purposes to treat or alleviate diseases, improve health, and manage symptoms. In the context of pharmaceutical research, understanding drug properties and delivery mechanisms is essential for developing effective treatments.
2) Swelling:
'Swelling' describes the increase in size or volume of a substance, particularly hydrophilic materials when they absorb water or other solvents. In drug delivery systems, swelling is critical as it can enhance the release of drugs from carriers like microspheres. Controlling swelling properties can optimize drug bioavailability.
3) Science (Scientific):
'Science' is a systematic enterprise that builds and organizes knowledge based on observable phenomena. In pharmacology and drug delivery, scientific principles guide research, experimentation, and the development of new therapies. It underpins the study of drug effects, interactions, and innovative delivery methods like floating microspheres.
4) Irritation:
'Irritation' refers to the inflammatory response of tissues when exposed to certain substances, including drugs. Minimizing irritation is crucial in drug formulation, especially for oral medications that contact sensitive gastric mucosa. Floating drug delivery systems aim to reduce local irritation and enhance patient comfort.
5) Surface:
'Surface' pertains to the outermost layer of an object or substance. In pharmaceutical applications, surface properties influence drug absorption, release mechanisms, and the behavior of drug delivery systems. The surface characteristics of microspheres can determine their interactions with biological tissues and fluids.
6) India:
'India' is a country significant for its contributions to pharmaceutical sciences and the global market. Many innovative drug delivery technologies, including floating microspheres, are researched and developed here. India is also home to numerous pharmaceutical companies and educational institutions, fostering advancements in drug formulation.
7) Ulcer:
'Ulcer' refers to a sore that develops on the lining of the stomach or intestines. Understanding ulcers is vital in pharmacology, as many drugs, including gastroretentive formulations, may be designed to provide localized treatment. Floating drug systems can enhance the therapeutic effect of medications targeting ulcers.
8) Study (Studying):
'Study' denotes a systematic investigation or analysis conducted to discover facts or principles. In pharmaceutical research, studies are crucial for evaluating drug efficacy, safety, and mechanisms of action. They inform the development of new delivery systems and contribute to scientific advancements in drug therapy.
9) Food:
'Food' is an essential substance consumed for energy, nutrition, and health. The influence of food on drug absorption and gastric retention is pivotal in developing drug delivery systems. For example, the presence of food can alter gastric emptying rates, impacting the effectiveness of oral drug formulations.
10) Substance:
'Substance' refers to any material with a definite composition and properties. In drug formulation, understanding the characteristics of various substances is crucial for developing effective therapies. The interaction between substances in drug delivery systems can dictate the release rates and overall bioavailability of active compounds.
11) Nature:
'Nature' encompasses the inherent characteristics and behaviors of physical world elements. In the context of pharmaceuticals, understanding the nature of drugs, their mechanisms, and interactions with biological systems is critical for effective drug design. This includes studying natural substances for potential therapeutic applications.
12) Medium:
'Medium' pertains to the environment or substance through which something is conducted or dissolved. In drug delivery experiments, the medium often refers to the solution used for testing drug release. The properties of the medium can significantly affect the solubility and behavior of drug formulations.
13) Powder:
'Powder' refers to finely ground solid materials. In pharmaceutical applications, drugs are often formulated as powders for better solubility and uniform distribution. Powders can be used in various dosage forms, including tablets and floating microspheres, enhancing drug delivery and therapeutic outcomes.
14) Table:
'Table' often refers to a systematic arrangement of data or information. In pharmaceutical research, tables are used to present findings, experiment results, and drug formulation details. They aid in clear communication of data, making it easier to interpret and analyze complex information.
15) Sah:
'Shah' is a common surname, often associated with individuals in various professional fields, including pharmacy and research. In the context of scientific literature, authors with this surname may contribute to studies on drug delivery systems, highlighting advancements in pharmaceutical technologies and formulations.
16) Road:
'Road' can refer to a path or route, metaphorically symbolizing the journey of research and development in pharmaceuticals. The 'road' to innovative drug delivery technologies includes continuous exploration, challenges, and advancements in understanding mechanisms affecting drug absorption and retention in the body.
17) Salt (Salty):
'Salt' generally refers to a compound formed from the chemical reaction of an acid and a base. Salts play a significant role in pharmaceuticals as they can affect drug solubility and stability. Many drugs are formulated as salts to enhance their bioavailability and therapeutic effectiveness.
18) Developing:
'Developing' indicates the process of creating or improving something. In pharmaceuticals, developing new drug formulations and delivery systems involves extensive research and testing to enhance drug performance, increase patient compliance, and improve therapeutic outcomes, reflecting the continuous evolution in the field.
19) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
'Antibiotic' refers to a type of medication used to treat bacterial infections. Understanding antibiotics is crucial in pharmacology, especially in developing formulations that target specific infections. Innovations like gastroretentive systems can enhance the effectiveness of antibiotics by ensuring they remain active where needed, such as in the stomach.
20) Akanksha (Akanksa, Akamksa, Akamksha, A-kamksha):
'Akanksha' is a common name, possibly referring to a co-author or researcher in the field of pharmaceutical sciences. The contributions of individuals with this name may include research on drug delivery systems, antibiotic efficacy, or advancements in targeted therapeutic approaches in the literature.
21) Activity:
'Activity' describes the performance or effectiveness of a drug in eliciting its intended biological response. In pharmaceutical research, determining the activity of drug formulations, particularly floating microspheres, is essential for establishing their efficacy and safety in clinical applications.
22) Gwalior:
'Gwalior' is a city in India, known for its educational institutions, including those focusing on pharmaceutical sciences. Research conducted in Gwalior may contribute significantly to advances in drug development and delivery systems, highlighting the region's role in the broader landscape of global health.
23) Disease:
'Disease' refers to a pathological condition affecting an organism, leading to dysfunction and requiring medical intervention. Understanding various diseases is critical in pharmacology, guiding the development of targeted therapies to alleviate symptoms or cure conditions, including the design of gastroretentive drug delivery systems.
24) Gelatin:
'Gelatin' is a gelling agent derived from collagen, often used in drug delivery systems for its biocompatibility and ability to form hydrogels. In formulations, gelatin can enhance drug stability and release, making it a valuable component in creating effective gastroretentive systems.
25) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
'Sharma' is a prevalent surname found in India, often associated with professionals in various fields, including pharmacology and drug research. Individuals with this surname may contribute significantly to advancing knowledge in drug delivery systems and published findings in reputable scientific journals.
26) Animal:
'Animal' refers to multi-cellular organisms that can serve as models in preclinical studies. In pharmaceutical research, animal studies help evaluate drug safety, efficacy, and absorption characteristics before moving to human trials, aiding in understanding how new therapies perform in vivo.
27) Filling (Filled):
'Filled' describes the process of incorporating a drug or substance into a delivery system, like capsules or microspheres. The filling process is critical in pharmaceuticals, ensuring accurate dosages and facilitating effective drug release in the body, enhancing therapeutic outcomes.
28) Kumar:
'Kumar' is a common name in India, often representing individuals in various professional domains, including pharmaceutical sciences. Research contributions from persons with this name may focus on drug formulation, delivery systems, and advancements in therapeutic strategies within scientific literature.
29) Water:
'Water' is a universal solvent crucial in pharmaceutical formulations. It helps dissolve drugs and influences various properties, such as solubility and release rates. The presence of water is essential for creating effective drug delivery systems, including those designed for controlled release and gastroretention.
30) Field:
'Field' represents a domain of study or profession. In pharmacology, it encompasses diverse areas such as drug formulation, drug delivery systems, pharmacodynamics, and clinical research. Professionals in this field work to develop effective therapies and understand the science behind drug interactions and clinical outcomes.
31) Rich (Rch):
'Rich' often describes a high concentration of a particular substance. In pharmaceutical contexts, a rich formulation might refer to high drug content or nutrient levels. Understanding how 'rich' substances influence drug behavior and absorption is vital for creating effective therapeutic strategies.
32) Wall:
'Wall' commonly refers to the boundary or surface enclosing a space. In the context of pharmaceuticals, it may describe the gastric wall or cellular membranes. Investigating the interactions of drugs with these walls helps develop delivery systems that effectively target specific areas within the body.
33) Hand:
'Hand' refers to the body part used for handling and manipulating objects. In pharmaceutical settings, the 'hand' might represent the act of administering drugs. Precision in drug handling impacts dosing accuracy and patient safety, crucial in effective drug delivery practices.
34) Male:
'Male' denotes the sex of an organism, often impacting physiological responses to drugs. In pharmacological research, observing gender differences is essential for understanding drug efficacy and metabolism. This knowledge aids in designing formulations tailored to specific demographic needs.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Floating microspheres as gastroretentive drug delivery systems’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
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