Preparation and Evaluation of Starch Acetate Based Gliclazide Microcapsules

Objective: The aim of the present research is to study the starch acetate (SA) as microencapsulating agent in the preparation of controlled release microcapsules containing gliclazide. Methods: Gliclazide microcapsules were prepared by adopting an emulsion solvent evaporation technique. Various batches were prepared employing different core coat ratios. Results: In vitro drug release studies revealed that, the drug release from the microcapsules was continued up to 24 hours and it was depended on the size of the microcapsules, thickness of coat and concentration of SA. From the in vivo pharmacokinetic studies, it was evident that the drug absorption was slow and constant for a longer period upon administering of drug in microcapsule form prepared using SA and in vivo pharmacodynamic studies showed the significant sustained hypoglycemic effect for a prolonged period of time with gliclazide microcapsules in comparision with pure form of the drug. Conclusion: It is concluded that the synthesized starch acetate was successful in controlling the drug release and found suitable as microencapsulating agent