Abstract

The aim of the present work is to prepare and evaluate the oral mucoadhesive sustained release nanoparticles of clarithromycin in order to improve patient compliance by simplifing its administration, improving its therapeutic effect and reducing its dose related side effect. Clarithromycin containing gliadin nanoparticles were prepared by desolvation method using pluronic F-68® as a stabilizing agent. The results showed that this method is reproducible, very easy and led to the efficient entrapment of drug as well as formation of spherical particles ranging from 250-500 nm. Some process variables like effect of gliadin concentration and effect of surfactant were also evaluated with respect to their % drug entrapment and % yields. The maximum % drug entrapment and % yield were about 73 and 88%, respectively. The sustained release behavior of gliadin nanoparticles were evaluated both in phosphate buffer saline (pH 7.4) and simulated gastric fluid (pH 1.2), respectively, at 37±1°. Their mucoadhesive properties were determined by in vitro and in vivo methods. The shelf life of prepared nanoparticles was determined by storage at various temperatures while assessed in simulated gastric fluid (pH 1.2) with and without enzyme.