chapter 5 chitin co- (acetate/succinate...

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CHAPTER 5 CHITIN co- (ACETATE/SUCCINATE) COPOLYMERS: SYNTHESIS, CHARACTERIZATION AND EVALUATION STUDIES 5.1 EXPERIMENTAL 5.1.1 MATERIALS Chitin and succinic anhydride (SA) from Himedia, Mumbai, India and perchloric acid from Merck, Mumbai, India were procured and used as received. All other reagents/solvents were of suitable analytical grade and used as received. 5.1.2 SYNTHESIS OF CHITIN co-(ACETATE/SUCCINATE) (CAS) COPOLYMERS Chitin Chitin co-(acetate/succinate) copolymer Fig. 5.1 Scheme for the synthesis of Chitin co-(acetate/succinate) copolymers A variety of CAS copolymers were synthesized by reacting chitin with the mixture of acetic anhydride (AA) and SA used in different proportions (Fig. 5.1). The reaction was carried out under heterogeneous conditions by using perchloric acid as a

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CHAPTER – 5

CHITIN co-

(ACETATE/SUCCINATE)

COPOLYMERS: SYNTHESIS,

CHARACTERIZATION AND

EVALUATION STUDIES

5.1 EXPERIMENTAL

5.1.1 MATERIALS

Chitin and succinic anhydride (SA) from Himedia, Mumbai, India and

perchloric acid from Merck, Mumbai, India were procured and used as received. All

other reagents/solvents were of suitable analytical grade and used as received.

5.1.2 SYNTHESIS OF CHITIN co-(ACETATE/SUCCINATE) (CAS)

COPOLYMERS

Chitin Chitin co-(acetate/succinate) copolymer

Fig. 5.1 Scheme for the synthesis of Chitin co-(acetate/succinate) copolymers

A variety of CAS copolymers were synthesized by reacting chitin with the

mixture of acetic anhydride (AA) and SA used in different proportions (Fig. 5.1). The

reaction was carried out under heterogeneous conditions by using perchloric acid as a

catalyst. The mixture of AA and SA was used in excess (5 times) in each reaction for

the completion of esterification reaction. Reagents were used in the following

proportion: chitin/(AA+SA)/perchloric acid = 1/5/1 (mol/mol). Initially, the acylation

mixture was prepared by mixing the calculated quantity of perchloric acid at -10 °C

with the mixture of AA and SA used in the ratio as specified in the Table 5.1. The

fresh acylation mixture was slowly added to the conical flask containing chitin

powder placed in the freezing mixture and transferred to an electronic flask shaker for

about 30 minutes. The temperature was maintained at about 0 °C during this period

and then the reaction was allowed to continue further for 3 hours at room temperature

with shaking. The raw products were washed to remove the excess of the reagents and

dried. For the preparation of chitin disuccinate (CDS) and chitin diacetate (DAC),

only SA and AA were used in the acylation mixture, respectively.

Table 5.1 Ratio of reagents in the reaction mixture

Sr. No. Chitin AA SA Symbol

1. 1.0 0 5.0 CDS

2. 1.0 0.5 4.5 AA10/SA90

3. 1.0 1.0 4.0 AA20/SA80

4. 1.0 1.5 3.5 AA30/SA70

5. 1.0 2.0 3.0 AA40/SA60

6. 1.0 2.5 2.5 AA50/SA50

7. 1.0 3.0 2.0 AA60/SA40

8. 1.0 3.5 1.5 AA70/SA30

9. 1.0 4.0 1.0 AA80/SA20

10. 1.0 4.5 0.5 AA90/SA10

11. 1.0 5.0 0 DAC

5.1.3 CHARACTERIZATION OF THE SYNTHESIZED PRODUCTS

IR spectra of chitin and the synthesized products were recorded using KBr

method on Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrophotometer (IRAffinity-1, Shimadzu

Corporation, Japan). Chemical structures of the synthesized products were also

confirmed by using 1H-NMR spectroscopy.

1H-NMR spectra of the obtained products

were recorded on Brucker Ascend 400 spectrometer using DMSO-d6 as solvent and

TMS as reference.

The calculation of degree of substitution by succinyl and acetyl groups (DSSc

and DSAc) was based on 1H-NMR spectroscopy by using the following formula,

respectively:

DSSc =

DSAc =

where IβCH2 is the integral intensity of the signal of methylene protons of succinyl

residues with the maximum at 2.42 ppm, IαCH3 is the integral intensity of the signal of

methyl protons of acetyl residues in the range of 2.47-2.52 ppm and IH2–H6 is the

integral intensity of the signals of H2–H6 protons of glucosoamide residues in the

range 3.02-4.62 ppm [Draczynski, 2011].

5.1.4 SOLUBILITY STUDIES

Solubility of the synthesized compounds was evaluated in a variety of solvents

such as methanol, ethanol, acetone, dimethylformamide (DMF), dimethyl sulfoxide

(DMSO), etc., by shake flask method. Excess quantity of the synthesized compounds

was added to 100 ml flask and shaken with the corresponding solvent on a mechanical

shaker for 24 hours. After 24 hours, the contents of the flask was filtered and analyzed

to assess the solubility.

5.1.5 FILM FORMATION STUDIES

5.1.5.1 Film Casting

The synthesized compounds (except CDS and DAC) were dissolved at a

concentration of 4% w/v in a mixture of IPA and DCM (2:3). DAC and CDS were

dissolved in formic acid at a concentration of 4% w/v as they were insoluble in IPA

and DCM. The resulting solutions were then filtered to remove any undissolved

material and 1.0% or 0.5% glycerine was added to the filtrate as a plasticizer. The

solution so obtained was used for film casting. The films were cast by solvent

evaporation method, where 10 ml of the above solutions were poured in glass Petri

dishes (diameter-9.5 cm) and stand undisturbed at room temperature. After 24 hours,

the films so cast were peeled off form the glass surface and stored in a desiccator.

Film of HPMC (15 cps) was also cast by dissolving in IPA and DCM (2:3) at a

concentration of 4% w/v and then following the same procedure.

5.1.5.2 Mechanical Properties Study

Mechanical properties of the formulated films were examined using the

Texture Analyzer (TA.XT plus, Stable Micro Systems Ltd., UK). The films were cut

into specific dimensions (20.0 mm x 50.0 mm). The distance between the two jaws of

the texture analyzer was set to be 20.0 mm and the film samples were mounted

between them so that the effective film length was 20.0 mm. Both tensile strength and

extensibility were measured. For the study, the pre-test speed, test speed and post-test

speed were 0.20 mm/sec, 0.50 mm/sec and 0.60 mm/sec, respectively. The trigger

force was set to be 3.0 g [Bodmeier & Paeratakul, 1994; Laxmeshwar et al., 2012].

5.1.6 EVALUATION OF CHITIN co-(ACETATE/SUCCINATE)

COPOLYMERS AS FILM FORMERS FOR TABLET COATING

5.1.6.1 Coating of Tablets

The CAS copolymers were dissolved in a mixture of IPA and DCM (2:3) at a

concentration of 4% w/v. The resulting solutions were then filtered to remove any

undissolved material followed by addition of 0.5% glycerine (plastisizer) to the

filtrate. The solution so obtained was used for film coating of the marketed tablets of

metformin hydrochloride (Okamet-500, Cipla Ltd., India) by dip coating method. The

tablets were dipped into the above solution and dried at room temperature. After

drying of the tablets, they were again dipped into the above solution and dried at room

temperature. This process was repeated three times so that proper film formation can

take place. Similarly, HPMC (15 cps) coating was done on these marketed tablets.

5.1.6.2 Evaluation of Coated Tablets

5.1.6.2.1 Uniformity of weight

Randomly selected twenty tablets were weighed and average weight was

calculated. Then weight of each tablet was noted [I.P., 2007].

5.1.6.2.2 Hardness

Hardness of ten tablets was determined using Monsanto hardness tester (Perfit,

Ambala) [Lachman et al., 1987].

5.1.6.2.3 Friability

Friability of the coated and uncoated tablets was determined using Roche

friabilator. Twenty preweighed tablets were taken from each batch and placed in the

drum of friabilator (Campbell Electronics, Mumbai). The tablets were subjected to

100 revolutions at 25 rpm. The tablets were then de-dusted and reweighed [Lachman

et al., 1987].

5.1.6.2.4 Disintegration time

Disintegration time of the coated and uncoated tablets was determined using

six tablets of each batch at 37±2 °C in distilled water using Disintegration Test

Apparatus (Campbell Electronics, Mumbai). The tablets were placed into the tubes of

the Disintegration Test Apparatus and the time taken for complete disintegration (no

hard core of the tablet should remain on sieve) was noted using a stop watch [I.P.,

2007].

5.1.6.2.5 Dissolution

Dissolution test for the coated and uncoated tablets was carried out using

900 ml of distilled water as the dissolution media and rotating the paddle at 50 rpm at

37±0.5 °C (USP type Dissolution Apparatus, Electrolab TDT-08L). An aliquot of

10 ml was withdrawn at intervals of 5, 10, 15, 30 and 45 minutes and filtered using

Whatman filter paper. After appropriate dilution with distilled water, the absorbance

was measured at 233 nm (Double Beam Spectrophotometer, Varian Cary-5000,

Netherland). The content of metformin hydrochloride, C4H11N5,HCl was calculated

by using the standard curve.

5.1.6.2.6 Assay

Ten tablets were weighed and powdered. A quantity of the powder equivalent

to 0.1 g of MFH was weighed accurately and to this 70 ml distilled water was added.

It was shaken for 15 min and diluted to 100.0 ml with distilled water. The solution

was mixed, filtered and 10.0 ml of the filtrate was diluted to 100.0 ml with distilled

water. 10.0 ml of this solution was diluted further to 100.0 ml with distilled water and

the absorbance of the resulting solution was measured at 233 nm with distilled water

as blank (Double Beam Spectrophotometer, Varian Cary-5000, Netherland). The

content of metformin hydrochloride, C4H11N5,HCl was calculated by using the

standard curve.

5.1.7 EVALUATION OF CHITIN co-(ACETATE/SUCCINATE)

COPOLYMERS AS MATRIX FORMING AGENT FOR SUSTAINED

RELEASE TABLETS

The synthesized CAS copolymers were evaluated as matrix forming agent in

tablet formulation by selecting MFH as a model drug.

5.1.7.1 Preparation of Matrix Tablets of Metformin Hydrochloride

The release retardant efficiency of synthesized CAS copolymers was

evaluated by preparing the matrix tablets of MFH at a drug polymer ratio of 1:1 as per

the formula given in Table 5.2 and comparing with the marketed sustained release

tablet of MFH (Glycomet 500 SR, USV Limited, India). The weighed amount of

MFH was blended with corresponding CAS copolymer and magnesium stearate (1%

w/w) and the blend so obtained was directly compressed using IR hydraulic pellet

press (Type-KP, Kimaya Engineers, Thane, India) at a pressure of 75 Kg/cm2.

Table 5.2 Composition of sustained release tablets of metformin hydrochloride

Formulation Code F1 F2 F3 F4 F5 F6 F7 F8 F9

Metformin Hydrochloride

(mg) 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100

AA10/SA90 (mg) 100 - - - - - - - -

AA20/SA80 (mg) - 100 - - - - - - -

AA30/SA70 (mg) - - 100 - - - - - -

AA40/SA60 (mg) - - - 100 - - - - -

AA50/SA50 (mg) - - - - 100 - - - -

AA60/SA40 (mg) - - - - - 100 - - -

AA70/SA30 (mg) - - - - - - 100 - -

AA80/SA20 (mg) - - - - - - - 100 -

AA90/SA10 (mg) - - - - - - - - 100

Magnesium Stearate (mg) 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2

5.1.7.2 Study of Drug Polymer Interactions

The interactions between metformin hydrochloide and the synthesized CAS

copolymers in the compressed tablets were studied using the IR spectroscopy, which

is an effective and widely used technique for the study of compatibility between drug

and the excipients used to formulate a dosage form. IR spectra of metformin

hydrochloride, CAS copolymers and different batches of compressed tablets (F1, F2,

F3, F4, F5, F6, F7, F8 and F9) were recorded using KBr method on Fourier

Transform Infrared Spectrophotometer (IRAffinity-1, Shimadzu Corporation, Japan)

in the range of 4000-400 cm-1

.

5.1.7.3 Evaluation of Matrix Tablets of Metformin Hydrochloride

5.1.7.3.1 Thickness and diameter

Thickness and diameter of the compressed tablets were measured using digital

Vernier Caliper (Aerospace, China) [Lachman et al., 1987].

5.1.7.3.2 Uniformity of weight

Twenty tablets were selected at random, weighed and average weight was

calculated. Then weight of each tablet was noted [I.P., 2007].

5.1.7.3.3 Hardness

Hardness of ten tablets was determined using Monsanto hardness tester (Perfit,

Ambala) [Lachman et al., 1987].

5.1.7.3.4 Friability

Friability of the compressed tablets was determined using Roche friabilator.

Twenty preweighed tablets were taken from each batch and placed in the drum of

friabilator (Campbell Electronics, Mumbai). The tablets were subjected to 100

revolutions at 25 rpm. The tablets were then de-dusted and reweighed [Lachman et

al., 1987].

5.1.7.3.5 Dissolution

Dissolution test for the prepared tablets and marketed tablet (Glycomet 500

SR) was carried out using 900 ml of distilled water as the medium and rotating the

paddle at 50 rpm at 37±0.5 °C (USP type Dissolution Apparatus, Electrolab TDT-

08L). An aliquot of 10 ml was withdrawn at intervals of 0.25, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6,

7, 8, 10 and 12 hours and filtered using Whatman filter paper. After appropriate

dilution with distilled water, the absorbance was measured at 233 nm (Double Beam

Spectrophotometer, Varian Cary-5000, Netherland). The content of metformin

hydrochloride, C4H11N5,HCl was calculated by using the standard curve.

5.1.7.3.6 Assay

Ten tablets were weighed and powdered. A quantity of the powder equivalent

to 0.1 g of MFH was weighed accurately and to this 70 ml distilled water was added.

It was shaken for 15 min and diluted to 100.0 ml with distilled water. The solution

was mixed, filtered and 10.0 ml of the filtrate was diluted to 100.0 ml with distilled

water. 10.0 ml of this solution was diluted further to 100.0 ml with distilled water and

the absorbance of the resulting solution was measured at 233 nm (Double Beam

Spectrophotometer, Varian Cary-5000, Netherland). The content of metformin

hydrochloride, C4H11N5,HCl was calculated by using the standard curve.

5.1.8 FORMULATION OF MICROSPHERES USING SYNTHESIZED

CHITIN co-(ACETATE/SUCCINATE) COPOLYMERS

The potential of the synthesized CAS copolymers for the formulation of

microspheres was also evaluated. Various batches of microspheres of the selected

model drug (MFH) were prepared using the synthesized CAS copolymers.

5.1.8.1 Preparation of Microspheres of Metformin Hydrochloride

MFH microspheres were prepared by emulsion solvent evaporation method

employing the synthesized CAS copolymers as polymer and Span 80 as the surfactant

in accordance to the formula given in Table 5.3.

Table 5.3 Composition of metformin hydrochloride microspheres

Formulation Code M1 M2 M3 M4 M5 M6 M7 M8 M9

Metformin

Hydrochloride (mg) 500 500 500 500 500 500 500 500 500

AA10/SA90 (mg) 1000 - - - - - - - -

AA20/SA80 (mg) - 1000 - - - - - - -

AA30/SA70 (mg) - - 1000 - - - - - -

AA40/SA60 (mg) - - - 1000 - - - - -

AA50/SA50 (mg) - - - - 1000 - - - -

AA60/SA40 (mg) - - - - - 1000 - - -

AA70/SA30 (mg) - - - - - - 1000 - -

AA80/SA20 (mg) - - - - - - - 1000 -

AA90/SA10 (mg) - - - - - - - - 1000

Magnesium

Stearate (mg) 125 125 125 125 125 125 125 125 125

The microspheres were prepared at a drug polymer ratio of 1:2. The

corresponding CAS copolymer (1000 mg) was added to ethanol (60 ml). After

shaking for 15-20 minutes, it was filtered to remove any undissolved material. To the

filtrate, 500 mg of MFH was added and shaken to dissolve it. The mixture so obtained

was added dropwise using a syringe and needle (24G) to a beaker containing a

mixture of 200 ml light liquid paraffin, 2 ml Span 80 (1%) and 125 mg magnesium

stearate while stirring at 1000 rpm. The stirring was continued for 2 hours and then

the temperature was raised to 50 °C. The stirring was further continued for 2 hours.

The formed microspheres were filtered, washed with n-hexane and dried in a

desiccator [Haznedar & Dortunc, 2004].

5.1.8.2 Study of Drug Polymer Interactions

The interactions between MFH and the synthesized CAS copolymers in the

prepared microspheres were studied using the IR spectroscopy. IR spectra of MFH,

CAS copolymers and different batches of microspheres (M1, M2, M3, M4, M5, M6,

M7, M8 and M9) were recorded using KBr method on Fourier Transform Infrared

Spectrophotometer (IRAffinity-1, Shimadzu Corporation, Japan) in the range of

4000-400 cm-1

.

5.1.8.3 Evaluation of Formulated Microspheres of Metformin Hydrochloride

5.1.8.3.1 Determination of percent yield

The percent yield of microspheres of various batches was calculated by using

the weight of the dried microspheres with respect to the initial total weight of the drug

and polymer used for the preparation of the microspheres by using the following

formula:

Weight of dried microspheres

Percent Yield = x 100

Total weight of drug and polymer

5.1.8.3.2 Determination of drug entrapment efficiency

Microspheres were crushed and powdered by using a glass mortar and pestle.

Accurately weighed 50 mg of this powder was extracted in 100 ml of distilled water

by shaking on a mechanical shaker for 24 hours. After 24 hours, the solution was

filtered and the drug content in the filtrate was found by UV spectrophotometry by

measuring the absorbance at 233 nm after suitable dilution with distilled water

(Double Beam Spectrophotometer, Varian Cary-5000, Netherland).

Practical drug content

Drug entrapment efficiency (%) = x 100

Theoretical drug content

5.1.8.3.3 Particle size analysis

The particle size of the microspheres was measured by optical microscopy. A

sample of microspheres drawn at random was placed on a glass slide and their size

was measured using an optical microscope with the help of a calibrated ocular

micrometer. The mean diameter was calculated by measuring the size of

approximately 100 particles.

5.1.8.3.4 In vitro drug release study

The drug release from the prepared microspheres was studied using 900 ml of

distilled water as the medium and rotating the paddle at 100 rpm at 37±0.5 °C (USP

type Dissolution Apparatus, Electrolab TDT-08L). An aliquot of 10 ml was

withdrawn at intervals of 0.25, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10 and 12 hours and

filtered using Whatman filter paper. After appropriate dilution with distilled water, the

absorbance was measured at 233 nm (Double Beam Spectrophotometer, Varian Cary-

5000, Netherland). The content of metformin hydrochloride, C4H11N5,HCl was

calculated by using the standard curve.

5.2 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

5.2.1 SYNTHESIS OF CHITIN co-(ACETATE/SUCCINATE) COPOLYMERS

For the synthesis of CAS copolymers, perchloric acid was used as a catalyst of

the reaction being a very effective catalyst of esterification reaction of chitin

[Szosland, 1996] and this has also been observed in the present investigation (up to

90%). The esterification reaction was performed under heterogeneous conditions.

Temperature of the reaction plays great role in the degradation of chitin as

deacetylation of the acetamide group of chitin starts at higher temp. So, initially the

temperature was kept at about 0 °C to prevent the degradation of the chitin polymer

chain and later the temperature was maintained at room temperature till the

completion of the reaction.

5.2.2 CHARACTERIZATION OF THE SYNTHESIZED PRODUCTS

Analysis of chitin, CDS, DAC and other products of esterification was carried

out using 1H-NMR and FTIR spectroscopy. The obtained IR spectra of chitin, CDS

and DAC are presented in the Fig. 5.2.

Fig. 5.2 IR spectra of chitin (A), CDS (B) and DAC (C)

The IR spectra of chitin is characterized by the intense broad band in the

region 3500-3250 cm-1

due to O-H stretching. The characteristic band of the amide

group present as acetamide moiety in the structure of chitin i.e. amide I band (C=O

stretching) is present at 1653 cm-1

and amide II band (N-H bending) at 1552 cm-1

. The

band due to N-H stretching of amide group is observed at 3267 cm-1

and C-H

stretching at 2881 cm-1

. The band of C-O-C stretching in the glucopyranose ring is

present at 1029 cm-1

and the specific bands of the β(1→4) glycosidic bridge at 1155,

897 cm-1

. In the IR spectra of CDS, no peak is observed at about 3450 cm-1

showing

that the –OH groups of chitin are now replaced with the ester groups. The new peaks

at 1747 cm-1

due to C=O stretching and at 1201 cm-1

due to C-O-C stretching of the

newly formed ester groups are present and there is seen absorption at 2885 cm-1

due

to the aliphatic C-H stretching. The O-H stretching of the carboxylic acid functional

group present in the newly introduced succinate moiety is present as a broad band in

the region 3110-2930 cm-1

and its C=O stretching band at 1713 cm-1

. The IR spectra

of DAC shows the characteristic C=O stretching at 1750 cm-1

and C-O-C stretching at

1262 cm-1

due to the presence of newly introduced acetate groups in place of the

hydroxyl groups and less intense absorption in the 2950-2800 cm-1

region due to C-H

stretching as compared to CDS due to lesser content of aliphatic alkyl groups.

The IR spectra of other CAS copolymers recorded in the range of

4000-400 cm-1

are presented in Fig. 5.3. In all the spectra, there is almost no

absorption present at about 3450 cm-1

, while the C=O stretching at 1743 cm-1

, C-O-C

stretching at 1201 cm-1

of the newly introduced ester groups shows the substitution of

the hydroxyl group. The intensity of the peak at 2879 cm-1

of aliphatic C-H stretching

decreases with the decrease in the succinyl content in the formed product. The O-H

stretching of the carboxylic acid functional group present in the newly introduced

succinate moiety is present as a broad band in the region 3110-2935 cm-1

and its C=O

stretching band at 1714 cm-1

. In all the spectra of the CAS copolymers, CDS and

DAC, the bands corresponding to the amide group at 1653, 1552 cm-1

, C-O-C

stretching of glucopyranose ring at 1029 cm-1

and the specific bands of the β(1→4)

glycosidic bridge at 1155, 897 cm-1

remains unchanged showing that the basic

structure of chitin polymer chain is preserved under the applied reaction conditions

and also no change is occurring in the degree of acetylation of chitin.

In the 1H-NMR spectrum of chitin, the signals of methyl protons of acetamide

moiety at 2.3 ppm, overlapped signals of H2-H6 protons of polysaccharide chain in

the range of 3.2-4.1 ppm and the signal of H1 proton at 4.5 ppm are reported in the

literature [Draczynski, 2011]. Fig. 5.4 shows the 1H-NMR spectrum of one of the

synthesized CAS copolymer (AA30/SA70). The signals of the protons belonging to

the polysaccharide residues are present in the range of 3.02-5.19 ppm. The signal of

protons of β-CH2 of the newly introduced succinyl residue appears at 2.42 ppm. The

signals of the protons of α-CH2 of succinyl residue and α-CH3 of newly introduced

acetyl residue overlap with each other in the range of 2.47-2.52 ppm. The methyl

protons of the acetamide group of the chitin backbone are present at 2.23-2.28 ppm.

The signals corresponding to the protons of the glucopyranose ring of chitin are

present at the following positions: H2 at 3.02-3.16 ppm, H3 at 4.41-4.45 ppm, H4 at

4.55-4.62 ppm, H5 at 4.22 ppm, H6 at 4.02 ppm and H1 at 5.14-5.19 ppm. The –NH

proton of the acetamide moiety of chitin is present with the maximum at 8.06 ppm,

while the proton of the –COOH group of the succinate residue appear at 12.15 ppm.

Fig. 5.3 IR spectra of CAS copolymers: AA10/SA90 (A), AA20/SA80 (B),

AA30/SA70 (C), AA40/SA60 (D), AA50/SA50 (E), AA60/SA40 (F), AA70/SA30 (G),

AA80/SA20 (H) and AA90/SA10 (I)

Fig. 5.4 1H-NMR spectrum of CAS copolymer (AA30/SA70)

The presence of the signals corresponding to the ring protons of the

glucopyranose ring, signals of –NH proton and methyl protons of acetamide group of

the chitin polymer backbone is in confirmation with the results of the IR spectroscopy

revealing that the basic structure of the chitin is preserved under the employed

conditions of the reaction. The presence of the signals for the acetyl and succinyl

groups confirms the substitution of the hydroxyl group of the chitin chain. From the

integration of the signals corresponding to the β-CH2 of the succinyl residue, α-CH3

of the acetyl residue and H2-H6 of the glucopyranose ring in the range of 3.02-4.62

ppm, the DSSc and DSAc were calculated. 1H-NMR spectrum of other synthesized

CAS copolymers was recorded as before and based on these spectra, the determined

values of the DSSc and DSAc and their corresponding theoretical values are presented

in the Table 5.4.

Results of the 1H-NMR analysis reveals that under the applied reaction

conditions, the esterification of chitin proceeds to completion in the presence of

perchloric acid as a catalyst with the substitution of the hydroxyl groups by ester

groups and the final products i.e. CDS, DAC and other CAS copolymers were

obtained in good yield with total DS about 2. The slight variation in the value of total

DS may be due to the experimental errors. The content of acetyl groups in the

synthesized CAS copolymers was higher than the theoretical values based on the

composition of acylation mixture, which shows higher reactivity of acetic anhydride

in comparison to succinic anhydride and our results also confirms the already

published data [Luyen & Rossbach, 1995; Maim et al., 1957]. The results of 1H-NMR

spectroscopy confirm the changes in the chemical structure of chitin produced by the

reaction and these are also in accordance with the results of the IR spectroscopy.

Table 5.4 Degree of substitution by succinyl and acetyl groups on chitin polymer chain

Sr.

No.

Symbol of

CAS

copolymer

DSd based on 1H-NMR spectroscopy Theoretical DS

DSAc DSSc Total DS DSAc DSSc

1. CDS 0 2.00 2.00 0 2.00

2. AA10/SA90 0.22 1.76 1.98 0.20 1.80

3. AA20/SA80 0.46 1.53 1.99 0.40 1.60

4. AA30/SA70 0.70 1.30 2.00 0.60 1.40

5. AA40/SA60 1.06 0.93 1.99 0.80 1.20

6. AA50/SA50 1.34 0.64 1.98 1.00 1.00

7. AA60/SA40 1.43 0.55 1.98 1.20 0.80

8. AA70/SA30 1.55 0.44 1.99 1.40 0.60

9. AA80/SA20 1.74 0.25 1.99 1.60 0.40

10. AA90/SA10 1.92 0.08 2.00 1.80 0.20

11. DAC 1.99 0 1.99 2.00 0

5.2.3 SOLUBILITY STUDIES

DAC was found to be soluble only in acidic solvents such as formic acid and

methanesulfonic acid, which is in accordance with the already published data [Luyen

& Rossbach, 1995; Nishi et al., 1979]. In addition to the above solvents, CAS

copolymers were found to be soluble in DMF and DMSO while they were less soluble

in methanol, ethanol and acetone.

5.2.4 FILM FORMATION STUDIES

5.2.4.1 Film Casting

Firstly, the casting of film of the synthesized compounds was tried without the

addition of the plasticizer. The formed films were brittle in nature and it was not

possible to peel off them from the glass surface without breakage. So, glycerine was

used as a plasticizer at a concentration of 1.0%. Now the formed films were tacky, so

again they were not peelable (break during detachment). Then, glycerine was added at

a concentration of 0.5%, which gives good results. The formed films were not brittle

and can be peeled off easily for further studies. Film of HPMC was cast for the

purpose of comparison as they are widely used as film formers in tablet coating.

5.2.4.2 Mechanical Properties Study

Mechanical properties of the cast films were evaluated and compared with

HPMC by using texture analyzer by mounting the films of the specific dimensions.

The tensile strength, extensibility and percent elongation of the films cast from CAS

copolymers and HPMC are shown in Table 5.5 and the tensile strength curves are

shown in Fig. 5.5.

Table 5.5 Tensile strength, extensibility and percent elongation of the cast films

Sr. No. Formulation Tensile Strength

(Newton)

Extensibility

(mm)

Elongation

(%)

1. CDS 14.020 20.774 3.87

2. AA10/SA90 14.782 21.272 6.36

3. AA20/SA80 6.992 22.319 11.60

4. AA30/SA70 10.858 20.972 4.86

5. AA40/SA60 3.092 23.636 18.18

6. AA50/SA50 3.035 23.778 18.89

7. AA60/SA40 9.240 22.780 13.90

8. AA70/SA30 9.603 24.326 21.63

9. AA80/SA20 12.277 24.563 22.82

10. AA90/SA10 9.215 23.292 16.46

11. DAC 5.835 23.279 16.40

12. HPMC 40.118 20.822 4.11

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

K

L

Fig. 5.5 Tensile strength curves of films cast from CDS (A), AA10/SA90 (B),

AA20/SA80 (C), AA30/SA70 (D), AA40/SA60 (E), AA50/SA50 (F), AA60/SA40

(G), AA70/SA30 (H), AA80/SA20 (I), AA90/SA10 (J), DAC (K) and HPMC (L)

20.00 20.25 20.50 20.75 21.00 21.25 21.50 21.75

1.5

1.4

1.3

1.2

1.1

1.0

0.9

0.8

0.7

0.6

0.5

0.4

0.3

0.2

0.1

0.0

-0.1

Force (kg)

Distance (mm)

1F1D

S1

20.0 20.5 21.0 21.5 22.0 22.5

1.6

1.4

1.2

1.0

0.8

0.6

0.4

0.2

0.0

-0.2

Force (kg)

Distance (mm)

1F1D

H2

20 21 22 23 24 25

0.75

0.70

0.65

0.60

0.55

0.50

0.45

0.40

0.35

0.30

0.25

0.20

0.15

0.10

0.05

0.00

-0.05

Force (kg)

Distance (mm)

1F1D

PH2

20.0 20.5 21.0 21.5 22.0 22.5 23.0

1.2

1.1

1.0

0.9

0.8

0.7

0.6

0.5

0.4

0.3

0.2

0.1

0.0

-0.1

Force (kg)

Distance (mm)

1F1D

S 4

20 21 22 23 24 25 26

0.325

0.300

0.275

0.250

0.225

0.200

0.175

0.150

0.125

0.100

0.075

0.050

0.025

0.000

-0.025

Force (kg)

Distance (mm)

1F1D

S 5

20 21 22 23 24 25 26

0.325

0.300

0.275

0.250

0.225

0.200

0.175

0.150

0.125

0.100

0.075

0.050

0.025

0.000

-0.025

Force (kg)

Distance (mm)

1F1D

S 6

20 21 22 23 24 25

1.0

0.9

0.8

0.7

0.6

0.5

0.4

0.3

0.2

0.1

0.0

-0.1

Force (kg)

Distance (mm)

1F1D

S 7

20 21 22 23 24 25 26

1.0

0.9

0.8

0.7

0.6

0.5

0.4

0.3

0.2

0.1

0.0

-0.1

Force (kg)

Distance (mm)

1F1D

S 8

20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27

1.3

1.2

1.1

1.0

0.9

0.8

0.7

0.6

0.5

0.4

0.3

0.2

0.1

0.0

-0.1

Force (kg)

Distance (mm)

1F1D

S 9

20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27

1.0

0.9

0.8

0.7

0.6

0.5

0.4

0.3

0.2

0.1

0.0

-0.1

Force (kg)

Distance (mm)

1F1D

S 10

20 21 22 23 24 25

0.60

0.55

0.50

0.45

0.40

0.35

0.30

0.25

0.20

0.15

0.10

0.05

0.00

-0.05

Force (kg)

Distance (mm)

1F1D

H24

20.0 20.2 20.4 20.6 20.8 21.0

4.5

4.0

3.5

3.0

2.5

2.0

1.5

1.0

0.5

0.0

-0.5

Force (kg)

Distance (mm)

1F1D

PH9

As shown in Table 5.5, the maximum tensile strength was shown by the films

cast from AA10/SA90, in which the ratio of acetyl and succinyl residues was found to

be 1:8. Higher tensile strength indicates more resistance of the film to breakdown.

However, the maximum percent elongation is shown by the films cast from

AA80/SA20, in which the ratio of acetyl and succinyl residues was found to be 7:1. A

decrease in the value of tensile strength is observed in the series with the increase in

the acetyl content in the synthesized copolymers upto AA50/SA50, after which the

tensile strength starts increasing in the series. This trend is opposite to the one shown

by the films cast using CAPC copolymers. In case of CAPC copolymers, before

AA40/PA60 in the series, there was an increase in the value of tensile strength with an

increase in the content of acetyl residue in the polymer chain, while a decrease in the

value of tensile strength was seen with the increase in the content of acetyl residue

after AA40/PA60 in the series. The tensile strength of the films of all the synthesized

compounds is much less than HPMC film and the maximum tensile strength observed

for the film cast from AA10/SA90 is about 37% of HPMC film. Least percentage

elongation is observed in case of CDS film, while it is highest in case of AA80/SA20

film.

5.2.5 EVALUATION OF CHITIN co-(ACETATE/SUCCINATE)

COPOLYMERS AS FILM FORMERS FOR TABLET COATING

The film formation ability of the synthesized CAS copolymers has been

demonstrated in the previous section, therefore they were evaluated as film formers

for tablet coating. MFH was selected as a model drug. Marketed uncoated tablets of

MFH was used for the study and 0.5% glycerine was used as plasticizer as without the

addition of the plasticizer the formed film was brittle in nature. Three coats of film

former was given so that proper film formation takes place. The coated and uncoated

tablets are shown in Fig. 5.6.

5.2.5.1 Evaluation of Coated Tablets

Table 5.6 shows the results of physical characterization of the coated and

uncoated tablets of MFH. The tablets were found to have uniform physical

appearance, average weight and drug content. The tablets possessed adequate

hardness and passed the friability test.

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

K

Fig. 5.6 Okamet-500 tablets coated with AA10/SA90 (A), AA20/SA80 (B),

AA30/SA70 (C), AA40/SA60 (D), AA50/SA50 (E), AA60/SA40 (F), AA70/SA30 (G),

AA80/SA20 (H), AA90/SA10 (I), HPMC (J) and Uncoated tablets (K)

Table 5.6 Physical characteristics of coated and uncoated tablets

Coated

Tablet

Weight

(mg)

Hardness

(Kg)

Friability

(%)

Disintegration

Time (min)

Assay

(% MFH)

AA10/SA90 530.2 ± 13.4 8.0 ± 1.0 0.45 12.4 ± 0.6 99.92

AA20/SA80 531.5 ± 12.7 11.5 ± 0.5 0.23 16.7 ± 0.8 100.08

AA30/SA70 532.5 ± 5.3 10.0 ± 0.5 0.31 14.2 ± 0.5 99.54

AA40/SA60 526.4 ± 7.7 12.8 ± 0.6 0.18 17.2 ± 1.1 99.82

AA50/SA50 531.7 ± 4.5 12.5 ± 0.7 0.26 11.8 ± 0.4 100.85

AA60/SA40 531.2 ± 3.0 12.0 ± 0.5 0.34 18.8 ± 0.6 100.23

AA70/SA30 533.4 ± 5.5 11.5 ± 1.5 0.41 21.3 ± 0.5 99.36

AA80/SA20 525.1 ± 9.1 11.5 ± 0.6 0.28 28.5 ± 0.5 98.99

AA90/SA10 527.8 ± 4.2 10.8 ± 1.4 0.32 32.2 ± 0.6 101.14

HPMC 537.5 ± 7.1 12.3 ± 1.1 0.29 7.5 ± 0.5 100.38

Uncoated 522.1 ± 10.6 10.5 ± 0.8 0.84 5.5 ± 0.5 102.43

All the batches of tablets passed the disintegration test as per pharmacopoeial

requirement except AA90/SA10 coated tablets. The DT is also high in case of the

tablets coated with AA80/SA20, but it is within the pharmacopoeial limit. The more

DT observed in these two cases may be due to negligible water solubility of these

coating agents. The DT of the tablets coated with AA50/SA50 was found to be lowest

in the series. However, the DT of all the batches of tablets coated with the synthesized

CAS copolymers was higher than the HPMC coated tablets. Usually, it is observed

that the tablets having low DT are more friable and possess less crushing strength.

However, in our case, no such correlation was observed.

Fig. 5.7 shows the comparative cumulative release profile of MFH from

various batches of coated and uncoated MFH tablets. The drug release from the

coated tablets was less as compared to the uncoated tablets in the start of dissolution

because the presence of film on the coated tablets hinders the release of the drug.

After the dissolution of film in the dissolution media, there remains no barrier for the

dissolution of the drug which is evident by the fact that after 10-15 minutes, an abrupt

increase is seen in the release of the drug from the coated tablets. All the batches of

tablets released almost 100% of drug within 45 minutes. As per pharmacopoeial

requirement, 70% of MFH must dissolve in 45 minutes [I.P., 2007]. Since all the

batches of tablets showed more than 70% dissolution within 45 minutes, the tablets

passed the dissolution test requirement of the pharmacopoeia. Thus, the results of the

present study indicate the synthesized CAS copolymers, except AA90/SA10, as

promising film formers for tablet coating.

Fig. 5.7 Cumulative release profile of various batches of coated and uncoated

metformin hydrochloride tablets

5.2.6 EVALUATION OF CHITIN co-(ACETATE/SUCCINATE)

COPOLYMERS AS MATRIX FORMING AGENT FOR SUSTAINED

RELEASE TABLETS

The synthesized CAS copolymers were evaluated as matrix forming agent in

sustained release tablets by selecting MFH as a model drug. Various batches of

directly compressed MFH tablets at a drug polymer ratio of 1:1 were prepared and

compared with marketed sustained release tablet of MFH (Glycomet 500 SR, USV

Limited, India). The compressed tablets are shown in Fig. 5.8.

5.2.6.1 Study of Drug Polymer Interactions

To study the interactions between MFH and the CAS copolymers in the tablet

formulation, the IR spectra of MFH and different batches of compressed tablets (F1,

F2, F3, F4, F5, F6, F7, F8 and F9) were recorded which are shown in Fig. 5.9.

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50

Time (min)

Cu

mu

lati

ve %

dru

g r

ele

ase

AA10/SA90 AA20/SA80 AA30/SA70 AA40/SA60 AA50/SA50 AA60/SA40

AA70/SA30 AA80/SA20 AA90/SA10 HPMC Uncoated

F1

F2

F3

F4

F5

F6

F7

F8

F9

Fig. 5.8 Compressed tablets of metformin hydrochloride

IR spectrum of MFH is characterized by the presence of N-H stretching

vibrations of amine group at 3369 and 3296 cm-1

and the N-H bending vibration at

1558 cm-1

. C-N stretching vibrations are observed at 1064 cm-1

, while C-H stretching

vibrations due to the presence of methyl group at 2814 cm-1

. The band due to the

presence of C=N is seen at 1622 cm-1

. In the spectra of various batches of compressed

tablets (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5, F6, F7, F8 and F9), all the above specific bands of MFH

are present at their respective positions indicating that no interaction occurs between

MFH and CAS copolymers present in various batches of the compressed tablets.

Fig. 5.9 IR spectra of metformin hydrochloride (A) and different batches of compressed

tablets F1 (B), F2 (C), F3 (D), F4 (E), F5 (F), F6 (G), F7 (H), F8 (I) and F9 (J)

Moreover, the bands of the synthesized CAS copolymers in the IR spectra of

compressed tablets are also seen at their respective positions. The C=O stretching at

1743 cm-1

and C-O-C stretching at 1201 cm-1

due to the presence of the ester groups

in the CAS copolymers are present in all the IR spectra of the prepared tablets. The

O-H stretching of carboxylic acid functional group present in the succinate moiety as

a broad band in the region 3110-2935 cm-1

and its C=O stretching band at 1714 cm-1

are present in all the spectra of the prepared tablets. Also, in all the spectra of the

prepared tablets, the bands of amide group at 1653, 1552 cm-1

, C-O-C stretching of

glucopyranose ring at 1029 cm-1

and the specific bands of the β(1→4) glycosidic

bridge at 1155, 897 cm-1

remains unaffected showing that no interaction has taken

place between MFH and the CAS copolymers in the tablet formulation. Thus, on the

basis of IR spectroscopy, it can be concluded that no interaction is taking place

between MFH and CAS copolymers in all the batches of the compressed tablets.

5.2.6.2 Evaluation of Matrix Tablets of Metformin Hydrochloride

Table 5.7 shows the results of physical characterization of the compressed

tablets. The directly compressed MFH tablets were found to have uniform physical

appearance, average weight and drug content. The diameter of all the batches of

compressed tablets was found to be uniform (13.0 mm). The tablets possessed

adequate hardness and passed the friability test.

Table 5.7 Physical characteristics of compressed tablets of metformin hydrochloride

Batch Thickness

(mm)

Weight

(mg)

Hardness

(Kg)

Friability

(%)

Assay

(% MFH)

F1 1.30 ± 0.01 204.9 ± 2.1 4.0 ± 0.5 0.58 100.04

F2 1.33 ± 0.05 199.2 ± 5.4 4.0 ± 1.1 0.62 98.95

F3 1.30 ± 0.01 201.8 ± 5.6 5.0 ± 0.5 0.49 99.68

F4 1.30 ± 0.08 204.9 ± 2.7 4.5 ± 1.2 0.72 99.15

F5 1.36 ± 0.09 202.9 ± 0.5 4.5 ± 0.7 0.45 99.41

F6 1.40 ± 0.01 206.3 ± 3.1 5.5 ± 0.8 0.34 100.25

F7 1.40 ± 0.01 201.5 ± 0.2 4.0 ± 0.7 0.68 99.72

F8 1.35 ± 0.02 200.5 ± 2.3 6.0 ± 0.9 0.35 98.64

F9 1.36 ± 0.03 201.2 ± 2.2 5.5 ± 0.7 0.48 99.36

Fig. 5.10 Cumulative drug release profile of various batches of compressed

metformin hydrochloride tablets and Glycomet 500 SR tablet

Comparative cumulative release profile of MFH from various batches of

formulated matrix tablets of MFH and the marketed tablet (Glycomet 500 SR) is

shown in Fig. 5.10. All the batches of tablets including the marketed formulation

released almost 100% of the drug. The formulations F1, F2 and F3 released more than

80% of the drug with in 1.5 hours; hence they can not be regarded as sustained release

formulations. The release of the drug from the formulations F4 and F5 is more than

80% with in 2 hours, so they are also not promising as a sustained release

formulation. In case of formulation F6, still the more than 80% drug release is with in

3 hour, while more than 80% drug release is with in 4 hours in case of the

formulations F7 and F8. The drug release curve of the formulation F9 containing

AA90/SA10 CAS copolymer is close to the drug release curve of the marketed tablet

formulation, with the difference that more than 80% drug release is with in 5 and 8

hours, respectively. Among the synthesized CAS copolymers, the tablets prepared

with AA90/SA10 showed highest sustained release of MFH, however, the sustained

release is not up to the mark. The sustained release of the drug observed in this case

may be due to the poor water solubility of this copolymer; hence it is resistant to the

release of the drug in the aqueous environment and is promising candidate for design

and development of sustained release formulations. Thus, the results of the present

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14

Time (h)

Cu

mu

lati

ve %

dru

g r

ele

ase

F1 F2 F3 F4 F5 F6 F7 F8 F9 Glycomet 500 SR

study indicate that the synthesized CAS copolymers have potential for the

development of sustained release formulations with the highest potential vesting in

AA90/SA10 CAS copolymer for tablet formulation of MFH.

5.2.7 FORMULATION OF MICROSPHERES USING SYNTHESIZED

CHITIN co-(ACETATE/SUCCINATE) COPOLYMERS

The synthesized CAS copolymers were used for the formulation of

microspheres by selecting MFH as a model drug. Various batches of MFH

microspheres were successfully prepared by emulsion solvent evaporation technique

at a drug polymer ratio of 1:2 using Span 80 as surfactant and magnesium stearate as

rigidizing agent. The temperature during the formation of microspheres was raised so

that the solvent can evaporate easily and completely.

5.2.7.1 Study of Drug Polymer Interactions

For the development of successful formulation, compatibility study of

excipients with the drug must be carried out. To study the interactions between MFH

and the CAS copolymers in the prepared microspheres formulation, the IR spectra of

MFH and different batches microspheres were recorded in the range of 4000-400 cm-1

which are shown in Fig. 5.11. The IR spectrum of MFH is characterized by the

presence of N-H stretching vibrations of amine group at 3369 and 3296 cm-1

and the

N-H bending vibration at 1558 cm-1

. C-N stretching vibrations are observed at

1064 cm-1

, while C-H stretching vibrations due to the presence of methyl group at

2814 cm-1

. The band due to the presence of C=N is seen at 1622 cm-1

.

In the spectra of various batches of prepared microspheres (M1, M2, M3, M4,

M5, M6, M7, M8 and M9), all the above specific bands of MFH are present at their

respective positions indicating that no interaction occurs between MFH and the

synthesized CAS copolymers present in various batches of the prepared microspheres.

Moreover, the bands of the synthesized CAS copolymers in the IR spectra of prepared

microspheres are also seen at their respective positions. The C=O stretching at

1743 cm-1

and C-O-C stretching at 1201 cm-1

due to the presence of the ester groups

in the CAS copolymers are present in all the IR spectra of the prepared microspheres.

The O-H stretching of the carboxylic acid functional group present in the succinate

moiety as a broad band in the region 3110-2935 cm-1

and its C=O stretching band at

1714 cm-1

are present in all the spectra of the prepared microspheres.

Fig. 5.11 IR spectra of metformin hydrochloride (A) and different batches of the

prepared microspheres M1 (B), M2 (C), M3 (D), M4 (E), M5 (F), M6 (G), M7 (H),

M8 (I) and M9 (J)

Also, in all the spectra of the prepared microspheres, the bands of amide group

at 1653, 1552 cm-1

, C-O-C stretching of glucopyranose ring at 1029 cm-1

and the

specific bands of the β(1→4) glycosidic bridge at 1155, 897 cm-1

remains unaffected

showing that no interaction has taken place between MFH and the CAS copolymers in

the microsphere formulation. Thus, on the basis of the IR spectroscopy, it can be

concluded that no interaction is taking place between MFH and the synthesized CAS

copolymers in all the batches of the prepared microspheres.

5.2.7.2 Evaluation of Formulated Microspheres of Metformin Hydrochloride

5.2.7.2.1 Determination of percent yield

The percent yield of the microspheres was calculated after thoroughly drying

which is presented in Table 5.8. In the prepared batches, the yield of microspheres

varied from 46.82-70.29% which is appreciable.

Table 5.8 Percent yield of the formulated metformin hydrochloride microspheres

Sr. No. Batch No. Yield (%)

1. M1 62.45

2. M2 53.78

3. M3 49.23

4. M4 58.47

5. M5 61.08

6. M6 70.29

7. M7 50.52

8. M8 46.82

9. M9 52.64

5.2.7.2.2 Determination of drug entrapment efficiency

Drug entrapment efficiency is a measure of the efficacy of the polymer for the

entrapment of the drug. The drug entrapment efficiency of various batches of the

formulated MFH microspheres is shown in Table 5.9. All the batches of the prepared

microspheres show drug entrapment efficiency more than 50%. Formulation M1

shows maximum entrapment efficiency, whereas the formulation M5 shows minimum

entrapment of the drug in the polymer.

Table 5.9 Drug entrapment efficiency of various batches of the formulated metformin

hydrochloride microspheres

Sr. No. Batch No. Drug entrapment efficiency (%)

1. M1 63.44

2. M2 62.52

3. M3 58.49

4. M4 54.35

5. M5 50.17

6. M6 60.43

7. M7 52.78

8. M8 61.54

9. M9 50.48

5.2.7.2.3 Particle size analysis

The prepared microspheres were examined for the particle size using optical

microscopy and the average particle size is presented in Table 5.10.

Table 5.10 Average particle size of various batches of the formulated metformin

hydrochloride microspheres

Sr. No. Batch No. Average particle size (µm)

1. M1 98.32 ± 24.23

2. M2 61.87 ± 20.58

3. M3 88.26 ± 16.54

4. M4 96.48 ± 10.35

5. M5 70.55 ± 14.24

6. M6 58.21 ± 15.32

7. M7 78.96 ± 9.42

8. M8 65.19 ± 18.86

9. M9 96.74 ± 13.96

5.2.7.2.4 In vitro drug release study

The comparative cumulative release profile of MFH from various batches of

formulated microspheres is shown in Fig. 5.12. All the batches of prepared

microspheres released more than 90% of drug with in 6 hours. The formulations M1,

M2 and M3 released more than 80% of the drug with in 1.5 hours; hence they can not

be regarded as sustained release formulations. The release of the drug from the

formulation M4 is more than 80% with in 2 hours, so it is also not promising as a

sustained release formulation. In case of formulation M5, M6 and M7, still more than

80% drug release is with in 3 hours, while the formulation M8 released more than

80% of the drug with in 4 hours. The highest sustained release of the drug is shown by

the microspheres of the batch M9 preapred using AA90/SA10 CAS copolymer which

released more than 80% of MFH with in 5 hours. The results of the dissolution study

shows that as the content of acetyl group in the synthesized CAS copolymers

increases, the drug release is also prolonged. Thus, the results of the present study

indicate that in all the batches of prepared microspheres although the drug release is

somewhat in a sustained manner, but maximum sustained release of MFH is observed

from the microspheres prepared using the synthesized AA90/SA10 CAS copolymer.

Fig. 5.12 Cumulative drug release profile of various batches of prepared metformin

hydrochloride microspheres

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14

Time (h)

Cu

mu

lati

ve %

dru

g r

ele

ase

M1 M2 M3 M4 M5 M6 M7 M8 M9