Gelatin–κ-carrageenan polyelectrolyte complex hydrogel compositions for the design and development of extended-release pellets

Abstract

Present investigation was aimed to develop Zaltoprofen-loaded extended-release (ER) pellets formulation for prolonged release. The matrix type of pellets was prepared by extrusion-spheronization technique using calcium chloride-mediated gelatin–κ-carrageenan (G–κ-Carr) polyelectrolyte complex (PEC) hydrogel using rotatable central composite design. The pellets were characterized for physicochemical, morphological, solid-state characterization and flow properties. The formulations were also estimated for drug release and mucoadhesion potential. The optimized formulation (F1) containing 5:5 ratio of G–κ-Carr showed a drug release up to 98.2% and mucoadhesion of 95%. Optimized formulation showed acceptable release pattern, and hence would be viable alternative to ER type of formulations.