Abstract

Mucoadhesive formulations have been developed for oral, buccal, nasal, ocular, rectal and vaginal routes for either systemic or local effects. This drug delivery system is suitable for drugs undergoing high first pass metabolism. It improves bioavailability, reduces dosing frequency and thereby minimizes the side effects and also makes the dosage forms more cost effective. In the present study, polysaccharide derived from the fruits of Cordia dichotoma (Family-Boraginaceae) was investigated as a mucoadhesive polymer in oral (Buccal or sublingual) patch formulation. Ramipril, an antihypertensive drug, was selected as a model drug. The patches of Ramipril were prepared separately using different concentrations (2.5%, 5%, 7.5% and 10%) of isolated Cordia dichotoma fruit polysaccharide (Natural) by solvent casting method. The prepared patches were evaluated for various parameters. The drug excipient interactions were characterized by FTIR studies. The formulation F4 showed good swelling index with excellent mucoadhesive strength and convenient residence time as well as slow and sustained drug release.

Keywords: Mucoadhesive Patch; Cordia dichotoma; Solvent Casting; Boraginaceae