Effects of different surfactants on indomethacin microspheres

Abstract

In this study, microencapsulation by solvent evaporation technique is used to formulate Indomethacin loaded poly(DL-lactide-co-caprolactone) microspheres by means of three different surfactants: Tween 80, Span 80, and Polyvinyl alcohol. While keeping the quantities of the polymer and of the surfactant constant, different formulations are prepared with different drug masses. The aim of this study is to analyze and evaluate the effects of the surfactant type on the characteristics of the prepared microspheres. The microspheres are evaluated for drug entrapment and drug loading efficiencies, particle size, morphology, drug-polymer interaction, stability, and in vitro release. As a result, all microspheres presented a spherical and porous profile and are characterized by the stable character of the drug encapsulated. The usage of the surfactant Polyvinyl alcohol revealed the highest percent drug entrapment and drug loading, the biggest particles sizes, and the lowest drug release rate. Whereas the lowest percent drug entrapment and drug loading, the smallest particles sizes, and the highest drug release rate are obtained with formulations prepared with Tween 80.