Purpose: The objective of the present study was to develop lipid-based gastro-retentive floating drug delivery system of amorphous Cefuroxime Axetil (CA) to minimize the enzymatic degradation in the gastro intestinal tract utilizing hot-melt extrusion technology for improved absorption.

Methods: Preliminary studies were performed to select the appropriate lipids. Selected ratios of CA and lipids were extruded using a twin screw hot-melt extruder. Extrudates obtained were milled to obtain floating granules and were further evaluated for drug content, floating strength and micromeritic properties. In vitro drug release studies were performed in 900 mL of simulated gastric fluid (without enzyme) of pH 1.2. The formulations were also studied for their polymorphic nature. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and hot-stage microscopy were used to assess the homogeneity of the formulations and to detect if there is any phase separation during processing and storage. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy analysis was further used to assess any drug-excipients interactions.

Results: Solubility studies revealed that CA was highly soluble in KolliphorRTM TPGS and GelucireRTM 44/14, and solubility increased linearly as the concentration increased. All the extruded granules showed floating lag time of less than 5 seconds and floated for more than 12 h simulated gastric fluid. Optimized formulation was able to give a sustained drug release profile for 12 hours. Micromeritic properties of optimized formulation showed good flow properties compared to the pure drug. Surface characterization revealed that granules had a smooth surface indicating the presence of lipids on the surface. DSC and hot-stage microscopy studies confirmed that there was no phase separation between CA and the excipients. The FTIR studies showed that there was no major interaction between the CA and excipients studied.

Conclusion: Lipid-based gastro retentive floating drug delivery systems were prepared and showed desired sustained release profiles, which will ensure more complete dissolution of CA with potential improved absorption due to reduced enzymatic degradation and longer residence time in the stomach.