Abstract
Vildagliptin-loaded mucoadhesive nanoparticles using Carbopol 934 P (CVN) as mucoadhesive polymer were prepared by Buchi Nano Spray Dryer to retain the drug in the stomach for a prolonged period of time and to provide sustainable release. The morphological properties of the nanoparticles were studied by scanning electron microscopy and found to have smoother surface with shriveled shape. Drug loading and the percentage recovery werefound to be 89.2 +/- 0.5 and 96 +/- 0.4 respectively. Bimodal particle size distribution with a mean of 355.8 nm and 80.15 nm was noticed. Angle of repose for CVN particles was relatively good with theta < 32.4 degrees. The percent swelling of CVN formulation was found to be 181+/-9%. In vivo studies in rats suggest that the vildagliptin was retained in the gastrointestinal tract(GIT) for prolonged period of time (similar to 12 h) and standard group was reduced significantly (similar to 3 h). Stability studies witnessed no changes when stored at 3-5 degrees C or 15-25 degrees C, except that the agglutinative phenomenon which was observed at 37 degrees C and RH 75%. This study validates the mucoadhesive nanoparticles as one of the most appropriate drug delivery approaches for the effective delivery of vildagliptin.