Abstract

"FLOATING IN SITU GEL: INSIGHTS FROM RECENT STUDIES AND ADVANCEMENTS"

Rupesh Kumar*, Dr. D. R. Chaple, Dr. R. H. Kasliwal, Dr. Yogesh Gholse, Srushti Zade and Nishita Nagpure

ABSTRACT

Floating in situ gels are a unique class of medication system designed to maintain bouyancy in the gastric environment, providing prolonged gastric residence time (GRT) and controlled release of therapeutic agents. These systems are formulated to undergo phase transition in response to the acidic environment of abdomen, enabling them to stay afloat and ensure localized drug release for prolonged period in sustained manner. The mechanism behind the gelation process involves pH-sensitive, thermoresponsive, or ion-sensitive polymers that respond to the acidic gastric conditions, leading to gelation and subsequent retention of the drug delivery system. Several papers have focused on optimizing the drug release rate and ensuring long-term retention within the gastric environment, enhancing therapeutic outcomes for conditions such as peptic ulcers, gastrointestinal disorders, and chronic diseases. This review consolidates findings fromnumerous studies published on floating in situ gels, providing an in-depth overview of their formulation strategies, mechanism of action, and applications in drug delivery. Key studies are summarized, focusing on the effects of polymer type, concentration, and other excipients on gel formation, drug release rates, and stability of the system. Floating in situ gels have shown potential in treating a variety of conditions, such as peptic ulcers, gastrointestinal disorders, and chronic diseases requiring sustained drug release. The review also presents an up-to-date database of publications focused on the oral in situ gel preparation.

Keywords: Gastro- retentive, Floating system, in situ gel, Sustained release, Localized action.