Abstract

PREPARATION AND EVALUATION OF HOT MELT EXTRUDATES OF ACICLOVIR

*Smita Nayak , Kavita Marulkar, Vaidhun Bhaskar, Amit Chivate

ABSTRACT

The aim of the present investigation was to increase the extent of solubility of aciclovir, a poorly water soluble drug. Solid dispersions of aciclovir were prepared by hot melt extrusion technique and evaluated by instrumental techniques such as DSC, XRD and FTIR. Studies were also carried out to determine percent entrapment efficiency and saturation solubility of the dispersed drug. Results obtained indicated that aciclovir was compatible with polymer used. The drug which was originally in crystalline form underwent transformation into its amorphous form. Overall, there was an increase in aqueous solubility of the drug to the extent of 67%. This indicates that solubility and bioavailability characteristics of aciclovir can be enhanced by using novel excipients such as Soluplus® and changing processing conditions. These extrudates can then be processed further into conventional delivery systems with enhanced in vivo and in vitro performance characteristics.

Keywords: Aciclovir • Soluplus® • flexibility • crystallinity • plasticizer.