Formulation, Optimization and Evaluation of Gastroretentive floating microsphere of Dexlansoprazole and Omeprazole

Abstract

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as Dexlansoprazole and Omeprazole are widely used for the management of gastric acid–related disorders; however, their short plasma half-life, pH-dependent stability, and limited gastric residence time reduce therapeutic efficacy. Gastroretentive floating microspheres provide improved drug delivery by extending gastric retention, enhancing absorption, and maintaining prolonged therapeutic concentrations. In this study, floating microspheres of Dexlansoprazole and Omeprazole were formulated using polymers including HPMC and Ethyl Cellulose by solvent evaporation technique. Optimization was carried out by evaluating particle size, buoyancy, drug entrapment efficiency, and in-vitro drug release. The optimized formulations exhibited high floating capacity (> 85%) and sustained drug release for over 12 h, suggesting improved gastroretentive behavior and potential enhancement in bioavailability.