Development and effect of drug release from simvastatin loaded sodium alginate micro beads

The objective of the present study was to prepare the microbeads of Simvastatin loaded with sodium alginate to provide control release of drug delivery system. So, the design of drug delivery system was to improve and enhance the bioavailability of drug. The Simvastatin loaded microbeads were prepared by the ionic gelation method using polymer such as sodium alginate as a natural substance. Simvastatin loaded sodium alginate microbeads were formulated by different cross linking agent like CaCl₂, BaCl₂, ZnCl₂ and FeCl₃ in different ratio. The microbeads were spherical, free flowing exhibited drug content uniformity and high drug encapsulation efficiency. The swelling and drug release behavior depends upon amount of cross linking agent used in the microbeads. This released the drug up to 24 hours where beads released the drug up to 6 hours. The FTIR analysis of drug, polymers and the optimized formulation indicated the compatibility of the drug with the polymers. The DSC studies confirmed the drug polymer interaction in the microspheres. The SEM studies influence the rate of drug release from the microbeads. The present study concludes that the swelling and In-vitro release behavior of Simvastatin loaded sodium alginate microbeads can be considered as a promising control release drug delivery system.