Fabrication and statistical optimization of starch-κ-carrageenan cross-linked hydrogel composite for extended release pellets of zaltoprofen.

The current study was aimed to develop extended release (ER) pellets formulations containing zaltoprofen as a model drug and cross-linked starch-κ-carrageenan (Sκ-C) hydrogel composite as a binder and extended release polymer. The Sκ-C cross-linked hydrogel composites were prepared using a 3 full factorial design approach and characterized by FTIR, DSC, XRD and SEM analysis. The matrix pellets were prepared by extrusion-spheronization technique and characterized production yield, FTIR, DSC, XRD, SEM, optical microscopy, flow characteristics, mucoadhesiveness, in-vitro dissolution and in-vivo pharmacokinetic parameter.