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Abstract

ABSTRACT:A natural Pectin based formulation of Metronidazole for colon specific drug delivery is reported. The pectin was chemically modified to make it suitable for use as a pH sensitive matrix for colon targeted delivery of drugs. The formation of the modified polymer preparation was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and thermal studies (TGA). The average particle size was found to be 43.53±12.17 µm. The drug encapsulation efficiency was found to vary between 23.44±1.83% and 45.61±0.56%. The in vitro drug release studies from these metronidazole-loaded formulations were carried out which showed no significant release of the drug at gastric pH. However, at colonic pH, sustained release of the drug was observed. Thus Metronidazole, which is soluble in gastric pH, can be specifically delivered at colon avoiding its release in the stomach. The in vitro drug release studies carried out at different time intervals, different drug content and at different pH values indicate the potentiality of the formulation as a colon specific drug delivery agent.