Glutaraldehyde Cross-linked Bovine Casein Microspheres as a Matrix for the Controlled Release of Theophylline: In-vitro Studies

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Abstract
A controlled release dosage form of theophylline in the form of microspheres using the milk protein casein as the matrix is described. Glutaraldehyde cross-linking of an aqueous alkaline solution of the protein containing the drug, dispersed in a mixture of dichloromethane/hexane having ca. 1% of an aliphatic polyurethane as the suspension stabilizer, led to the formation of the drug-loaded microspheres. Drug incorporation efficiency of around 80% could be achieved by the technique. Release profiles of the drug were examined in simulated gastric and intestinal fluids at 37°C. It was observed that the release was diffusion-controlled and followed the Higuchi model. Release characteristics were influenced by the cross-linking density, particle size and the extent of loading. Data obtained indicate that the natural milk protein casein could be used as a matrix for sustained release oral dosage forms.