FTIR and Raman Spectroscopic Investigations of Controlled Release Ofloxacin / HPMC Mucoadhesive Suspension

Abstract

Ofloxacin, an antibacterial agent, is having low solubility in aqueous solution. Moreover, the drug possesses short half-life, so frequent dosing is required. To overcome these difficulties, many researchers have prepared different formulations of Ofloxacin. But till now very few formulations are available from which the drug is absorbed uniformly, so that safe and effective blood level of Ofloxacin can be maintained for a prolonged period. To fulfill this requirement, in the present study, a controlled release drug delivery system has been designed and chemical interaction between Ofloxacin and polymer in formulation has been studied by FTIR and Raman Spectroscopy. Methods: Ultrasonication method was used for preparation of mucoadhesive Ofloxacin formulation, taking HPMC polymer with drug to polymer weight ratio 1:5. FTIR (400 cm-1 to 4000 cm-1 region) and Raman (140 to 2400 cm-1 region) Spectroscopic studies were carried out and spectra were used for interpretation. Results: From the spectral interpretation, it has been found that in formulation, the carboxylic groups of Ofloxacin and hydroxyl groups of HPMC undergo chemical interaction leading to esterification and hydrogen bonding (both intermolecular and polymeric). Conclusion: The formation of micellies due to esterification and hydrogen bonding causes more drug entrapment and formation of a stable formulation. As a result, the mucoadhesive formulation of Ofloxacin gives better controlled release and mucoadhesive action in the gastrointestinal tract. Hence, HPMC can be considered as an effective carrier of Ofloxacin.