Articles

Fast Dissolving Film of Levocetirizine: Solubility Enhancement by forming Inclusion Complex with β-cyclodextrin, Formulation and Evaluation

Objective: Levocetirizine is a long-acting potent nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) which has a very low solubility in Gastrointestinal (GI) fluids results in poor bioavailability after oral administration. The present investigation aimed to formulate and evaluate fast dissolving oral films containing levocetirizine to overcome solubility and bioavailability problems thereby to facilitate the convenience of paediatric and geriatric patients.

Method: The inclusion complexes of levocetirizine with β-cyclodextrin were prepared. In vitro dissolution study was performed to fix the ratio with better dissolution rate. The selected inclusion complex was then utilized for the preparation of fast dissolving oral films by solvent casting method using sodium CMC/ chitosan as film-forming agents, sodium starch glycolate/crospovidone as super disintegrating agents. PEG 400 used as a plasticizer. Formulations (F1-F6) were prepared and evaluated for their physicochemical properties. In vitro disintegration, dissolution and permeation studies were also carried out.