Formulation and characterization of capecitabine muco adhesive beads for the treatment of colorectal cancer

Abstract

This study focuses on the formulation and characterisation of Capecitabine muco-adhesive beads for the treatment of colorectal cancer. The alginate beads were synthesised using the ionotropic external gelation technique. To maximise encapsulation efficiency and control the release of Capecitabine from the alginate beads, precise formulation conditions were implemented. Results from in vitro dissolution studies revealed that formulations incorporating increasing concentrations of sodium alginate with SCMC released the drug more rapidly compared to those formulated with sodium alginate and HPMC. Moreover, beads prepared using a 2% w/v aluminum chloride solution as the gelling agent demonstrated greater rigidity compared to those formed with a 2% w/v calcium chloride solution. This highlights the importance of selecting an appropriate gelling agent to optimise bead structure and functionality. Further research is necessary to develop the most effective formulations of Capecitabine for improved therapeutic outcomes in colorectal cancer treatment.