Polymer-Coated Composite Granules of Clarithromycin: Design, Characterization, and Functional Evaluation for Taste Masking and Antibacterial Performance

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This is an unedited manuscript accepted for publication and provided as an Article in Press for early access at the author’s request. The article will undergo copyediting, typesetting, and galley proof review before final publication. Please be aware that errors may be identified during production that could affect the content. All legal disclaimers of the journal apply.

Year : 2026 | Volume : 14 | 02 | Page :
    By

    Mahesh Bhalsing,

  • Kratika Daniel,

  1. Research Scholar, Department of Pharmacy, Oriental University, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India
  2. Supervisor, Department of Pharmacy, Oriental University, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India

Abstract

Background: Masking the unpleasant taste of clarithromycin is essential to improve patient adherence, especially among pediatric and elderly groups. However, enhancing palatability while maintaining its antibacterial effectiveness remains a significant formulation challenge. This study focused on developing polymer-coated clarithromycin granules (B1–B10) using novel non-sugar-based polymers and assessing their antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus.

Methods: Clarithromycin granules were produced using a fluidized bed coating technique with non-saccharide polymers, specifically Eudragit E-100 and ethyl cellulose. The antibacterial activity of each formulation was assessed by the agar diffusion method, measuring zones of inhibition and comparing them with the uncoated drug and a streptomycin reference. Additionally, FESEM and dissolution studies were conducted to evaluate the granules’ morphology and functional performance.

Results: All granule batches exhibited antibacterial activity, confirming retention of therapeutic action after coating. Batch B9 showed the highest inhibition zone (0.55 cm diameter, 0.24 cm² area), suggesting optimized polymer selection and coating thickness. Streptomycin (2.2 cm diameter, 3.79 cm² area) validated assay sensitivity. FESEM analysis revealed a porous, uniform coating enhancing dissolution. Tablets prepared from B9 showed 98.1% drug release within 30 minutes, with excellent physical properties.

Conclusion: The optimized batch (B9) achieved effective taste masking without loss of antibacterial efficacy. The polymer coating improved drug diffusion and stability, representing a promising approach for developing patient-compliant clarithromycin formulations.

Keywords: Clarithromycin; Polymer composites; Drug–polymer interaction; Functional coating; Controlled permeability; Taste masking; Antibacterial activity

How to cite this article:
Mahesh Bhalsing, Kratika Daniel. Polymer-Coated Composite Granules of Clarithromycin: Design, Characterization, and Functional Evaluation for Taste Masking and Antibacterial Performance. Journal of Polymer & Composites. 2026; 14(02):-.
How to cite this URL:
Mahesh Bhalsing, Kratika Daniel. Polymer-Coated Composite Granules of Clarithromycin: Design, Characterization, and Functional Evaluation for Taste Masking and Antibacterial Performance. Journal of Polymer & Composites. 2026; 14(02):-. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/jopc/article=2026/view=240924


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Ahead of Print Subscription Original Research
Volume 14
02
Received 09/04/2026
Accepted 21/04/2026
Published 25/04/2026
Publication Time 16 Days
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