Development and Characterization of a Solid Dispersion of an Anti-Diabetic Drug Using Pectin as a Natural Polymer

Year : 2026 | Volume : 17 | 02 | Page :
    By

    Atul Sahu,

  • Pawan Kumar,

  1. Associate Professor, Department of Pharmacy, Chandra Shekhar Singh College of Pharmacy, Kaushambi, Uttar Pradesh, India
  2. Associate Professor, Department of Pharmacy, Chandra Shekhar Singh College of Pharmacy, Kaushambi, Uttar Pradesh, India

Abstract

Aim: The current study sought to improve the solubility and oral bioavailability of gliclazide by creating solid dispersions and oral dispersible tablets (ODTs) with enhanced physicochemical characteristics and maintained antidiabetic action. Methods: Preformulation studies were conducted to evaluate the physicochemical properties of gliclazide, including physical appearance, melting point, solubility, and partition coefficient. Solid dispersions were prepared using hydrophilic carriers-pectin and PVP K30, and subsequently characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy and X-Ray Diffraction analysis. The in vitro antidiabetic efficacy of the formulations was assessed through α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition assays. Additionally, in vitro dissolution profiles were evaluated. Stability studies were performed in accordance with ICH guidelines over six months. Results: Gliclazide was observed as a white crystalline powder with melting point of 173°C, confirming purity. It showed poor aqueous solubility (0.015-0.020 mg/mL) at physiological pH ranges and moderate lipophilicity (logP 1.82), which justified the solid dispersion formulation with pectin and PVP K30. The optimization of formulation F3 showed enhanced in vitro antidiabetic activity with 49.2% and 57.5% of α-amylase and α-glucosidase, respectively. Physical and chemicals integrity of the formulation was maintained through six months of ICH recommended conditions, confirmed by stability studies, supporting its commercial potential. Conclusion: Solid dispersion-based ODTs offer an effective approach to improving the solubility, formulation performance, and therapeutic potential of Gliclazide. Formulation F3 emerged as the optimized candidate with superior physicochemical properties, antidiabetic activity, and stability.

Keywords: Gliclazide; Oral dispersible tablets; Solid dispersion; Solubility enhancement; Antidiabetic activity; Stability studies

How to cite this article:
Atul Sahu, Pawan Kumar. Development and Characterization of a Solid Dispersion of an Anti-Diabetic Drug Using Pectin as a Natural Polymer. Research and Reviews: A Journal of Pharmaceutical Science. 2026; 17(02):-.
How to cite this URL:
Atul Sahu, Pawan Kumar. Development and Characterization of a Solid Dispersion of an Anti-Diabetic Drug Using Pectin as a Natural Polymer. Research and Reviews: A Journal of Pharmaceutical Science. 2026; 17(02):-. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/rrjops/article=2026/view=242725


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Ahead of Print Subscription Original Research
Volume 17
02
Received 19/02/2026
Accepted 01/05/2026
Published 03/05/2026
Publication Time 73 Days


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