Spray-dried microspheres containing ketoprofen formulated into capsules and tablets

In this study, microspheres were prepared by a spray-drying technique using solutions of ketoprofen and two polymers, cellulose acetate butyrate (CAB) and hydroypropylmethylcellulose phthalate (HPMCP), in different weight rat ios. Different total concentrations were used in the feed solutions: 3, 6 a nd 9% w/v. The spray-dried microparticles were characterized in terms of sh ape (SEM), size (light scattering method), production yield and encapsulati on efficiency. They were formulated into capsules; tablets were prepared by direct compression of the microparticles mixed with maltose and, in some c ases, hydroypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC). In vitro release studies were per formed both at acidic and neutral pHs. The spray-drying process of solution s of ketoprofen with polymeric blends of cellulose derivatives leads to mic roparticles which, depending on their final formulation (capsules or tablet s), can give a rapid or prolonged drug release. The formulations here descr ibed can be proposed for the oral administration of NSAIDs.