Formulation, Optimization, And In Vitro Evaluation Of A Buoyancy-Controlled Drug Delivery System For Prolonged Gastric Retention And Improved Bioavailability Of Levodopa In Parkinson’s Disease Therapy

Abstract

This study aimed to develop and evaluate a Buoyancy-Controlled Drug Delivery System (BCDDS) for Levodopa, ensuring prolonged gastric retention and sustained drug release for improved Parkinson’s disease management. Five formulations (LDF-1 to LDF-5) were prepared and assessed for micromeritic properties, weight uniformity, drug content, in vitro floatation, drug release kinetics, and mathematical modelling. The in vitro floatation study demonstrated that all formulations exhibited prolonged buoyancy, with LDF-5 achieving the longest floating duration (11 hours) and LDF-1 exhibiting immediate buoyancy (0 min lag time). Drug release studies indicated a sustained release profile, with LDF-1 releasing 96% of the drug over 12 hours. Kinetic modelling revealed that Zero-Order and Korsmeyer-Peppas models best described the release mechanism, indicating a combination of diffusion and polymeric relaxation (super case-II transport). The n values in the Korsmeyer-Peppas model (>0.9) confirmed a controlled release system. The optimized formulations minimized fluctuations in plasma concentration, reducing "on-off" symptoms in Parkinson’s patients. These findings suggest that BCDDS is a promising strategy for prolonging gastric retention and enhancing the bioavailability of Levodopa, ensuring sustained therapeutic effects and improved patient compliance in the long-term management of Parkinson’s disease.