Design and Characterization of Nasal Mucoadhesive Microspheres Loaded with Mucuna Pruriens

Abstract

Objective: The present study was conducted to formulate and evaluate nasal mucoadhesive microspheres containing Mucuna pruriens (MP) for the treatment of Parkinsonism, aiming to merge the advantages of prolonged drug delivery with mucoadhesive targeting. Using the orifice- ionic gelation technique, nine microsphere formulations were prepared by varying the concentrations of polymers such as sodium alginate, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), and methyl cellulose (MC). The formulations were assessed for various physicochemical properties including particle size, percentage yield, drug content, entrapment efficiency, moisture content, mucoadhesive strength, and drug release behavior. Analytical techniques like FT-IR and SEM were employed to confirm structural integrity and surface morphology. FT-IR spectra revealed the presence of key functional groups, while the microspheres displayed spherical shape and good flowability. The mucoadhesive microspheres enhanced the drug’s residence time at the absorption site, thereby improving bioavailability. Among the formulations, F9 showed the most desirable characteristics, including strong mucoadhesion, effective drug entrapment, and a sustained release profile lasting up to 10 hours. These results suggest that F9 is a promising candidate for the controlled nasal delivery of Mucuna pruriens.