Systematic Scrutinisation of Vital Factors for Fabrication and Evaluation of PGS-MCC Based Drug Loaded Pellets by Extrusion Spheronization Technique

Objective: The prime objective was to formulate pellet formulation incorporating a newer extrusion- pelletisation aid, Pregelatinised Starch (PGS) and to scrutinise the factors that can affect the quality of the pellets and to overcome the slower disintegration of Microcrystaline Cellulose (MCC). Methods: Pellets were prepared initially using PGS, MCC, water, ethanol, HPMC K 4 M and Febuxostat was employed as model drug. Optimisation of formulation was done by employing Quality by design (QbD) and Design of experiment (DoE) approach. Ratio of PGS and MCC, ratio of binder and spheronisation speed were selected as independent variables and disintegration time and % cumulative drug release as dependent variables. In vitro in vivo correlation of the optimised batch was carried out using Wagner nelson method. Incompatibility studies have indicated compatibility of drug and excipients. Results: From the experiments, it was proved that the batch comprising 3:1 ratio of PGS and MCC, 1:1 binder solution and 1500 speed yielded good pellets with decreased disintegration time and improved dissolution rate as compared to pure Febuxostat. IVIVC studies indicated one to one correlation between in vitro and in vivo parameters. Conclusion: Pellets with good quality, minimum disintegration time and improved dissolution of model drug were successfully prepared with maximum amount of PGS. Optimisation using QbD approach was worth fruitful that affected the quality of pellets.