Sodium alginate microspheres for extending drug release

spherical microspheres of theophylline (TP) using sodium alginate as the hydrophilic carrier were prepared to prolong the release. The shape, surface and size characteristics were determined by scanning electron microscopy. The microspheres were found to be discreet and spherical in shape and had a smoother surface.

 Optimized alginate microspheres were found to possess good sphericity, size and adequate entrapment efficiency.

 TP-loaded Alginate microspheres showed extended in vitro drug release thus use of microspheres potentially offers sustained release profile along with improved delivery of TP.