Metoclopramide loaded buccal films for potential treatment of migraine symptoms: in vitro and in vivo study

Abstract

Objective

Developing mucoadhesive buccal films loaded with metoclopramide for the treatment of migraine-associated vomiting.

Methods

Buccal films were prepared using the solvent casting method. Several tests were conducted, including measurement of film weight, thickness, drug content, moisture uptake, swelling index, and DSC analysis. The bioadhesion properties were also assessed. Furthermore, in vitro release profiles and in human bioavailability were studied.

Results

The developed films were transparent, homogeneous, and easy to remove. Film weight and thickness increased with higher drug content. The drug entrapment exceeded 90%. Film weight increased with moisture uptake, and DSC analysis indicated the absence of drug crystallinity. Bioadhesion properties and swelling index decreased with increasing drug content. In vitro release demonstrated that drug release depended on the drug-polymer ratio. The in vivo study showed significant improvements in T_max (from 1.21 ± 0.33 to 0.50 ± 0.0) and C_max (from 45.29 ± 14.66 to 63.27 ± 24.85) compared to conventional tablets.

Conclusion

The prepared mucoadhesive buccal films exhibited the desired characteristics and demonstrated enhanced drug absorption, evidenced by the significantly reduced T_max and increased C_max compared to conventional tablets. The results indicate the successful achievement of the study objectives in selecting and designing an effective pharmaceutical dosage form. as cm²

Keywords:

• Mucoadhesive
• metoclopramide
• pharmacokinetics
• polymer
• bioavailability
• buccal
• mucosal drug delivery

Acknowledgments

The authors acknowledge the members of department of pharmaceutical technology, Tanta university. We acknowledge the volunteers for their contributions, patience, and cooperation during conducting the in-vivo study.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Correction Statement

This article has been corrected with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.

Additional information

Funding

This research received no specific grant from any funding agency in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.