Abstract
The objective of the study is to improve the dissolution rate and efficiency and bioavailability of nalidixic acid (NA) and to evaluate three modified starches namely dextrin (D) β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) and hydroxyethyl starch (HES) as carriers for solid dispersions. Solid dispersions of NA in D, β-CD and HES were prepared by common solvent method and the dispersions were evaluated by TLC, IR, DTA, X-ray diffraction, moisture absorption, dissolution rate and bioavailability studies. The three modified starches were found to be non-hygroscopic, non-interacting carriers giving solid dispersions and effective in increasing the dissolution rate, efficiency and absorption rate of NA. A marked reduction in the crystallinity and crystal size of NA in the dispersions was observed.