DEVELOPMENT AND EVALUATION OF MICROSPONGE-BASED CAPSULE CONTAINING LURASIDONE HCl BY BOX-BEHNKEN DESIGN

Chitara Diya Hitesbhai* and Bansi Zalavadia

ABSTRACT

The present study was aimed at formulating and evaluating a microsponge-based capsule containing Lurasidone HCl using a Box-Behnken Design (BBD) to enhance drug solubility, improve bioavailability, and ensure sustained drug release. Microsponges were prepared using the quasi-emulsion solvent diffusion method with ethyl cellulose and PEG 4000 as polymer and plasticizer, respectively. The optimization of microsponges was done by Box Behnken Design. The independent variables were drug-to-polymer ratio, plasticizer concentration, and stirring speed. The optimized batch showed improved drug entrapment, controlled release, and physical stability over time.

Keywords: Lurasidone HCl, Microsponge, Capsule, Box-Behnken Design, Quasi-emulsion, Entrapment Efficiency, Schizophrenia.