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Published: 2026-04-03

Keywords:Diclofenac sodium, Gastroretentive Delivery, Mucoadhesive floating beads, Swelling behaviour, Sodium alginate

ABSTRACT

The present study investigates the development of mucoadhesive floating beads of diclofenac sodium using sodium alginate in combination with hydrocolloids and oils to modulate drug release and gastric retention. The beads were prepared using a modified ionotropic gelation technique, where castor oil and Tween 80 were employed to generate an emulsion-based matrix. The influence of hydrocolloid concentration and crosslinking density on mucoadhesion, swelling behavior, drug entrapment, and in vitro release was explored. The formulation F2, containing sodium alginate and HPMC, showed optimum buoyancy, significant mucoadhesion (>80% retention at 4 hours), and sustained drug release (~75% over 8 hours). SEM confirmed spherical beads with surface irregularities conducive to adhesion. This approach suggests potential for enhanced site-specific delivery and therapeutic efficacy of diclofenac sodium.