Acarbose-Loaded PLGA Microspheres: Efficient Encapsulation and Controlled Release

Acarbose, a locally administered oral anti-diabetic agent, also experiences bioavailability and controlled release difficulties. To overcome such limitations, Acarbose-loaded microspheres were designed to ensure a higher therapeutic efficacy through controlled release of the drug and increased stability. Microspheres were prepared using the solvent evaporation process with different ratios of drug and polymer. The best drug release profile was selected, and optimization of the formulation was done further. Encapsulation efficiency, particle size, surface topography, and drug release rates were considered critical parameters to test. Characterization of the microspheres was conducted through Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) to determine morphology, drug-polymer interaction, and physical state of Acarbose. Particle size distribution and zeta potential were also investigated to determine the stability of the formulation. The microspheres obtained using a 1:4 (Acarbose: PLGA) ratio showed high encapsulation efficiency (95.7%) and sustained release of drug for 24 hours. The optimized formulation showed smooth spherical morphology, particle size of 165.4 µm, and good flow properties. The zeta potential of the formulation showed excellent dispersion stability. The findings indicate that the 1:4 Acarbose: PLGA microspheres offer a promising drug delivery system with controlled release, improved stability, and good dispersion characteristics. These results underscore the possibility of enhancing the bioavailability and therapeutic activity of Acarbose, opening the door for additional in vivo investigations and clinical use. Keywords: Acarbose, microspheres, solvent evaporation, PLGA, drug release, encapsulation efficiency, particle size distribution, zeta potential, SEM, DSC, FTIR, drug delivery system.