Development of self-microemulsifying drug delivery system and solid-self-microemulsifying drug delivery system of telmisartan

Objective: Self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) and solid-SMEDDS of telmisartan was aimed at overcoming the problems of poor solubility and bioavailability.

Methodology: The formulation strategy included selection of oil phase based on saturated solubility studies and surfactant and co-surfactant screening on the basis of their emulsification ability. Ternary phase diagrams were constructed to identify the self-emulsifying region using a dilution method. The prepared formulations of SMEDDS were evaluated for their drug content, loading efficiency, morphology, globule size determination. Solid-SMEDDS were prepared by adsorption technique using microcrystalline cellulose (1% w/w) and were evaluated for micromeritic properties, scanning electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, X-ray diffraction.

Results: The formulation containing telmisartan (20 mg), castor oil (30% w/w), tween 20 (55% w/w), propylene glycol (15% w/w) was concluded to be optimized. The optimized SMEDDS and solid-SMEDDS exhibited 100% in vitro drug release up to 120 min, which was significantly higher (P < 0.05, t-test) than that of the pure drug. Solid-SMEDDS may be considered as a better solid dosage form as solidified formulations are more ideal than liquid ones in terms of its stability.

Conclusion: These results suggest the potential use of SMEDDS and solid-SMEDDS to improve the dissolution and hence oral bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs like telmisartan through oral route.