Albumin Microspheres for Ocular Delivery of Piroxicam

Abstract

This investigation deals with the preparation, in-vitro characterization and preliminary in-vivo evaluation of albumin microspheres containing piroxicam. The albumin-piroxicam microspheres, designed for ocular administration, were prepared by a spray-drying technique. The morphological and dimensional characteristics of the particles were studied by scanning-electron microscopy and particle-size analysis. Their in-vitro release behaviour was investigated in pH 7-0 USP23 buffer by use of a flow-through apparatus. Piroxicam in the albumin microspheres dissolved more quickly in-vitro than did piroxicam powder. The pharmacokinetic profile of piroxicam in aqueous humour was investigated in albino rabbits. The albumin-piroxicam microspheres resulted in greater bioavailability of piroxicam than commercial piroxicam eyedrops.