Tamoxifen citrate loaded biodegradable poly(sebacic acid-co- ricinoleic acid) microparticles, in vitro characterization

The aim of the present investigation was to develop biodegradable microparticles of the antineoplastic drug, tamoxifen citrate, for the treatment of breast cancer, using poly(sebacic acid-co-ricinoleic acid) 70:30 w/w as a drug carrier. Drug loaded microparticles were prepared by utilizing solvent displacement technique and characterized for particle size and distribution, surface morphology, drug physical state and crystalline nature, entrapment efficiency, drug loading and in vitro release characteristics. Spherical microparticles were obtained with a smooth surface and a mean particle size of 1.0-1.6 μm. The entrapped tamoxifen citrate in microparticles has no evidence of any chemical or physical interaction with polymer and drug was in the form of amorphous state. In vitro release studies showed zero order and Korsmeyer-Peppas model release being exhibited. A significant difference in sustaining capacity was seen in microparticles with different drug loading. Sustained release effect was more pronounced in microparticles prepared with loading level.