Use of Chitosan-Alginate as Alternative Pelletization Aid to mMicrocrystalline Cellulose in Extrusion/Spheronization

Two types of different molecular weight chitosan were investigated as a pelletization aid in extrusion/spheronization using water as granulation liquid. Spherical pellets with a maximum fraction of 60% w/w chitosan could be produced when 1.25-2.5% w/w sodium alginate was included in the formulations with no microcrystalline cellulose (MCC). Chitosan with lower molecular weight of 190 kDa showed a better pellet forming property. The pellets obtained had acceptable physical characteristics and a fast drug release. The results from Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry and 13C CP‐MAS nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy confirmed the formation of polyelectrolyte complex (PEC) between chitosan and sodium alginate, which might be a reason for successful pelletization by extrusion/spheronization. Moreover, the presence of PEC might influence the physical characteristics and dissolution behavior of chitosan‐alginate pellets. The results indicated an achievement in production of pellets by extrusion/spheronization without using MCC. Moreover, chitosan combined with sodium alginate could be used as a promising alternative pelletization aid to MCC in extrusion/spheronization. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association J Pharm Sci 96: 2469-2484, 2007