Development and characterization of amoxicillin loaded floating microballoons for the treatment of Helicobacter pylori induced gastric ulcer

The current communication reports in vitro characterization of the optimized hollow floating microballoons of amoxicillin on the basis of micromeritic properties and in vitro minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). Amoxicillin loaded hollow microballoons were prepared by emulsion solvent diffusion method. The morphological characterization was done on the basis of scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Fourier Transformed Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to investigate drug–polymer interactions. The correlation between the in vitro buoyancy of microballoons and their physical properties, e.g. density and porosity were elucidated. The results of FTIR spectroscopy revealed the absence of any drug–polymer interactions. The porosity values of more than 69% and diameter to thickness ratio greater than 2.90, proved a high cavity volume within the microballoons in all size ranges. The spherical shape of microballoons with hollow internal cavity was confirmed from SEM photomicrographs. The in vitro MIC results showed a sustained drug effect from the microballoons. In conclusion, it can be said that the developed microballoons can be used for the effective treatment of Helicobacter pylori induced gastric ulcer.