International Journal of Drug Research and Technology

FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF PH INDUCED IN-SITU NASAL GEL OF LEVOCETIRIZINE HYDROCHLORIDE

Abstract

Chemate SZ, Meshram YW

Nasal delivery is a feasible alternative to oral or parenteral administration for some Drugs because of the high permeability of the nasal epithelium, rapid drug absorption across this membrane and avoidance of hepatic first-pass metabolism. Nasal solution of levocetirizine hydrochloride was prepared for sustaining its release and improving its bioavailability. Carbapol was used as key ingredients to effect pH induce sol to gel conversion of the formulation. Different formulations were prepared by varying the concentration of carbapol 934 and Hydroxy Propyl Methyl Cellulose. These formulation were evaluated for parameter like pH, drug contain, viscosity, gel strength and drug release. At extreme low concentration of the polymer, the formulation drained out due to poor viscosity and higher concentration of the same formulation formed stiff gel and show slowed released of the drug. Finally optimized formulation with specific concentration 934 and Hydroxy Propyl Methyl cellulose showed pH induced sol-gel conversion, sustained release and higher bioavailability.