Controlled release acarbose beads ameliorates ruminal function for extended time

The controlled release ruminotoric acarbose formulation was evaluated in present investigation. The microparticles with sustained release potential were developed, as this is a prospective technology to administer drugs in a stable form that can be released slowly. The Rumen simulation technique was used to determine the release profile of acarbose microcapsules in rumen. The entrapment efficiency was influenced by sodium alginate in the following orders RF4>RF3>RF2>RF1 whereas Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC): Ethylcellulose (EC) ratio affected the entrapment in order of RF5<RF6<RF7>RF8. By increasing the amount of HPMC in RF8, a slight decrease in percentage of entrapment efficiency was observed. Acarbose microcapsules have consistently increased ruminal pH (P<0.05) in all groups immediately after loading the fermentors, on 8h, 16 h and maintained till 48 h when compared to control group. It was reported that, the increased ruminal pH was associated with the effect of acarbose on slowing the rate of degradation of starch to glucose, thereby, reducing the rate of Volatile Fatty Acid production. As a conclusion from present research, the microencapsulation process can be considered as promising technique, which increased the acarbose duration of action and improved ruminal function.