Development and Evaluation of Mucoadhesive Buccal Films of Lacidipine Utilizing Sterculia foetida Gum as a Natural Polymer

This study aimed to develop and evaluate mucoadhesive buccal films of Lacidipine employing Sterculia foetida gum as a natural polymer. The gum was extracted from the tree’s trunk and branches and characterized for its physicochemical properties. Lacidipine was identified and confirmed using UV-visible spectrophotometry, while compatibility with the polymer was assessed through FTIR and DSC analysis. Buccal films were prepared using the solvent casting method with varying polymer ratios and evaluated for parameters such as thickness, weight uniformity, folding endurance, swelling index, surface pH, drug content, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), ex vivo bioadhesive strength, in vitro drug diffusion, drug release kinetics, and stability under accelerated conditions. Among all formulations, the F5 batch, comprising Sterculia foetida gum and sodium alginate in a 3:4 ratio, exhibited optimal characteristics, including high folding endurance, consistent drug content, strong mucoadhesion, and prolonged drug release over 12hours. The bioadhesive strength increased proportionally with the concentration of Sterculia foetida gum, confirming its utility as a mucoadhesive agent. These findings suggest that Sterculia foetida gum is a promising natural polymer for buccal drug delivery systems, enhancing the bioavailability of drugs like Lacidipine with poor oral bioavailability and short half-life.