Formulation and evaluation of pellets of natural okra gum prepared by extrusion and spheronization

The aim of the current study was to explore the possibility of preparing pellets of okra gum using extrusion and spheronization technique. Different formulations were prepared by altering the concentration of okra gum. Metronidazole was chosen as a model drug. The pellets were smooth and spherical in shape. FTIR and DSC spectra's confirmed that there was no interaction between drug and polymer. The pellets were free-flowing and exhibited satisfactory flow characteristics along with good mechanical strength. Okra gum was able to control the drug release and around 90% drug was released in 8hrs. Pellets showed increase in swelling as the concentration of gum was increased. Mucoadhesion study exhibited that the prepared pellets had good mucoadhesive strength.