Context: Quercetin (QUE) is a flavonoid with antioxidant/anti-inflammatory properties, poorly absorbed when orally administered.
Objectives: To prepare chitosan/xanthan gum microparticles to increase QUE oral bioavailability and optimize its release in the colon.
Materials and methods: Chitosan/xanthan gum hydrogel embedding QUE was spray-dried to obtain microparticles characterized by size, scanning electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray diffraction. Microparticles were compressed into tablets, coated with Eudragit® to further prevent degradation in acidic pH. The swelling degree and QUE release in simulated gastric and intestinal pH were investigated.
Results: Microparticles were smooth and spherical, around 5 µm, with successful QUE loading. Microparticle tablets provided resistance to acidic conditions, allowing complete drug release in alkaline pH, mimicking colonic environment. The release was controlled by non-Fickian diffusion of the dissolved drug out of the swollen polymeric tablet.
Discussion and conclusion: Microparticle tablets represent a promising dosage form for QUE delivery to the colon in the oral therapy of inflammatory-based disorders.
Keywords: Chitosan; colon drug delivery; microparticle tablets; microparticles; quercetin; xanthan gum.