Preparation and Characterization of the Release Behavior of PVA: Na-Alg Microsphere Containing Fampridine

Objectives: This study focuses on both the formulation of bio-based microspheres containing fampridine for the treatment of multiple sclerosis and provides an alternative to the commercially available product (Fampyra 10 mg, Biogen). Materials and Methods: The encapsulation of fampridine was achieved using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and sodium alginate (Na-Alg) polymers. Glutaraldehyde (GA) and hydrochloric acid (HCI) were used as crosslinking agents. The polymer ratio (PVA: Na-Alg), drug: polymer (d:p) ratio, cross-linking agent ratio, and cross-linking time were evaluated for fampridine release. Release studies were analyzed using an ultraviolet spectrophotometer. The microspheres were characterized using scanning electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and Fourier transform-infrared transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The particle sizes of the fampridine-loaded microspheres were determined using a laser light scattering device. Results: The study revealed that the optimal conditions for achieving the highest fampridine release involved microspheres formulated with a polymer ratio of PVA:Na-Alg (w:w) at 1:1, a drug-to-polymer (d:p) ratio of 1:2 (w:w), cross-linking agent concentrations of 2.5% (w:w) GA and 3% (w:w) HCI, and a cross-linking time of 5 minutes. The particle size analysis showed that all microspheres were within the 300-800 µm range, and an increase in the d:p ratio correlated with larger particle sizes. Conclusion: The findings demonstrate that bio-based microspheres containing fampridine can be successfully formulated using PVA and sodium alginate polymers, providing a promising alternative to the commercially available product..