Design, Formulation, Physicochemical Characterization and In Vitro Evaluation of Alfuzosin HCL -Loaded Microspheres Using 3d Printing Technology

Introduction Alfuzosin hydrochloride, is an α₁-adrenergic antagonist, is widely used for the treatment of moderate to severe benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). While effective, its immediate-release (IR) formulations require multiple daily doses, affecting patient compliance. To overcome this, a sustained-release formulation was developed using 3D printing technology for prolonged drug action and reduced side effects. Objective To develop a formulation of Alfuzosin hydrochloride microsphere by using different ratio of sodium alginate act as a biodegradable polymer with 3Dprinting technique. Materials and Methods Microspheres containing Alfuzosin hydrochloride were formulated using sodium alginate as the polymer via 3D printing. The prepared microspheres were evaluated for flow properties, entrapment efficiency, particle size, percent yield, in-vitro buoyancy, surface morphology, and drug release behaviour in 0.1N HCl to simulate gastric conditions. Results Micrometrics studies of optimised formulation indicated good flow properties, with a maximum entrapment efficiency of 86.49%. The average particle size was 984.72µm. Buoyancy studies showed that the microspheres had an in-vitro buoyancy of 95.34,with a floating time of more than 10 hours, suggesting suitability for gastric retention. In-vitro drug release was conducted in 0.1N HCl solution, mimicking gastric conditions. The release profile demonstrated a sustained drug release over an extended period.