Formulation and Evaluation of Fisetin Loaded Microspheres

The present study was aimed at the formulation and evaluation of fisetin-loaded microspheres using the emulsion solvent evaporation technique. Fisetin, a bioactive flavonoid with significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, suffers from poor aqueous solubility and low bioavailability, limiting its therapeutic application. To overcome these limitations, microspheres were prepared using ethyl cellulose as a polymer, dichloromethane as a solvent, liquid paraffin as the external phase, and Span 80 as a surfactant. The prepared microspheres were evaluated for percentage yield, swelling index, solubility profile, particle size, FTIR compatibility, and in vitro drug release. The formulation showed a satisfactory percentage yield of 87.66% and a swelling index of 2.35%, indicating good stability. FTIR analysis confirmed the absence of significant drug-polymer interaction. The calibration curve exhibited good linearity, confirming analytical reliability. In vitro dissolution studies revealed sustained drug release from microspheres (75% in 12 hours) compared to pure fisetin (38%), demonstrating improved release characteristics. The study concludes that microsphere formulation is an effective approach to enhance the solubility, stability, and controlled release of fisetin, thereby improving its therapeutic potential.