Formulation Optimization and Evaluation of Aspirin Microencapsulated Drug Delivery System

Microencapsulation is an advanced drug delivery approach used to modify drug release and improve therapeutic performance. The present study focuses on the formulation, optimization, and evaluation of aspirin-loaded microcapsules using ethyl cellulose as a polymer by the emulsion solvent evaporation technique. Aspirin, a widely used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, is associated with gastrointestinal side effects when administered in conventional dosage forms. Microencapsulation helps in reducing these effects by providing controlled drug release. Microspheres were prepared by dissolving aspirin and ethyl cellulose in a volatile organic solvent followed by emulsification in an aqueous phase. The prepared microspheres were evaluated for particle size, drug entrapment efficiency, surface morphology, and in-vitro drug release. The results demonstrated that the microspheres were spherical, free-flowing, and exhibited sustained drug release following diffusion-controlled kinetics. Optimization studies indicated that polymer concentration and stirring conditions significantly influenced encapsulation efficiency and release profile. The study concludes that aspirin microencapsulation using ethyl cellulose is an effective approach for developing sustained drug delivery systems.