Metoclopramide loaded buccal films for potential treatment of migraine symptoms: in vitro and in vivo study

ObjectiveDeveloping mucoadhesive buccal films loaded with metoclopramide for the treatment of migraine-associated vomiting.MethodsBuccal films were prepared using the solvent casting method. Several tests were conducted, including measurement of film weight, thickness, drug content, moisture uptake, swelling index, and DSC analysis. The bioadhesion properties were also assessed. Furthermore, in vitro release profiles and in human bioavailability were studied.ResultsThe developed films were transparent, homogeneous, and easy to remove. Film weight and thickness increased with higher drug content. The drug entrapment exceeded 90%. Film weight increased with moisture uptake, and DSC analysis indicated the absence of drug crystallinity. Bioadhesion properties and swelling index decreased with increasing drug content. In vitro release demonstrated that drug release depended on the drug-polymer ratio. The in vivo study showed significant improvements in T-max (from 1.21 & PLUSMN; 0.33 to 0.50 & PLUSMN; 0.0) and C-max (from 45.29 & PLUSMN; 14.66 to 63.27 & PLUSMN; 24.85) compared to conventional tablets.ConclusionThe prepared mucoadhesive buccal films exhibited the desired characteristics and demonstrated enhanced drug absorption, evidenced by the significantly reduced T-max and increased C-max compared to conventional tablets. The results indicate the successful achievement of the study objectives in selecting and designing an effective pharmaceutical dosage form. as cm(2)