Formulation and Evaluation of Azathioprine-Loaded Chitosan Microspheres for Controlled Drug Delivery

Abstract

In the current study, AZA-loaded chitosan microspheres were formulated and characterized for sustained and targeted delivery in OA. The microspheres were developed by emulsification followed by heat-denaturation method. The prepared formulations were subjected to preformulation evaluation, drug-excipient compatibility, zeta potential analysis, and in vitro drug release studies. UV spectrophotometric analysis showed λmax at 276 nm with excellent linearity in the calibration curve. Compatibility studies confirmed the absence of chemical interaction between AZA and chitosan. In vitro dissolution studies revealed prolonged and sustained drug release following diffusion-controlled kinetics.  Formulation F6 exhibited the best drug entrapment and release profile and was considered as the optimized batch. The findings indicate that AZA-loaded chitosan microspheres can provide extended therapeutic effect with reduced dosing frequency, thus enhancing efficacy and patient compliance in OA management. The proposed system may offer a viable alternative for improved clinical outcomes.