Influence of hydroxypropylmethylcellulose on digestion of self-microemulsifying drug delivery system in gastro-intestinal tract in vitro

OBJECTIVE: To study the influence of different viscosity hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC) on the digestion of self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (S-SMEDDS) in the gastro - intestinal tract, so as to provide basis for the further development of S-SMEDDS. METHODS: In vitro experiments including dispersion experime nt and an in vitro lipolysis model were used to evaluate the influence of HPMC of three viscosity grade (K4M, K15M and K100M) on the digestion of S-SMEDDS in gastrointestinal tract. RESULTS: All three kinds of HPMC could inhibit the precipitation of drug in gastro-intestinal tract. With the increasing of HPMC viscosity, the solub drug concentration in aqueous phase after intestinal lipolysis were both increased. CONCLUSION: HPMC can improve the gastrointestinal absorption of S-SMEDDS and be used as its solid carrier.