Transbuccal delivery of betahistine dihydrochloride from mucoadhesive tablets with a unidirectional drug flow: in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo evaluation

Abstract

Objective

Betahistine dihydrochloride (BH.2HCl), an anti-vertigo histamine analog used in the treatment of Ménière’s disease, undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism and suffers from short biological half-life. The aim of the present work was to develop and estimate controlled release mucoadhesive buccal tablets of BH.2HCl with a unidirectional drug flow to overcome this encumbrance.

Methods

A direct compression method was adopted for preparation of the tablets using mucoadhesive polymers like guar gum, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose K4M, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose and their combinations. The tablets were coated from all surfaces except one surface with a solution of 5% (w/v) cellulose acetate and 1% (w/v) dibutyl phthalate. Different permeation enhancers like 2% sodium deoxycholate, 2% sodium cholate hydrate (SCH) and 5% menthol were tested. Swelling index, ex vivo residence time, mucoadhesion strength, in vivo testing of mucoadhesion time, in vitro dissolution and ex vivo permeation were carried out. Furthermore, compatibility and accelerated stability studies were performed for the drug excipients. Finally, drug bioavailability of the BH.2HCl-optimized buccal mucoadhesive formulation was compared with that of the orally administered Betaserc^® 24 mg tablet in six healthy male volunteers.

Results

Formulation F10, which contained a combination of 35% guar gum and 5% sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, exhibited long adhesion time, high adhesion strength and diminished irritation to volunteers and showed zero-order release kinetics. SCH produced a significant enhancement in permeation of BH.2HCl across buccal mucosa. BH.2HCl-optimized buccal mucoadhesive formulation showed percentage relative bioavailability of 177%.

Conclusion

The developed mucoadhesive tablets represent a promising alternative for the buccal delivery of BH.2HCl.

Introduction

Mucoadhesive buccal delivery of drugs is considered as an alternative to oral administration, especially for drugs which suffer from first-pass metabolism.1 The buccal route can solve troubles encountered with oral administration of drugs such as considerable hepatic metabolism, drug decomposition in the gastrointestinal tract and avoidance of invasiveness of parenteral route.2 Several advantages of the buccal route have been reported, including: 1) robustness of the epithelium; 2) better accessibility; 3) easy removal of dosage form as needed and 4) relatively low susceptibility to enzymatic activity.3

On the other hand, there are some restrictions accompanied with the buccal administration, such as decreased retention time at the absorption site and the minimal flux, which leads to decreased drug bioavailability. Hence, incorporation of mucoadhesive polymers into buccal drug delivery systems is recently reported in different forms like adhesive tablets,4 adhesive films,5 adhesive patches6 and buccal gels.7 Additionally, coadministration with a penetration enhancer has been suggested for drugs that slowly or incompletely penetrate the oral mucosal membranes in order to reduce barrier properties of the buccal epithelium. Various kinds of prospective permeation enhancers are employed in buccal administration to enhance drug penetration.8 Buccoadhesives are widely utilized to ameliorate the bioavailability of drugs suffering extensive first-pass effect.9–11

Betahistine dihydrochloride (BH.2HCl) is an orally active histamine analog which has been used to control vertigo, lack of hearing and tinnitus related to Ménière’s disease. The mechanism of BH.2HCl is to reduce the pressure of the membranous labyrinth that results in enhancement of the microvasculature circulation and improves the signs of Ménière’s disease. Peroral administration undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism and gastric irritation in patients with peptic ulcer. In treatment of vertigo, a uniform and constant supply of drug is required in order to maintain steady-state concentration of the drug in the body. Unfortunately, BH.2HCl possesses a short half-life of about 3–4 h and requires frequent administration of the drug,12–15 thereby making it an ideal candidate for controlled release preparations.

Incorporation of a drug into a matrix system is a suggested method for modulation of its release. Hydrophilic polymer matrix systems are characterized by their flexibility, so they are commonly incorporated into controlled drug delivery systems to provide an ideal release profile of a drug.16 However, for hydrophilic drugs, simple drug mixing with the polymers may not satisfy the requirements of controlled release; hence, the prepared tablets were coated with cellulose acetate from all sides except one side, so that a unidirectional controlled drug release could be achieved.

Several studies have been carried out to control BH.2HCl release as well as to explore a new route for its administration like the transdermal route.13,15 To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to explore the buccal route for BH.2HCl release with in vivo testing in human volunteers.

The aim of the current investigation was to design controlled release mucoadhesive tablets for buccal delivery of BH.2HCl with a unidirectional drug flow, thus improving its therapeutic efficiency, tolerability and patient compliance.

Materials and methods

Materials

BH.2HCl was kindly supplied by EIPICO (Cairo, Egypt). Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC) grade K4M, guar gum, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (Na CMC) and dibutyl phthalate were purchased from Fluka (Munich, Germany). Cellulose acetate (39.8 wt. % acetyl content, average MN ~30,000), sodium deoxycholate (SDC), sodium cholate hydrate (SCH), acetonitrile, sodium acetate, methanol and formic acid (high-performance liquid chromatography [HPLC] grade) were purchased from Sigma-Aldrich Co. (St Louis, MO, USA). Dialysis bags with a molecular weight cutoff of 12,000 Da were purchased from SERVA Electrophoresis GmbH (Heidelberg, Germany). Mannitol, magnesium stearate, colloidal silicon dioxide (Aerosil 200), magnesium carbonate and menthol were purchased from ADWIC (Cairo, Egypt). The other used ingredients were of analytical grade.

Methods

Formulation of mucoadhesive buccal tablets

Fabrication of core tablets

A direct compression technique was employed for preparation of BH.2HCl mucoadhesive buccal tablets. The tested mucoadhesive polymers were HPMC K4M, guar gum and Na CMC. The composition of the prepared formulations is shown in Table 1. All the powders were passed through a No 60 sieve. A calculated amount of drug, different polymer mixtures and diluents were blended using a mortar and pestle up to 15 min, so that a uniform mixture could be obtained. Lubrication of the blend was done using magnesium stearate for 3–5 min. Direct compression of the mixed blend at 8 kN compression force into 150 mg tablets was carried out using single punch tablet press (Shanghai Tianhe, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China) fitted with a 10 mm flat punch and die set. Each tablet contained 24 mg of BH.2HCl.

Table 1.

Composition of BH.2HCl mucoadhesive buccal tablets

Ingredients (mg)*	Formulations
	F1	F2	F3	F4	F5	F6	F7	F8	F9	F10	F11	F12
BH.2HCl	24	24	24	24	24	24	24	24	24	24	24	24
HPMC K4M	37.5	45	52.5	–	–	–	22.5	30	37.5	–	–	–
Guar gum	–	–	–	60	67.5	75	22.5	30	37.5	52.5	52.5	52.5
Na CMC	–	–	–	–	–	–	–	–	–	7.5	15	22.5
Aerosil 200	15	15	15	15	15	15	15	15	15	15	15	15
Mg carbonate	7.5	7.5	7.5	7.5	7.5	7.5	7.5	7.5	7.5	7.5	7.5	7.5
Mg stearate	1.5	1.5	1.5	1.5	1.5	1.5	1.5	1.5	1.5	1.5	1.5	1.5
Mannitol up to	150	150	150	150	150	150	150	150	150	150	150	150

Note:

^*All tablets are coated from all sides with a solution of 5% (w/v) cellulose acetate and 1% (w/v) dibutyl phthalate except for one face.

Abbreviations: BH.2HCl, betahistine dihydrochloride; HPMC K4M, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose grade K4M; Na CMC, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose.

Tablet coating

A diagrammatic sketch of the mucoadhesive tablets with a unidirectional drug flow is shown in Figure 1. Coating of all tablet formulations was performed from all sides except one face (the mucoadhesive side) with a polymeric solution composed of 5% (w/v) cellulose acetate and 1% (w/v) dibutyl phthalate in acetone17 using dip-coating process.18 The tablets were attached on one face to polytetrafluoroethylene adhesive tape, dipped into the coating solution, and then air dried under ambient conditions, and the process was repeated till there was a 10% increase in weight. The prepared tablets were stored in airtight containers for further study.

Figure 1.

Diagrammatic sketch of mucoadhesive buccal tablet with a unidirectional drug flow.

Characterization of mucoadhesive BH.2HCl tablets

Uniformity of tablet weight

The mean weight of 10 individually preweighed tablets from each formulation batch was calculated.

Uniformity of tablet thickness and diameter

A digital Vernier caliper (Shanghai, People’s Republic of China) was used for measurement of the thickness and diameter of 10 tablets from each batch, and the results were presented as the mean (± standard deviation [SD]) of 10 measurements.

Content uniformity

In this test, 10 tablets were used where each tablet was mashed and transferred into 100 mL volumetric flask. The flasks were brought to volume by phosphate buffer pH 6.8. Each flask was sonicated using Sonix IV SS-Series (Sonix IV Ultrasonic Cleaning Systems, North Charleston, SC, USA) till dissolution occurred. Then 1 mL of the solution was filtered, suitably diluted, and final absorbance of the solution was measured at 260 nm using a UV spectrophotometer (V-530; Jasco, Tokyo, Japan) against phosphate buffer (pH 6.8) as a blank.

Friability test

Ten tablets were previously weighed, transferred to the drum of the friabilator (Pharma Test, Hainburg, Germany), rotated at 25 rpm for 4 min and finally reweighed. The percentage loss in weights was calculated and taken as a measure of friability.19

Hardness

From each formulation, 10 tablets were tested for their hardness using a hardness tester (Dr Schleuniger Pharmatron, Manchester, NH, USA). The mean hardness (± SD) of each formulation was determined in kg/cm².19

Surface pH

The tablets were kept in distilled water to allow swelling for a period of 2 h at room temperature. The pH was measured by bringing the pH meter electrode (Jenway, Staffordshire, UK) in contact with the tablet surface after being equilibrated for 1 min.20

Swelling study

The tablets were weighed and transferred individually into Petri dishes filled with 20 mL of phosphate buffer (pH 6.8), and the study was conducted for 10 h. Then the tablets were removed from the Petri dishes and excess water was wiped off by a filter paper. The test was done in triplicate. The swelling index was calculated by applying the following equation:

$$\text{Swelling index}=\frac{W_2-W_1}{W_1}\times 100,$$

where W₁ is the buccal tablet weight before being dipped into the Petri dish and W₂ is the buccal tablet weight after being dipped and wiped.21

Mucoadhesive strength

The modified physical balance method was adopted for determination of the mucoadhesive strength of the tablets. The camel buccal mucosa was sectioned and cleaned with ringer solution. A section of camel buccal mucosa was fixed on an adjustable pan with cyanoacrylate glue keeping the mucosal side out on the upper adjustable pan and the adjustable pan with the camel buccal mucosa was kept at 37°C for 10 min. The buccal tablets (n=3) were glued to the lower fixed pan keeping the adhesive side of tablet facing upward. The height of the upper pan was adjusted so that the camel buccal mucosa can adhere to the tablet on the lower fixed pan. A constant force was applied on the upper pan for 2 min, and was then detached and weighed. The weight on the right side pan was slowly increased, till the tablet detached from the mucosa. The mucoadhesive force (dyne/cm²) was determined using the minimal weight that caused detachment of the mucosal tissue from the tablet surface.

$$\text{Mucoadhesive force}(\text{dyne}/{\text{cm}}^2)=\frac{mg}{A}$$

where m = weight in grams required for detachment, g = acceleration due to gravity (980 cm/s2) and A = area of mucosal surface exposed that equals the tablet area.22

Ex vivo residence time

Disintegration apparatus (Hanson Research, Chatsworth, CA, USA) was used for determination of ex vivo residence time of the prepared tablets. Phosphate buffer (pH 6.8, 800 mL) was used as disintegration medium and was maintained at 37°C±0.5°C. Camel buccal mucosa segment was glued to a glass slab surface and then brought in a vertical attachment to the apparatus. Hydration of three mucoadhesive tablets of each formulation was carried out using phosphate buffer (pH 6.8) on one surface, the mucosal membrane was kept in contact with the hydrated surface, and the apparatus was allowed to move up and down. The required time for detaching the tablet from the surface was recorded.23

In vivo mucoadhesive performance of buccal tablets

This study was conducted after obtaining permission from the Ethical Committee of Beni-Suef University and then written informed consent was obtained from all the volunteers before conducting the study. The in vivo mucoadhesive performance test was carried out in three healthy volunteers aged 20–35 years. The buccal tablets (n=3) were adhered, just above the canine tooth, to the gingival mucosa by pressing for 30 s onto mucosa and kept for a period of 16 h.24 The volunteers were claimed to note:

1. The adhesion time: time required for the tablet to detach from the buccal mucosal surface

2. The adhesion strength (unadhesive, slightly adhesive, adhesive or very adhesive)

3. Any irritation signs (non-irritant, slight, moderate or severe)

4. Bitter taste as a result of BH.2HCl swallowing (non, slight, moderate or very)

5. The mucoadhesive tablet disintegration in the buccal cavity (non, slight, moderate or high)

In vitro release study

Vertical diffusion Franz cells, with a diffusion area of 5 cm², were used for in vitro release studies. The receptor compartment which contained 50 mL of phosphate buffer (pH 6.8) was maintained at 37°C±0.5°C and stirred at 100 rpm by a magnetic bar. The mucoadhesive tablets containing 24 mg drug were introduced in the donor compartment. Cellulose dialyzing membrane having a molecular weight cutoff of 12,000 Da was soaked in phosphate buffer (pH 6.8) overnight and used for the separation of the donor compartment from the receptor one.25 One milliliter aliquots were taken at predetermined time intervals (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 8 h), and a constant volume was maintained by replacing with fresh medium of equal volume. The samples were filtered through a 0.45 µm millipore filter and analyzed spectrophotometrically at 260 nm after being appropriately diluted. The cumulative amount of released drug in the preparations was calculated using the calibration equation. The experiments were repeated in triplicate (n=3) in a similar manner.

The order of drug release was determined by performing kinetic analysis of the release data. Higuchi diffusion, Korsmeyer–Peppas models as well as zero- and first-order kinetics were employed, and the values of correlation coefficient (R²) were computed.

Ex vivo permeation study

This study was approved by the local Animal Ethics Committee of Beni-Suef University. Camel buccal mucosa was procured from a local slaughter house and used within 1 h of slaughter. The tissue was stored in phosphate buffer saline, pH 6.8, at 4°C after collection. The epithelium was separated from underlying connective tissues with surgical scissors, and the mucosa thickness was found to be 0.2±0.1 mm. The tablets were evaluated for drug permeation using vertical diffusion Franz cells.26 Camel buccal membrane was mounted between the donor and receptor compartments. The diffusion cell was placed in a water bath maintained at 37°C±0.5°C. The buccal tablet placed into the donor compartment was wetted with 1 mL of phosphate buffer (pH 6.8). The receptor compartment containing 50 mL of phosphate buffer (pH 6.8) was stirred with a magnetic bead at 100 rpm.27,28

The diffusion study was performed for 8 h. The permeated amount of BH.2HCl via the membrane was determined by periodical removal of samples followed by replacement with fresh buffer of an equal volume. Filtration and suitable dilution of the withdrawn aliquots were performed followed by spectrophotometrical analysis at 260 nm. A trial was made to show the degree of permeation of BH.2HCl from its buccal mucoadhesive tablet (formulation F10). Two percent SCH, 2% SDC and 5% menthol were incorporated as permeation enhancers and were used separately in the chosen formulation. The experiments were performed in triplicate (n=3) and mean of triplicate was determined.

The permeation parameters were obtained by graphical plotting of the permeation data of BH.2HCl as the cumulative amount of drug permeated per unit area as a function of time. The cumulative drug in the receptor compartment after 8 h was defined as Q_cum (µg/cm²). The permeability coefficient K_p (cm/h) of BH.2HCl from each formulation can be calculated by dividing the slope of the straight line portion of the curve by the originally added drug concentration. The lag time could be obtained from the X-intercept of the linear part of the graph.29

The effectiveness of the various enhancers was obtained by comparison of certain permeation parameters of BH.2HCl in the absence or presence of enhancer. This ratio was known as the enhancement factor (EF) and was determined from the following equation:30

$$\text{EF}=\frac{K_{\mathrm{p}}\left(\text{enhanced}\right)}{K_{\mathrm{p}}\left(\text{control}\right)}$$

where K_p (enhanced) is the permeability coefficient for tablets in the presence of enhancer and K_p (control) is the permeability coefficient for tablets without enhancer.

Compatibility studies

Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC)

DSC analysis of the plain drug and the drug with additives (formulation F10 in addition to SCH) were performed using DSC (TA-60WSI; Shimadzu, Tokyo, Japan). Samples of 5 mg were hermetically sealed in flat-bottom aluminum pans and heated in a nitrogen atmosphere for elimination of the pyrolytic and oxidative effects in the DSC instrument. A temperature range of 25°C–300°C and a heating rate of 5°C/min were adopted. The DSC thermograms were recorded.

Fourier-transform infra red spectroscopy

The infrared (IR) spectra of the pure drug and the drug with additives (formulation F10 in addition to SCH) were recorded on an FTIR spectrophotometer (Shimadzu IR-345). Samples of 2–3 mg were mixed with about 400 mg of dry potassium bromide and then compressed into transparent discs under pressure of 10,000–15,000 psi. The IR spectra were recorded at a scanning range of 400–4,000 cm⁻¹ and resolution of 4 cm⁻¹.

Stability testing

Accelerated stability testing

Accelerated stability studies on BH.2HCl-optimized buccal mucoadhesive formulation (formulation F10 in addition to SCH) were performed by keeping the tablets in PVC blisters wrapped with aluminum foil and storing at 40°C and 60°C with 75% relative humidity in oven for 12 weeks. Periodical examination of the samples at 1, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 12 weeks was carried out for any physical changes as well as for their drug content using HPLC stability indicating method.31

Kinetic analysis of the stability data was carried out for the determination of drug degradation order according to zero- and first-order kinetics. At each of the two temperatures, the reaction rate constant (K) was calculated according to a determined order. Plotting of the logarithmic K values at various temperatures against the reciprocal of the corresponding temperature according to Arrhenius plot was performed for the expiration date determination.32–34

The analyses were carried out using the technique of liquid chromatography (Agilent 1260 Infinity; Agilent, Waldbronn, Germany), equipped with Agilent 1260 Infinity Diode Array Detector VL (G 1315D), Agilent 1260 Infinity Preparative Pump (G 1361A), Agilent 1260 Infinity Thermostatted Column Compartment (G 1316A) and Agilent 1260 Infinity Preparative Autosampler (G 2260A). Separation and quantification were performed on C18 column (Zorbax Eclipse Plus; 25 cm ×4.6 mm internal diameter [id], 5 µm particle size). The mobile phase was a mixture of 30% acetonitrile and 70% sodium acetate (0.02 mol/L, pH 4.5) for 1 min and linear gradient elution from 1 to 21 min to end with 70% acetonitrile and 30% sodium acetate solution. The mobile phase was filtered by passing through a 0.45 µm membrane filter, degassed and delivered at a flow rate of 1 mL/min. Detection was carried out at a wavelength of 260 nm at ambient temperature. Calibration curve was constructed over a concentration range of 2–14 µg/mL.

Effect of humid storage on the release and mucoadhesive strength of BH.2HCl from stored tablet

In order to examine the influence of storage at high humidity and temperature on BH.2HCl release from the selected formulation, release study was performed on tablets obtained from the stored formulation at 40°C and 75% relative humidity after 4, 8, and 12 weeks as described earlier.

For studying the influence of storage at high humidity and temperature on the mucoadhesive strength of the BH.2HCl selected formulation, mucoadhesive strength was determined using the modified physical balance method as described earlier.

Bioavailability assessment of BH.2HCl from selected mucoadhesive tablet formulation

Study design

The study was carried out to compare the pharmacokinetics of BH.2HCl from the optimized buccal tablet (F10 in addition to SCH, treatment A) to that of the commercially available oral Betaserc^® (Betahistine dihydrochloride) 24 mg tablet (Solvay Pharmaceuticals, Brussels, Belgium; treatment B) following administration of a single dose (24 mg) using randomized crossover design. Six healthy male volunteers (60–70 kg, age 20–30 years) were included in the study; they gave written informed consent and were arbitrarily divided into two groups of equal size. The chosen volunteers were non-alcoholics and non-smokers. The biochemical examination of the volunteers revealed normal liver and kidney functions. The nature and purpose of the study were fully explained to them. The study was approved by the Ethical Committee of Beni-Suef University. The selected buccal formulation of BH.2HCl was attached to the buccal mucosa of the healthy human volunteers for 8 h, and Betahistine dihydrochloride 24 mg tablet was administered perorally with 200 mL water. Buccal and oral drug administration was carried out after overnight fasting and a 1-week washout period. Venous blood samples (5 mL) were collected in heparinized tubes at the following time intervals: 0.5, 2.5, 5, 8.5, 14 and 20 h after drug administration. Plasma was separated by centrifugation at 3,000 rpm for 10 min and stored at −20°C until further analysis.

Chromatographic conditions

Plasma samples were analyzed for BH.2HCl by adopting a modified ultra-performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC/MS/MS) method.35 The mobile phase, a mixture of methanol and 0.1% formic acid (90:10 v/v), was run at a flow rate of 0.25 mL/min. The column effluent was monitored using MS/MS in a positive electrospray ionization mode, using 25 eV cone voltage and 15 eV colliding energy. Multiple reaction monitoring mode was employed for the quantification; m/z 137.1 → 94.08 for BH.2HCl and m/z 306.05 → 261.19 for the IS (dapoxetine) with a dwell time of 0.146 s per transition. The gas temperature was 400°C, and the gas flow rate was 400 L/h. The full system consisted of an Acquity UPLC™ system (Waters Corporation, Milford, MA, USA), a Quattro Premier XE Mass Spectrometer (Waters Corporation), Waters Mass Lynx™ Software Version 4.1 and an Acquity UPLC™ BEH Shield RP18 column, 130 Å, 1.7 µm, 2.1×100 mm column (Waters Corporation).

Sample preparation for analysis

The frozen human samples were left to be thawed at room temperature. A solvent extraction procedure was used. Human plasma samples (500 µL) were mixed with 50 µL of NaOH (0.4 N) and 50 µL of stock solution of the internal standard and then vortexed for 30 s. Five milliliters of methyl-ter-butyl ether was added, and samples were then vortexed for 1 min. The tubes were centrifuged for 5 min at 4,000 rpm. The upper organic phases were then transferred to clean glass tubes and evaporated to dryness at 60°C.

Dry residues were dissolved in 100 mL of methanol and vortexed for 1 min to reconstitute the residues, and 7.5 µL was injected using the autosampler. The BH.2HCl recovery (0.05–200 ng/mL) varied between 94.45% and 100.53%. The linearity was observed between 0.05 and 200 ng/mL (R²=0.9931; n=8).

Data analysis

WinNonlin^® Version 1.5 (Scientific Consulting, Inc., Gaithersburg, MD, USA) was used for estimation of pharmacokinetic parameters for each subject after administration of the tested treatments. Non-compartmental analysis was applied. t_max (h) and c_max (ng/mL) were the time needed to reach the maximal concentration and the maximal drug concentration, respectively. Trapezoidal rule was used for calculation of the area under the curve (AUC) from zero time to the last time of the blood sample, AUC_0–20 (ng·h/mL).

AUC_0–∞ (ng·h/mL), the AUC from zero to infinity, was calculated as AUC_0–∞= AUC_0–20+ C_t/k, where C_t is the last concentration at time t, and k is the terminal elimination rate constant estimated by log-linear regression analysis on visually assessed data at terminal log-linear phase. Apparent terminal elimination half-life (t_1/2) was calculated as t_1/2=0.693/k.

Statistical studies

The significance of the difference between the pharmacokinetic parameters of the different formulations was assessed using one-way analysis of variance. The significance level was set at 0.05 using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 22 software computer program.

Results and discussion

Characterization of mucoadhesive BH.2HCl tablets

Table 2 shows that all the formulated BH.2HCl mucoadhesive buccal tablets exhibited low weight variation that ranged from 149.6±0.98 to 151.9±0.36 mg.

Table 2.

Physicochemical parameters of the developed BH.2HCl mucoadhesive buccal tablets

Formulations	Mean weight (mg) ± SD	Mean diameter (mm) ± SD	Mean thickness (mm) ± SD	% drug content ± SD	% friability	Hardness (kg/cm2) ± SD	Surface pH	% swelling
F1	150.40±0.54	10.03±0.05	1.62±0.19	100.29±1.36	0.77	3.00±0.24	7.49±0.09	135.57±1.50
F2	149.62±0.98	10.04±0.04	1.69±0.11	101.32±0.63	0.75	3.22±0.27	7.50±0.26	132.20±0.98
F3	150.22±0.63	10.07±0.03	1.69±0.07	100.10±0.58	0.69	3.39±0.14	7.68±0.43	129.46±1.10
F4	151.14±0.51	10.08±0.04	1.63±0.09	101.49±0.84	0.29	4.29±0.13	7.01±0.20	147.40±1.04
F5	150.29±0.98	10.08±0.03	1.63±0.05	101.00±1.50	0.21	4.35±0.11	6.66±0.26	145.25±1.77
F6	149.78±1.49	10.13±0.02	1.69±0.07	98.03±0.70	0.15	4.36±0.12	6.04±0.17	139.37±1.23
F7	151.42±0.52	10.07±0.08	1.64±0.13	99.01±2.32	0.58	3.85±0.21	6.20±0.14	140.55±2.11
F8	151.91±0.36	10.07±0.09	1.65±0.09	100.26±0.50	0.53	3.89±0.20	6.47±0.15	143.16±1.97
F9	151.60±0.86	10.09±0.06	1.63±0.15	99.18±0.96	0.46	4.00±0.16	6.60±0.25	142.05±1.85
F10	150.17±0.92	10.07±0.04	1.58±0.06	101.88±0.61	0.39	4.11±0.09	6.91±0.25	150.10±1.73
F11	150.46±0.68	10.08±0.04	1.61±0.12	102.09±0.65	0.35	4.20±0.11	6.43±0.02	154.66±2.21
F12	149.73±0.84	10.05±0.06	1.63±0.08	99.69±0.74	0.33	4.28±0.15	6.35±0.16	166.79±1.16

Abbreviations: BH.2HCl, betahistine dihydrochloride; SD, standard deviation.

The developed tablets (F1–F12) had thickness in the range of 1.58±0.06 to 1.69±0.11 mm, while the tablets’ diameter ranged from 10.03±0.052 to 10.13±0.021 mm. The drug content varied from 98.0%±0.70% to 102.1%±0.65%, which was within the required limits.36

Friability of the prepared tablets varied from 0.15% to 0.77% loss and did not exceed the permissible limit of 1%.37 The hardness values ranged from 3 to 4.36 kg/cm² with SD <2% for all the prepared tablets.

All the formulations exhibited surface pH values ranging from 6.04 to 7.68. For investigation of possible in vivo irritation effects, the surface pH of buccal tablets was determined because alkaline or acidic pH might irritate the buccal mucosa. Surface pH of the prepared formulations was found to be close to neutral pH. It was reported that neutral pH of the formulations does not give rise to any mucosal irritation effects.20

Swelling study

The swelling extent of mucoadhesive polymers can be considered as an essential factor influencing adhesion. Adhesion starts to occur after a short time of tablet swelling; however, weak bonds are formed.38 Relaxation of the polymer chains which are present in stretched, twisted or entangled condition occurs as a result of water uptake, leading to exposure of the mucoadhesive sites of the polymer for bonding to occur. Rapid polymer swelling results in fast mucoadhesion as a result of rapid initiation of diffusion and formation of adhesive bonds.39 Results showed that formulations containing HPMC (F1–F3) showed lower values than those containing guar gum (F4–F6) (Table 2). Also, the results revealed that formulations containing higher concentration of the polymers (F3 and F6) exhibited lower swelling index, which could be attributed to restriction of movement of the polymers as a result of their high concentration.40

Moreover, incorporation of Na CMC increased the swelling index of the prepared formulations (F9–F12). Polyanionic polymers like Na CMC have carboxylic groups that form hydrogen bonds with mucosal membrane. Fast hydration rate of Na CMC resulted in higher extent of swelling in short time, which enhanced entanglement of chains of the polymer with mucus as reported by Lehr et al.41 The highest swelling index was obtained in formulation F12 which contained a mixture of 35% guar gum and 15% Na CMC. Our results are in accordance with Shanker et al42 who reported higher swelling of buccal tablets of tizanidine hydrochloride with increasing Na CMC content and also lower swelling with higher HPMC K4M content. The comparison of percentage swelling of the prepared formulations is shown in Figure 2A and B.

Figure 2.

Plot of % swelling vs time for BH.2HCl mucoadhesive buccal formulations (A) F1–F6 and (B) F7–F12.

Abbreviation: BH.2HCl, betahistine dihydrochloride.

Mucoadhesion strength and ex vivo residence time

The mucoadhesive force of the prepared formulations was measured using the modified balance method. A contact time of 15 min was adopted during the measurement of mucoadhesive force. The force (dyne/cm²) required for detaching the tablet was measured. The time required for detaching the tablet from the surface of mucosa was recorded as residence time.

Generally, mucoadhesion occurs in four substantial steps: wetting followed by interpenetration, then adsorption and finally secondary chemical bond formation between polymer and mucus membrane. The mucoadhesion strength is influenced by various factors, such as degree of swelling of the polymer, its molecular weight, contact time with mucosal membrane and kind of biological membrane utilized in the study.43 The higher the degree of hydration, the higher is the adhesion until certain point where excess hydration leads to a sudden decline in mucoadhesion strength as a result of disentanglement at the polymer/membrane interface.

The mucoadhesion performance was affected by the concentration of the polymers. The mucoadhesive strength and the ex vivo residence time of the prepared formulations were found to increase with increased polymer concentration. The highest mucoadhesive strength was obtained in formulation F12, while F1 exhibited the lowest mucoadhesive strength (Table 3). Also, the results of the mucoadhesion properties of the developed formulations revealed that all tablets showed good attachment to the buccal membrane and that most of the prepared formulations exhibit good mucoadhesive performance.

Table 3.

Mucoadhesive strength, force and residence time of BH.2HCl mucoadhesive buccal tablets

Formulations	Strength (g)	Force (dyne/cm2)	Residence time (h)
F1	8.32±0.02	10,356.50±0.04	0.75±0.18
F2	13.79±0.03	17,239.01±0.02	1.08±0.60
F3	17.50±0.01	21,836.00±0.01	1.50±0.49
F4	66.81±0.01	83,351.16±0.01	8.12±0.30
F5	68.00±0.01	84,848.48±0.04	8.20±0.40
F6	69.16±0.02	86,345.76±0.02	8.17±0.50
F7	19.31±0.04	24,082.00±0.02	6.75±0.33
F8	25.10±0.01	31,319.12±0.03	6.50±0.87
F9	58.25±0.01	72,745.06±0.02	4.25±0.75
F10	98.87±0.01	123,404.73±0.01	8.21±0.38
F11	101.08±0.01	126,146.77±0.04	8.14±1.01
F12	103.10±0.02	128,645.31±0.01	8.40±0.44

Note: Data are mean values (n=3) ± SD.

Abbreviations: BH.2HCl, betahistine dihydrochloride; SD, standard deviation.

In vivo testing of the mucoadhesive delivery systems

The response answers of bitterness, irritation, disintegration, adhesion time and adhesion strength of the mucoadhesive tablets upon their in vivo application to three volunteers are shown in Table 4. Formulations (F1–F3) suffered from certain problems like slight adhesive strength, moderate irritation, moderate bitterness, disintegration and very short adhesion time. Replacement of HPMC K4M with guar gum in the formulations F4–F6 and F10–F12 resulted in better parameters (no or slight irritation, no bitterness, no disintegration, adhesive and reasonable adhesion time of more than 8 h). On the other hand, formulations (F7–F9) showed good responses but encountered short adhesion time which ranged from 4.5 to 7 h.

Table 4.

In vivo mucoadhesion properties of BH.2HCl mucoadhesive buccal tablets

Formulations	Adhesion time (h)	Adhesion strength	Irritation	Bitterness	Disintegration
F1	1	Slightly adhesive	Moderate	Moderate	High
F2	1.5	Slightly adhesive	Moderate	Moderate	High
F3	2	Slightly adhesive	Moderate	Moderate	High
F4	>8	Adhesive	Non	Non	Non
F5	>8	Adhesive	Non	Non	Non
F6	>8	Adhesive	Non	Non	Non
F7	7	Moderately adhesive	Non	Non	Slight
F8	6.5	Moderately adhesive	Slight	Slight	Slight
F9	4.5	Moderately adhesive	Slight	Slight	Moderate
F10	>8	Adhesive	Non	Non	Non
F11	>8	Adhesive	Non	Non	Non
F12	>8	Adhesive	Slight	Non	Non

Abbreviation: BH.2HCl, betahistine dihydrochloride.

In vitro release study

Factors such as dissolution and swelling of the polymers (hydrophilic matrices) are very important for drug release where the mass of the system gets eroded along with drug dissolution and diffusion. Firstly, an increase in the matrix thickness occurs as a result of presence of the polymer in hydrated and swollen conditions. Secondly, the matrix thickness diminishes and finally disappears because of dissolution of both the polymer and the drug, and such a matrix is known as “swellable soluble matrix”.44

The release behavior of the prepared formulations (F1–F12) was studied for 8 h, and the results are illustrated in Figure 3A and B. There was a variation in the drug release pattern from the prepared formulations according to the ratio and type of the incorporated polymers. Without coating, nearly all drugs were released from all formulations within 1 h.

Figure 3.

Release profile of BH.2HCl from different mucoadhesive buccal formulations: (A) F1–F6 and (B) F7–F12.

Abbreviation: BH.2HCl, betahistine dihydrochloride.

For formulations (F1–F3) containing 25%, 30%, and 35% of HPMC K4M polymer, respectively, it is obvious that the extent of drug release was 99.1%, 98.7% and 96.9%, respectively. Our results revealed a decrease in drug release rate from formulations (F1–F3) with increasing HPMC K4M concentration.

On the other hand, formulations (F4–F6) were prepared by replacing HPMC K4M with 40%, 45% and 50% of guar gum respectively. The extent of drug release was 100.5%, 99.9% and 81.4%, respectively. Formulation F6 met the release specifications for the extended release products: 45%–75% within 6 h and 75%–80% over 8 h.45 It is clear from these results that guar gum exhibited a successful control in drug release where a retarded drug release was obtained in comparison with HPMC K4M.

Concerning the formulations (F7–F9) containing 15%, 20% and 25% HPMC K4M polymer and guar gum in 1:1 ratio, respectively, the release of BH.2HCl was found to be 99.1%, 96.8% and 81.7% after 8 h, respectively. This may indicate that formulation F9 complied with the dissolution requirements for controlled release products. Also, it can be observed that addition of guar gum to HPMC K4M decreased the release rate of BH.2HCl.

For the formulations (F10–F12) containing fixed percentage of guar gum (35%) and 5%, 10% and 15% of Na CMC respectively, the extent of the drug release was 81.1%, 60.2% and 54.9%, respectively. It was noticed that addition of Na CMC to guar gum lowered the rate of BH.2HCl release. A plausible explanation might be that the combination of nonionic guar gum with anionic Na CMC created a synergistic elevation of viscosity. This might be related to strong hydrogen bonding between hydroxyl groups of guar gum and the carboxyl groups of Na CMC resulting in high cross-linking between the two gums.46 Formulations F11 and F12 exhibited lower cumulative percentage of drug release; this could be attributed to extensive swelling which generates a thick gel barrier that hinders and causes an increase in the diffusion path length of drug molecules.42

Linear regression analysis of the release data revealed that the release of BH.2HCl from mucoadhesive tablets was in favor of zero-order release kinetics indicating concentration independent drug release, except for formulations F1, F4 and F7 which followed first-order kinetics, while formulations F5 and F6 followed Higuchi equation. This may be due to the tablets containing high concentration of the polymers had formed strong diffusional gel matrix enabling the release of the drug in a controlled manner independent of concentration, while low concentration of polymer matrix (formulations F1, F4 and F7) eroded rapidly, releasing the drug depending upon concentration. For formulations F5 and F6 which contained guar gum, the drug was released by matrix diffusion and not by erosion of the polymer.47

The Korsmeyer–Peppas model was used to explain the mechanism of drug release from the prepared tablet formulations.48 The empirical Korsmeyer–Peppas power law equation is given as M_t/M_∞ = K_tⁿ, where M_t is the amount of drug released at time t, M_∞ is the amount released at time ∞, M_t/M_∞ is the fraction of drug released at time t, K is a constant characteristic of the drug–polymer system and n is the diffusional exponent, a measure of the primary mechanism of drug release. When n is equal to 0.5, the fraction of the drug released is proportional to the square root of time (Higuchi kinetics) and the drug release is solely controlled by diffusion (Fickian diffusion kinetics). A value n=1 indicates drug release is controlled by swelling, a case-II transport (zero-order kinetics), while the value 0.5<n<1 indicates anomalous transport and superposition of both phenomena (non-Fickian kinetic).48 For the majority of the prepared formulations, the values of n were found to be approximately 1, indicating case-II transport where the drug release involves polymer relaxation and chain disentanglement.49 The values of n for formulations F5, F6 and F12 ranged from 0.59 to 0.81, indicating a non-Fickian or anomalous type of transport. Non-Fickian release is described by two mechanisms (a combination of drug diffusion and polymer relaxation), while Fickian release is observed for formulations F1 and F2 in which diffusional release occurs by the usual molecular diffusion of the drug due to a chemical potential gradient.47

Ex vivo permeation study

Formulation F10 exhibited high adhesion strength, long adhesion time and minimal irritation to volunteers. It showed zero-order release kinetics and complied with the release requirements for controlled release tablets. Hence, formulation F10 was selected for further permeation studies. The permeation enhancers, 2% SDC, 2% SCH and 5% menthol, were separately used in the chosen formulation. The results obtained are presented in Figure 4, and the calculated permeation parameters for each formulation are listed in Table 5. The permeation parameters including Q_cum (µg/cm²), lag time (min), K_p (cm/h) and EF were used to assess the permeation capability of the tested formulations. It can be noticed from the results listed in Table 5 that formulation containing SCH as a permeation enhancer exhibited significantly higher (P<0.05) buccal mucosa permeation compared with the control formulation (F10) and other permeation enhancers.

Figure 4.

Permeation profile of BH.2HCl from different mucoadhesive buccal formulations.

Abbreviations: BH.2HCl, betahistine dihydrochloride; SCH, sodium cholate hydrate; SDC, sodium deoxycholate.

Table 5.

Ex vivo permeation parameters of BH.2HCl mucoadhesive buccal tablets

Formulations	Qcum (µg/cm2)	Lag time (min)	Kp (cm/h)	EF
F10	3,255.84±150.47	51.08±4.81	0.0085±0.0012	–
SCH	3,874.56±195.41	42.11±3.67	0.0121±0.0032	1.42
SDC	3,453.60±114.78	48.05±2.49	0.0092±0.0017	1.08
Menthol	3,509.76±145.44	44.10±4.20	0.0090±0.0011	1.06

Note: Data are mean values (n=3) ± SD.

Abbreviations: BH.2HCl, betahistine dihydrochloride; EF, enhancement factor; K_p, permeability coefficient; SCH, sodium cholate hydrate; SDC, sodium deoxycholate; SD, standard deviation; Q_cum, cumulative drug in the receptor compartment.

Menthol was used as a permeation enhancer in buccal drug delivery due to its safety profile as well as its pleasant taste. In our study, menthol did not significantly enhance permeation. El-Samaligy et al49 reported similar findings regarding diclofenac sodium. SCH and SDC are bile salts that are extensively reported to improve transepithelial permeation of drugs.50 SCH structure differs from SDC in the number of OH groups, where the former contains three groups while the latter contains only two groups.

Furthermore, in our study 2% SDC did not produce a significant enhancement in permeation. This is in accordance with Shanker et al42 who reported that buccal mucosal permeation enhancement with SDC occurs only at higher concentration (3%), while lower concentrations (1% and 2%) did not enhance permeation.

On the other hand, 2% SCH used in this work exerted a significant enhancement in the permeation of BH.2HCl, which could be attributed to the ability of the penetration enhancer to work on the protein domain resulting in uncoiling and extending of protein helix; hence, enhanced drug diffusion could occur due to the opening of polar pathway. Also, this buccal permeation enhancement could be attributed to a complicated process involving protein extraction and denaturation, intercellular lipids solubilization, tissue swelling and enzyme inactivation.50 Sodium cholate is incorporated in RapidMist™ spray (Generex Biotechnology Corporation, Canada) which has been utilized for buccal insulin delivery.51

Characterization of drug and excipients

DSC studies were carried out for investigation of physical state of BH.2HCl in the tablets and to examine any possible interactions between BH.2HCl and polymers in the selected formulation F10 in addition to SCH. Pure BH.2HCl exhibited a sharp melting peak at 149.47°C that was not changed in thermogram of the tested formulation, evidencing the absence of interaction (Figure 5A–I).

Figure 5.

DSC thermograms of (A) pure BH.2HCl, (B) guar gum, (C) Na CMC, (D) HPMC K4M, (E) mannitol, (F) Aerosil 200, (G) magnesium stearate (H) SCH and (I) formulation F10 in addition to SCH.

Abbreviations: BH.2HCl, betahistine dihydrochloride; DSC, differential scanning calorimetry; HPMC K4M, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose grade K4M; Na CMC, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose; SCH, sodium cholate hydrate.

The IR spectrum of pure BH.2HCl is characterized by major bands in the functional group region at 3,412 cm⁻¹ which is characteristic for (–NH) stretching vibration, at 1,446 cm⁻¹ for (C=N) stretching and at 1,626 cm⁻¹ for C=C stretching.52

It is clear from the IR spectrum of the optimized formulation that the drug and excipients exhibit the same distinguishing bands in the same regions and at the same ranges but may be with decreasing intensity due to dilution, and no new bands are observed. This might be indicative of lack of any signs of chemical interaction of BH.2HCl with the incorporated excipients (Figure 6A–I).

Figure 6.

FTIR spectra of (A) pure BH.2HCl, (B) guar gum, (C) Na CMC, (D) HPMC K4M, (E) mannitol, (F) Aerosil 200, (G) magnesium stearate (H) SCH and (I) formulation F10 in addition to SCH.

Abbreviations: BH.2HCl, betahistine dihydrochloride; FTIR, fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy; HPMC K4M, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose grade K4M; Na CMC, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose; SCH, sodium cholate hydrate.

Stability testing

None of the tablets stored at 40°C and 60°C±0.5°C with relative humidity 75% for a period of 12 weeks exhibited any alterations in appearance or color during storage. Figure 7 shows a typical chromatogram for BH.2HCl in the mobile phase, which was detected at λ_max 260 nm. BH.2HCl was well separated and its retention time was 3.65 min. The peak was symmetrical, sharp and showed good resolution at baseline with minimal tailing; hence, the peak area could be accurately measured. A highly linear calibration plot was obtained within the concentration range used with a correlation coefficient of 0.9981.

Figure 7.

Chromatogram of BH.2HCl in the mobile phase at λ_max 260 nm.

Abbreviations: BH.2HCl, betahistine dihydrochloride; min, minutes.

The chemical stability results of the optimized formulation of BH.2HCl mucoadhesive tablet showed very low drug degradation rate at the two elevated temperatures where the percent drug remaining was 98.42% and 96.61% at 40°C and 60°C, respectively (Table 6). Stability data regression analysis revealed that drug decomposition followed first-order kinetics as shown in Figure 8. Calculation of the degradation rate constant (K₂₅) was carried out, and the Garret and Karper equation was employed for determination of the expiration date, which states: t_90% =0.105/K₂₅, where t_90% is the time at which the percent drug remaining is 90%.32 The expiration date of the buccal tablets was 3.06 years. Additionally, no change in the drug release from the stored formulation was observed during the storage period at 40°C and 75% relative humidity. Moreover, there was an insignificant change in the mucoadhesive strength of the stored tablets (P>0.05).

Table 6.

Percentage of BH.2HCl remained in formulation F10 when stored at different temperatures (40°C and 60°C) for 12 weeks

Time (weeks)	Percentage of the drug remained in formulation F10 when stored at temperatures of
	40°C	60°C
0	101.88±0.61	101.88±0.61
1	99.61±0.88	99.45±1.11
2	99.45±1.02	99.09±0.65
4	99.19±0.87	98.69±1.14
6	98.95±1.00	98.18±0.82
8	98.81±0.69	97.82±1.29
12	98.42±0.95	96.61±0.67

Abbreviation: BH.2HCl, betahistine dihydrochloride.

Figure 8.

Plot of log % BH.2HCl remained vs time after storage of the optimized buccal formulation for 12 weeks at 40°C and 60°C according to first-order kinetics.

Abbreviation: BH.2HCl, betahistine dihydrochloride.

Bioavailability study

Figure 9 shows the mean BH.2HCl plasma concentration–time curves after administering the optimized mucoadhesive buccal formulation and Betahistine dihydrochloride tablets. The optimized buccal formulation and Betahistine dihydrochloride tablets showed mean peak plasma concentrations of 106.31 and 151.95 ng/mL obtained within 6.2 and 2.5 h, respectively. The mean areas under the plasma concentration–time curves were calculated to be 1,540.33 and 870.23 ng·h/mL, respectively. The optimized BH.2HCl buccal formulation exhibited percentage relative bioavailability of 177% compared to that of the commercially available Betahistine dihydrochloride tablets.

Figure 9.

BH.2HCl plasma concentrations following the administration of the optimized buccal formulation and oral tablets Betaserc^® 24 mg.

Abbreviation: BH.2HCl, betahistine dihydrochloride.

An in vivo study demonstrated that the buccal formulation attained delayed t_max and lowered c_max values as well as a prolonged mean elimination half-life in comparison with that of Betahistine dihydrochloride tablets (Table 7). The buccal formulation showed a t_1/2 of 6.78 h, while Betahistine dihydrochloride tablets attained a t_1/2 of 3.1 h. BH.2HCl buccal formulation showed a slow release of the drug in the buccal cavity which might result in its prolonged plasma levels and elimination half-life as observed from the pharmacokinetic results. As a result, the developed BH.2HCl unidirectional mucoadhesive buccal formulation might be beneficial in supplying minimal fluctuations along with constant drug delivery.

Table 7.

Mean pharmacokinetic parameters for the volunteers following administration of the optimized mucoadhesive buccal formulation and oral Betaserc^® tablets

Pharmacokinetic parameters	Mean ± SD
	F10	Betaserc tablet
Cmax (ng/mL)	106.31±9.12	151.95±10.28
tmax (h)	6.17±2.02	2.50±0.96
Kelim (h−1)	0.1022±0.0371	0.2235±0.0241
T1/2 (h)	6.78±0.87	3.10±0.23
AUC0–20 (ng·h/mL)	1,313.50±225.77	866.65±144.34
AUC0–∞ (ng·h/mL)	1,540.33±270.95	870.23±157.77
Frel (%)	177.00±11.02	–

Abbreviations: AUC, area under the curve; SD, standard deviation.

The results of the present study revealed a significant difference between the pharmacokinetic parameters (t_1/2, AUC_0–20 and AUC_0–∞) of the buccal formulation compared to the oral Betahistine dihydrochloride (24 mg) tablets. It is clear that the buccal formulation generated 1.77-fold increase in the bioavailability in comparison with the oral tablets. The buccal formulation exhibited a significant higher bioavailability as compared to the oral tablet, which might be related to avoidance of first-pass effect and increase in permeability due to the presence of SCH which acts as a penetration enhancer.

Conclusion

In this study, stable mucoadhesive buccal tablets of BH.2HCl with a unidirectional drug flow were prepared using a combination of 35% guar gum and 5% Na CMC, which resulted in controlled drug delivery. Addition of 2% SCH significantly enhanced the permeation of BH.2HCl across the buccal mucosa and produced a significant elevation of its bioavailability in comparison with orally administered tablets (Betahistine dihydrochloride 24 mg). Hence, mucoadhesive buccal delivery of BH.2HCl could be considered as a successful surrogate to bypass the hepatic metabolism and attain controlled release, leading to reduced demand of repeated administration and enhanced patient compliance.