Preparation of Novel Polymeric Microspheres for Controlled Release of Finasteride

This study aimed to develop a controlled release formulation of finasteride using poly(propylene carbonate maleate) (PPCM) as a drug carrier material. The drug-loaded microspheres were prepared using the O/W emulsion-solvent evaporation method, and their in vitro drug release profile was performed in a pH 7.4 phosphate-buffered solution. The study found that the microspheres had a spherical shape and a smooth surface, with an average particle size of 2-5 µm. The drug loading and encapsulation efficiency were determined to be 9.3-12.5% and 83-84%, respectively. The in vitro release study showed that the microspheres had a sustained release of finasteride over 24 hours. The study concluded that the PPCM microspheres could be a promising drug delivery system for finasteride.