A Student Project on Transforming Drug Delivery with Gastro-Retentive Raft Systems at EPCP in 2026

Students of Ruthu S, Meghana G and Geetha Rubyka S A from East Point College of Pharmacy, Bengaluru, guided by Dr. V. Chandrakala, Mrs. G Naveena (Associate Professor, Department of Pharmaceutics), have developed an oral floating gastro-retentive in-situ rafts loaded with Rebamipide -an anti-ulcer drug with 2-hours half-life and poor bioavailability — using natural biodegradable polymers (sodium alginate and xanthan gum) via the ion cross-linking method, to prolong gastric residence time, improve drug release up to 12 hours and enhance patient compliance.

The aim of the study was to develop a liquid dosage form containing Rebamipide for treating stomach ulcers. We choose rebamipide because it is not available in the market in liquid from. In the point of view of patient acceptability, a liquid dosage form can sustain drug release and remain in contact for an extended period of time in the stomach. Patient finding difficulty in swallowing tablets or for repeated dosing In-situ rafts is the best choice.

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The gel stays in the stomach for a longer time and slowly releases the medicine for improved healing. It minimises repeated doses and increases effectiveness, making treatment more convenient and cost-effective.

ADVANTAGES

• Improves bioavailability

• Prolongs gastric residence time

• It is suitable for Paediatric and Geriatric patient

Learning Beyond the Lecture Hall

Formation of floating in-situ raft system in gastric conditions showing sustained drug release.

This initiative illustrates how learning expands beyond the lecture hall by applying classroom information to solve real-life health problems.

We worked to develop a treatment for stomach ulcers using Rebamipide. Where a medicine changes from liquid form into a floating gel inside the stomach and releases the medicine slowly. Through this hands-on experience, we understood not just the theory but also how dosage forms can be designed in an effective and patient-friendly way

. It highlights how practical learning helps students think innovatively and contribute to better healthcare solutions, especially for communities with limited medical access.

Formulation of Rebamipide Gastro-Retentive In-Situ Rafts to treat stomach ulcers

Turning Challenges into Scientific Breakthroughs

Rebamipide's poor solubility was one of the biggest hurdles. "Conventional tablets fail to stay long enough in the stomach,". "Patience and polymer optimisation were key to overcoming such obstacles."

The team also faced formulation constraints — balancing sodium alginate concentrations, maintaining uniform calcium carbonate dispersion, and ensuring consistent gelling times across six batches. All required systematic adjustments and meticulous in-vitro testing.

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Learning beyond the laboratory

East Point College of Pharmacy's commitment goes far beyond coursework. The institution offers academic mentorship, laboratory resources, and a platform for students to translate pharmaceutical theory into practice. Community engagement is embedded into the curriculum through project-based learning and hands-on research.

“Our goal is to nurture students who can solve real-world problems,” says Mrs. G Naveena. “Students don’t just gain technical skills — they grow as critical thinkers and future healthcare innovators.”

The college’s adoption of gastro-retentive drug delivery as a focus area reflects its long-term vision for pharmaceutical innovation. Rebamipide’s short half-life and poor bioavailability made it an ideal candidate for this sustained-release study.

From Formulation to Impact

Meghana G, the co-researcher, adds, “Working with natural polymers like sodium alginate and xanthan gum has given me insight into biodegradable formulations and the power of green pharmaceutical science.”

Dr. V. Chandrakala reflects, “Seeing traditional pharmaceutical challenges tackled through innovative in-situ raft technology inspired the entire department. It’s about preserving scientific rigour while embracing novel approaches.”

Today, East Point College of Pharmacy is no longer just an academic institution — it is emerging as a hub of pharmaceutical innovation and community-oriented research. The Rebamipide gastro-retentive in-situ raft project stands as a powerful example of how education, when rooted in patient needs, can spark sustainable change.

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This is a project by Students Ruthu S, Meghana G and Geetha Rubyka S A from East Point College of Pharmacy Bengaluru, prepared under the guidance of Dr. V. Chandrakala, Mrs. G Naveena (Associate Professor, Department of Pharmaceutics).

Disclaimer: This article has been published as a part of marketing collaboration between careers360 and EPCP Bangalore.