Objective: To optimize preparation technology of pulsatilla total saponins colon-targeted pellets. Method: HPLC was adopted to determined the content of total saponins from Pulsatillae Radix

chromatographic conditions were as follows:Hypersil ODS-C18 column(4.6 mm×250 mm

5 μm)

mobile phase of acetonitrile-0.1% phosphoric acid solution (39:61)

flow rate 1.0 mL·min-1

column temperature 30℃

detection wavelength 203 nm

injection volume 20 μL.Pellets core was prepared by extrusion spheronization method

with pellets yield

roundness

bulk density

friability as comprehensive evaluation index

orthogonal test was adopted to optimize preparation technology of pulsatilla total saponins colon-targeted pellets;With cumulative release rate as index

effects of plasticizer amount

anti-adhesion agent dosage and coating weight on coating process were investigated by single factor tests. Result: The best preparation technology of pellets core was as following:dosage of MCC 60%

mannitol amount 10%

extrusion frequency 20 Hz

rolling frequency 45 Hz

rolling time 5-8 min;Optimum coating process was:with Eudragit S100 as coating material

15% triethyl citrate as plasiticizer

50% talcum powder as anti-adhesion agent

coating weight of 20%. Conclusion: Optimized process was stable and feasible

prepared pellets had good molding and colon-targeted effect.