Optimization of Itroconazole Solid Lipid Nanoparticles for Topical Delivery

Introduction: The objective of this study was to formulate water-insoluble drug Itraconazole (ITZ) into Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLNs) for topical delivery. Methods: The drug-loaded SLNs were prepared by Microemulsion method using cholesterol (CH) and Lubritab (LU) and further characterized for different parameters like particle size, zeta potential, drug entrapment efficiency etc. The mean particle size with Lubritab SLN was in the range 155.01-161.67 nm, whereas for Cholestrol SLN it was in the range of 218.87-230.16 nm. SEM showed spherical nature of the SLNs. Results: The entrapment efficiency of SLN was found to be more for cholesterol as compared to Lubritab. The crystalline properties of drug was reduced in SLNs as evaluated by X-ray diffraction (XRD). Ex vivo study indicated the ITZ-SLN exhibited high concentration. Conclusion: The permeability of drug was studied by use of Franz-diffusion cell, and permeation of drug through Lubritab SLN (ITZ LU) was higher than that of Cholesterol SLN (ITZ CH). The formulated ITZ-SLNs exhibited clear zone.