Formulation, Development, and Evaluation of Solid Lipid Nanoparticles of Zolmitriptan

Abstract

Introduction: Solid lipid nanoparticles offer a promising solution to the limitations of conventional drug formulations. In the present research, Zolmitriptan was incorporated into solid lipid nanoparticles to enhance its therapeutic benefits, rather than the conventional formulations. Methods: Firstly, an in-situ ion-pairing complex of zolmitriptan and oleic acid was formulated. SLNs were prepared using high-pressure homogenization and optimized by applying a 32 factorial design with concentration of poloxamer 188 and concentration of oleic acid as factors, and particle size and % entrapment efficiency as responses. The Optimized batch was confirmed by differential scanning calorimetry and x-ray diffraction analysis. An in vitro drug diffusion study was also carried out for the optimized batch. Results: The optimized batch, with a particle size of 273.6 nm and an entrapment efficiency of 85.36 %, was obtained as per the 32-factorial design. Optimized batch also gives prolonged release (92.3 %) of the drug up to 24 h, indicating their potential for controlled drug delivery. Confirmation methods such as XRD and DSC ensure the incorporation of the drug within the lipidic nanoparticles.