FORMULATION, DEVELOPMENT AND EVALUATION OF RIFAXIMIN LOADED SOLID LIPID NANOPARTICLES
Swapnil Uttam Dunedar*, Pruthviraj C. Meshram, Sachin B. Dudhe
Maharashtra Institute of Pharmacy, Betala, Bramhapuri, Dist. Chandrapur, Maharashtra
ABSTRACT
This research investigates the formulation, development, and evaluation of solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) loaded with rifaximin, an antibiotic known for its effectiveness against gastrointestinal infections. The primary objective was to enhance the bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy of rifaximin through the use of SLNs, which are designed to provide controlled release and improved stability. Various formulations were developed by varying lipid matrices and surfactants, and thorough characterization was performed to assess their physical and chemical properties. The characterization included measurement of particle size, entrapment efficiency, and drug content. The optimized formulation (F14) demonstrated a particle size of 215.45 nm and an impressive entrapment efficiency of 83.32%, indicating a successful incorporation of rifaximin within the lipid matrix. Additionally, the drug content was consistently high across formulations, further confirming the reliability of the preparation method. In vitro drug release studies were conducted to evaluate the cumulative release profile of rifaximin from the nanoparticles. The results indicated a sustained release characteristic, with 98.12% of the drug released over a period of 12 hours. This sustained release pattern aligns with zero-order kinetics, suggesting that the release rate of rifaximin from the SLNs is constant over time, which is beneficial for maintaining therapeutic levels of the drug in the systemic circulation. Overall, the findings of this study underscore the potential of rifaximin-loaded SLNs as an effective drug delivery system. The enhanced bioavailability and controlled release characteristics of the formulation could significantly improve patient compliance and therapeutic outcomes in managing gastrointestinal disorders.
Keywords: Rifaximin, Solid Lipid Nanoparticles, Drug Delivery, Bioavailability, Sustained Release, Formulation Development, Particle Size, Entrapment Efficiency, Kinetics.
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