Sonication-assisted drug encapsulation in layer-by-layer self-assembled gelatin-poly (styrenesulfonate) polyelectrolyte nanocapsules: process optimization

Abstract

We report the development of Layer-by-Layer (LbL) polyelectrolyte self-assembled nanocrystalline drug-delivery platform using two experimental factors, namely the number of coatings and temperature during deposition with three varying levels. The optimized formulation (Fopt) was assessed for zeta potential and particle size using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Charge reversal along with an increase in particle size confirmed coating of polyelectrolyte on drug nanocrystals. The FT-IR study revealed no signs of incompatibility or change in formulation property during preformulation and stability study. This fact was further supported by DSC results.

Keywords::

• Design of experiments
• Lornoxicam
• nanocrystals
• probe sonication

Acknowledgments

The authors are thankful to Glenmark Pharmaceutical Ltd., Nasik, India, for providing Lornoxicam. The facilities provided by the Management and Principal of H. R. Patel Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research cannot be left unacknowledged.

Declaration of interest

The authors report no declarations of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.