Freeze-drying of nanostructure lipid carriers by different carbohydrate polymers used as cryoprotectants

► Sucrose, Avicel RC591 and Aerosil were chosen as suitable cryoprotectants for freeze drying NLCs. ► Taguchi design was successful for optimization of freeze drying conditions of NLCs. ► Increasing cryoprotectants concentration increased the particle size of NLCs. ► 1% Avicel RC591, 24 h freezing at −70 °C and 48 h sublimation were proper for lyophilization the NLCs. ► Avicel RC591 a mixed co-processed carbohydrate polymer is promising in lyophilization of NLCs.