Preparation and in vitro characterization of paclitaxel containing poly(lactic acid co-castor oil)-based nanodispersions

Paclitaxel-loaded nanosized particles (NPs) of poly(lactic acid co castor oil) 60:40 % w/w- (p(DLLA:CO) were prepared by nanoprecipitation method and lyophilized using cryoprotectants. The prepared nanoparticles were evaluated for encapsulation efficiency and drug release. The formulations were also characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and particle size. From the SEM microphotographs, NPs were obtained in the form of long, flat scales which are similar to rod/bone and rose flower-like shaped nanosized drug delivery systems. FTIR, XRD and DSC results proved that the drug is encapsulated in the polymeric matrix in the amorphous state. Formulations obtained were below 400 nm.