Influence of processing variables and in vitro characterization of glipizide loaded biodegradable nanoparticles

AimThe aim of this study was to develop glipizide (GPZ) loaded biodegradable nanoparticles by using a biodegradable polymer, poly(d,l-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) as a sustained release carrier.Material and MethodsPLGA nanoparticles (PLGA NPs) were prepared by a modified emulsification solvent evaporation technique. Subsequent study shows no interaction of GPZ with PLGA (FT-IR study). Various formulation parameters such as stirring speed (300–3000 rpm), drug:polymer ratio (1:4 to 2:1), with addition of surfactants (0.5%, w/v polyvinyl alcohol/polysorbate-80) were studies for particle size, drug loading, and encapsulation efficiency.ResultThe drug entrapment efficiency, drug loading, particle size and zeta potential were investigated. The surface morphology was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Mean particle size of nanoparticles was altered by changing the drug:polymer ratio and stirring speed. Addition of surfactants showed a promise to increase drug loading, encapsulation efficiency, and decreased particle size. The drug release pattern consisted of two phases releasing about 40% (within first 24 h) followed by a slow releasing phase (up to 90%) within next 48 h. The release data was fitted in various kinetic models (zero-order, first-order, and Higuchi's kinetics) indicated a controlled drug release. Accelerated stability studies (ICH guidelines) revealed that the GPZ-loaded nanoparticles were stable at the end of 6 months.ConclusionsThe Controlled release biodegradable nanoparticles can be prepared by selecting the proper processing variables.