Solvent Diffusion Method: An Effective Approach to Formulate Nanosponges Loaded with Naproxen Sodium

Abstract

Objective: Solubility of naproxen sodium is limited. In conventional dosage form it causes different gastro intestinal problems. To overcome these difficulties naproxen sodium loaded nano sponges were designed.

Methodology: Nanosponges were formulated by using emulsion solvent evaporation technique. To obtain dispersion of nanosponges, homogenization of active drug, with specified quantities of polyvinyl alcohol, dichloromethane, ethyl cellulose and distilled, water was done. Compatibility among excipients and active drug was checked by FTIR and results didn’t show any interaction between them. 11 trial formulations were tested for poly dispersity, zeta potential, particle size and viscosity.

Results: Results showed all formulations except NS9, NS10 and NS11 were in nano range. Formulation NS1 to NS6 fall in category of “mid poly dispersity” and formulation NS7 to NS11 were in the category of “very poly dispersity”. Values of Zeta potential of all formulations were in negative range -0.106 to -9.75 mV. The value of viscosity of all formulations were 0.8872. NS2 and NS3 were selected for further testing like Franz cell diffusion study, stability testing and drug loading efficiency. In Franz cell diffusion study, drug release for NS2= 89.62%, for NS3= 89.10% at 50 minutes’ time. Stability studies performed for the 21 days, NS2 and NS3 revealed slight change in percentage drug content at 4°C and 25°C, and major changes were observed at 45°C temperature. Drug loading efficiency was found in NS2= 97.659 % and for NS3= 98.901%.

Conclusion: Nanosponges formulations loaded with naproxen sodium have successfully been prepared.