FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF SOLID LIPID NANOPARTICLES LADEN IN-SITU GEL OF QUERCETIN FOR OCULAR DISEASES

Abstract

Conventional ocular drug delivery systems suffer from numerous limitations, including low bioavailability, rapid clearance, and poor residence time on the ocular surface. Synthetic dosage forms have also presented challenges due to their potential toxicity and limited biocompatibility. This research aims to overcome these drawbacks by formulating and evaluating solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) laden in-situ gel of Quercetin for ocular diseases. Drug excipient compatibility was assessed by FT-IR technique and it was found that the selected drug excipients were compatible to each other. The SLNs were prepared using Glyceryl monostearate as the lipid component and a combination of soya lecithin as polymer and poloxamer 407 as surfactant. The formulated SLNs were characterized using various techniques, Percentage yield, Entrapment efficiency, Particle size, Zeta potential, Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and In-vitro drug release. The incorporation of Quercetin into the SLNs aimed to increase its residence time on the ocular surface by converting it into an in-situ gel formulation. The optimization of the SLNs formulation was achieved using a 32 full factorial design, with the independent factors being the amounts of Glyceryl monostearate and soya lecithin. The effects of these factors on the dependent variables were systematically evaluated. A checkpoint batch, identified as the best batch, was obtained from the optimization study. This batch was then transformed into a nanoparticle formulation and subjected to comprehensive evaluation for various parameters. The outcomes of these evaluations, including physicochemical characterization, release kinetics, particle size, and morphology, confirmed the successful formulation of SLNs of Quercetin. The optimized formulation exhibited desirable attributes, such as controlled drug release, small particle size, and suitable surface charge. This batch was further converted into in-situ gel utilizing appropriate gelling agents. The prepared gel was also evaluated for Quality control parameters and satisfactory result were obtained. The present work represented a significant advancement in ocular drug delivery systems, providing an innovative approach to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of Quercetin. By incorporating quercetin into SLNs and formulating them as in-situ gels, VII the drawbacks associated with conventional and synthetic dosage forms can be overcome. The utilization of a factorial design allowed for the systematic optimization of the formulation, leading to the development of a promising ocular drug delivery system. The findings of this study have the potential to contribute to the development of effective treatments for ocular diseases and pave the way for future research in the field of ocular drug delivery.