Design development and evaluation of novel ophthalmic nano lipid in situ gel-forming solution using timolol hydrochloride

Abstract

The present research work was aimed to design, develop and evaluate the nano lipid-based drug delivery system by incorporating timolol hydrochloride drug for ocular therapy and improve the release of the drug through the ocular route. Nanolipids in situ gels were prepared by film hydration method involving two steps. First nano lipids were formulated with the help of organic solvents, and then they were incorporated into a gel by using gelling agents. FTIR spectrum studies were carried out for drug and the formulations which reveal that there was no interaction between the drug and excipients used. The various formulations prepared were subjected for the different evaluation parameters, which showed good and effective results for visual appearance, pH, gelation study, viscosity and ocular irritation studies. It was further observed from this research work that formulation TF2 (HPMC K-15M 0.2%w/v and Carbopol 940 0.4%w/v) had a maximum entrapment efficiency of 97.30%, drug content of about 97.67% and drug release of about 84.29% for 10 hrs. Stability studies were carried out for TF2 formulation, and they found that they were stable throughout the study period. It was finally concluded from the present work that formulations prepared were more suitable and had good patient compliance compared to the eye drops.