Abstract

Silymarin is a phytoconstituent derived from the plant Silybum marianum with poor oral absorption and bioavailability but possesses hepatoprotective activity, anticancer activity, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, stabilizing, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activity. Therefore, the current work aims to develop a nanoformulation of silymarin to increase bioavailability, reduce dosing frequency, minimize toxicity, and improve patient compliance. Silymarin nanoparticles were created via the ionic gelation technique, employing chitosan and TPP as the primary polymers. A central composite design was employed for formulation optimization. Chitosan and TPP were employed as independent variables, while particle size and encapsulation efficiency were considered as dependent variables. The prepared nanoparticles were evaluated through entrapment efficiency, in vitro drug release, and drug-excipient interaction studies. Thirteen experiments were conducted using the experimental runs created by the central composite design. The average particle size was between 149nm and 294nm. The encapsulation efficiency percentage was between 65.4% and 87.3%. The polydispersity index had a value of 0.437. The zeta potential of the optimized formulation was determined to be 38.1 mV. The compatibility studies between the drug and excipients were confirmed using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy and Differential Scanning Calorimetry. The successful encapsulation of silymarin within the polymer core was verified through scanning electron microscopy analysis. The silymarin-loaded nanoparticles were observed to have a significant drug release of 98,942.43% over 24 hours. The outcomes of the study of Silymarin nanoparticles showed a substantial increase in the dissolution rate, which can be ascribed to the changed solubility properties of the drug. This result is consistent with the stated aim of improving drug absorption. Keywords: Silymarin, nanoformulation, central composite design.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.