Development of mebendazole loaded nanostructured lipid carriers for lymphatic targeting: Optimization, characterization, in-vitro and in-vivo evaluation

Abstract

The basic objective of research work was to develop, optimize and evaluate MBZ loaded NLCs to overcome the issues of poor solubility and bioavailability of the drug. The nanoformulation was prepared by melt-emulsification ultrasonication technique and optimizes the formulation parameters by Box–Behnken design. The optimized MBZ loaded NLCs were evaluated for its particle size, drug content and encapsulation efficiency. Characterization was done by DSC, XRD, and TEM. Further, in-vitro release study, stability study, and in-vivo pharmacokinetics and biodistribution studies were also performed. The optimized MBZ loaded NLCs composed of using Compritol 888 ATO, Miglyol 812 and Poloxamer 407 as a solid lipid, liquid lipid, and surfactant respectively. The particle size, zeta potential, drug loading and entrapment efficiency of optimized NLCs were found to be 117.4 nm, −25.3 mV, 90.1% and 3.17% respectively. In-vitro drug release studies show biphasic release pattern from NLCs. Stability study indicated that the optimized nanoformulation was significantly stable at refrigerator temperature as compared to room temperature. Lymphatic uptake of the drug was achieved by prepared nanoformulation. It was concluded from the data obtained that MBZ loaded NLCs could be regarded as a potential carrier for sustained delivery of MBZ and efficient carrier for lymphatic targeting. Highlights MBZ loaded NLCs showed high drug entrapment efficiency and bioavailability. Box–Behnken design was used to optimize the formulation parameters. In-vitro release showed the biphasic sustained behavior from nanoformulation. Lymphatic uptake of MBZ through nanoformulation was observed. Improved pharmacokinetic and biodistribution were observed.