Fast dissolving nanofibrous mats for diclofenac sodium delivery: Effects of electrospinning polymer and addition of super-disintegrant

Abstract

Fast dissolving oral preparations have unique advantages such as rapid dissolution, fast onset of action, convenient administration, and enhanced bioavailability. Therefore, these formulations are proper choices for pain management. The aim of this study was to design and characterize nanofiber (NF) based fast dissolving oral preparations for diclofenac sodium (DS). Different NF-forming hydrophilic polymers were used for the preparation of fast dissolving oral mats and their disintegration time and dissolution rate were compared. DS was incorporated with high loading percentage (25%). The disintegration time showed the following order: PEO NFs > PVP NFs > PVA NFs. To further decrease disintegration time, a super-disintegrant was incorporated into the nanoformulations. The sodium starch glycolate (SSG) enriched NFs showed very rapid disintegration (0.4 s) and complete dissolution within 120 s. The XRD results confirmed the poorly crystalline nature of DS in NFs. FTIR indicated DS incorporation into NFs without any interaction with formulation components. The pH of NF solutions was around neutral and the system showed appropriate biocompatibility evaluated by 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Higher permeability of DS by incorporation into NFs was proved by permeation study through sheep buccal mucosa. The optimum formulation has great potential as a fast-dissolving mat for pain management.