Formulation of Mefenamic acid loaded polymeric nanoparticles by ionotropic gelation technique for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis

Abstract

Aim:- Non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs are generally used as first line drugs for Rheumatoid arthritis. Mefenamic acid is an anthranilic acid derivative . The short biological half life of Mefenamic acid is 2hr. The aim of this investigation was to develop and characterize polymeric nanoparticles of Mefenamic acid by ionotropic gelation technique. Materials and methods: For ionic gelation technique, Chitosan was used as polymer and sodium tripolyphosphate as cross linking agent. All formulations were prepared by varying the drug and polymer concentrations. The obtained nanoparticles were characterized for surface morphology, FTIR, particle size and zeta potential and evaluated for yield, drug content, entrapment efficiency, loading capacity and Invitro drug release. Results and discussion : The mean particle size and zeta potential of the best formulation of Mefenamic acid nanoparticles for ionic gelation technique was found to be 196nm and -34 mV respectively. The drug release was found to be 96.3% till 11hrs with fickian diffusion. Conclusions : Inotropic gelation technique was found to be the best technique for the formulation of Mefenamic acid nanoparticles as they have less particle size, greater stability and controlled drug release for 12hrs.