In vitro characterization and pharmacodynamic evaluation of furosemide loaded self nano emulsifying drug delivery systems (SNEDDS)

Abstract

Poor water solubility is one of the reasons for erratic absorption after oral administration of furosemide (FSM), an antihypertensive loop diuretic. Self nano emulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS) is a novel drug delivery system utilized to improve the water solubility, permeability and ultimately bioavailability. FSM solubility was determined in various vehicles oils, surfactants and co surfactants. Self emulsification region for the rational design of SNEDDS formulations were identified by pseudoternary diagrams. Developed formulations were characterized by zeta potential determination, droplet size analysis, dilution test, viscosity determination, in vitro dissolution studies and in vivo pharmacodynamic evaluation. A remarkable increase in dissolution was observed for the optimized SNEDDS when compared with the plain FSM and marketed formulation by in vitro dissolution studies. The pharmacological effect of FSM was improved by SNEDDS formulation as compared to plain FSM. The study confirmed that the SNEDDS formulation can be used as a possible alternative to traditional oral formulations of FSM to improve its bioavailability.