Novel solidified reverse micellar solution-based mucoadhesive nano lipid gels encapsulating miconazole nitrate-loaded nanoparticles for improved treatment of oropharyngeal candidiasis

Abstract

Objective: To develop and evaluate solidified-reverse-micellar-solution (SRMS)-based oromucosal nano lipid gels for improved localised delivery of miconazole nitrate (MN).Methods: Phospholipon® 90G and Softisan® 154 (3:7) were used to prepare SRMS by fusion. Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs, 0.25–1.0% w/w MN) formulated with the SRMS by high shear homogenisation were employed to prepare mucoadhesive nano lipid gels. Physicochemical characterisation, drug release in simulated salivary fluid (SSF) (pH 6.8) and anti-candidal activity were carried out.Results: The SLNs were spherical nanoparticles, had mean size of 133.8 ± 6.4 to 393.2 ± 14.5 nm, low polydispersity indices, good encapsulation efficiency (EE) (51.96 ± 2.33–67.12 ± 1.65%) and drug loading (DL) (19.05 ± 2.44–24.93 ± 1.98%). The nano lipid gels were stable, spreadable, pseudoplastic viscoelastic mucoadhesive systems that exhibited better prolonged release and anti-candidal properties than marketed formulation (Daktarin® oral gel) (p < 0.05).Conclusion: This study has shown that SRMS-based nano lipid gels could be employed to prolong localised oromucosal delivery of MN.