Preparation and in Vitro Evaluation of Solid-Lipid Nanoparticles (from Dika Wax) for Enhanced Delivery of Nevirapine in HIV/Aids Management

Abstract

The preparation and assessment of solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) of nevirapine with improved oral delivery for better management of HIV/AIDS was the aim of this research. Eight batches of SLNs of nevirapine were produced from Dika wax and evaluated for particle charges and distribution of the sizes of particles using Zeta sizer, surface shape with Cryo-Transmission Electron Microspcope (Cryo-TEM), chemical interaction between drug and excipients with Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscope (FTIR). Loading capacity, encapsulation efficiency and in vitro drug release properties were determined. Release profiles were compared with ƒ2 statistic, one-way ANOVA and students’t-test. From the results obtained, Cryo-TEM revealed that the SLNs were round to oval in shape with smooth external surface. Zeta sizer particle sizes and distribution analysis indicated quality results for Nevirapine SLN Batches 15 and 18. The zeta potential results were: -16.83 ± 0.404 mV for Batch 1, -44.30 ± 0.624 mV for Batch 15 and -40.03 ± 2.65 mV for Batch 18. Batches 15 and 18 SLNs had loading capacities of 6.71% and 9.82% respectively and encapsulation efficiencies of 49.35% and 70.19% respectively. In vitro dissolution showed 102% release for batch 18 and 87.5% release for Batch 15 with a dissolution efficiency of 65% for Batch 15 and 83% for Batch 18 SLNs. ƒ2 statistic, ANOVA and students’ t-test revealed Batch 15 SLNs are similar to Batch 18 SLN. In conclusion, Batches 15 and 18 SLNs have good properties for enhancing the delivery of nevirapine as extended release dosage forms for better management of HIV/AIDS.