Preparation of Nimesulide magnetite nanoparticles for targeted drug delivery

Abstract

Nimesulide is a relatively COX-2 selective, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) with analgesic and antipyretic properties. It is used for the treatment of acute pain, inflammation and for the symptomatic treatment of osteoarthritis. But nimesulide is banned in many countries due to liver failure. Thus the present study was aimed to develop a suitable dosage form to apply topically at inflammatory conditions, without affecting internal organs. This study covert nimesulide into magnetically modulated topical gel for topical application. The magnetic field over the applied area helps to retard the movement of drug into the deeper tissues. This results in accumulation of dosage form and delivery of drug at controlled rate in the target site. Nanosized magnetite particles were prepared for the study. The nimesulide drug has loaded over the magnetite particles using HPMC K15M, PVP and HPMC E5 rate controlling polymers. The polymer and its concentrations were optimized. The prepared drug loaded magnetite particles were converted into topical gel preparation.