Abstract
Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) have emerged as potential drug delivery systems for various applications that are produced from physiological, biodegradable, and biocompatible lipids. The methods used to produce SLNs and NLCs have been well investigated and reviewed, but solvent injection method provides an alternative means of preparing these drug carriers. The advantages of solvent injection method include a fast production process, easiness of handling, and applicability in many laboratories without requirement of complicated instruments. The effects of formulations and process parameters of this method on the characteristics of the produced SLNs and NLCs have been investigated in several studies. This review describes the methods currently used to prepare SLNs and NLCs with focus on solvent injection method. We summarize recent development in SLNs and NLCs production using this technique. In addition, the effects of solvent injection process parameters on SLNs and NLCs characteristics are discussed.
Highlights
Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) are colloidal particles with sizes ranging from 10 to 1000 nm [1]
With an emphasis on the solvent injection method, we provide an overview of mechanisms involved and important developments made up until now using this method
The method involves diluting a microemulsion in a cold aqueous solution, which results in the formation of nanoemulsion and the subsequent formation of SLNs and NLCs by lipid precipitation
Summary
Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) are colloidal particles with sizes ranging from 10 to 1000 nm [1] They offer alternatives to other colloidal drug delivery systems, such as liposomes, emulsions, and polymeric nanoparticles. In 2003, Schubert et al first used solvent injection to prepare SLNs and NLCs [36] The advantages of this method include a fast production process and easiness of handling [37]. Some studies have investigated the solvent injection method for the production of SLNs and NLCs for different applications [40,41]. We describe the various methods used to prepare SLNs and NLCs and detail their advantages, disadvantages, and applications for drug delivery. We discuss the effects of various parameters of solvent injection method on SLNs and NLCs production and propose some suggestions regarding future developments and applications
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