Formulation and evaluation of fenofibrate-loaded nanoparticles by precipitation method

Abstract

Nanoparticles have applications in the formulation of poorly water soluble drugs to improve their bioavailability. Preparation and evaluation fenofibrate-loaded nanoparticles by precipitation method to enhance solubility and bioavailability was the primary aim of the present investigation. Nano particles of fenofibrate, a BCS class II drug, were prepared by precipitation technique and characterized using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, powder X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, zeta potential and drug release studies in vitro. Data from the differential scanning calorimetry, powder X-ray diffractometry and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy showed no interaction between drug and the polymers. Scanning electron microscopy images indicated that nanoparticles were spherical in shape. Water solubility of drug-loaded nanoparticles was increased as compared to the pure drug and showed improved dissolution profile, which indicated that nanoprecipitation was simple and precise. This laboratory scale method as well as this approach could be employed for solubility and bioavailability improvement of BCS class II drugs.