DEVELOPMENT AND CHARACTERIZATION OF SOLID LIPID NANOPARTICLES CONTAINING ANTI-FUNGAL AGENT FOR TOPICAL DELIVERY

Fungal infection is becoming more common all over the world. Oral therapy for fungal infections is linked with toxic effects, a long treatment period, and patient intolerance. In contrast, the link between topical therapy and superficial fungal infections is low drug solubility, skin irritability, and low permeability via the skin. Top topical therapy would aim to improve the penetration of poorly soluble drug and minimize side effects like irritation and rapid symptomatic relief from fungal diseases. In the present research, Luliconazole-loaded SLN was formulated to improve penetration via the stratum corneum and enhance therapeutic action. Solid lipid nanoparticles gel was prepared using the high shear homogenization method. The formulation contained excipients like stearic acid, glyceryl monostearate, Tween 80, carbapol 934, etc. Further, formulations were subjected to tests like Entrapment efficiency, drug content, viscosity, spreadability, gel consistency, and in-vitro release. Formulations were examined to be spherical, with the greatest drug entrapment potential. Particle size, SEM, in-vivo, FT-IR and stability studies were performed on the optimized formulation. The gel showed a bi-phasic release pattern which showed early burst release than a sustained release. The first burst release provides a rapid initiation of activity, whereas continuous release provides a long-lasting anti-fungal impact. A skin irritation study was carried out according to the guidelines given by OECD, and formulations were reported to be non-irritant and safe for topical use. The Luliconazole-Solid Lipid nanoparticles gel showed enhanced anti-fungal activity and stability. Hence, Lulliconazole-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles prove to be a promising carrier for drug delivery.