Impact of nanostructured lipid carriers on dapsone delivery to the skin: in vitro and in vivo studies

Publication date: 15 December 2019Source: International Journal of Pharmaceutics, Volume 572Author(s): Mohammed Elmowafy, Khaled Shalaby, Hazim M. Ali, Nabil K. Alruwaili, Ayman Salama, Mohamed F. Ibrahim, Mohamed A. Akl, Tarek A. AhmedAbstractThe main objective of this study was to develop, characterize and evaluate the potential use of dapsone-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) as a topical treatment for acne. Differently charged NLC formulations were successfully prepared using an emulsification/sonication method. The particle sizes ranged from 106.2 ± 5.6 nm to 151.3 ± 7.4 nm, and the NLCs possessed the predicted surface charges, depending on the emulsifier used (Tween 80, Transcutol P, or cetyltrimethylammonium bromide). The entrapment efficiencies ranged from 76.5 ± 3.8% to 91.1 ± 3.9%. Selected formulations were assessed for possible interactions, in vitro release, ex vivo skin permeation, pharmacological efficacy and safety compared with a hydroalcoholic solution. Dapsone was embedded in the lipid matrix of NLCs and behaved as controlled release system with a good occlusive effect. Dapsone-loaded cationic NLC formulation enhanced the skin permeation of dapsone, increase the amount of dapsone retained in the skin in controlled manner, and improved the anti-rosacea activity. Based on these encouraging results, cationic NLC represents a promising carrier for the safe topical delivery of dapsone.Graphical abstract
Source: International Journal of Pharmaceutics - Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Source Type: research