The aim of this study was to relate the composition of the W/O emulsion used as a starting fluid in the spray-drying process to the quality of the dry polymer particles obtained in terms of physical-chemical properties, compatibility and drug release performance. Four W/O emulsions containing vancomycin hydrochloride (VAN), an encapsulating PLGA polymer and Poloxamer 407, chitosan and/or sorbitan monooleate as stabilisers were spray-dried using an ultrasonic atomising nozzle. The microparticles obtained were micron-sized, with a volume mean diameter between 43.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFDrug-loaded emulsions for spray drying should be optimised for their rheological behaviour and stability under operating conditions, as this is essential for achieving the desired physicochemical properties of the final dry product. Our aim was therefore to investigate the structure and stability of a water-in-oil (W/O) emulsion containing vancomycin hydrochloride as the active ingredient in the aqueous phase, poly(d,l-lactide-co-glycolide) as the structural polymer in the dichloromethane-based organic phase, and various stabilisers using low-field nuclear magnetic resonance (LF NMR) and rheological characterisation. Four emulsions were tested, namely-one without stabiliser, one with Poloxamer® 407, one with chitosan and Span™ 80 and one with chitosan only.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFAcne vulgaris is a common, multifactorial, inflammatory skin disease affecting the pilosebaceous unit. Topical therapy is the first choice in the treatment of mild to moderate acne, and azelaic acid (AZA) is one of the most commonly used drugs. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a low-dose azelaic acid nanocrystal (AZA-NC) hydrogel in the treatment of mild to moderate facial acne.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFInflammation plays a key role in dry eye disease (DED) affecting millions of people worldwide. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be used topically to act on the inflammatory component of DED, but their limited aqueous solubility raises formulation issues. The aim of this study was development and optimization of functional cationic nanoemulsions (NEs) for DED treatment, as a formulation approach to circumvent solubility problems, prolong drug residence at the ocular surface and stabilize the tear film.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFThe aim of this study was to evaluate long-term stability and assess the wound healing potential of the innovative melatonin-loaded lipid-enriched hybrid system compared to conventional melatonin-loaded chitosan microspheres. The hybrid system contained nanostructured lipid carrier incorporated in the chitosan matrix, in order to modify melatonin release and alter physicochemical characteristics of the delivery system. Stability testing was performed during a six-month period under two conditions: refrigerated (5 ± 3 °C) and at room temperature (25 ± 2 °C/60 ± 5 % RH).
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