ABSTRACT
Objective: Escitalopram (ETP), an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor), and s-enantiomer of citalopram is exclusively used as an antidepressant. The drug shows extensive hepatic metabolism, reduced drug efficacy and potential side effects, which reduces its therapeutic index. The present study is focused on developing and characterizing chitosan based nanoparticles of Escitalopram oxalate (ETP). Materials and Methods: The nanoparticles were prepared by ionic gelation method using chitosan and tripolyphosphate (TPP). The formulated nanoparticles were optimized and further characterized by various techniques like particle size, zeta potential analysis, TEM, SEM, EDX, rheological parameters and FT-IR techniques. Also, in vitro drug diffusion was studied to evaluate its pattern of drug release. Result and Discussion: The optimized ETP loaded nanoparticles were made with chitosan: tripolyphosphate (1:1.5) ratio, showing particle size range of 60 – 115nm, with polydispersity index of 0.117, which was further confirmed by TEM analysis whereas; zeta potential was estimated to be -1.89mV. The SEM EDX scans showed almost smooth morphology of the same. The FT – IR results confirmed that there is no interaction between the polymers and drug molecules. The in vitro drug release study using dialysis membrane showed sustained drug release pattern of ETP nanoparticles. Conclusion: ETP loaded chitosan nanoparticles were prepared successfully from ionic gelation method, suggesting a comparatively suitable option for treatment of disease with fewer side effects and increased affinity of drug.