Design and characterization of ofloxacin niosomes

Niosomes are non ionic surfactant vesicles and potential surrogate for liposomes. The aim of the present investigation was to formulate and evaluate niosomes. The formulated ofloxacin niosomes were evaluated for their particle size, zeta potential, surface morphology, entrapment efficiency, in vitro drug release and in vivo pharmacokinetic studies. Niosomes of ofloxacin were prepared by thin film hydration technique using rotary flash evaporator. The formulated ofloxacin niosomes showed a vesicle size of 3.0-3.8 Micro m and zeta potential of -9 to -13 mV. The in vitro release studies showed 98.79% of ofloxacin release in sustained manner following first order kinetics. The stability study confirmed the stability of Ofloxacin niosomes. Pharmacokinetics studies of ofloxacin niosomes made with Span 60 showed increased C[max] AUC, AUMC, t[1/2] and MRT values compared to marketed intravenous ofloxacin product. The designed ofloxacin niosomes with span 60 showed good physicochemical properties, good stability, improved pharmacokinetic parameters, prolonged action and improved bioavailability than the commercially available conventional dosage form which might be a potential carrier system to improve the patient compliance and reduce the side effects

Enhancement of gastrointestinal absorption of poorly water soluble drugs via lipid based systems.

Development of knowledge on lipids has attracted the scientific community for the effective utilization of the natural and synthetic lipids. Bioavailability of poorly water soluble drugs from gastrointestinal tract (GIT) can be enhanced by formulating the drugs in lipid based formulations. This formulation can increase the dissolution of poorly water soluble drugs, and facilitates the formation of solubilized phases from which absorption may occur. The enhanced solubility of lipophilic drugs from lipid-based systems will not necessarily arise directly from the administered lipid, but most likely from the intra luminal processing to which they are subjected prior to absorption. This review will focus on assessment of lipid-based formulations of drugs with a consideration of how gastrointestinal physiology, the choice of lipids and their formulation attribute and the mode of lipid digestion in the GIT influence the bioavailability of lipophilic drugs.