Preparation of Chitosan Okra Nanoparticles: Optimization and Evaluation as Mucoadhesive Nasal Drug Delivery System.

OBJECTIVE: Esculin loaded nanoparticles for nasal delivery were prepared by ionic gelation technique using okra gum and chitosan Method: The preparation of nanoparticles was optimized using Box-Behnken experimental design employing particle size, entrapment efficiency and zeta potential as dependable variables. Okra concentration, chitosan concentration, pH and stirring speed were taken as independent variables.

RESULTS: The formulations were found to depict particle size in the range of 294.0 to 613.4 nm. The concentration of gums was found to significantly influence the particle size and encapsulation efficiency. The nanoparticles were characterized by FTIR, SEM and TEM. The polyelectrolyte nanoparticles depicted bioadhesive strength of 32±2%. The in vitro drug release studies showed 96.4±4.2% release of esculin from nanoparticles in 4h. The drug release was found to follow the pattern of Hixson-Crowell release.

CONCLUSION: The pharmacokinetic and biodistribution studies indicated sustained release of esculin and high brain targeting efficiency.