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Stability of liposomes on long term storage
T Hernández-Caselles1, J Villalaín, J C Gómez-Fernández
1Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Murcia, Spain.
The Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology
|June 1, 1990
Summary
Liposome stability for drug delivery can be improved by adding cholesterol or alpha-tocopherol. Storing liposomes at low temperatures in an oxygen-free environment further enhances drug retention over one year.
Area of Science:
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Materials Science
Background:
- Liposomes are crucial drug delivery vehicles.
- Liposome stability impacts drug efficacy and shelf-life.
- Understanding factors affecting liposome degradation is essential for formulation development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of lipid composition and storage conditions on liposome stability.
- To evaluate the long-term retention of a model drug within liposomes.
- To identify optimal formulations and storage parameters for extended liposome shelf-life.
Main Methods:
- Liposomes were formulated with varying lipid compositions, including cholesterol and alpha-tocopherol.
- 5,6-carboxyfluorescein was used as a model drug to assess drug retention.
- Liposomes were stored for up to one year under different temperatures and atmospheric conditions (including oxygen-free).
- Analysis of phosphatidylcholine breakdown and peroxidation levels was performed.
Main Results:
- Inclusion of cholesterol and/or alpha-tocopherol significantly increased carboxyfluorescein retention.
- Alpha-tocopherol reduced phosphatidylcholine degradation and lipid peroxidation.
- Optimal storage conditions for enhanced retention included 4°C or room temperature in an oxygen-free atmosphere.
- Lysophosphatidylcholine formation was inhibited at low temperatures and in oxygen-free conditions.
Conclusions:
- Egg yolk lecithin liposomes demonstrate improved long-term storage stability with added cholesterol and alpha-tocopherol.
- Low-temperature storage (4°C) in an oxygen-free atmosphere further enhances liposome stability and drug retention.
- These findings provide valuable insights for developing stable liposomal drug formulations for extended shelf-life.