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Dispersion of Nanomaterials in Aqueous Media: Towards Protocol Optimization
Published on: December 25, 2017
Relationship between dissolution and bioavailability for nimodipine colloidal dispersions: the critical size in
Qiang Fu1, Longfa Kou, Cheng Gong
1Department of Biopharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, PR China.
Nimodipine nanocrystals within 833.3–4060.0 nm significantly improved oral absorption in dogs. Dissolution testing did not predict bioavailability for these nimodipine colloidal dispersions.
Area of Science:
- Pharmaceutical Technology
- Nanotechnology
- Drug Delivery
Background:
- Nimodipine's oral absorption is limited by its poor solubility.
- Microcrystal and nanocrystal formulations are explored to enhance drug bioavailability.
- Particle size is a critical factor influencing the performance of colloidal drug delivery systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare dissolution and bioavailability of nimodipine microcrystals and nanocrystals.
- To identify the critical particle size range for improving nimodipine's oral absorption.
- To assess the correlation between dissolution and bioavailability for nimodipine colloidal dispersions.
Main Methods:
- Nimodipine microcrystals and nanocrystals were prepared via microprecipitation.
- Particle size distribution was analyzed using laser diffraction.
- Aqueous solubility, dissolution (paddle method), and pharmacokinetic studies in beagle dogs were conducted.
Main Results:
- Three nimodipine colloidal dispersions with average sizes of 16296.7, 4060.0, and 833.3 nm were prepared.
- No significant differences in aqueous solubility or dissolution profiles were observed among the formulations.
- AUC values were 1.69-fold and 2.59-fold higher for 4060.0 nm and 833.3 nm dispersions, respectively, compared to the 16296.7 nm system.
Conclusions:
- The critical particle size range for enhancing nimodipine oral bioavailability is 833.3–4060.0 nm.
- Dissolution performance is not a reliable indicator for predicting bioavailability of nimodipine colloidal dispersions.
- Nanocrystal technology offers a promising approach to improve nimodipine's therapeutic efficacy.
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