Maltodextrin fast dissolving films for quercetin nanocrystal delivery. A feasibility study

Area of Science:

• Pharmaceutical Technology
• Nanotechnology
• Drug Delivery Systems

Background:

• Quercetin, a flavonoid, has poor oral bioavailability due to low solubility.
• Nanocrystal technology offers a promising approach to enhance the solubility and bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs.
• Fast dissolving films present a convenient and patient-friendly dosage form for oral administration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate fast dissolving films containing quercetin nanocrystals.
• To utilize maltodextrins as a film-forming agent and glycerin as a plasticizer.
• To assess the impact of nanocrystal incorporation on film properties and quercetin's solid state.

Main Methods:

• Quercetin nanosuspensions were prepared using high-pressure homogenization.
• Fast dissolving films were fabricated using a casting method with maltodextrins and glycerin.
• Spectroscopic and calorimetric analyses were performed to characterize quercetin's solid state.
• Mechanical properties (elastic modulus, elongation at break) of the films were evaluated.
• In vitro dissolution studies were conducted for bulk quercetin, free nanocrystals, and film-loaded nanocrystals.

Main Results:

• Nanoscale reduction and film incorporation did not alter quercetin's solid state.
• Quercetin nanocrystal loading slightly decreased film elasticity but increased elongation at break fourfold.
• Films exhibited suitable mechanical properties for handling and administration.
• Both free and film-loaded quercetin nanocrystals demonstrated significantly higher dissolution rates compared to bulk quercetin.

Conclusions:

• Fast dissolving films are a feasible and effective delivery system for quercetin nanocrystals.
• This formulation approach enhances quercetin's dissolution rate, potentially improving oral bioavailability.
• The developed films offer a promising alternative for delivering poorly soluble compounds like quercetin.