Meloxicam-loaded Phospholipid/solutol® HS15 Based Mixed Nanomicelles: Preparation, Characterization, and in vitro

Jessy Shaji1, Dhanila Varkey

  • 1Department of Pharmaceutics, Prin. K. M. Kundnani College of Pharmacy, Plot No. 23, Jote Joy Building, Rambhau Salgaonkar Marg, Cuffe Parade, Mumbai-400005, India.

Abstract

Insights

Mixed nanomicelles (NMs) loaded with Meloxicam (MLX) were developed to enhance antioxidant effects for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). These MLX-NMs demonstrated superior free radical scavenging activity compared to free MLX in vitro.

Area of Science:

  • Nanotechnology
  • Materials Science
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) involves joint destruction driven by chronic inflammation and oxidative stress.
  • Meloxicam (MLX), a COX-2 inhibitor, possesses free radical scavenging properties.
  • Mixed nanomicelles (NMs) can enhance the antioxidant capacity of MLX.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To prepare and characterize MLX-loaded mixed nanomicelles (MLX-NMs).
  • To evaluate the in vitro antioxidant effects of MLX-NMs.

Main Methods:

  • Fabrication of MLX-NMs using the thin-film hydration method.
  • Characterization of particle size, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency (EE), and drug loading (DL).
  • Confirmation of MLX encapsulation using FTIR, DSC, 1H NMR, and XRD; evaluation of in vitro antioxidant activity and cell uptake.

Main Results:

  • Optimized MLX-NMs showed an average size of 88 ± 42 nm and zeta potential of -47.4 ± 16.2 mV.
  • High EE (94.13 ± 1.01%) and DL (4.20 ± 0.05%) were achieved.
  • MLX-NMs exhibited enhanced in vitro antioxidant activity and efficient cell uptake compared to free MLX.

Conclusions:

  • The developed nanomicelles effectively potentiate the in vitro antioxidant effects of Meloxicam.
  • MLX-NMs represent a promising approach to augment the antioxidant therapy for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

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