Niosomal entrapment improved the bactericidal properties of azithromycin against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus...

Aim: This study seeks to optimize niosomal formulations of azithromycin (AZ) and evaluate their activities against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Methods: The thin-film hydration was used to prepare niosomes containing various molar ratios of span 60, cholesterol, dicetylphosphate and AZ. Formulation 5, with 5:1:1:1 molar ratio, was optimized based on entrapment efficiency. Solid state analyses and accelerated stability were carried out. The antibacterial properties against MRSA was determined by agar well diffusion method. Results: Physico-chemical characterization of formulation 5 confirmed successful encapsulation of AZ with slightly improved stability at 30°C for 6 months. Niosomal AZ at 0.1% is as effective as vancomycin in inhibiting the growth of MRSA. Conclusion: The antibacterial activities of AZ against MRSA is enhanced when encapsulated within niosomes.