Synthesis and evaluation of drug-loaded silver nanoparticles as hemostatic agents to halt uncontrolled bleeding

The aim of this research study was to formulate a cost-effective, stable, less toxic and more efficacious intravenous nanoformulation that could rapidly augment the process of hemostasis.

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) evoked platelet activation, whereas alum (AM) neutralized the plasma proteins, causing blood coagulation. Tranexamic acid (TA) inhibited fibrinolysis and stabilized the formed blood clot.

The nanoformulation (NF) was subjected to characterization techniques such as UV-Vis spectrophotometry, FTIR, XRD, TGA and DSC analysis, which elucidated successful drug conjugation.

Zeta-sizing confirmed the particle size of NF to be 256.6 nm with 0.497 PDI and a zeta potential of + 9.24 mV. In-vitro release profile exhibited first-order kinetics, indicating sustained release, conferring sustained release of NF for 12 h. NF was hemocompatible at the tested doses, as its extent of hemolysis was < 0.8% and < 1%, following EU and FDA guidelines, respectively. Ex-vivo studies revealed that NF recorded the highest viscosity, i.e. 36.5 cP, and maximum mass of clotted blood, i.e. 17.4 mg, in comparison to other combinations. In-vivo studies indicated a 100-fold dose reduction, i.e. 0.1 mg/kg, compared to the marketed formulation, Transamin®, i.e. 10 mg/kg. 10 folds dose reduction, i.e. 1 mg/kg, exhibited more efficacious results than Transamin®, owing to the synergistic effect and nano-sizing of components.

A safe, cost-effective, and relatively less toxic hemostatic nanoparticles were formulated, that can be intravenously administered to halt bleeding within seconds.