Optimization of ivacaftor-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles for solubility enhancement
Akshay Parihar1,2, Bhupendra G Prajapati3,4,5, Himanshu Paliwal6
1Faculty of Pharmacy, Ganpat University, Mehsana, Gujarat, India.
Frontiers in Pharmacology
|September 5, 2025
Summary
This study developed optimized Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLN) for Ivacaftor (IVF) to treat cystic fibrosis (CF). The formulation demonstrated improved drug release and potential for enhanced CF therapeutic outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Nanotechnology
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Drug Delivery Systems
Background:
- Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a multi-organ systemic disease with significant morbidity and mortality.
- Pulmonary complications are primary, but associated diseases impact other organs.
- Effective therapeutic strategies for CF management are crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and optimize Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLN) for Ivacaftor (IVF) delivery.
- To enhance the therapeutic efficacy of Ivacaftor for Cystic Fibrosis treatment.
- To investigate the impact of lipid and surfactant concentrations on formulation characteristics.
Main Methods:
- Ivacaftor-loaded Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (IVF-SLN) were prepared using homogenization and ultrasonication.
- Labrasol (liquid lipid), Cetyl palmitate (solid lipid), and Polysorbate 20 (surfactant) were utilized.
- Optimization involved studying lipid and surfactant amounts on entrapment efficiency and particle size.
Main Results:
- Optimized IVF-SLN formulation achieved a particle size of 150.23 ± 1.59 nm and high entrapment efficiency of 90.54 ± 1.32%.
- Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) confirmed Ivacaftor incorporation into the lipid matrix.
- In vitro dissolution studies indicated a sustained release profile, following first-order kinetics.
Conclusions:
- Stable Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLN) for Ivacaftor (IVF) were successfully developed.
- The formulation exhibited a sustained drug release pattern, suggesting improved therapeutic potential over the free drug.
- This nanoparticle system shows promise as an efficient strategy for Cystic Fibrosis management.
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