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Development and Characterization of Andrographolide Microparticles via Spray Drying: An Aqueous-Based
Nuttapong Khiaonoi1, Kwanchai Kraitong1, Punyawan Lumpaopong1
1Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok 65000, Thailand.
Polymers
|July 15, 2026
Summary
This study developed stable, inhalable andrographolide microparticles using spray-drying for pulmonary delivery. The formulation showed potent antiviral activity against Influenza A/H1N1, offering a promising treatment for respiratory infections.
Area of Science:
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Drug Delivery
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Pulmonary drug delivery offers localized treatment for respiratory infections.
- Andrographolide possesses known anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.
- Developing stable and effective inhalable formulations remains a challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and characterize andrographolide-loaded microparticles for pulmonary delivery using an aqueous-based carrier system.
- To optimize the formulation and spray-drying parameters for desired physiochemical properties and stability.
- To evaluate the antiviral efficacy of the developed microparticles against Influenza A/H1N1.
Main Methods:
- Five formulations of andrographolide microparticles were prepared using mixed-polymer carriers (chitosan, hydroxyethyl cellulose, Poloxamer 188) via spray-drying.
- Physicochemical properties, including particle size, morphology, encapsulation efficiency, and release behavior, were analyzed.
- Stability studies were conducted under room storage conditions.
- Antiviral activity was assessed against Influenza A/H1N1.
Main Results:
- The optimal formulation featured andrographolide (0.6%), chitosan (62.2%), hydroxyethyl cellulose (15.5%), and Poloxamer 188 (21.7%), spray-dried under specific conditions (15 cP viscosity, 1.1 bar pressure, 3 mL/min feed rate).
- The optimized microparticles exhibited particle sizes of 3-5 µm, 54.47% encapsulation efficiency, and sustained release profiles.
- The formulation demonstrated good physical, chemical, and thermal stability.
- A significant 3.3-log10 reduction in Influenza A/H1N1 viral titer was achieved, indicating 99.95% inhibition.
Conclusions:
- An aqueous-based carrier system combined with spray-drying is effective for producing stable, inhalable andrographolide microparticles.
- The developed formulation demonstrates potent antiviral activity against Influenza A/H1N1.
- This approach offers a promising strategy for localized treatment of influenza infections via pulmonary drug delivery.
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