Amwaj A Talaq1,
Hussein K Alkufi2 
,
Huda J Mohemmad2
For correspondence:- Hussein Alkufi Email: husseinalkufi21@utq.edu.iq Tel:+9647830905105
Received: 27 April 2026 Accepted: 15 July 2026 Published: 31 July 2026
Citation: Talaq AA, Alkufi HK, Mohemmad HJ. Surface optimization, fabrication, in vitro investigation, and antifungal activity of Novasome nanovesicles loaded with Itraconazole. Trop J Pharm Res 2026; 25(7):931-940 doi: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/tjpr.v25i7.4
© 2026 The authors.
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Purpose: To develop, optimize, and characterize the antifungal activity of itraconazole-loaded novasomes (ILN) as a new nanovesicular delivery system Methods: The modified ethanol injection method was used to formulate the ITZ-loaded novasomes. The Box Behnken design was utilized for optimization of formulations and to evaluate the effect of formulation variables on vesicle size, polydispersity (PDI), and entrapment efficiency (EE %). Furthermore, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used for characterization, and antifungal activity was evaluated using Mueller-Hinton agar. Results: The optimized formula demonstrated a vesicle size of about 299.1 nm, PDI of 0.2815, and a high EE of 99 %. The FTIR spectra confirmed no chemical interaction between itraconazole and the excipients. Also, SEM images showed spherical, smooth surfaces of itraconazole-loaded novasomes without aggregation or visible drug crystals, suggesting good drug encapsulation. Antifungal testing of ILN against Candida tropicalis produced an inhibition zone diameter of 10 mm. Conclusion: Itraconazole-loaded novasomes showed improved physicochemical properties. The recommended delivery system represents a promising approach for enhancing the solubility and therapeutic efficacy of itraconazole.
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