http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/tjpr.v11i1.1
Abstract
Purpose:
This study is aimed at achieving improvement in the
efficacy, reduced toxicity and enhancement of
therapeutic index of irinotecan.
Methods:
Proniosomes of irinotecan hydrochloride trihydrate were
prepared by slurry method using different surfactants,
cholesterol and dicetyl phosphate. The formulations were
then characterized with respect to shape, surface
morphology, entrapment efficiency, in vitro drug
release, in vivo drug targeting and stability.
Results:
The proniosomes were smooth in texture indicating, thin
and uniform coating over maltodextrin powder. The
highest entrapment efficiency was found for formulation
F2 (74.9 ± 2.7 %). The highest cumulative drug release
in 24 h was achieved with formulation F3 (98.2 %) In
vivo results for the proniosomes reveal that the drug
was preferentially targeted to liver followed by lung
and spleen. Stability studies indicate that 4 șC was
the most suitable condition for the storage of
formulation F2.
Conclusion:
Proniosomes offer a suitable alternative colloidal
carrier approach to achieving drug targeting.
Proniosomes containing irinotecan are retained at
targeted sites and are capable of releasing drug for an
extended period of time.
Keywords:
Irinotecan, proniosomes, Drug targeting, In vivo tissue
distribution, Stability studies.
