Development and Optimization of Clobetasol Propionate Loaded Nanosponges for Fungal Infections
摘要
The study focused on developing and optimizing Clobetasol Propionate propionate-loaded nanosponges through response surface methodology to improve transdermal drug delivery, address poor water solubility issues, and achieve controlled release for better skin treatment outcomes with fewer side effects. Nanosponges were formulated using a modified emulsion solvent diffusion method with ethyl cellulose and polyvinyl alcohol as key variables. Central composite design combined with response surface methodology helped optimize drug content and particle size. Nine different formulations underwent thorough testing for physicochemical properties, drug-polymer interactions (FTIR), crystallinity (PXRD), surface structure (FESEM), drug release patterns, and stability under stress conditions. Statistical analysis showed strong significance for both measured outcomes, with R² values reaching 0.9413 for drug content and 0.7542 for particle size. The best formulation, CF7, showed excellent results: drug content of 96.58 ± 0.23%, particle size of 98.23 ± 0.47 nm, PDI of 0.122 ± 0.008, and zeta potential of -31.2 ± 2.3 mV. FTIR and PXRD analysis confirmed that the drug remained physically trapped without forming chemical bonds, with some conversion to non-crystalline form. FESEM images showed the expected porous sponge-like structure. CF7 released 97.23% of the drug over 12 h, starting with a quick initial release followed by steady release. Storage tests revealed minimal changes in important properties over 90 days. The optimized nanosponge formulation showed improved drug solubility, controlled release behavior, and good stability. The developed nanosponge system demonstrated favourable in vitro characteristics, including improved drug solubility and sustained release, warranting further ex vivo and in vivo investigations to establish clinical utility.