Investigating the influence of formulation variables on the preparation of nimodipine - loaded polymeric nanoparticles

Nimodipine (NID), as a calcium channel blocker used for the treatment of cerebral vasospasm, is classified as class II with poor water solubility, increasing its rate of dissolution by reducing particle size will boost its bioavailability. Nimodipine was formulated as Nimodipine-loaded nanoparticles using a solvent-anitsolvent nanoprecipitation approach to speed up the dissolving process and bring the particle size down to the nanorange. The purpose of the study was to investigate the impact of several variables on particle size, polydispersibility index, entrapment efficiency (%EE), and in vitro release behavior, including the type and quantity of polymers and surfactant, stirring speed, and solvent type. It is well established that particle size, polydispersity index, and entrapment efficiency are not only significantly affected by the formulating variables but can also affect drug release. The selected F12 was designated with a (1:4) drug:polymer w/w ratio as well; the (1:9) solvent:anti-solvent ratio was the best ratio to produce particle size (81.86 nm), polydispersibility index (0.053), and 90% entrapment efficiency. A morphology and compatibility study was conducted for the characterization of selected nanoparticles. The in-vitro drug release experiments were conducted, which show a marked improvement in the release profile via solubility enhancement.