Engineered Nanofiber Based Carrier to Manage Arthritis and Inflammation

Recent advancements in drug delivery systems have led to the exploration of loading nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) onto nanodevices such as nanoparticles and nanofibers. This approach holds promise for enhancing the efficacy of arthritis treatments. In a recent review, composite nanofibers containing aceclofenac, a poorly soluble anti-inflammatory drug belonging to BCS Class-II, were developed using poly(vinyl-pyrrolidone) and co-polymer ethyl cellulose via electrospinning. The aim was to create orally disintegrating webs that could improve the solubility and dissolution rate of aceclofenac.The morphology of the resulting nanofibers was examined using scanning electron microscopy, revealing diameters in the range of a few hundred nanometers. Solid-state characterization of the samples was performed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), indicating the amorphization of aceclofenac, which correlated with a rapid release of the active substance. By optimizing the fiber composition, particularly with 43 mg aceclofenac, 7.5% w/w PVPK90, and 10% ethyl cellulose, orally dissolving webs with fast dissolution and potential oral absorption were achieved. These findings suggest a promising avenue for enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of NSAIDs in the treatment of arthritis and related ailments.