Nanocrystalline Albendazole: Fabrication, Stability, and Anthelmintic Efficacy Enhancement through Spray Drying and Nanotechnology

Albendazole, a benzimidazole-class broad-spectrum anthelmintic, is widely used for treating various parasitic infections, including neurocysticercosis, echinococcosis, and soil-transmitted helminths. Despite its therapeutic significance, its clinical efficacy is significantly constrained by poor aqueous solubility and low oral bioavailability, characteristics of Biopharmaceutics Classification System (BCS) Class II drugs. Nanocrystal technology has emerged as a promising formulation strategy to overcome these limitations by enhancing solubility, dissolution rate, and systemic availability. This review comprehensively explores the fabrication techniques of nanocrystalline albendazole, including wet media milling, high-pressure homogenization, antisolvent precipitation, and spray drying, emphasizing the role of stabilizers in preventing aggregation and maintaining nanoscale properties. Spray drying, in particular, is highlighted for its scalability, cost-effectiveness, and potential in improving storage stability. The stability of nanocrystalline formulations is critically discussed, focusing on physical, chemical, and storage parameters. Numerous in vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated that nanocrystalline albendazole exhibits superior anthelmintic efficacy, reduced dosage frequency, and enhanced pharmacokinetics compared to conventional formulations. Despite promising outcomes, challenges such as formulation scalability, regulatory hurdles, and cost-effectiveness remain. This review underscores the potential of nanocrystal-based delivery systems in optimizing albendazole therapy and outlines future directions to advance its clinical translation.