Formulation and Optimization of Naringenin-Loaded Nanosponges using Design of Experiment

Abstract

This study aimed to design and optimize Naringenin nanosponges to enhance the drug solubility and modify the drug release profile. Naringenin is a bioflavonoid, which belongs to BCS class II having low solubility. Emulsion solvent diffusion method was employed for the preparation of Naringenin nanosponges. The FT-IR spectra revealed no chemical interactions between the drug and excipients. The formulation variables were examined using a 2-factor, 2-level central composite design. The entrapment efficiency, in vitro drug release, and release kinetics were investigated for formulation F1 to F13. The optimized formulation F14 showed entrapment efficiency of 79.185 ± 0.176%, and an in vitro drug release of 86.636 ± 1.085% release at the 10^th hr, with a Zeta potential indicating a negative surface charge. The drug release was fitted to kinetic models, and the results indicated that the formulation follows a sustained release pattern, with a release exponent (n) value of 0.6681 demonstrating a non-fickian release. The results suggested that an optimized Naringenin-nanosponge formulation showed enhanced solubility and further formulation as tablets may reduce its dose and dosing frequency with a probable increase in oral bioavailability.