Preparation of alginate nanoparticles using Eudragit E100 as a new complexing agent:: Development, in-vitro, and in-vivo evaluation

A new approach for the preparation of alginate nanoparticles (ANP) is presented. The current method evaluated feasibility of Eudragit El 00 as a new complexing agent for the preparation of ANP. Eudragit E100 appeared to form polyelectrolyte complex with alginate and calcium to form ANP. The versatility of the ionotropic gelation of alginate with calcium ions and Eudragit E100 offered the possibility of preparing nano and micro particles, employing mild conditions in an aqueous environment, in a desirable size range. SEM studies revealed the spherical nature of ANP. ANPs were evaluated with gliclazide as a model drug. High encapsulation of gliclazide (> 93%) with high drug loading (> 74%) and low particle size were achieved with this method. In vitro release study revealed sustained release of gliclazicle from gliclazide loaded ANP (GANP). Pharmacokinetic study in rabbits revealed better bioavailability of gliclazide with sustained release in plasma from GANP compared to plain gliclazide. FTIR and DSC studies revealed no interaction between gliclazide and excipients. The results suggested that Eudragit E100 could serve as a new complexing agent for the preparation of alginate based particulate carrier system with flexibility of desired particle size.