Optimized Enoxolone-Loaded Microsponges for Drug Delivery: A Design of Experiments Approach.

Enoxolon is widely recognized for its pharmacological potential, exhibiting antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antiviral properties.

Objectives

This study aimed to develop an enhanced formulation of enoxolone-loaded microsponges as a novel drug delivery system. A design of experiments (DoE) approach was employed for the optimization process.

Methods

The microsponges were produced using the quasi-emulsion technique. The selected formulation was evaluated for yield, particle size, and entrapment efficiency. Furthermore, the microsponges were incorporated into a 1% MC solution matrix, and in vitro release studies were performed to assess their drug delivery performance.

Results

The optimal formulation was determined through the DoE methodology, which involved varying the concentrations of methylcellulose (MC) (0.55-1.87%, w/w), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) (0.5-1%, w/w), and Tween 80 (TW80) (1.5-2.5%, w/w). The results showed a particle size of 142.8 ± 10.02 µm and an entrapment efficiency of 80.3 ± 1.99%. When comparing the optimized microsponge formulation to pure enoxolon, a 1.29 times higher release rate was observed (p ≤ 0.05).

Conclusions

Following optimizationand physicochemical characterization studies were conducted to further assess the formulation. These findings suggest that microsponge-based delivery systems hold considerable potential as an alternative platform for the topical treatment of chronic periodontitis.