Niosomal entrapment improved the bactericidal properties of azithromycin against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.

Aim: This study seeks to optimize niosomal formulations of azithromycin (AZ) and evaluate their activities against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).

Methods

The thin-film hydration was used to prepare niosomes containing various molar ratios of span 60, cholesterol, dicetylphosphate and AZ. Formulation 5, with 5:1:1:1 molar ratio, was optimized based on entrapment efficiency. Solid state analyses and accelerated stability were carried out. The antibacterial properties against MRSA was determined by agar well diffusion method.

Results

Physico-chemical characterization of formulation 5 confirmed successful encapsulation of AZ with slightly improved stability at 30°C for 6 months. Niosomal AZ at 0.1% is as effective as vancomycin in inhibiting the growth of MRSA.

Conclusion

The antibacterial activities of AZ against MRSA is enhanced when encapsulated within niosomes.