The tricyclic antidepressant amoxapine (AMX) has been reported for a rapid onset of action compared to other cyclic antidepressants. It has very low solubility and bioavailability due to first-pass metabolism. Therefore, we planned to develop solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) of AMX using a single emulsification method to increase its solubility and bioavailability. HPLC and LC-MS/MS methods were developed further to quantify AMX in the formulation, plasma, and brain tissue samples. The formulation was studied for entrapment efficiency, loading, and in vitro drug release. Particle size and ζ potential analyses, AFM, SEM, TEM, DSC, and XRD were used for further characterization. In vivo oral pharmacokinetic and brain pharmacokinetic studies were performed using Wistar rats. The entrapment and loading efficiencies of AMX in SLNs were 85.8 ± 3.42 and 4.5 ± 0.45%, respectively. The developed formulation had a mean particle size of 151.5 ± 7.02 nm and a polydispersity index of 0.40 ± 0.11. DSC and XRD results indicated that AMX was incorporated into the nanocarrier system in an amorphous form. SEM, TEM, and AFM studies of AMX-SLNs confirmed the particles’ spherical shape and nanoscale size. AMX solubility increased by approx. 2.67 times compared to the pure drug. The developed LC-MS/MS method was successfully applied to the oral and brain pharmacokinetic study of AMX-loaded SLNs in rats. Oral bioavailability was enhanced 1.6 times compared to the pure drug. The peak plasma concentrations of pure AMX and AMX-SLNs were 617.4 ± 137.4 and 1043.5 ± 150.2 (ng/mL), respectively. AMX-SLNs showed more than 5.8 times brain concentration compared to the pure drug. Based on the findings, it appears that utilizing a solid lipid nanoparticle carrier to transport AMX can be a highly effective delivery method with improved pharmacokinetic properties in the brain. This approach may prove valuable for future antidepressant treatment.

Migraine is a type of Headache characterized by moderate to severe throbbing pain, generally associated with nausea, vomiting and light sensitivity. It can be correlated to Ardhavbhedaka, which according to the Ayurvedic science is caused by simultaneous vitiation of all the three Doshas viz. Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Motion sickness is also a common disorder wherein patient suffers from symptoms like nausea, vomiting, increased salivation, dizziness, upon getting triggered by certain movements. In this case study, a female patient of middle age group (Madhyam Avastha) suffering from long standing migraine and motion sickness since past 15 years (on and off), hampering her day to day activities, was administered with the treatment protocol as per Ayurveda resulting in significant relief to her symptoms. The treatment, planned according to her pulse diagnosis and clinical examination, was based on herbal supplements, Panchakarma (detoxification) in the form of Virechana, home remedies, Marmaa therapy, dietary and lifestyle modifications. The treatment was focused on removing the toxins (Aam) from the body with the help of detox (Virechana). This also resulted in alleviation of the vitiated Vata and Pitta Doshas and restoration of the Jatharagni (digestive fire). The treatment modality has been effective to reduce the episodes significantly.

Ayurveda is an ancient science having its roots in Vedic literature which follows a certain pattern of recitation and learning. Over the ages with the advancement of technology, the Manuscripts which were carved on different objects have acquired a digital form. The principles of Ayurveda science are the same but it is a need of the hour to present it in an innovative and convincing manner. Patha, Avabodha and Anusthana are the key principles that form the basis of Ayurveda teaching. The challenge lies in developing the various methodologies of teaching Ayurveda in this scientific age. The aim of this paper is to highlight the different methodologies like recitation of Samhitas, power-point presentations, experimental models, animations, scientific writing and advances in research techniques etc. For this study, the materials collected from different Ayurvedic classics, scholarly articles and information on internet was referred. Ancient knowledge is wisdom, but to understand this wisdom we have to add newer perspective in the way of teaching, learning and grasping. Recitation of verses in musical forms based on Chanda Shastra fulfills the principle of Patha. Effective power point presentations, animations can lead to better grasping of the concepts which fulfills the principle of Avabodha. Scientific writing and researches are the application of knowledge which defines the principle of Anusthana. These points will be highlighted in detail in this review article.