Bioavailability Enhancement of Vitamin E TPGS Coated Liposomes of Nintedanib Esylate Formulation Developed Using Quality by Design Approach

Abstract

PurposeNintedanib esylate (NE) is a kinase inhibitor designated for the cure of non-small cell lung cancer suffers from first-pass metabolism which resulted in low oral bioavailability (~4.7%). The intent of this exploration was to increase the oral bioavailability of NE by means of TPGS coated liposomes. MethodsThe NE-loaded TPGS coated liposomes were formulated by high-speed homogenization by optimizing process parameters like phospholipids: cholesterol molar ratio, drug loading and sonication time through the design of experiments. The drug's behaviour was studied using a variety of techniques, including physicochemical characterization, in-vitro and in-vivo studies. ResultsThe NE-liposomes had a particle size of 125±6.68 nm, entrapment efficiency of 88.64±4.12% and zeta potential of +46±2.75 mV. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed that NE had been converted to an amorphous state, while transmission electron microscope images showed spherical shape and smooth coating of TPGS on surface of liposomes. The formulation showed Higuchi kinetics with sustained drug release of 88.72 ± 3.40% in 24 hours. Cellular uptake of C-6 labelled liposomes was observed in A-549 cells and cytotoxicity testing revealed that NE-liposomes were more effective than marketed formulation Ofev®. Formulation remained in simulated fluids and for three months in stability chamber and. Liposomal oral bioavailability was ~6.23 times greater in sprague dawley male rats compared to marketed formulation Ofev®, according to in-vivo pharmacokinetic data. ConclusionNE-Liposomal formulations are better for oral administration compared to the marketed capsules because of the prolonged drug release and increased oral bioavailability as a result, the developed formulation can become a successful strategy in cancer chemotherapy.