Development and Optimization of Acyl Chitosan-based SNEDDS for enhanced Oral Bioavailability of Lipophilic Drugs

Abstract

The oral bioavailability of lipophilic drugs is often limited due to their poor aqueous solubility and low permeability. Self-Nanoemulsifying Drug Delivery Systems (SNEDDS) have emerged as a promising approach to enhance the solubility and absorption of such drugs. This study focuses on the development and optimization of acyl chitosanbased SNEDDS to improve the oral bioavailability of lipophilic drugs. Acyl chitosan, a biocompatible and amphiphilic polymer, was utilized to enhance the stability and emulsification efficiency of the SNEDDS formulation. The formulation was optimized using response surface methodology (RSM), considering factors such as droplet size, polydispersity index (PDI), and drug loading capacity. Characterization studies, including particle size analysis, zeta potential measurement, and in vitro drug release studies, were conducted to assess the efficiency of the developed SNEDDS. The optimized formulation demonstrated a significant increase in drug solubility and dissolution rate compared to conventional formulations. Furthermore, in vivo pharmacokinetic studies in animal models revealed an enhanced bioavailability, confirming the potential of acyl chitosan-based SNEDDS as a viable strategy for improving the oral delivery of lipophilic drugs. These findings suggest that acyl chitosan-based SNEDDS can serve as an efficient platform for overcoming the solubility and absorption challenges associated with poorly water-soluble drugs.