Preparation and Evaluation of Diclofenac Sodium Niosomes Using Round Bottom Flask Method

Abstract

Aim: The main objective of this study is to prepare and evaluate niosomes as a carrier for diclofenac sodium.
Niosomes are bilayer microparticles formed by self-association of non-ionic surfactant and cholesterol
after hydration in the aqueous phase. Materials and Methods: Niosomes of SPAN-60 and cholesterol were
prepared in three batches (A, B, and C) with different ratio (5:5, 6:4, and 7:3) using a round bottom flask
method. Prepared niosomes were evaluated for entrapment efficiency, particle size analysis, and morphology
and in vitro drug release study. Results and Discussion: The entrapment efficiency of all three formulations
was found to be 91.43%, 92.53%, and 92.33%, respectively. All formulations were observed under motic
microscope and particles were assumed to be spherical in shape. The average particle size of all the three
batches was analyzed by Zetasizer (Delsa C Particle Analyzer), and it was found that the batch C produced
the best nano-sized formulation with an average particle diameter of 311.6 nm. In vitro release study was
done using a dialysis bag and after 300 min of studies, batch C (7:3), which was found to have 68.6 ± 1.4%
cumulative drug release, which indicates controlled and steady drug release profiling of the formulation.
Conclusion: After comparing all three batches of evaluation results on the basis of drug entrapment, particle
size analysis, morphology, and in vitro drug release study, Batch C (7:3) formulation was considered as the
best formulation.