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Nanofiber-based Delivery of Luliconazole: Fabrication, Characterization, and Therapeutic Performance Assessment

  • Research Article
  • Novel Skin Drug Delivery Technology
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Abstract

This study introduces and assesses the potential of a Luliconazole-loaded nanofiber (LUL-NF) patch, fabricated through electrospinning, for enhancing topical drug delivery. The primary objectives involve evaluating the nanofiber structure, characterizing physical properties, determining drug loading and release kinetics, assessing antifungal efficacy, and establishing the long-term stability of the NF patch. LUL-NF patches were fabricated via electrospinning and observed by SEM at approximately 200 nm dimensions. The comprehensive analysis included physical properties (thickness, folding endurance, swelling ratio, weight, moisture content, and drug loading) and UV analysis for drug quantification. In vitro studies explored sustained drug release kinetics, while microbiological assays evaluated antifungal efficacy against Candida albicans and Aspergillus Niger. Stability studies confirmed long-term viability. Comparative analysis with the pure drug, placebo NF patch, LUL-NF patch, and Lulifod gel was conducted using agar diffusion, revealing enhanced performance of the LUL-NF patch. SEM analysis revealed well-defined LUL-NF patches (0.80 mm thickness) with exceptional folding endurance (> 200 folds) and a favorable swelling ratio (12.66 ± 0.73%). The patches exhibited low moisture uptake (3.4 ± 0.09%) and a moisture content of 11.78 ± 0.54%. Drug loading in 1 cm2 section was 1.904 ± 0.086 mg, showing uniform distribution and sustained release kinetics in vitro. The LUL-NF patch demonstrated potent antifungal activity. Stability studies affirmed long-term stability, and comparative analysis highlighted increased inhibition compared to a pure drug, LUL-NF patch, and a commercial gel. The electrospun LUL-NF patch enhances topical drug delivery, promising extended therapy through single-release, one-time application, and innovative drug delivery strategies, supported by thorough analysis.

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Funding

Funding received from Poona College of Pharmacy (Bharati Vidyapeeth University) for M. Pharm Project work.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Pharmaceutics, Poona College of Pharmacy, Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Erandwane, Pune, 411038, India

    Gauri Nimhan, Mahaveer Narwade & Kavita Gajbhiye

  2. Shanti College of Pharmacy, Nowgong, Chhatarpur, Madya Pradesh, India

    Rajesh Singh Jadon

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  1. Gauri Nimhan
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  2. Mahaveer Narwade
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Contributions

Gauri Nimhan: Planning of work, drafting of manuscript, analysis, and interpretation of data.

Mahaveer Narwade: Analysis and interpretation of data.

Rajesh Singh Jadon: Editing and corrections.

Kavita Gajbhiye: Revising and final corrections, corresponding author.

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Correspondence to Kavita Gajbhiye.

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Nimhan, G., Narwade, M., Jadon, R.S. et al. Nanofiber-based Delivery of Luliconazole: Fabrication, Characterization, and Therapeutic Performance Assessment. AAPS PharmSciTech 25, 94 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1208/s12249-024-02815-9

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