The purpose of this study is to develop an optimized nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) formulation for Ritonavir, and to estimate the potential of NLC as oral delivery system for poorly watersoluble drugs. Nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC) systems were developed using response surface methodology to optimize the concentrations surfactant and oil based on the size of the resulting NLC. From preliminary experiments, a formulation composed of Myristic acid, Capmul MCM EP, and Poloxamer 188 formed a stable NLC dispersion. Concentrations of the surfactant and Capmul MCM EP were optimized by a central composite design and response surface methodology. All the batches were prepared by emulsification-probe sonication method. The prepared NLCs were examined by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and found to have an imperfect crystalline lattice and a spherical morphology. The Ritonavir-loaded NLCs had high release rates and Entrapment efficiency of the drug compared to plain drug.
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