Preparation and Characterization of Rivastigmine Loaded Chitosan Nanoparticles

Nanotechnology mediated drug delivery has been reported to enhance the drug efficacy, bioavailability, reduce toxicity and improve patient compliance by targeting the cells and tissues to produce desired pharmacological action. Aim: The purpose of the present study was to formulate and evaluate rivastigmine loaded chitosan nanoparticles for sustained release. Methods: Rivastigmine is a short acting cholinesterase inhibitors (ChEI). In present study rivastigmine loaded chitosan-tripolyphosphate nanoparticles were prepared by ionic gelation method in five different batches with variable drug/polymer ratios (1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:5 and 1:7). Results: The prepared nanoparticles were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Further, drug entrapment efficiency and in vitro release studies were carried out. Among different ratios studied, 1:3 ratio showed highest drug entrapment efficiency (83.74%). Scanning electron microscopy results revealed that nanoparticles were spherical in shape. Particle size and polydispersity index was analyzed by photon correlation spectroscopy and showed average 258 nm and 0.261 respectively. In vitro release studies showed that rivastigmine loaded chitosan nanoparticles were capable of releasing the drug in a sustained manner. Conclusion: The experimental results showed the suitability of chitosan nanoparticles as a potential carrier for providing sustained delivery of rivastigmine.