Formulation and characterization of alprazolam-loaded nanoliposomes: screening of process variables and optimizing characteristics using RSM

AbstractThis research study aimed to develop a novel sustained release formulation of alprazolam that can also be used for transdermal delivery. This was carried out, for the first time, through encapsulation of alprazolam in nanoliposomes using ethanol injection. In order to obtain the best formulation, four process variables, including the solvent/nonsolvent volume ratio, phospholipid concentration, alprazolam concentration, and cholesterol content were considered as key factors. Response surface methodology (RSM) and a central composite design (CCD) model were used to investigate the effect of these factors on vesicle size (VS) and encapsulation efficiency (EE) as the major properties of nanoliposomes. Experimental data were statistically analyzed, and two significant quadratic models were developed to test the VS and EE responses. The findings indicate that alprazolam and phospholipid concentrations have a significant effect on the mean VS. However, EE was significantly affected by both the alprazolam...