Development and optimization of Moxifloxacin solid lipid nanoparticles via double emulsion organic solvent free technique applying Box–Behnken experimental design

Abstract

The current research proposes the preparation of Moxifloxacin-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles through a solvent-free double emulsion technique, to overcome chronic wound healing limitation. The independent variables: stearic acid, Span 80, and Tween 80 were optimized via Box-Behnken design, based on entrapment efficiency (EE%), zeta potential (ZP), and particle size (PS). To statistically optimize the formulation variables, a three-factor, three-level (3³) design involving 15 runs was employed and optimization was carried out to attain maximum EE% and ZP and minimum PS yielding an overall desirability of 0.851. Results indicated that increasing stearic acid enhanced EE%, Span 80 increase PS, and Tween 80 improved ZP. The Optimized SLNs formula had a ZP of - 52.4 mV, EE% of ~ 79.6% and PS of 257 nm. Chemical compatibility was emphasized using FTIR, and XRD studies revealed reduced drug crystallinity within the lipid matrix, which confirmed successful encapsulation. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging revealed nanoparticles with defined spherical shape and smooth surface. The optimized formula is anticipated to enhance dermal distribution and prolonged antibiotic release, thereby offering an efficient therapeutic strategy for the management of chronic wounds.