Sustained Delivery of Dolutegravir Sodium for Better Management of HIV/AIDS via Solid Lipid Nanoparticles.

Abstract

Introduction: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a primary health concern that leads to Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), with more than 39.9 million people living with HIV globally. Dolutegravir sodium is a lipophilic compound with a log P value of 2.2. The current research aimed at augmenting the solubility, dissolution, and therapeutic benefits of Dolutegravir sodium through Solid lipid nanoparticles.

Methods: The solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) of Dolutegravir sodium were developed using high-speed homogenization and probe sonication methods. The solid lipid and surfactant were scrutinized for the development of SLN. The optimization of SLN was established using the Box-Behnken design model. The effects of lipid, surfactant, and homogenization speed on particle size and entrapment efficiency were evaluated. The colloidal dispersion was lyophilized, and accelerated stability was assessed.

Results: Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed the interactions between the drug excipients. The thermal behavior and crystalline nature were checked with Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). Among the several tested solid lipids, the highest solubility was observed in glyceryl monostearate (GMS). The colloidal dispersion was stabilized by the Tween 20.

Discussion: Accordingly, the Box-Behnken design model and the analysis of variance (ANOVA) model were applied. The p-values for the particle size and entrapment efficiency were 0.0050 and 0.0010, respectively. The optimized batch D5 showed a particle size of 189 nm, zeta potential (ZP) of -24.6 mV, entrapment efficiency of 85.94 %, and drug release of 87.02%. The optimized batch D5 was further lyophilized and analyzed with scanning electron microscopy (SEM), which confirmed the nanoscale range for SLN of Dolutegravir sodium.

Conclusion: A significant enhancement in solubility and dissolution was achieved with the solid lipid nanoparticles. The sustained delivery of 24 hours reduces the dosage frequency and minimizes the viral load for the effective therapy of HIV, thereby improving patients' comfort and compliance.