Design, Development, and Optimisation of Loteprednol-Loaded Spandex Nanocarriers for the Management of Uveitis

Abstract

Ocular inflammation presents a considerable challenge in therapeutic management, primarily due to inadequate drug bioavailability and restricted permeability across ocular barriers. This research investigates the design and optimisation of Loteprednol-loaded spanlastic nanocarriers as an innovative method for addressing ocular inflammation. Spanlastics, characterised by their elastic and deformable properties, were developed to improve drug delivery to ocular tissues. A response surface methodology was utilised to optimise the nanocarrier formulation systematically, evaluating the effects of key variables including Span 60 concentration, edge activator type, and drug-to-lipid ratio on entrapment efficiency, particle size, and elasticity. The optimised formulation demonstrated nanoscale particle size (<150 nm), high entrapment efficiency (>85%), and optimal deformability, thereby ensuring efficient drug delivery. Ex vivo permeation studies indicated a marked enhancement in corneal penetration relative to conventional formulations. In vivo studies on anti-inflammatory efficacy demonstrated a significant reduction in ocular inflammation, highlighting the therapeutic potential of spanlastic nanocarriers. The findings demonstrate that Loteprednol-loaded spanlastics serve as an effective drug delivery system, providing improved bioavailability, targeted delivery, and prolonged therapeutic effects for the treatment of ocular inflammation. This study establishes a solid basis for subsequent clinical research and the advancement of sophisticated ocular drug delivery systems.