TPGS Stabilized Silymarin Proliposome: Improve Physico Chemical Properties

Abstract

Silymarin, a mixture of flavonolignans, exhibits hepatoprotective properties but suffers from poor aqueous solubility (0.04 mg/ml) and low bioavailability (20–50%) due to extensive metabolism, rapid excretion, and low intestinal permeability. To overcome these limitations, a nanoparticulate drug delivery system was developed using proliposomes prepared via the film deposition method. The proliposomes were lyophilized to enhance stability, and characterization studies confirmed homogenous particle size distribution and a zeta potential of approximately ±20 mV, indicating good stability. FT-IR analysis confirmed no chemical interaction between silymarin and polymers. In-vitro dissolution studies demonstrated significantly enhanced drug release from proliposomes compared to pure silymarin, likely due to improved solubility and dissolution rate. Furthermore, in-vitro permeability studies showed greater drug diffusion across a nitrocellulose membrane for proliposomes than for plain drug. These findings suggest that proliposomes represent a promising drug delivery approach for improving the bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy of silymarin.