Characterization of Griseofulvin Niosomes via Thin Film Hydration Technique

Abstract

Griseofulvin, a potent antifungal drug, suffers from poor solubility and low oral bioavailability, necessitating advanced delivery approaches. In this study, eighteen niosomal formulations were prepared using the thin-film hydration method by varying surfactant type, surfactant-to-cholesterol ratios, and Stearylamine levels. Tween-60-based formulations showed superior performance, with Formulation F18 (Tween-60:Cholesterol 2:1, 0.75% Stearylamine) emerging as the optimized system. F18 achieved the highest entrapment efficiency (72.73%), smallest vesicle size (3.38 µm), and near-complete sustained release (94.86% in 24 hrs). Release kinetics followed the Korsmeyer–Peppas model, confirming a diffusion-controlled, non-Fickian mechanism. Stability studies demonstrated that F18 remained physically and functionally stable for three months at both refrigerated and room temperature conditions. Overall, niosomal encapsulation—particularly the optimized F18—offers a promising strategy to enhance the solubility, stability, and controlled delivery of Griseofulvin, potentially improving its therapeutic efficacy.