Synthesis and Physicochemical Characterisation of Poly (?-caprolactone) Nanoparticles for Delivery of Propranolol

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in both developed and developing countries; and account for around 30% of all deaths worldwide. Reports indicate that nanoparticle (NP) based drug systems are likely to meet the urgent demand for breakthrough innovation in CVDs therapy and diagnosis. NPs have the potential to improve pharmacokinetics and efficacy and reduce the toxicity of cardiovascular drugs. Propranolol is a non-selective beta blocker, and has long been used in the treatment of hypertension, angina and other CVDs. Propranolol has a short half-life (between 2-3 h) and exhibits toxicity, including bronchospasm, due to non-selective beta receptor stimulation. The aim of this study was to develop an NP drug delivery system for propranolol; studying the parameters around formulation of the NPs and their performance in-vitro.