Abstract:
Nanoemulsion system with Tween 80, campul PG8 as surfactant and ethyl oleate as oil was developed for intranasal delivery of artemether. The selected nanoemulsion system is evaluated for particle size, zeta potential and stability. Ex vivo studies like permeation and histological examination were also carried out. The oil in water type nanoemulsion system was obtained containing 2:1 ratio of surfactant and co surfactant. The nanometric size of globule was retained even after 100 times dilution with water. The negative zeta potential reveals anionic charge on surface of globule. The ex vivo permeation of artemether across nasal mucosa is rapid. This improved permeation of artemether was result of presence of surfactant which reduces the interfacial tension at the mucosal surface nearly to zero. The enhanced permeation also explained in terms of large surface area of the nanoemulsion droplets. Histological examination of nasal mucosa did not detect any damage during in vitro permeation studies. This study points to the potential of nasal nanoemulsion in terms of ease of administration, improved permeation across the nasal mucosa and safety. This novel mode of administration may consider as an alternative to conventional treatment of cerebral malaria.

Keywords: Nanoemulsion, Nasal, Malaria, Artemether.