Nystatin-Loaded Polymeric Microparticles: A Feasible Antifungal Formulations

Oral administration of antifungal drugs can lead to subtherapeutic concentrations. The polymeric microparticles of nystatin can be effective against Candida albicans growth. The purpose was to develop and characterize six polymeric microparticles formulations, to increase drug solubility and antifungal effect. Microparticles were obtained using Eudragit L100® (E), Gantrez MS955® (G) or the combination of both polymers. Pure drug or polymers, drug free microparticles, and physical mixtures were also tested. The shape and particle size were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy. Yields were calculated as % of initial mass. The compatibility of nystatin and polymers was evaluated through Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetry. The antimicrobial effect of microparticles against C. albicans was tested by agar diffusion. Analyzes of physical and chemical characterization data suggest that the drug was incorporated into the polymers, and were effective against fungal growth, in vitro. Considering the low solubility and bioavailability of the drug, this technology has brought promising results of a cheap and accessible drug, like nystatin, for the treatment of recurrent fungal diseases, and have potential applicability in the development of mucoadhesive systems to treat oral candidiasis.