Nanotechnology applied to drug delivery – formulation, development and characterization studies

Azelaic acid shows bacteriostatical activity against many microorganism species and is commonly used in the treatment of acne. However, some technical issues and a reduced patient compliance have been associated with its topical application forms. Thus, nanotechnology may represent an innovative strategy that might help to overcome these problems. The objective of this study was to develop and to characterize PLGA nanoparticles containing azelaic acid. Nanoparticles were produced by a modified spontaneous emulsification/solvent diffusion method and then included into a gel of Carbopol 940. Several parameters were characterized such as zeta potential, particle size and encapsulation efficiency. Particle mean size was 378.63 nm (with PI around 0.09) and zeta potential was -7.82 mV. The encapsulation efficiency of azelaic acid was 76 ± 3.81%. Consequently, these PLGA nanoparticles can be considered a useful tool for azelaic acid delivery