Eudragit RS100 nanoparticles for sustained release of Cefpodoxime Proxetil: preparation, pharmaceutical characterization, and in-vitro drug release studies

Objective(s): The primary objective of this study was to develop a sustained-release formulation of cefpodoxime proxetil (CP) using the polymer Eudragit RS 100 (ERS100).Materials and Methods: Pluronic F127 (PF127) was incorporated as an amphiphilic surfactant to enhance product stability. Preformulation evaluations, including UV-visible spectroscopy and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), were performed to assess the compatibility of the drug, polymer, and their 1:1 mixture. Nanoparticles were formulated using the solvent evaporation technique, followed by continuous stirring of the emulsion during the removal of the organic solvent.Results: The optimized formulation exhibited a particle size of less than 200 nm and an entrapment efficiency of 81.45 ± 0.891% for CP. In vitro drug release studies revealed sustained-release behavior, with the release kinetics best fitting the Higuchi (R² = 0.9757) and Hixson–Crowell (R² = 0.9707) models. Stability studies confirmed compliance with ICH guidelines regarding temperature and humidity conditions. These findings underscore the potential of CP-loaded nanoparticles as efficient carriers for sustained drug delivery, particularly targeting lung tissues.Conclusion: The developed ERS100-based CP nanoparticles offer promising therapeutic benefits, including improved patient adherence through extended drug release intervals.