Formulation of Deformable Liponiosomal Hybrid of Repaglinide: In vitro Characterization and Evaluation of the Anti-Diabetic Effect

Purpose: The current study sought to create novel deformable liponiosomal hybrids (LNHs) as a viable RPG delivery system. Repaglinide (RPG) is an effective anti-hyperglycemic drug. However, its limited solubility may limit its therapeutic applicability. LNHs are a potential liposome-niosome combination. Using phospholipids and non-ionic surfactants together improves their functionality in regulating drug release and increasing their permeability and stability.Materials and Methods: The development of RPG-loaded LNHs was performed using the reverse ethanol injection method based on the 23 factorial design to explore the potential of various variables on the encapsulation efficiency (EE%) and % RPG released after 12 h (Q12h). Further in vitro characterization tests and in vivo study were also performed on the optimal RPG-loaded LNHs.Results: After investigating how the examined independent factors could affect significantly both the EE % and Q12h, F7 was selected as the optimal liponiosomal formulation. F7 showed 87.07 +/- 2.27 EE% and 94.32 +/- 1.25 Q12h. F7 demonstrated higher permeability and stability than the corresponding liposomes and niosomes. Furthermore, F7 demonstrated greater hypoglycemic efficacy and bioavailability than pure RPG.Conclusion: The combination of liponiosomes and niosomes in the form of LNHs has the potential to be an effective nano-drug delivery vehicle for RPG.