Chitosan-Based Linezolid Dry Powder Inhalers: A Novel Approach for Targeted Pulmonary Delivery in Tuberculosis Treatment

Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Education and Research

  • Girish Meravanige1Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, SAUDI ARABIA.
  • Mallamma Thippeswamy2Department of Pharmaceutics, Sri Adichunchanagiri College of Pharmacy, Adichunchanagiri University, B. G. Nagar, Karnataka, INDIA.
  • Predeepkumar Narayanappa Shiroorkar1Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, SAUDI ARABIA.
  • Nimbagal Raghavendra Naveen2Department of Pharmaceutics, Sri Adichunchanagiri College of Pharmacy, Adichunchanagiri University, B. G. Nagar, Karnataka, INDIA.
  • Prakash Goudanavar2Department of Pharmaceutics, Sri Adichunchanagiri College of Pharmacy, Adichunchanagiri University, B. G. Nagar, Karnataka, INDIA.
  • Nagaraja Sreeharsha3Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Al-Hofuf, Al-Ahsa, SAUDI ARABIA.

Volume 59 Issue 1s Pages s138-s150

DOI: 10.5530/ijper.20250001

Abstract

Introduction: Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of the leading causes of infectious deaths worldwide, ranking second only to COVID-19. The rise of Multidrug-Resistant (MDR) and Extensively Drug-Resistant (XDR) TB strains highlights the critical need for novel and effective treatment approaches. Methodology: This research explores a targeted pulmonary drug delivery system using Dry Powder Inhalers (DPI) to administer the antibiotic Linezolid (Lzd) directly to the lungs. Biodegradable Microparticles (MPs) of Linezolid were synthesized using chitosan polymer via spray drying, with Critical Process Parameters (CPPs) such as inlet temperature, aspiration rate, and feed rate optimized to achieve desired Particle Size (PS) and Entrapment Efficiency (%EE). Comprehensive evaluations were conducted, including in vivo studies, stability testing, H37 RV strain sensitivity, particle size distribution, crystallinity, flow properties, and drug-polymer compatibility. Results and Discussion: The optimized batch of Linezolid (Lzd) MPs exhibited an impressive 89.57% entrapment efficiency with a particle size 3.9 μm. Physically, the MPs were a free-flowing powder with a bulk density of 0.171 g/cm³, tapped density of 0.2287 g/ cm³, Carr’s index of 25%, and Hausner’s ratio of 0.95. These spherical particles demonstrated sustained drug release for up to 12 hr, with a process yield of 75.91% and a moisture content of 1.58%. Importantly, the MPs showed significant inhibitory effects against the H37 RV strain of Mycobacterium tuberculosis across various concentrations. In vivo studies revealed a 55.2% increase in bioavailability with the Lzd DPI formulation, which was 1.25 times higher than the oral tablet. Conclusion: This novel inhalation system holds the potential to reduce dosing frequency, minimize side effects, and improve patient adherence, offering a promising alternative for effective TB management.

Keywords

  • Linezolid
  • Multi-Drug Resistant Tuberculosis (MDR-TB)
  • Mycobacterium tuberculosis
  • Chitosan Microparticles
  • Pulmonary delivery
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