Sharath Sunkavalli

Bio: Sharath Sunkavalli is an academic researcher. The author has contributed to research in topics: Intestinal absorption & Bioavailability. The author has an hindex of 6, co-authored 6 publications receiving 291 citations.

Proliposome powders for enhanced intestinal absorption and bioavailability of raloxifene hydrochloride: effect of surface charge.

Abstract: The primary goal of the present study was to investigate the combined prospective of proliposomes and surface charge for the improved oral delivery of raloxifene hydrochloride (RXH). Keeping this objective, the present systematic study was focused to formulate proliposomes by varying the ratio of hydrogenated soyphosphatidylcholine and cholesterol. Furthermore, to assess the role of surface charge on improved absorption of RXH, anionic and cationic vesicles were prepared using dicetyl phosphate and stearylamine, respectively. The formulations were characterized for size, zeta potential and entrapment efficiency. The improved dissolution characteristics assessed from dissolution efficiency, mean dissolution rate were higher for proliposome formulations. The solid state characterization studies indicate the transformation of native crystalline form of the drug to amorphous and/or molecular state. The higher effective permeability coefficient and fraction absorbed in humans extrapolated from in situ single-p...

In situ absorption and relative bioavailability studies of zaleplon loaded self-nanoemulsifying powders

Abstract: Self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems (SNEDDSs) offer potential as suitable carriers for improved oral delivery of poorly soluble and low bioavailable drugs. To derive self-nanoemulsifying powders (SNEPs), the optimized Z-SNEDDS formulation was adsorbed onto different carriers and based on micromeritics the formulation loaded onto neusilin US2 (SNEP-N) was selected for further characterization. The solid-state characterization (scanning electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry and powder X-ray diffraction) studies unravel the transformation of native crystalline state to amorphous and/or molecular state. The higher predictive effective permeability coefficient and fraction absorbed in humans extrapolated from in situ single-pass intestinal absorption study data in rats provide an insight on the potential of SNEPs for augment in absorption across gastrointestinal barrier. Overall a 3.5-fold enhancement in the extent of absorption of zaleplon from SNEP-N formulation proves the feasibility of SNEPs formulation for improved oral delivery of zaleplon.

Nanoemulsions and Their Potential Applications in Food Industry

Abstract: Nanoemulsions have small droplet size and are kinetically stable colloidal systems. They have enhanced functional properties in comparison to conventional emulsions. The composition and structure of the nanoemulsions can be controlled for the encapsulation and effective delivery of bioactive lipophilic compounds. Nanoemulsions have potential application in the food industry for the delivery of nutraceuticals, coloring and flavoring agents, and antimicrobials. The nanoemulsion formulations of active ingredients can be used for developing biodegradable coating and packaging films to enhance the quality, functional properties, nutritional value and shelf life of foods. This review focuses on preparation of food grade nanoemulsions using high-energy methods and low-energy approaches and their characterization for physical properties, stability and microstructure. The application of nanoemulsion formulations for sustainable food processing and improving the delivery of functional compounds, such as colorants, flavouring agents, nutraceuticals and preservatives or antimicrobial agents in foods has been discussed.

Self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) – challenges and road ahead

Abstract: Self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) has emerged as a vital strategy to formulate poor water soluble compounds for bioavailability enhancement. However, certain limitations are associated with SMEDDS formulations which include in vivo drug precipitation, formulation handling issues, limited lymphatic uptake, lack of predictive in vitro tests and oxidation of unsaturated fatty acids. These limitations restrict their potential usage. Inclusion of polymers or precipitation inhibitors within lipid based formulations helps to maintain drug supersaturation after dispersion. This, thereby, improves the bioavailability and reduces the variability on exposure. Also, formulating solid SMEDDS helps to overcome liquid handling and stability problems. Usage of medium chain triglycerides (MCT) and suitable antioxidants to minimize oxidation of unsaturated fatty acids are few of the steps to overcome the limitations associated with SMEDDS. The review discussed here, in detail, the limitations of SMEDDS and suitable measures that can be taken to overcome them.