Formulation studies of novel drug delivery systems for anticancer activity

Cancer is known as the most death-causing disease worldwide after cardiovascular diseases. Letrozole (LTZ) is a selective non-steroidal aromatase inhibitor with effective anticancer properties. Its low solubility in water and having lots of side effects limit its pharmaceutical use. For this reason, the aim of our thesis was, formulation of novel drug delivery systems in order to increase the therapeutic effect of LTZ while minimizing the side effects with efficient anticancer activity. In the study, Eudragit® RS 100 and Kollidon® SR were selected as polymers. Polymeric nanoparticles containing LTZ were prepared using spray drying method. Morphological analyses like particle size, particle size distribution (PdI), zeta potential values and in vitro release studies had been conducted within the scope of the characterization studies of the prepared nanoparticles. In addition, the structural properties of nanoparticles were determined by DSC, FT-IR, 1H-NMR analyses. Stability of the prepared formulations were evaluated in three different environments as 5 ± 3˚C, 25 ° C ± 2 ° C (60% ± 5% RN), 40 ° C ± 2 ° C (75% ± 5% RN) for three months. As the result of the studies, it was concluded that the formulations prepared could sustain extended release up to 24 hours and maintain their stability in three different environments during the storage period. Keywords: Letrozole, Polymeric nanoparticles, Cancer treatment, Eudragit® RS100, Kollidon® SR.