Background: Zidovudine (Azidothymidine, AZT) is widely used in the treatment of
Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) and related conditions, either alone or
in combination with other antiviral agents to combat HIV. AZT is a Biopharmaceutical
Classification System (BCS) class III drug and has various disadvantages. Thus, AZT
is a potential candidate for delivery
via lipid-based drug delivery system. Materials
and Methods: In the present work, solid lipid microparticles (SLMs) of Zidovudine
were developed for sustaining the drug release, to overcome or to reduce the hepatic
metabolism and to ensure optimal bioavailability. A total of sixteen formulations of
Zidovudine loaded solid lipid microparticles in two groups viz., one with tripalmitin
and another with trimyristin were prepared by emulsion-solvent evaporation method.
Results: The average particle size and entrapment efficiency of the prepared SLM varied
between 5.48 μm-10.64 μm and 46.92 % and 58.39% respectively. The release of
zidovudine from the SLM varied between 70.47% and 100% at the end of 24 hrs. 80%
of the drug release which is required for obtaining the optimal therapeutic concentration
was achieved by SLM 8. Conclusion: Formulation SLM 8 was considered best with
maximum sustainability in the drug release along with maintaining therapeutic optimum.
The formulation was found stable under stressed conditions.