Aim/ Background: Risperidone, an atypical antipsychotic agent, is used in the treatment of
psychotic disorders due to its lower Extra Pyramidal side Effects (EPS) than conventional
antipsychotics. Materials and Methods: The objective of the present investigation is
to study the effect of formulation variables using 32 factorial design; on preparation of
nanoparticles to provide sustained drug release for a prolonged period of time; enhancing
therapeutic efficacy by reducing dose dependent side effects. Study include formulation
of nanoparticles by the nanoprecipitation method and optimization of the formulation
parameters such as Amount of Polymer and Surfactant concentration as independent
variables and Particle size and % entrapment efficiency as dependent variables using
design of experiment; a statistical tool. Results: Optimized formulation of nanoparticles
was characterized for various physicochemical parameters. The particle size was found to
be 213.3 nm with 82.89% drug entrapment. Conclusion:
In vitro drug release study and
Pharmacodynamic study portend promising results of drug delivery for longer duration.
Key words: Schizophrenia, Risperidone, Nanoparticles, 32 factorial design, Catalepsy.