Self-micro Emulsifying Drug Delivery System “SMEDDS” for Efficient Oral Delivery of Andrographolide

Objective: Andrographolide has potent anticancer and antimicrobial activity; however, its clinical application has been limited due to its poor water solubility as well as lack of appropriate formulation. The objective of this investigation was to formulate Self–Micro Emulsifying Drug Delivery System (SMEDDS) of andrographolide and explore its oral drug delivery aptitudes. Methods: Andrographolide SMEDDS was optimized by ternary phase approach and studied for various in vitro characteristics: Particle size, electron microscopy, polydispersity index, surface charge, dilution effect, pH stability, freeze-thaw effect, dissolution profile and stability studies. Further, antimicrobial and cytotoxic performance of andrographolide SMEDDS were evaluated in MCF–7 breast cancer cell lines and methicillin-resistant microorganisms, respectively. Results: An optimized SMEDDS formulation of andrographolide was successfully prepared and evaluated for its drug delivery potential. The solubility of andrographolide in the developed SMEDDS formulation was increased significantly, and the drug loading was enough for making this drug clinically applicable. The andrographolide SMEDDS formulation competitively inhibited the growth of microorganisms and showed enhanced anti–microbial activity against MRSA microorganisms. Conclusions: The SMEDDS strategy represents one of the best approaches to deliver andrographolide via oral route, while resolving its solubility limitations.