Abstract

Niosomes containing salbutamol sulphate were prepared using different non-ionic surfactants like Tween 20, 40, 60, 80, Span 20, 40, 60, 80 and Brij 35 by transmembrane pH gradient method. The drug encapsulation efficiency varied from 28% to 79%. The vesicles have been characterized by infrared spectroscopy. In vitro drug release studies were carried out using dialysis bag and phosphate buffer, pH 7.4 as a dissolution medium for 24 h. The formulation exhibited retarded release for 24 h and Span 60 was found to be the most satisfactory surfactant which released 78.4% of drug in 24 h. Particle size distribution studies were carried out by optical microscopy technique. Most of the niosomes were found to be spherical in shape. Thermal stability studies were carried out at 4° 25° and 50° for one month. The product was lyophilized. Tissue distribution Studies were carried out on rabbits. The maximum concentration was seen in lungs.