Preparação e caracterização físico-química de nanopartículas poliméricas contendo metronidazol e óleo de melaleuca co-encapsulados

Abstract

Metronidazole, termed chemically by 1- (β-hydroxyethyl) -2-methyl-5-nitroimidazole is a synthetic derivative of 5-initromidazole, belonging to the class of imidazoles, subgroup of nitroimidazoles. It shows antiprotozoal activity, antimicrobial, being clinically effective in giardiasis, trichomoniasis and amebiasis. Taking into consideration that the therapy of these parasites has a generally long treatment time, drug carrier nanosystems have become an effective alternative to assist in drug release control, to tailor its specificity and to improve site selectivity of action. Among the components that can be used as an oily nucleus of nanocapsules is melaleuca oil (Melaleuca Alternifolia Cheel), due to its antibacterial, antifungal and antiprotozoal activity, it is promising. In this way the present work had the objective to study, develop and characterize polymeric nanocapsules containing metronidazole and coencapsulated melaleuca oil, as a modern alternative to the treatment of infections involving giardiasis and trichomoniasis. The nanocapsules presented acid pH, particle diameter less than 300 nm, narrow particle size distribution, negative zeta potential (-15.68 to -39.58 mV) and encapsulation efficiency of over 84%. The study of the in vitro release, carried out in dialysis bags, demonstrated that the formulations were efficient in controlling the release of metronidazole. Thus, these formulations present themselves as promising systems for administration of metronidazole, with potential to constitute an effective treatment for giardiasis and trichomoniasis.