ABSTRACT

Withaferin A, a steroidal lactone which is present in dry root extract of Withania somnifera (WSE), is reported to possess numerous pharmacological activities and shows poor aqueous solubility. The purpose of this study is to enhance the dissolution rate and oral bioavailability of WSE by incorporating it in self nano emulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS). Capmul MCM-based SNEDDS formulation with Tween 20 as surfactant and ethanol as co surfactant was developed for oral delivery of withaferin A. Optimised SNEDDS was evaluated for its self-emulsification time and viscosity, droplet size. The optimised SNEDDS formulation containing withaferin A, Capmul MCM(12.4%), Tween 20 (58.2%) and ethanol (29%), and showed higher in vitro drug release as compared to pure WSE. These results demonstrate the potential use of SNEDDS for improving the oral bioavailability of poor water soluble compounds such as withaferin A.