Preparation and Physical Stability Evaluation of Palm Oil-Based Nanoemulsion as a Drug Delivery System for Propofol

The objective of this study was to develop a formulation for propofol injection at various concentrations (1 and 2%) using palm oil-based nanoemulsion as the carrier. The nanoemulsions were characterized by globule size distribution (Dv 90 value), zeta potential, pH and viscosity determination. The physicochemical stability and accelerated stability of the formulations were also evaluated. Stability studies were performed for 6 month at 4, 16, 25 and 40 o C. The propofol content was analysed by HPLC study. The characterization result of propofol nanoemulsion (1 and 2%) showed a good in globule size distribution in Dv 90 values of 284±1.15 nm and 304±1.20 nm, and also stable zeta potential values ( -43.37±0.96 mV and -40.97±1.36 mV), respectively. A ccelerated test exhibited that the formulations have excellent stability with no physical changes observed after centrifugation, autoclaving at 121 o C for 15 min, shaking for 12 hours and thermal cycling test. The stability studies indicated that propofol emulsion show good stability for 6 months when stored at 4±1 o C and 16±1 o C based on Dv 90 values, zeta potential, and pH readings. No changes in propofol concentrations were observed after 6 months storage. Overall, propofol in palm oil-based nanoemulsions as carrier were stable and can be used as an alternative anaesthetic injection.