Solid Lipid Nanoparticles: Formulation, Preparation, and Characterization: A Review

Abstract

The nano drug delivery system has emerged as a novel therapeutic approach for improved efficacy of the existing drug molecules. Polymeric nanoparticles, lipid based nanoparticles such as solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs), nanostructured lipid carriers, lipid drug conjugates, ethosomes, liposomes, and self-emulsifying drug delivery systems are a few of the nano carriers used for drug delivery. Among the lipid based nanoparticles, SLNs are promising in terms of a biocompatible carrier for enhancing the bioavailability, controlled release, and targeted drug action. This review explains the formulation components of SLN, various methods of preparation of SLNs, and the characterization parameters of SLNs. The current successful research on SLN formulation also enlightens. The capability of various drugs for increasing therapeutic efficacy can be achieved through SLN and in the future, new directions in further improvement are expected.