Production and in vitro characterization of lisinopril-loaded nanoparticles for the treatment of restenosis in stented coronary arteries.

Lisinopril, an angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor drug, was encapsulated in poly(lactide-co-glicolide) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NP) for site-specific delivery by catheters in prevention of restenosis. NP were prepared by emulsification-diffusion method. The PLGA type, stabilizing agent type and its concentration were studied as process variables. The z-average particle size varied between 265-412 nm. The highest zeta potential was seen in NP prepared with Pluronic F-68. None of the studied variables or their interactions had a significant effect on the particle size while all had main effect on the zeta potential. The highest entrapment efficiency was 93% and all studied variables and their interactions except PLGA type and its interaction with the stabilizer type had significant effects on the loading. Baker-Lonsdale model was the most appropriate model for release of lisinopril from NP. Five per cent PLGA 75:25 and 5% Pluronic F-68 showed promising results for 21 days release of lisinopril as an anti-restenotic agent.