Targeted drug delivery of Rifampicin to the lungs: formulation, characterization, and stability studies of preformed aerosolized liposome and in situ formed aerosolized liposome.

PURPOSE: This study aimed at the preparation and characterization of preformed and in situ formed liposomes for sustained delivery to the lungs.
METHODS: Two different liposome formulations were prepared and subjected to characterization of physical parameters and drug release profile (% cumulative drug release and % drug retained). Formulations were then subjected to accelerated stability studies as per ICH guidelines.
RESULTS: In situ formed liposome showed better sustained release profile than the preformed liposome as it released sufficient amount of drug while retaining considerable amount of drug. Upon subjection to accelerated conditions for 60 days, preformed liposome lost the objective of being controlled release formulation.