Process optimization for the production of nanoparticles for drug delivery applications

Various techniques have been developed to prepare nanoparticles for the delivery of drugs. The implementation of these techniques for large-scale production is still in its infancy, as it requires defined steps which include excipient compatibility, process feasibility, formulation optimization, process optimization, scale-up and validation in order to develop quality products. All such points can be assessed with the help of different design techniques, such as experimental design. Mathematical design, factorial design, etc, can be used as tools to provide a rational approach for developing steps (e.g., drug concentration, polymer selection, processing operations, drug stability, entrapment efficiency) for the production of efficient nanoparticles. Thus, the desirable features of nanoparticles can be successfully developed by designing techniques that are economical, producing the maximum information in less time from fewer experiments.