Main Article Content
Abstract
Aspergillosis is an opportunistic fungal infection caused mainly by Aspergillus fumigatus, which primarily affects immunocompromised individuals and patients with chronic lung diseases. Itraconazole, a broad-spectrum triazole antifungal agent, is widely used in the treatment of different forms of aspergillosis. However, its clinical effectiveness is limited by poor aqueous solubility, low bioavailability, and variable absorption. Nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems such as Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLNs) have emerged as a promising strategy to overcome these limitations. SLNs are submicron colloidal carriers composed of biocompatible and biodegradable lipids that remain solid at both room and body temperatures. Itraconazole-loaded SLNs enhance drug solubility, improve bioavailability, and provide sustained and targeted drug release, thereby increasing therapeutic efficacy while reducing adverse effects. Various preparation methods such as high-pressure homogenization, microemulsion dispersion, melt emulsification with ultrasonication, and high-shear homogenization have been reported for the formulation of itraconazole SLNs. Characterization studies including particle size analysis, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, and in-vitro drug release demonstrate improved stability and controlled drug delivery. This review highlights the role of itraconazole-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles as an advanced drug delivery system for the effective management of aspergillosis and discusses their advantages, limitations, and potential future applications in antifungal therapy.