Physicochemical characterization and in vivo evaluation of solid self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system for oral administration of docetaxel

To formulate a self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS) for the oral administration of docetaxel as an alternative to commercial docetaxel-loaded injectable products, it was prepared by spray-drying an aqueous solution containing liquid SNEDDS and colloidal silica. Its physicochemical properties and oral bioavailability were investigated compared to a clear docetaxel solution administered intravenously or orally to rats. In the docetaxel-loaded solid SNEDDS prepared with colloidal silica, the liquid SNEDDS composed of Capryol 90, Cremophore EL and Transcutol HP (45/35/20, volume ratio) was absorbed inside the pores of carriers, and docetaxel was present in a changed amorphous state. The solid SNEDDS with 3.3% (w/v) docetaxel produced nanoemulsions, and showed about 12.5% absolute bioavailability in rats. Thus, this solid SNEDDS may be a potential candidate for oral pharmaceutical product with improved oral bioavailability of docetaxel.