Formulation and Evaluation of Lumefantrine Solid Dispersions for Dissolution Enhancement

Lumefantrine (LUM) is a poorly water-soluble antimalarial drug that has limited bioavailability due to its low solubility and dissolution rate. The purpose of this study was to enhance the bioavailability of lumefantrine by preparing solid dispersions using polyvinylpyrrolidone K30 (PVP K30) as a hydrophilic carrier through the fusion method and solvent evaporation method. Solid dispersions (SDs) of LUM were prepared with varying drug-to-carrier ratios (1:1, 1:2, and 1:3) to optimize the formulation for enhanced dissolution properties. The solid dispersions were evaluated for their physicochemical properties, including morphology, drug content, solubility, in vitro dissolution and stability. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy also employed to analyze the possible interaction between LUM and PVP K30. The solubility and dissolution rate of lumefantrine were significantly enhanced in the solid dispersions compared to the pure drug. The formulation prepared by the solvent evaporation method showed the highest dissolution rate and solubility. The results demonstrate that the fusion method and solvent evaporation method are effective strategies for improving the solubility and bioavailability of lumefantrine, offering a promising approach for enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of this antimalarial drug.