LAUSR

Abstract The aim of the present study was to evaluate the potential of MCM-41 and HMS mesoporous silica particles as efficient carriers for poorly soluble drug, such as glimepiride (BCS, class II). In vitro release tests performed at pH 7.4 showed practically complete release of the drug in two hours from both carriers, whereas the dissolution of pure glimepiride reached only 30% for the same time. The results from our study suggested that the improved solubility was probably due to a significant decrease in drug crystallinity degree. The beneficial safety profile of the glimepiride-loaded MCM-41 and HMS particles was proved on human endothelial EA.hy926 and hepatotoma HepG2 cells. Our findings suggest that the newly developed formulations might be considered as promising and safe delivery systems for poorly soluble drug like glimepiride.