Development and Evaluation of Terbutaline Sulphate and Itraconazole Nanoparticles Dry Powder Inhalers for Asthma Management

Abstract

The present study aimed to develop and evaluate nanoparticle-based dry powder inhalers (DPIs) containing terbutaline sulphate and itraconazole for pulmonary delivery in asthma management. Terbutaline sulphate acts as a bronchodilator, while itraconazole serves as an antifungal agent against Aspergillus-associated allergic conditions in asthma. Nanoparticles were prepared by physical milling and spray-drying techniques using D-mannitol and trehalose as carriers. The prepared formulations were characterized for flow properties, particle size distribution, zeta potential, moisture content, drug content, and aerosolization performance. The spray-dried formulations demonstrated particle sizes ranging from 216.7 to 423.7 nm with improved zeta potential and lower polydispersity indices compared with milled formulations. Fine particle fraction values ranged from 66.35% to 71.86%, while emitted doses exceeded 93%. The formulations exhibited acceptable flow properties, low moisture content, and excellent drug content uniformity. The findings suggest that spray-dried terbutaline sulphate and itraconazole nanoparticle DPIs possess suitable physicochemical and aerodynamic characteristics for pulmonary drug delivery and may offer improved therapeutic efficacy in asthma management.