Abstract

Inclusion complex nanoparticles of puerarin and β-cyclodextrin were prepared using solution-enhanced dispersion by supercritical fluids to improve the dissolution rate of puerarin. The factors that influenced particle size and inclusion yield such as, pressure, temperature, flow rate of CO₂, and flow rate of the solution, were investigated. Scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy were used to characterize the products. Release behavior of inclusion complex nanoparticles of puerarin was also studied. Elevated temperatures increased the inclusion yield. Elevated pressures reduced the particle size. Scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed the formation of inclusion complex nanoparticles of puerarin. The accumulated release rate of inclusion complex nanoparticles of puerarin reached 98 % within 5 min, markedly higher than that of the puerarin powder and its physical mixture. Inclusion complex nanoparticles of puerarin prepared by solution-enhanced dispersion by supercritical fluids can greatly improve the in vitro release of puerarin.