Quality by design‐based optimization of formulation and process parameters for berberine nanosuspension for enhancing its dissolution rate, bioavailability, and cardioprotective activity

Abstract

Berberine (BER) is a natural alkaloid that is extracted from the root and bark of Berberis aristata (family Berberidaceae). It is commonly known as "Daru haldi" in Urdu. In traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurveda, BER formulations are widely used to treat illnesses like hypertension, and inflammatory conditions. BER has also been extensively explored for many pharmacological activities such as anti-arrhythmic, antimalarial, anticancer, anti-hyperglycemic, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, and antimicrobial activities (Behl et al., 2022). However, its poor aqueous solubility impediments its dissolution rate and oral bioavailability, which limits its clinical use (Sahibzada et al., 2018). To overcome these