Flurbiprofen@ZIF-8 nanoformulation with potential for analgesia

Non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely used for analgesic and anti-inflammatory purposes but are often hampered by side effects such as gastrointestinal issues. Flurbiprofen, a potent NSAID, has significant therapeutic potential but may cause adverse effects due to its non-selective cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibition. This study aimed to enhance its efficacy and reduce side effects by developing flurbiprofen-loaded ZIF-8 nanoparticles (FP@ZIF-8). ZIF-8, with its high porosity, pH sensitivity, and biocompatibility, serves as an excellent carrier for targeted drug delivery. FP@ZIF-8 nanoparticles demonstrated successful flurbiprofen encapsulation with a drug loading rate of up to 53% and showed pH-responsive drug release. In vitro studies revealed that FP@ZIF-8 nanoparticles not only promoted the proliferation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) but also significantly reduced lipopolysaccharide (LPS) -induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in RAW264.7 macrophages. In vivo experiments further indicated that FP@ZIF-8 effectively alleviated inflammation-induced pain in mouse models and downregulated key inflammatory cytokines. The biosafety assessment confirmed the excellent biocompatibility and safety of FP@ZIF-8 nanoparticles. These findings suggest that FP@ZIF-8 is a promising drug delivery system for treating inflammatory pain conditions.