Table 1 Grading system for dispersion testing.

From: Design and optimization of intranasal aripiprazole-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers for enhanced brain targeting in schizophrenia: in vitro and ex vivo evaluation

Grading system for dispersion testing

Grade

Dispersibility and appearance

Time of self-emulsification (in min)

MEa

The formulation easily spreads in water to generate a microemulsion that is transparent and clear.

< 1

MEb

Formulation may form microemulsion but first developed a transparent, gel-like intermediate structure before dispersing fully.

3–5

E

Formulation droplets spread in water to form a fine milky emulsion

> 5

NE

Oil droplets coalesce in the formulation, indicating inadequate emulsification.

NA