Assessment of various formulation approaches for the application of beta-lapachone in prostate cancer therapy.

•Beta-lapachone (β-Lap) was encapsulated in cyclodextrins, nanoparticles and liposomes.•Cyclodextrins and double loaded vesicles provided the best drug loading properties.•No β-Lap delivery system showed enhanced cytotoxicity compared to the free drug.•B-Lap demonstrated no cell selectivity based on interaction with enzyme NQO1.•Functionalization of β-Lap systems is required for safe application in cancer therapy.