Gels and liposomes in optimized ocular drug delivery: studies on ciprofloxacin formulations

Ciprofloxacin (CPFX) containing therapeutic systems were developed using gel- and liposome-based formulations to minimize tear-driven dilution in the conjunctival sac, a long-pursued objective in ophthalmology. Physicochemical properties (pH, osmolarity, viscosity, expansivity, membrane fluidity and in vitro CPFX release rate) of the preparations were studied by the appropriate methods. For gel preparation, the bio-adhesive poly(vinyl alcohol) and polymethacrylic acid derivatives were applied in various concentrations. In our liposome-supported carrier systems, multilamellar vesicles from lecithin and alpha-L-dipalmithoyl-phosphatidylcholine provided the encapsulating agent. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy was applied to study the molecular interactions in the ophthalmic formulations. The polymer hydrogels used in our preparations ensured a steady and prolonged active ingredient release. In addition, encapsulation of the CPFX into liposomes prolonged the in vitro release of the antibacterial agent depending on the lipid composition of the vesicles.