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Published on: March 30, 2020
Niosome-encapsulated gentamicin for ophthalmic controlled delivery
Ghada Abdelbary1, Nashwa El-Gendy
1Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Kaser el aini street, Cairo, Egypt. gabdelbary@gmail.com
AAPS Pharmscitech
|June 20, 2008
Summary
Non-ionic surfactant vesicles (niosomes) show promise for ophthalmic drug delivery. These niosomes effectively entrapped gentamicin sulfate, enabling slower release and demonstrating no ocular irritation in rabbits.
Area of Science:
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Drug Delivery Systems
- Ophthalmic Formulations
Background:
- Ophthalmic drug delivery faces challenges with rapid drug clearance and low bioavailability.
- Non-ionic surfactant vesicles (niosomes) offer a potential carrier system for controlled drug release.
- Gentamicin sulfate is a widely used antibiotic for ocular infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility of using niosomes for ophthalmic controlled delivery of gentamicin sulfate.
- To investigate the impact of formulation variables on drug entrapment and release kinetics.
- To assess the ocular safety of gentamicin sulfate-loaded niosomes.
Main Methods:
- Niosomal formulations were prepared using various non-ionic surfactants (Tween 60, 80, Brij 35), cholesterol, and dicetyl phosphate (DCP) via thin film hydration.
- Entrapment efficiency (%EE) was determined after centrifugation.
- Vesicle morphology, size, and drug release were analyzed using microscopy, particle size analysis, and in vitro release studies.
- Ocular irritancy was tested on albino rabbits.
Main Results:
- Niosomal formulations demonstrated significant control over gentamicin sulfate release compared to simple drug solutions.
- Formulation composition, including surfactant type, cholesterol content, and DCP presence, influenced %EE and release rates.
- A specific formulation (1:1:0.1 molar ratio of Tween 60:cholesterol:DCP) yielded optimal entrapment (92.02%) and release (Q(8h) = 66.29%).
- All tested niosomal formulations exhibited no ocular irritation in rabbits.
Conclusions:
- Niosomes are a feasible and safe carrier system for ophthalmic controlled delivery of gentamicin sulfate.
- Optimized niosomal formulations can enhance drug retention and provide sustained release.
- The absence of ocular irritation suggests potential for clinical application in treating eye infections.
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