Chitosan-glycolic acid: a possible matrix for progesterone delivery into skin

Chitosan-EDTA is an interesting matrix for dermal delivery; however, the adhesiveness is too small. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate chitosan-glycolic acid as possible dermal matrix for progesterone in comparison to chitosan-EDTA and carrageenan.

After preparation of the chitosan-glycolic acid salt and characterization by NMR and FTIR, tensile studies using porcine skin and rheology measurements as well as standard diffusion experiments using dermatomed porcine skin were performed.

Results showed an improved skin adhesiveness of chitosan-glycolic acid and increased viscosity. Skin diffusion studies indicated the highest cumulative permeation of progesterone after 48 hours from chitosan-glycolic acid followed by carrageenan and chitosan-EDTA. A possible explanation might be a longer residence time on skin caused by the higher adhesiveness and with it higher progesterone skin permeation.

Chitosan-glycolic acid can be recommended as a suitable polymer for hydrogels and an adhesive matrix for a transdermal application of progesterone exhibiting excellent skin adhesiveness and permeation properties.