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Spatio-Temporal In Vivo Imaging of Ocular Drug Delivery Systems using Fiberoptic Confocal Laser Microendoscopy
Published on: September 27, 2021
Azithromycin novel drug delivery system for ocular application
Ritu Mehra Gilhotra1, Kalpana Nagpal, Dina Nath Mishra
1School of Pharmacy, Suresh Gyan Vihar University, Jaipur-302 030, India.
International Journal of Pharmaceutical Investigation
|October 17, 2012
Summary
This study developed novel ocular inserts for azithromycin (AZT), addressing challenges with topical drug delivery for eye infections. The sustained-release formulation proved safe and effective for treating ocular surface conditions.
Area of Science:
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Ophthalmology
- Drug Delivery Systems
Background:
- Azithromycin (AZT), a macrolide antibiotic, is effective orally for trachoma but challenging to formulate topically due to hydrophobicity.
- Developing novel ophthalmic delivery systems for AZT is crucial for treating ocular surface infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To formulate a novel topical ophthalmic delivery system for azithromycin (AZT).
- To overcome the formulation challenges associated with AZT's hydrophobicity for ocular application.
Main Methods:
- Ocular inserts of AZT were prepared using alginate, carbopol, and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) via a film casting method.
- Evaluated physical, mechanical, swelling, bioadhesion, and in vitro drug release properties.
- Assessed ocular irritation potential using the hen's egg chorioallantoic membrane test.
Main Results:
- Film properties varied significantly with polymer type and combination; alginate films showed superior bioadhesion and mechanical strength.
- Carbopol:HPMC (30:70) ocular inserts achieved sustained drug release for up to 6 hours.
- Drug release occurred via both diffusion and swelling mechanisms, and the formulation was non-irritant.
Conclusions:
- Azithromycin (AZT) can be successfully developed into an ocular insert delivery system.
- This novel system offers a promising approach for treating ocular surface infections.
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