Docetaxel-loaded thermosensitive liquid suppository: optimization of rheological properties

Area of Science:

• Pharmaceutics
• Drug Delivery
• Materials Science

Background:

• Rectal administration offers an alternative route for drug delivery, particularly for systemic or local effects.
• Thermosensitive liquid suppositories can improve drug retention and patient compliance.
• Docetaxel (DCT) is a potent chemotherapeutic agent requiring optimized delivery systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To optimize the rheological properties of docetaxel-loaded thermosensitive liquid suppositories for rectal administration.
• To enhance the thermogelling and mucoadhesive characteristics of the formulation for improved rectal retention.

Main Methods:

• Docetaxel-loaded liquid suppositories were prepared using a cold method.
• Physicochemical and viscoelastic properties were characterized.
• Poloxamer (P407) and Tween 80 concentrations were optimized to modulate gelation and mucoadhesion.

Main Results:

• Formulation parameters significantly influenced gel strength and mucoadhesive force.
• Docetaxel incorporation did not negatively impact viscoelastic behavior.
• Nanomicelles exhibited a mean particle size of approximately 16 nm with a spherical shape.
• The liquid formulation demonstrated reverse gelation, transitioning to a gel at physiological temperature.

Conclusions:

• Optimized thermosensitive liquid suppositories containing docetaxel were successfully prepared.
• The formulation exhibits desirable properties for rectal administration, including enhanced gelation, mucoadhesion, and drug retention.
• This novel formulation holds potential for improved rectal delivery of docetaxel.