In situ Formed Implants, Based on PLGA and Eudragit Blends, for Novel Florfenicol Controlled Release Formulations

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Drug controlled release technologies (DCRTs) aim to optimize drug dosage and minimize side effects.
• Florfenicol (FF) is a broad-spectrum antibiotic requiring effective delivery systems for long-term therapies.
• Polymeric implants offer a promising platform for controlled drug delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize DCRTs using blended polymeric implants for long-term florfenicol therapy.
• To investigate the impact of polymer ratios on encapsulation efficiency and drug release profiles.
• To evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy of the developed implants.

Main Methods:

• Formulation of blended polymeric implants using PLGA and Eudragit (E100/S100) with florfenicol.
• Characterization of encapsulation efficiencies (EEs) and drug release kinetics.
• Assessment of morphological and physicochemical properties.
• Evaluation of antimicrobial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa using agar diffusion assays.
• Application of mathematical models to simulate drug release.

Main Results:

• Encapsulation efficiencies ranged from 50-100% based on formulation.
• Eudragit E100 addition increased FF release rate, while S100 decreased it.
• Implants exhibited sustained antimicrobial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa for up to 12 days.
• PLGA degradation products potentially influenced Eudragit solubility and matrix stability.

Conclusions:

• Developed DCRTs based on blended PLGA and Eudragit implants are suitable for long-term florfenicol administration.
• The formulation strategy allows for modulation of drug release rates.
• These technologies enhance patient acceptance through optimized dosing and reduced secondary effects.