Influence of Plasticizers on the pH-Dependent Drug Release and Cellular Interactions of Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose/Zein Vaginal Anti-HIV Films Containing Tenofovir
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Updated: Nov 22, 2025

Preparation and Characterization of Individual and Multi-drug Loaded Physically Entrapped Polymeric Micelles
Published on: August 28, 2015
Fernando Notario-Pérez1, Raúl Cazorla-Luna1, Araceli Martín-Illana1
1Departamento de Farmacia Galénica y Tecnología Alimentaria, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Plaza Ramón y Cajal s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
Abstract:
Vaginal films featuring the pH-dependent release of tenofovir (TFV) were developed for the prevention of sexual transmission of human immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV). Films based on hydroxypropyl methylcellulose and zein were prepared incorporating different plasticizers [oleic acid, lactic acid, glycerol, and polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG)] and evaluated for in vitro drug release in an acidic simulated vaginal fluid (pH 4.2) and a slightly alkaline mixture of simulated seminal and vaginal fluids (pH 7.5). Results revealed that optimal biphasic TFV release was possible with proper combination of plasticizers (PEG and oleic acid, 1:7 w/w) and by adjusting the plasticizer/matrix-forming material ratio. The films had similar or higher levels of TFV associated with genital epithelial cells (Ca Ski or HEC-1-A cells) but lower drug permeability compared to the free drug. These data confirm that films have the potential to achieve suitable mucosal levels of TFV with low systemic exposure. The films developed could protect women from HIV sexual transmission.
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