Calcium alginate medicated dressing for enhanced absorption in diabetic foot ulcer management

Diabetic foot problems pose a substantial global health challenge as a major complication of diabetes mellitus. These issues encompass a spectrum of conditions affecting the feet of individuals with diabetes, including neuropathy (nerve damage), peripheral artery disease (impaired blood circulation), foot ulcers, infections, and, in critical situations, amputation. To mitigate the burden of lower extremity amputations, the development of innovative wound dressings and drug delivery systems is crucial. One such advancement is the "lyophilized wafer formulation," a recently developed medicated dressing material known for its rapid healing properties and high exudate absorption capacity in chronic wounds. Following successful completion of assessment tests for lymphatic fluid retention, viscosity, in vitro drug release, FTIR, DSC, and XRD, the exudate absorption capacity of calcium alginate was evaluated in the current study. Notably, the wafer formulation composed of 2% calcium alginate, 1% gelatin (bloom 150), and water as the solvent demonstrated excellent performance across exudate management properties, as well as in FTIR, DSC, XRD, and in vitro drug release assays using a dialysis membrane. This optimal formulation achieved a significant drug release of 96.9 ± 0.1% after 24 h. The Linezolid-loaded calcium alginate wafer formulation exhibited promising outcomes concerning antimicrobial properties, exudate handling, and drug release. Furthermore, the animal study indicated the absence of adverse effects, underscoring the formulation's potential as a safe and effective treatment for diabetic foot ulcers without inducing skin irritation. To fully realize its therapeutic value, comprehensive investigations into its stability profile and detailed pharmacological effects are strongly recommended.