Development and characterization of ivermectin loaded microneedle formulations using 3D printed molds

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Materials Science
• Pharmaceutical Sciences

Background:

• Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition affecting the midface and eyes.
• Ivermectin, an antiparasitic, has poor water solubility and skin penetration, limiting its topical efficacy.
• Current treatments for rosacea may have limitations in delivery and efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop cost-effective, standardized microneedle formulations for enhanced ivermectin skin delivery.
• To improve ivermectin permeability through the skin for rosacea treatment.
• To create a novel drug delivery system for dermal applications.

Main Methods:

• Microneedles were fabricated using polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) molds and 3D-printed masters, incorporating ivermectin, polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) of varying molecular weights, and PEG 400.
• Mechanical strength was assessed via vertical hardness testing.
• In vitro drug release studies were conducted in a pH 7.4 buffer with Tween 80 at 37°C.
• In vitro and ex vivo skin penetration were evaluated using fluorescence and scanning electron microscopy.

Main Results:

• The F3 formulation, containing 3g PVP K90 and 1g PVP K30, demonstrated optimal characteristics and ex vivo performance.
• The microneedles exhibited suitable mechanical strength for dermal application.
• Successful in vitro and ex vivo skin penetration of ivermectin was confirmed.
• High standardization of the microneedle formulations was achieved.

Conclusions:

• Highly standardized microneedles loaded with ivermectin were successfully developed.
• These microneedles show potential for enhanced drug delivery in dermal diseases like rosacea.
• The developed formulation offers a promising, low-cost approach for improved ivermectin permeability.