The effect of polymeric films of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC)/chitosan on ofloxacin release, diffusion, and biological activity

Abstract

Infectious diseases caused by resistant bacteria have been investigated by several researchers recently. Ofloxacin is a quinolone antibiotic used against resistant microorganisms and in different routes of administration. Transdermal drug delivery is used to reduce drug toxicity, avoid first-pass metabolism, and reduce fluctuations in drug concentration in the body. Ofloxacin was formulated in a transdermal polymeric formula using hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC) and chitosan at different ratios in the presence of palmitic acid as a permeation enhancer. Physical characterization, drug release and diffusion, drug matrix association, and antimicrobial assay have been investigated using different techniques including HPLC, fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Franz cells diffusion, and UV spectroscopy. Ofloxacin release was successfully accomplished in many polymeric formulas containing a high ratio of HPMC with a maximum drug release of 53%. Formulas selected for antimicrobial assay indicate that sustained release patches have successfully inhibited microbial and biofilm growth with a percentage inhibition of more than 90%. In conclusion, antibiotics can be formulated in transdermal polymeric film to target skin infection and reduce drug toxicity and avoid drug first metabolism for drugs reaching systemic circulation which has a direct influence on drug activity.