Formulation and evaluation of in situ gel containing ciprofloxacin hydrochloride in the treatment of periodontitis

Abstract

Objective: The present study describes the use of in situ gel in periodontal drug delivery systems which contain gellan gum (0.4-0.6% w/v), pluronic F127 (14, 15, and 16% w/v), and drug ciprofloxacin HCl (0.1% w/v). Number of peoples around the world suffered from dental problem and ultimate fear is tooth loss hence in situ gelling system was designed for the treatment of periodontal diseases. The therapeutic efficacy of drug can be greatly improved by prolonging its contact time. Methods: Formulations were developed by simple solution method. Each formulation was characterized in terms of in gelling strength, viscosity, rheology, content uniformity, in vitro drug release, and syringeability. Results: In vitro gelation time and the nature of the gel formed in simulated saliva for prepared formulations showed polymeric concentration dependency. Drug release data from all formulations were fitted to different kinetic models, and the Korsmeyer-Peppas model was the best fit model. Drug release was significantly decreased as the concentration of each polymer component was increased. Increasing the concentration of each polymeric component significantly increased viscosity, syringeability, and time for 50%, 70%, and 90% drug release. In conclusion, the formulations described offer a wide range of physical and drug release characteristics. The formulation containing 0.6% w/v of gellan gum and 14% w/v of pluronic F127 exhibited superior physical characteristics. The formulation stored at 4°C before application, which is syringeable through 21 gauge needle. Conclusion: This formulation was made to inject directly into periodontal pocket where it immediately converts into gel form at body temperature.