Formulation development and evaluation of therapeutic contact lens loaded with ganciclovir

Abstract

Soft contact lenses have been demonstrated as a promising tool for ocular drug delivery. In the present investigation ganciclovir (GAN) loaded microparticles dispersed in hydrogel-based contact lenses were fabricated to achieve prolonged release and improved permeation of GAN across corneal epithelium. MethodsGAN-Hydroxy Propyl Methyl Cellulose (HPMC) microparticles were prepared by solvent evaporation method and evaluated for entrapment e ciency, drug content and drug release. The Polyhydroxyethylmethacrylate (pHEMA) contact lenses were synthesized by free radical polymerization reaction using crosslinkers like ethylene glycoldimethacrylate and photoinitiator such as IRGACURE 1173®, in UVB light, λ 365 nm. The GAN-HPMC microparticles when incorporated into the premonomer mixture and polymerized together give rise to a particle dispersion system in the hydrogel contact lenses.The contact lenses were studied for surface morphology, transmittance, swelling, drug release, Na + ion permeability and hens egg test chorioallantoic membrane assay (HETCAM). ResultsHydrogel contact lens exhibited satisfactory surface morphology, transmittance, swelling, Na + ion permeability (3.72x106 mm 2 /min) and a release of 48 hours suggesting a potential for prolonged ocular drug delivery. Furthermore, HETCAM exhibited no signs of ocular irritation. ConclusionThe developed delivery platform is a promising alternative to conventional dosage forms like eye drops, suspensions and ointments due to its increase in the residence time attributed to its prolonged release pro le. Hence, drug delivery by hydrogel-based contact lens decreases the systemic effects of the drugs which are meant for local action, thus, enhances the therapeutic use by improving the patient compliance.

Formulation and Evaluation of Sustained-Release Floating Matrix Tablets of Valganciclovir Hydrochloride

“…10 tablets were dissolved in 0.1N Hcl solution at room temperature and absorbance was taken at 254 nm by using a UV spectrophotometer to determine the amount of valganciclovir hydrochloride [12].…”

“…To determine the floating lag time, tablets were put on 100 mL of 0.1 N HCL in a beaker, and the time is required for a tablet to rise on the surface was measured. Then, the duration of each formulation that remained on the surface was determined as total floating [13].…”